A variety of unique semi-precious stones can be found in parts of the Erongo region and other areas of the country. The gems are mostly mined by small-scale miners and sold directly to tourists via local market places, to jewellery outlets for use in their products or international merchants. The mining of semi-precious stones is an important source of income to support livelihoods in rural communities . Small-scale miners receive direct support from Chamber members, international development organisations such as the Duetsche Gesellshcaft für Internationalle Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the Small-Scale Miners Association and the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
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