14/12/2001
The Gemstone Sellers

By Akhtar Soomro

The mysterious appeal of gemstones, their exquisite colours and the play of light within them, would alone have made them precious. Numerous myths and legends are associated with gems. Some tell of cursed stones; others of stones with special powers of healing, or which bring good
luck to the wearer.

Throughout the ages, gemstones have been seen to represent wealth and power. Symbols of supremacy, from crowns to richly decorated robes, have traditionally been adorned with jewels. But now gemstones are not just for the wealthy. Every weekend people of all descriptions from the amateur gem-spotter to the enthusiast who enjoys their beauty and history, gather at Lea Market, Karachi, to collect and exchange their gemstones. Here are some of their pictures, the people and the gems. Please click on thumbnails to see full size picture. All photos © Akhtar Soomro

	Showcase of gemstones including Garnet, Amethyst, Aquamarine, Emerald, Pearl, Ruby, Peridot, Sapphire, Opal, Topaz, Turquoise etc.
Dealers run a market in gems and semi precious stones
	A semi precious stone seller showing the piece of agate.
Sky blue turquoise from Iran is generally regarded as the most desirable.
	An elderly collector, sitting by the roadside gem market
A Karachi roadside gem seller.
	Take a look of my big quartz
Showcase of gemstones