Tsavorite Mining in Kenya with Hunt Country Jewelers
In order to finish my geology degree from Virginia Tech, in the summer of 2007 I traveled to Kenya to complete a field study. For five weeks I studied under and worked for world renowned geologist and gemologist, Campbell Bridges, the discoverer of a naturally green garnet that he named Tsavorite. The name was chosen because of the proximity of the Tsavo National Park in Kenya (known for their lions). My assignment from Virginia Tech was to geologically map the region, give a full description of all rock types, and describe how and why tsavorites have formed there in southern central Kenya. My job while working for Mr. Bridges was to oversee the mining operations, security, and the cutting of the tsavorites when applicable.
Five weeks in Kenya teaches you a lot. In addition to my crash course in Swahili, I learned the major steps involved in tsavorite mining, and why Mr. Bridges' mines were specifically set up and operated the way they were. Tsavorite mining involves drilling, blasting, pocketing, cleaning the tunnel, sieving, transport, and finally, cutting. About 35 people were employed working in and around the mines, most of whom were in the mine shafts with me and spoke very limited English.
In my five week stay, a full three weeks were spent at the mines where we extended the tunnel about four linear meters and extracted the rock and debris. Dynamite and ANFO was used to blast away host rock, but black powder was used near the potential tsavorite pockets as it is less destructive. In our four meters of tunnel we collected a grand total of about eight carats of tsavorite rough which might yield about two carats of cut goods.
Theft, trespassing, and illegal mining on other people's property were all big problems throughout my stay and after. In August of 2009, Campbell Bridges was murdered on the way to his mine by squatters. Although the killers are known and identified, the authorities have ignored the crime to the extent that an international investigation has been opened so it remains to be seen what will be done about his death. This generous man, Campbell Bridges, took me, a total stranger, under his wing for five weeks, trusted me implicitly with valuable material, allowed me to participate in his mining operation, showed me the wonders of Kenya, and did everything he could to make my stay as pleasant and memorable as possible.
- Logan Cutshall
