Farmers, Don’t Be Fooled!
After finding things like columbite or strange stones on your farm, the next thing na to verify am well. Some people go just carry stone think say na diamond or gold, meanwhile e fit just be granite. This post go guide you on how to test valuable resources like minerals, gemstones, and herbs legally and professionally in Nigeria.
1. Use a Hand Lens or Magnifying Glass
If you find one shiny or strange rock, the first basic test na to use hand lens:
- Check the colour, sparkle, and texture
- Precious stones like tourmaline, topaz, and aquamarine usually get sharp edges and reflect light
But remember say not all shiny stones na real gem o. This one na just first step.
2. Take It to a Government-Approved Testing Centre
To confirm if your stone na real columbite, gold, beryl, sapphire, or something else, go to:
- Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA)
- Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development
- University geology departments (like FUTA, ABU Zaria, UNN Enugu)
Dem go use lab tools like XRF scanner, Mohs hardness test, and gravity test to tell you the real value.
3. Do NOT Rely on Local Buyers Alone
Some people go just show your stone to “Alhaji” or “Mallam” and sell for small change. That one na big mistake. These buyers sabi underprice farmers because dem know you no go verify the worth.
4. Ask for an Assay Certificate
Before selling any mineral or stone, get an assay report. E go confirm the composition and purity. You fit get this from:
- Certified geologists
- Mineral testing labs
- Ministry of Solid Minerals offices
With this certificate, foreign and local buyers go take you serious.
5. What About Herbs and Roots?
If na special plant you find (like wild herbs or barks), carry sample go:
- NIPRD (National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development)
- Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN)
- Herbal Medicine departments for university labs
6. Avoid Illegal Mining Activities
Even if your farmland get gold or columbite, no just start digging anyhow. You must get small-scale mining license or partner with legal companies.
👉 Apply through minesandsteel.gov.ng
✨ Moral of the Day:
“Knowing the worth of what you hold makes the difference between struggle and success.”
No let ignorance or scammers cheat you. Verify wetin you see for your land, get certificate, and take advantage of the wealth God don bless your farm with.
🔗 Read Our Previous Posts in This Series:
- 👉 Farmers Dey Discover Columbite for Farm? See Wetin to Do
- 👉 Hidden Treasures on Nigerian Farmlands: Other Things We Fit Sell
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