Project Description

In 1997, DOVE discovered the first sapphires in Ilakaka, an area then uninhabited, known only for birdwatching. Together with a local partner, DOVE secured 35 mining blocks, igniting one of the largest sapphire rushes in modern history.
When DOVE mobilized its equipment, word spread rapidly, attracting thousands of artisanal miners and other companies to the area. This discovery laid the foundation for Ilakaka’s transformation into the sapphire capital of the world.

Gemstone Characteristics

The Ilakaka deposits produced sapphires in an extraordinary range of colors:

• Blue, Pink, Yellow, Green, Red, and White sapphires

These stones were admired for their exceptional clarity and brilliance, though the volume and concentration was lower compared to Antsiranana’s large deposits.

Mining Operations & Technology

DOVE deployed its EXPLORER^® modular plants, offering:

• Maximum recovery efficiency
• Mobility across blocks
• Rugged, economical operation

This introduced professional-scale mining to Ilakaka, setting a new standard above artisanal methods.

Expansion Through Joint Ventures (1997–2002)

To develop the 35-block concession, DOVE partnered with international companies:

• DOVE–JAK Mining S.A.R.L. Sapphire Mining Operation
• DOVE–Gems Mining Resources S.A.R.L. Sapphire Mining Operation

Both ventures combined DOVE’s technical expertise and recovery systems with partner investment, producing high-quality sapphires for international export.