A national conference devoted to “the reality of the gold industry in Algeria” was organized on Saturday, December 14, in the wilaya of Batna. Initiated by the national organization of gold and jewelry, the event, whose work was opened by the wali, Mohamed Benmalek, brought together professionals, craftsmen and experts. This meeting constituted a platform aimed at strengthening dialogue around the challenges facing the sector, while exploring future opportunities to promote it. She highlighted national potential in the field of precious metals, notably the Amesmessa mine, located in the wilaya of Tamanrasset. Operated by the National Gold Mining Company (Enor), this site has reserves estimated at 2.5 million tonnes, with a content of 18 grams of gold per tonne, it was indicated. . Furthermore, the first cutting and sculpting machine in goldsmithing was developed by a private company specializing in the manufacture of industrial machines in Batna. This project is the result of a collaboration between the local Chamber of Crafts and Trades (CAM) and the company GIMA (General Industry Manufacturing Algeria), aiming to modernize the processing of precious stones, commonly called gems. These gems, true geological treasures, include a diversity of stones ranging from the most common such as quartz, jasper and opal to the most prestigious such as diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds. The machine presented will allow precise cutting and working of these materials. The training of artisans constitutes a major axis of this approach. Several professionals have benefited from training courses, notably at the pilot gemstone cutting school in Tamanrasset. This school, created as a support structure for the local productive system, received help from Brazilian trainers to perfect jewelry cutting and design techniques. Note that the national project coordinator of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) supervised the event. The day ended with a collaborative meeting allowing jewelry and goldsmith artisans to share their experiences, discuss modern techniques and promote their acquired skills.
Nasreddine Bakha
