China's Green Treasure: The Launch of a New Gemstone
Earlier this year, Gemporia’s Managing Director, Jake Thompson, and Gemstone Expert, Dave Troth, embarked on an unforgettable journey to China, where they witnessed something truly extraordinary that is on the brink of being unveiled to the world.
In July 2023, Jake and Dave, accompanied by various industry experts from across the globe, received an invitation to explore the Yiqisong Nanshan mine in Jilin, China.
Situated near the Changbai mountains, the Yiqisong Nanshan mine stands as the largest known deposit of Peridot on Earth. Jake and Dave were honoured to join some of the most prominent figures in the industry, collectively contributing to the shaping and securing of the future, not only for Peridot but also for its associated by-products found within the mine: Olivine and Basalt.
Among the distinguished attendees were industry professors, gemmologists, geologists, jewellery designers, mining specialists, and more, all sharing a common objective—to globally educate about this natural, vibrant, grass-green gemstone. Notably, Fellow of the Gemological Association and jewellery expert Joanna Hardy was also present.
Experts from Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) delved into the mine, aiming to strategize the best ways to equip the site and its surroundings to combat climate change. Here, Olivine and Basalt emerged as crucial players.
Olivine's role in reducing carbon in the area and Basalt's significance as a prime ingredient for both construction and crop yield contribute to enhancing the green areas surrounding the Yiqisong Nanshan mine. Moreover, the integral use of these materials addresses concerns about waste, presenting a solution to the environmental impacts associated with mining.
Post the mine visit, all participants were ushered to Shenzhen for the inauguration of the Shenzhen Jewellery Museum's Peridot exhibition: Hope for the Future. This exhibit ran from July 18 to October 10, with Gemporia’s very own Jake Thompson having the honour of cutting the ribbon.
We spoke to Gemporia’s Managing Director Jake Thompson about his experience in China and asked for his thoughts on what exactly is so unique and special about this Peridot parcel, and why Gemporia was chosen to stand alongside other industry figureheads to be part of such a prestigious unveiling.
Speaking of the gemstone itself, Jake said:
“To truly grasp the marvel of this discovery, one must delve into the intricate geology behind the formation of Peridot. Unlike most gemstones which originate from the Earth’s crust, Peridot emerges from the depths of the mantle. It embarks on an astonishing odyssey, enduring the tumultuous passage through molten magma within volcanic pipes as it bursts through the Earth’s surface."
Jake then went on to explain how, despite the generous deposits of the stone offered to us from the US and other parts of the world, little compares to the significance of Peridot from the Far East. He said:
“The largest reservoirs of Peridot are nestled within the San Carlos reservation in Arizona, close to the fittingly named town of Peridot. However, the crystals found here tend to be smaller and exhibit a more yellowish hue, rather than the coveted verdant green. This distinct coloration arises from the trace amounts of iron present during the crystallisation process in the magma."
To see Dave unveil this beautfiul new gemstone on JewelleryMaker, tune in to the show on Thursday 16th November from 10am.
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We can't wait for you to see its true beauty!
-JM
