Key points
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Gemfields to auction record 11,685-carat Imboo emerald.
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Rare stone offers investment and jewelry potential.
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Traceability ensured with nanoparticle tagging system.
Gemfields is auctioning the 11,685-carat Imboo emerald, discovered at its Kagem mine in Zambia. The rare stone, whose name means “buffalo,” will feature in the miner’s latest high-quality emerald auction, running from August 25 to September 11.
The Imboo is the largest exceptional gemstone ever unearthed at Kagem, where Gemfields owns a 75 percent stake and the Zambian government holds 25 percent.
Imboo emerald shines with vivid green clarity
Gemfields said the Imboo displays a striking green tone with golden warmth and unusual clarity. Product and sales managing director Adrian Banks noted the stone could produce several large, fine-quality emeralds.
He added that a single high jewelry collection could emerge from the find, offering both artistic and investment value.
Gemfields ensures provenance and traceability
The buyer will have the option of nanoparticle tagging through Gemfields’ partner Provenance Proof, ensuring traceability even after the gem is cut and polished.
The emerald was uncovered on August 3 at Kagem’s Chama pit by geologist Dharanidhar Seth and chiseller Justin Banda.
Gemfields highlighted Banda’s long track record of helping recover important gemstones at Kagem. The company said staff use hand-based extraction techniques to protect crystal integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
A history of rare discoveries at Kagem
The Imboo joins a series of record-breaking finds from the mine. Past discoveries include the 7,525-carat Chipembele (rhino) in 2021, the 6,225-carat Insofu (elephant) in 2010, and the 5,655-carat Inkalamu (lion) in 2018.
Gemfields said the Imboo emerald sets a new benchmark in its history and reinforces Zambia’s place as a leading source of high-quality gemstones.
