J&K Governer asks State govt to take early steps for Sapphire mines

The Governor asked Khurshid Ganai to take early steps for the scientific exploitation of the Sapphire mine at Padder

Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra today asked the State government to take early steps for the scientific exploitation of the world famous Kashmiri Sapphire mine at Padder in J&K's Kishtwar district.

The Governor asked Financial Commissioner, Industries and Commerce, Department, Khurshid Ganai to take early steps for the scientific exploitation of the Sapphire mine at Padder, an official statement said here today.

Sapphire from Padder Valley in Kishtwar district is famous the world over for its unique peacock-blue colour.

Jammu and Kashmir Minerals Limited (JKML) holds a mine lease over an area of 6.65 square kilometre on GT Sheet 52/C at Padder, at a height of 4,327 meters.

Extraction of these sapphires from mines in Padder began in 1885 and they achieved legendary status in the jewellery world. The gems mined during this period are valued highly and usually fetch enormous prices around the world, officials said.

Their colour holds up in all kinds of light, which experts describe as a magical property, as compared to other fine sapphires such as Burmese stones, which lose their rich colour in the evening light. The stone has a magical 'velvety' effect, creating a soft, yet strong colour.

The price of these pure sapphires easily crosses USD 100,000 a carat, making them the most expensive in their category.

Ganai, briefed the Governor about issues relating to industrial promotion, the obtaining entrepreneurial environment and the status of cottage and village industries, handicrafts and handloom sector in the State.

The Governor stressed the importance of every possible effort being made to secure balanced growth of the State through sustainable utilisation of all available natural resources in the State.