🇰🇭 Kingdom of Cambodia –

Ruby & Gemstone Mining Project

OVERVIEW

Country: Kingdom of Cambodia (Pailin Province, Western Cambodia, near Thai border)
Project Status: Completed / Terminated
Start Year: 1995
Conclusion Year: 1997
Minerals: Rubies, Sapphires, and Associated Gemstones
Ore Type: Alluvial & Eluvial Deposits
Geology: Ruby and sapphire deposits hosted in gem-bearing gravels and secondary alluvial formations, geologically identical to deposits across the Thai border
Technology:
♦ DOVE EXPLORER^® Semi-Mobile Processing Plant – 120 TPH
 Configured with Wheel-Set for ease of movement across rough terrain
 Custom-engineered for alluvial and eluvial deposits of Rubies, Sapphires, and associated gemstones
 Integrated primary and secondary concentrators for maximum recovery efficiency

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

In 1995, DOVE initiated its operations in the Kingdom of Cambodia, following the regional success of its mining operations and supply of advanced mineral processing technologies in neighboring Vietnam.

Recognizing DOVE’s pioneering role in introducing modern, professional mining practices, the Cambodian Government formally invited Dr. Fillip Sharifi (CEO & Group Chairman, DOVE) to Cambodia to advise on the country’s mineral sector development.

During his official visit, Dr. Sharifi met with Samdech Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia, along with senior government ministers. By direct order of the Prime Minister, DOVE was awarded a mining license for the exploration and development of Ruby and associated gemstone deposits in Pailin Province, a historic gemstone district in western Cambodia near the Thai border.

The Pailin deposits are world-renowned, producing rubies and sapphires that are geologically identical to Thai rubies, as both regions share the same gem-bearing formations. Historically, many Cambodian gemstone mines — including Pailin — were considered part of Thailand until 1907, further highlighting the continuity of this gemstone belt.

To develop these resources, DOVE mobilized its advanced technology:

The EXPLORER^® 120 TPH Semi-Mobile Processing Plant, mounted on wheel-set assemblies for easy relocation across rugged terrain.
Specially designed for alluvial and eluvial ruby and sapphire deposits, the plant was configured with primary and secondary concentrators, achieving continuous, high-efficiency recovery.

Challenges & Security Conditions

Although the civil war had officially ended in 1975, Cambodia in the mid-1990s still faced active insurgency from Khmer Rouge remnants, especially in northern and western provinces.

Mining operations in Pailin along the Pailin River were repeatedly interrupted due to the high risk of insurgent attacks.
The main road from Phnom Penh to Pailin was frequently sabotaged — fitted with landmines and explosives by Khmer Rouge forces to prevent the advance of government troops.
Logistics, transportation of equipment, and the safety of personnel were under constant threat.

Despite strong government support and close relations with the Prime Minister’s office, the unstable security environment made long-term operations unsustainable.

After two years, Dr. Sharifi made the decision to terminate DOVE’s mining operations in Cambodia and close the company’s office in Phnom Penh, prioritizing the safety of the team over continued investment.

Milestones & Significance

First large-scale mechanized mining and processing project for rubies and sapphires in Cambodia.
Formal recognition and direct license award by the Prime Minister of Cambodia.
Deployment of the EXPLORER® 120 TPH Semi-Mobile Processing Plant in a conflict-affected frontier region.
Although terminated, the project highlighted Cambodia’s vast gemstone potential under stable conditions.

Legacy & Impact

The DOVE Cambodia Project remains historically important:

Pioneer Achievement: Introduced Cambodia’s first professional-grade gemstone processing operation.
Technological Innovation: Deployed advanced semi-mobile plant technology, adaptable even in hostile terrains.
Historical Continuity: Reconnected Cambodia’s gemstone heritage with modern recovery practices.
Responsible Leadership: Demonstrated DOVE’s commitment to safety and sustainability by withdrawing responsibly in the face of ongoing conflict.