‘In a first, Panjsher’s emerald sold at home’

PARAKH (Pajhwok): For the first time a 1,244 karat emerald stone discovered in central Panjsher province has been sold in the country in a legal manner, an official said on Friday.

Nasratullah Malakzada, director Information and Cultural Affairs, told Pajhwok Afghan News  the 1,224 karat emerald stone was sold against 24, 569,000 afs through a bidding process.

He said after its discovery, the stone was presented at a bidding process in which around 150 national traders took part. Finally the precious stone was sold against 24,569,000 afs.

He said earlier, precious stones especially emerald were smuggled outside the country and sold in other places.

Referring to income tax issue he said: “In the past government five percent tax was charged on precious stones and the excavation was also conducted unprofessionally but now the Islamic Emirate government imposed 10 percent tax.”

He did not say who discovered the emerald but the provincial Mining Department during August official started demining in the province.

According to reports currently 700 emerald mines existed in panjsher out of which 500 are functional. Most of these mines situated in the Hisa-e-Awal district of the provinces.

Panjsher’s emeralds are worldwide known for its high quality and value.

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