What is it like working with a large scale mine in Madagascar?

Visiting a large-scale mine in Madagascar is a stark contrast to the artisanal mining sites scattered across the country. While small-scale miners rely on traditional tools and manual labor, industrial mining operations bring in heavy machinery, structured processes, and strict security. Seeing it firsthand highlighted the complexities of responsible sourcing, transparency, and the challenges faced in a country where natural resources are abundant but governance remains weak.

Unlike artisanal mines, where independent miners dig freely, large-scale mines are controlled environments. Once inside, the scale of the operation became clear. Massive excavators moved earth in precise, calculated motions. 

But with this industrialization comes an entirely different challenge: ensuring that local communities benefit. In theory, large-scale mines should create jobs, boost local economies, and provide safer working conditions than artisanal digging. In practice, the balance isn’t always so clear.

While we aim on maximizing the value added to the local communities, so far we have witnessed infrastructures being built, and decent jobs being provided to local habitants of the Ilakaka region. This might seem like the bare minimum but in a country plagued with unemployment and lack of infrastructures; it feels like a step in the right direction. 

Sourcing natural gemstones if often seen like a tradeoff, while large-scale mining harms the environment more than small artisanal mining; the human rights issues associated with the latter make it difficult to purchase gemstones in good conscience. 

Balancing responsible sourcing, environmental impact, and community well-being is never simple. While large-scale mining has its challenges, it also offers a level of transparency and accountability that artisanal mining often lacks.

Our decision to work with a large-scale mine allows us to ensure responsible sourcing while supporting economic development in Madagascar. As we grow, we remain committed to exploring ways to make a positive impact across the gemstone supply chain—whether through partnerships, advocacy, or future initiatives that uplift small-scale miners in a sustainable way.

By Alice Aubry, Founder of Gems with Origin