Largest emerald mine
- Who
- Kagem mine complex
- What
- 159,351 carats carat(s)
- Where
- Zambia (/)
- When
- 01 January 2024
The Kagem Emerald Mine in Copperbelt Province, Zambia, covers around 41 km2 (16 sq mi) and accounts for c. 25% of global emerald production. In 2024, it produced 159,351 carats of premium emeralds.
The Kagem mining site, which is made up of several key pits such as Chama, Chibolele and Fibolele, is 75% owned by the company Gemfields with the remaining 25% owned by the Government of Zambia.
The largest emerald ever found at Kagem was unearthed in July 2021 and weighed 7,525 carats (1.505 kg / 3 lb 5 oz). It was named Chipembele, meaning "Rhino" in the local dialect of the Bemba people.