Aside from its diverse ethnic groups and unique cultures, Africa is also known for its rich mineral reserves, which serve as the primary economic mainstay for local governments.
And even though some people think diamonds, gold and copper are the only valuable gemstones available in Africa, the continent is blessed with a whole range of other precious stones that are spread in small mines across the continent.
However, most of these gems are mainly found in sub-Saharan Africa, with the southern and eastern regions taking the lead. Here are the top 7 most precious gemstones found in Africa aside from gold and diamond.