Tag Archives: madagascar

Madagascar: A gemologist’s journey (Morondava)

On Monday, June 9, 2014 we left Ifaty and took our clown bus back to Tulear where we boarded an Air Madagascar flight to Morondava. Morondava is further north on the west coast of Madagascar. It was a long busy … Continue reading

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Madagascar: A gemologist’s journey (Ambolimalika)

The next morning we drove to a small fishing village for the day. It was stunningly beautiful. We could swim, take a boat ride, snorkel, relax on the beach and read a book or take a walk among other things. … Continue reading

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Madagascar: A gemologist’s journey (Ifaty)

Our visit to the Ilakaka alluvial sapphire deposit marked the end of the work portion of our trip. Now it’s time for few days of rest and relaxation. Since we were parting with our drivers for a few days while … Continue reading

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Madagascar: A gemologist’s journey (Ilakaka Sapphire Deposit)

Ilakaka was probably the most exciting mining stop for me on the entire trip. As a Gemologist, I learned about this discovery, saw pictures and videos of it in my studies, but never imagined I would ever go there. This … Continue reading

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Madagascar: A gemologist’s journey (Isalo National Park Evening)

Our afternoon in Isalo National Park was just as beautiful as the morning. After a delicious lunch and entertainment by four friendly ring-tailed lemurs, we’re off again on one last adventure to a tropical waterfall. The scene was just too … Continue reading

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Madagascar: A gemologist’s journey (Isalo National Park Morning)

On the way from Amboarohy corundum deposit to Illakaka sapphire deposit we pass Isalo National Park, Madagascar’s most visited national park…and probably the most beautiful. This unique park has incredibly diverse landscapes including grassy plains, mountains, deep canyons and tropical … Continue reading

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Madagascar: A gemologist’s journey (Anja Community Reserve)

Our morning on this day was spent in Ranomafana National Park. We left mid day to reach Anja Community Reserve before evening. This is a beautiful park located outside of Ambalavao. Anja Community Reserve is a gorgeous 74-acre wonderland. Designated … Continue reading

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