Faiza Tehseen

Introduction of cutting-edge smart lapidary equipment in Pakistan’s gemstone industry will enhance efficiency, improve gemstone quality, and drive the industry’s global competitiveness, opined Mamoor Khan, Patron-in-Chief of All Pakistan Commercial Exporters Association of Rough Unpolished and Precious and Semi-Precious Stones (APCEA), in an exclusive chat with WealthPK.

“Gemstones are a valuable export commodity of Pakistan. The country is rich in gemstones but  outdated equipment, limited access to modern technology, and absence of standardization, have deprived Pakistan of a handsome earning,” he said. Talking about the role of APCEA in introducing smart lapidary gadgets to the Pakistani youth and artisans, he said the Association in collaboration with its local and international technology partners was interested in launching a series of automated and digitally enhanced lapidary equipment.

“In this regard, we are having positive discussions with relevant government officials and other stakeholders for financing and facilitation. Modern machines integrate artificial intelligence, precision cutting technology, and enhanced quality control features that are expected to streamline the gemstone processing workflow. The said smart equipment is superb for more consistent cut, optimized gemstone polishing, and data-driven decisions to ensure reduced wastage and higher yields,” Mamoor said.

The said technology is not only designed for large-scale industrial operations but small-scale processing is also possible. It saves the SMEs from significant capital investment. The APCEA is also interested in conducting training sessions and workshops to equip the youth and artisans with modern skills to operate the advanced lapidary tools effectively. He said, “Smart equipment features a user friendly interface, remote diagnostics, minimal downtime, maximum productivity, and automated maintenance alert.

Another amazing feature is the tracebility that enables the customers to track every processing or production stage of gemstones.” He said the system’s integration with digital monitoring was also useful to minimize cutting errors and artisans also got the real time feedback to improve their craftsmanship. The said advancement will enable Pakistani gemstone manufacturers to increase their production capacity and maintain the quality standard according to the international market’s demand.

Gem stone exporter Zakir Ullah alias Jhulay Lal talked to WealthPK about the importance of introducing the smart lapidary equipment for a flourishing gemstone industry in Pakistan. He said, “The exploitation of Pakistan’s untapped gemstone potential can place it among the global leading gemstone exporters. Introduction of smart lapidary equipment is not only necessary to enhance Pakistan’s competiveness in the gemstone sector, but it will also empower the socio-economic circle of local artisans.” 

Jhulay Lal, who is the also a member of the APCEA executive body, said the introduction of advanced technology will leave far-reaching economic impacts, including new job opportunities, increase in exports, and promotion of sustainable practices in the gemstone industry. The use of smart technology will show a substantial rise in both production quality and gemstone export, he added.

Credit: INP-WealthPk