"Amir Kafubu" Emerald: A $2 Million Marvel at the Middle East Jewellery Showcase

At the 53rd edition of the Middle East Watch & Jewellery Expo in Sharjah, a gemstone of unparalleled magnificence took center stage, captivating the hearts of connoisseurs and collectors alike. This extraordinary gem, known as "Amir Kafubu," is celebrated as the largest raw emerald stone in the world, valued at an impressive $2 million. Weighing approximately 4 kilograms (roughly 19,000 carats), Amir Kafubu was meticulously extracted from the depths of Zambia's renowned Kafubu mine, which graciously bestowed its name upon this remarkable emerald.

Zambia, the globe's second-largest emerald producer following Colombia, is famed for its emeralds that boast a depth of color and saturation surpassing their Colombian counterparts. These Zambian treasures are prized for their exceptional purity, making them the gems of choice for exquisite jewelry creations.

Mahima Verma, the Executive Director of the World Academy of Design (WAD) and the proud presenter of Amir Kafubu at the expo, noted the stone's significant allure. "Amir Kafubu is a treasure trove for any collector's portfolio. It's a safe investment that promises appreciation in value over time. The stone's unique attributes open up a realm of possibilities," Verma stated.

The expo, which spanned from January 31st, gathered over 500 exhibitors across an expansive 30,000 square meter venue. With an expected attendance of more than 66,000 visitors from 52 diverse nationalities, the event was a hub of activities, including a prestigious jewelry design competition with a grand prize of 50 gold pieces. A special section dedicated to showcasing a vast array of large-sized emeralds further enriched the exhibition's allure.

Verma highlighted a shift in investment preferences among the younger demographic, who are increasingly drawn to gemstones and jewelry over traditional gold investments. "The younger generation is enamored with gemstones, recognizing their beauty, value, and investment potential. Besides adding vibrant hues to jewelry, natural stones are revered for their therapeutic and healing properties, making them sought-after for their fortune-enhancing qualities and distinctive attributes," Verma elaborated.