Rockland Kenya Limited was established with a vision to become the leading gemstone mining and exporting company in East Africa. Based in Nairobi, Kenya, we have built our reputation on quality, integrity, and exceptional service.
Our journey began with a small team of passionate gemologists and mining experts who recognized the untapped potential of East African gemstones. Today, we have grown into a respected name in the global gemstone industry.
Rockland Kenya Limited was founded in 1991 under the stewardship of Hon. Johnson Muthama. The company has evolved to be a leading player in the Gemstone industry in East and Central Africa, primarily engaged in the exploration and mining of the Ruby Gemstone in Tsavo West National Park.
Hon. Muthama is a founding member and former chairman of the Kenya Chamber of Mines, recognized for greatly contributing to the development and marketing of Gemstones worldwide.
The Ruby Gemstones are extracted from the John Saul Ruby Mine in Tsavo West National Park with Rockland having acquired a Special Mining Lease (No.19) in 1991 to exclusively extract precious stones from a defined area. This 21-year lease was renewed in 2012, and currently runs until August 2031.
The John Saul Ruby Mine was discovered in 1973 by two American prospectors; John Saul and Tim Miller. After a long period of inactivity and dispute, the mine was acquired by Rockland Kenya Ltd in 1991.
The John Saul Ruby Mine is located in South Eastern Kenya, specifically Taita Taveta County, inside the Tsavo West National Park. Access is through the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) manned Kasigau gate. The mine is in a semi-arid place covered by thorn tree-sprinkled bush.
The mine is about 12 hours of travel from Nairobi by car and 5 hours from Mombasa. It's 2 hours by helicopter and one and half hours by fixed engine. It shares its Airstrip with KWS, which can accommodate light and executive aircrafts with flying time of 1 hour from Nairobi.
The region stretching along East African Coast, from Kenya to Mozambique, through Tanzania, has grown into a major Gemstone mining area over the last few decades. In geological terms, the East Africa Gemstone Belt is known as the Mozambique Metamorphic Belt.
It is a continental scale structure which settling ended about 500 Million years ago, and its geology is similar to that of Madagascar and Sri Lanka, two other important Gemstone producing countries.
Historically, the first coloured Gemstones were discovered during the 50's and the 60's in Tanzania. At present, hundreds of Gemstone deposits are known in East Africa, and the whole area is becoming the World's main source of coloured Gemstones.
To ethically source and provide the highest quality gemstones from East Africa to the global market while supporting local communities and maintaining sustainable mining practices.
To be the most trusted and respected gemstone company in Africa, known for our exceptional products, ethical practices, and positive impact on the communities we serve.
Integrity, quality, sustainability, community development, and customer satisfaction are the core values that guide every aspect of our business operations.
Chief Executive Officer
With over 20 years of experience in the gemstone industry, John leads our company with vision and expertise.
Head Gemologist
Sarah's exceptional knowledge of gemstones ensures the highest quality standards for all our products.
Operations Director
David oversees our mining operations, ensuring ethical practices and sustainable resource management.
Rockland Kenya Limited was founded in Nairobi with a small team of gemstone enthusiasts.
Expanded operations to include multiple mining sites across East Africa.
Established our current headquarters in Nairobi and began global exports.
Received international recognition for our commitment to ethical mining practices.
Continuing to grow as a leading supplier of premium gemstones to clients worldwide.
Contact us today to schedule a visit to our Nairobi headquarters or to discuss your gemstone needs.
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