Myanmar to grant more blocks for gem mining

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-01/11/content_10639339.htm

www.chinaview.cn 2009-01-11 13:27:11 Print

YANGON, Jan. 11 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar will grant four more blocks in three states and division for local investors to carry out gem mining, according to the Ministry of Mines Sunday.

The four blocks are located in Shan state's Mongshu and Namhyar, Kachin state's Moenyin and Sagaing division's Mawhan Mawlu.

Myanmar occasionally introduced gem mining blocks for engagement by domestic entrepreneurs to promote gem production in the country.

In 2006, 77 blocks in Shan state and 39 in Mandalay division were allotted for gem mining, while 99 near Lonekin in Kachin state for jade mining,

In 2007, Myanmar permitted again 319 jade mining blocks for such engagement. Among those unexplored jade blocks allotted, 139 were in northern Kachin state's Moenyin and 180 in Sagaing division's Khamhti.

Each block measured one acre (4,000 square meters) and the blocks were leased on a three-year term.

There are six mining areas in Myanmar under gem and jade exploration, namely, Mogok, Mongshu, Lonkin/Phakant, Khamhti, Moenyin and Namyar.




For the development of gem industry, Myanmar has been holding gem shows annually starting 1964 and introducing the mid-year one since 1992 and the special one since 2004. On each occasion, the country's quality gems, jade, pearl and jewelry worth of millions of dollars were put on sale mainly through competitive bidding.

Myanmar, a well-known producer of gems in the world, boasts ruby, diamond, cat's eye, emerald, topaz, pearl, sapphire, coral and a variety of garnet tinged with yellow.


Editor: Wang Hongjiang