With a storied and romanticized past, gemstones and their trade have fascinated human beings since the beginnings of civilization. Today, the gem trade is a $23 billion global industry involving thousands of miners, traders, and dealers across hundreds of countries.
Naturally occurring gems like emeralds, rubies, and diamonds are procured from countries including Zambia, South Africa, Brazil, Thailand, and Mozambique and sold worldwide to collectors and retail buyers alike. Below is a brief summary of the modern gem trade, outlining the most popular gem markets, manufacturing and trading hubs, and trade shows.