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In 2025, Artisanal and Small-scale miners (ASM) continue to play a vital role in global mineral production. While still frowned upon, the sector plays a critical role producing 60% of the total gold output in countries like Zimbabwe.
While ASM operations typically lack large-scale machinery or heavy capital investment, there are still highly profitable minerals accessible to small-scale operators—with many offering strong market prices, low barriers to entry, and government support for formalisation.
Here are the Top 10 Highest Paying Minerals that ASM miners can profitably target in 2025.
1. Gold
Avg Price: $2,300–$2,450/oz
Why it’s valuable: Gold remains the most accessible and profitable mineral for ASM globally. It is easy to process using traditional methods and has a ready market with high global demand. Many governments support ASM gold formalisation.
2. Tantalite / Coltan
Avg Price: $120–$150/kg (depending on grade)
Use: Mobile phones, electronics, defence
Why it’s valuable: Found in pegmatite zones in Central and Southern Africa, tantalum-rich ores are in high demand for tech. ASM miners in countries like Zimbabwe and the DRC often dominate this sector.
3. Lithium (Petalite, Spodumene in Ore Form)
Avg Price: $400–$800/tonne (ore)
Why it’s valuable: As EV demand rises, ASM lithium producers are gaining access to global supply chains. Zimbabwe’s Bikita and Kamativi regions offer opportunities, though beneficiation is done externally.
4. Gemstones (Emeralds, Rubies, Sapphires)
Price: Varies; High-quality stones can fetch thousands per carat
Why it’s valuable: Small-scale miners in countries like Zambia, Mozambique, and Madagascar can extract high-value gems with hand tools. Market access remains a challenge, but margins are strong.
5. Chrome Ore
Avg Price: $200–$250/tonne (depending on grade)
Why it’s valuable: Easily mined near surface and used in steel production, chrome is a staple for small-scale miners in Zimbabwe and South Africa. High-grade lumpy ore brings premium prices.
6. Wolframite (Tungsten Ore)
Avg Price: $20,000–$25,000/tonne (WO₃ content)
Why it’s valuable: In demand for aerospace and defense, tungsten is mined artisanally in Rwanda and Uganda. Processing is basic, but value is high due to scarcity.
7. Manganese
Avg Price: $200–$300/tonne (depending on grade)
Why it’s valuable: Used in battery tech and steel alloys, manganese can be surface mined. ASM operations in Ghana and Zimbabwe are increasingly tapping into this market.
8. Copper Ore (High-Grade Surface Ore)
Avg Price: $8,000–$9,500/tonne (refined equivalent)
Why it’s valuable: Copper prices remain strong due to green tech demand. In countries like Zambia and DRC, ASM players access shallow ore bodies or mine waste piles.
9. Fluorspar
Avg Price: $300–$500/tonne (depending on grade)
Use: Chemicals, steelmaking, refrigeration
Why it’s valuable: Found in areas like Kenya and South Africa, fluorspar can be extracted by small-scale miners with proper market linkage and beneficiation support.
10. Quartz (for Silicon and Jewelry)
Avg Price: $80–$200/tonne (industrial), more for gem-grade
Why it’s valuable: Though not always top-tier in value, high-purity quartz is critical for silicon production and solar tech. Gem-quality quartz also sells well in niche markets.
In 2025, the global market continues to reward ASM miners who focus on minerals tied to clean energy, tech, and infrastructure development. However, profitability is not just about high prices—it also depends on access to fair markets, proper safety practices, and formalisation.
With rising interest in mineral traceability and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) standards, ASM communities that organise and align with these goals are likely to see higher returns and global partnerships.
