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OUR HISTORY
A Legacy Rooted in the Earth. A Vision Shaped by Heritage.
Nzuri Gems was founded by Saidi Bakari—a first-generation Tanzanian, South African American whose lifelong passion for gemstones was sparked as a young student in South Africa.
It was during a formative visit to Botswana’s Orapa diamond mine—the largest in the world—that Saidi first witnessed the awe-inspiring journey of a gemstone, from deep within the earth to a polished object of beauty. That experience planted the seed for what would become Nzuri Gems.
After earning a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Kogod School of Business at American University, Saidi deepened his expertise at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), completing several certifications in colored stones. In 2015, he established Nzuri Gems with a vision: to create a luxury jewelry brand that would honor both people and provenance, while reconnecting consumers to the incredible natural wealth of the African continent.
But the foundation of Nzuri Gems runs even deeper. Saidi’s family has generational ties with miners across the Neoproterozoic Mozambique Belt, one of the most mineral-rich regions on Earth. These enduring relationships have allowed Nzuri to ethically source natural tanzanite, tsavorite, rubies, emeralds, diamonds, and other rare gems directly from the source—ensuring transparency, sustainability, and unmatched quality.
Guided by his belief that “people and profits are not at odds,” Saidi built Nzuri Gems to uplift the very communities that make this work possible. He regularly travels across East and Southern Africa, working closely with miners, inspecting rough material firsthand, and securing exceptional gemstones that we proudly offer to you.
Another core value defines our brand: we guide, not lecture—sharing our expertise with those who are drawn to the deeper story. Whether you're a seasoned collector or discovering colored gemstones for the first time, Nzuri Gems is here to help you understand the story behind each piece—its geography, geology, and human touch. For those who wish to understand more, we’re here to illuminate the story behind the stone.
Today, Nzuri Gems remains a reflection of its founder’s vision: a brand built on trust, legacy, and quiet luxury—where every gem is not only beautiful, but ethically sourced, expertly chosen, and deeply rooted in African heritage