Gemstone mining in Tanzania is a combination of artisanal and large-scale operations. In the Mererani Hills near Arusha, miners extract Tanzanite from deep underground. This process involves several steps:

• Exploration: Geologists and prospectors identify potential mining sites based on geological surveys and local knowledge.
• Extraction: Miners use both manual labor and machinery to extract gemstones from the earth. This can be a dangerous and labor-intensive process, requiring skill and perseverance.
• Sorting and Grading: Once extracted, the rough stones are sorted and graded based on their quality, color, and clarity.

Ethical mining practices are crucial to minimize environmental impact and ensure fair labor conditions. Efforts are being made to improve safety standards and promote sustainable mining in Tanzania.