Nigeria’s Gemstone Map: Key States for Sourcing Precious & Semi-Precious Stones

Nigeria, a country blessed with immense natural resources, is rapidly emerging as a global powerhouse in the gemstone industry. Beneath its soil lies a stunning variety of precious and semi-precious stones, from the vibrant hues of tourmaline and sapphire to the deep greens of emerald and garnet.

While the market’s informal nature can present a challenge, its potential is boundless. For jewelers, collectors, gem dealers, and investors, understanding Nigeria’s gemstone map is the first step toward unlocking this wealth. This comprehensive guide, informed by extensive geological data and on-the-ground insights, will lead you through the key states and their unique mineral treasures.

The Geological Context: A Foundation of Wealth

Nigeria’s gemstone deposits are primarily found within the Precambrian Basement Complex and Mesozoic Younger Granites, a geological framework that is part of the larger Pan-African mobile belt. These ancient rocks, often intruded by pegmatites, have created a rich environment for the formation of a wide array of high-quality gems. The deposits are found both in primary form within the weathered bedrock and as secondary, alluvial deposits in riverbeds and plains.

Now, let’s explore the states that have become hotspots of this geological goldmine.

1. Nasarawa State: The Heart of a Gemstone Paradise

Often hailed as the “Home of Solid Minerals,” Nasarawa is arguably the most prolific gemstone-producing state in Nigeria. It boasts an incredible diversity of gems, with a reputation for yielding some of the finest-quality stones.

• Key Gems: Tourmaline, Aquamarine, Emerald, Amethyst, Topaz, Garnet, and Zircon.
• Key Locations: Akwanga, Karu, Kokona, and Keffi LGAs. Specific hotspots include Gidan Kadri, Garaku, Angwan Doka, and Saura. Nasarawa Eggon is currently producing large quantities of high and medium grades of emerald, ranging from light to deep green colors.
• Sourcing Insight: Nasarawa is particularly famous for its tourmaline, including highly sought-after varieties like the vibrant “Paraiba green” tourmaline from the Tarka Hills. The state government, through initiatives like NASIDA, is actively working to attract investment and formalize the sector, making it a key area for those seeking large-scale sourcing opportunities.

2. Oyo State: The Lagoon-Blue Wonders

Oyo State, in the southwestern part of the country, has a long-standing reputation as a gemstone haven. The state’s unique geological formations have produced some of the most stunning colored gems.

• Key Gems: Tourmaline (especially Lagoon-blue and pink varieties), Aquamarine, Spessartite Garnet, and Morganite.
• Key Locations: Atisbo, Itesiwaju, and Saki LGAs. Noteworthy sites include Ofiki, Komu, and Baba-Ode.
• Sourcing Insight: The “Lagoon-blue” tourmalines from Komu and Ofiki are world-renowned for their exceptional color and clarity, fetching premium prices in the international market. The state also produces spectacular pink tourmalines (Rubellite) and rare Morganite, a pink-to-peach beryl gemstone.

3. Kaduna State: The Sapphire Heartland

Kaduna State is a pivotal player in Nigeria’s gemstone story, particularly for its legendary sapphires. Its location within the schist belt of the Nigerian basement complex makes it a “miner’s heaven.”

• Key Gems: Sapphire, Emerald, Tourmaline, and Amethyst.
• Key Locations: Jema’a and Kagarko LGAs, with specific sites like Antah, Nisama, and Gwantu.
• Sourcing Insight: The Antah and Nisama sapphires are highly celebrated for their quality and beauty. Gwantu is particularly known for its emerald deposits. The Kaduna State government has established the Kaduna Mining Development Company (KMDC) to manage the state’s mineral wealth, making it an attractive destination for foreign investors.

4. Taraba State: A Sapphire Paradise

Far in the eastern part of Nigeria, the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State has become a significant source of high-quality sapphire.

• Key Gems: Sapphire and Zircon.
• Key Locations: Sardauna LGA, specifically the Mambilla Plateau and the town of Gembu.
• Sourcing Insight: The recent discovery of a new, high-quality sapphire deposit on the Mambilla Plateau has generated global excitement. Unlike older, darker material, these new sapphires are prized for their lighter, brighter hues, making Taraba a hotspot for those seeking premium blue gems.

5. Ekiti State: The Splendor of Watermelon Tourmaline

Ekiti State is a major site for pegmatite-hosted gemstones, with one locality in particular gaining worldwide attention.

• Key Gems: Tourmaline (especially Watermelon tourmaline), Beryl, and Aquamarine.
• Key Locations: Ijero LGA, with the Ijero pegmatite being a key deposit.
• Sourcing Insight: Ijero Ekiti is renowned for its unique watermelon tourmaline- a gemstone that captivates with its stunning blend of pink and green hues. These gems are of exceptional quality, making Ijero a prime target for collectors and jewelers.

Other Key Gemstone Hotspots

• Bauchi State: A key source of high-quality Topaz and Garnet, particularly in the Toro and Bogoro LGAs. It has also yielded rare finds like Benitoite.
• Kogi State: Known for its rich deposits of Garnet and Aquamarine in the Yagba East and Adavi LGAs.
• Plateau State: A historic mining state for Topaz, Garnet, and Zircon, with significant deposits in the Bokkos and Mangu LGAs.

Seizing the Opportunity in a Dynamic Market

Nigeria’s gemstone wealth is vast, but navigating its complex, informal market can be a challenge. Sourcing safely requires an insider’s network and deep market knowledge to ensure authenticity, fair dealing, and compliance with regulations.

Don’t let the complexities of the market prevent you from accessing its treasures. At the Nigerian Mineral Exchange, we provide the reliable bridge you need to source authentic, high-quality, and ethically-sourced gemstones. Our expert consultants act as your on-ground partners, managing the process from mine to market.

Ready to explore Nigeria’s gemstone map? Let us be your guide. Contact us today for a consultation on sourcing Naija gems and seize the opportunity to be part of Nigeria’s dazzling mineral revolution. For a deeper dive, download our e-book, “Nigeria’s Gemstone Goldmine: Unveiling a Billion-Dollar Industry,“ for a comprehensive guide to the sector.

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