Discover the Gemstones of Stak Nala in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
The three mountain ranges of Gilgit-Baltistan - the Himalayas, Hindukush, and Karakorum - are rich in minerals and gems, including emerald, ruby, sapphire, aquamarine, moonstone, and amethyst. The region is also home to other minerals such as peridot, tourmaline, topaz, garnet, red spinal, pargasite, diopside, sphene, apatite, azurite, rose quartz, and agate. Stak Nala, located on the Gilgit-Skardu link road, is part of the Karakorum mountain range.
Brief History of Mining in Stak Nala:
Mining in Stak Nala began in the 1980s when an international company arrived and began operations there. They established a base in the Tookla Village of Stak Nala and remained there for over a year. From the village, it takes about half an hour to reach the mining areas, which are divided into two main areas known as Kaska and Zoa Lungma. The company built a temporary road leading to Kaska to transport their mining equipment, with the help of local labor. This zigzag road is still in use today.
The local people hired by the company were paid according to their job duties. At Kaska and Zoa Lungma, the rocky mountain was dug out in different directions, with tunnels extending 100-300 feet inward and standing 3-8 feet tall and wide. The entire area of the rocky mountain was converted into hundreds of holes, resembling a beehive. After the company left, the local people continued to mine the area, though they did not have the same level of equipment and training. They used local iron bars to dig into the rock, which was time-consuming and difficult. Some of the local miners were able to find moderate amounts of minerals, but not on a large scale.
Latest History:
Mining in Stak Nala began in the 1980s when an international company arrived and began operations there. They established a base in the Tookla Village of Stak Nala and remained there for over a year. From the village, it takes about half an hour to reach the mining areas, which are divided into two main areas known as Kaska and Zoa Lungma. The company built a temporary road leading to Kaska to transport their mining equipment, with the help of local labor. This zigzag road is still in use today.
The local people hired by the company were paid according to their job duties. At Kaska and Zoa Lungma, the rocky mountain was dug out in different directions, with tunnels extending 100-300 feet inward and standing 3-8 feet tall and wide. The entire area of the rocky mountain was converted into hundreds of holes, resembling a beehive. After the company left, the local people continued to mine the area, though they did not have the same level of equipment and training. They used local iron bars to dig into the rock, which was time-consuming and difficult. Some of the local miners were able to find moderate amounts of minerals, but not on a large scale.
Latest History:
After the initial mining company left, the local people continued to mine the area, but they were not able to earn significant amounts. In 2011, however, the mining of gemstones in Stak Nala gained popularity at the international level and the local miners began to earn significant profits. The following gemstones have been found in Stak Nala: aquamarine, topaz, tourmaline, apatite, sphene, morganite, and quartz.
- Aquamarine: a blue or green variety of beryl, often used in jewelry
- Topaz: a mineral that comes in a variety of colors, including yellow, blue, pink, and colorless
- Tourmaline: a group of minerals that can occur in a range of colors, including pink, red, green, blue, and purple
- Apatite: a mineral that comes in a variety of colors, including green, blue, yellow, and brown
- Sphene: a mineral that can be yellow, green, or brown in color
- Morganite: a variety of beryl that is typically pale pink or peach in color
- Quartz: a mineral that comes in a variety of colors, including clear, white, pink, purple, and brown
Most Frequently Asked Questions about Stak Nala in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan (FAQs):
Where is Stak Nala located?
Stak Nala is located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan.
What minerals and gemstones can be found in Stak Nala?
Some of the gemstones found in Stak Nala include aquamarine, topaz, tourmaline, apatite, sphene, morganite, and quartz.
When did mining begin in Stak Nala?
Mining in Stak Nala began in the 1980s.
What other minerals are found in Gilgit-Baltistan?
In addition to the gemstones found in Stak Nala, other minerals found in Gilgit-Baltistan include emerald, ruby, sapphire, peridot, garnet, red spinal, pargasite, diopside, apatite, azurite, rose quartz, and agate.
How can I learn more about mining in Stak Nala?
There are various resources available for learning about mining in Stak Nala, including local mining companies and government agencies. You can also consult with experts in the field for more information.
