The Participation of Muslim in the Path of Prosperity of Thai Gems

Abstract

The objectives of this research are 1) to study the participation of Muslims in the transmission of culture and values related to gems through the ancient maritime Silk Road and the modern air routes, 2) to study the involvement of Muslims in professions related to gems, and 3) to examine the participation of Muslims in various types of gems ranked as the most expensive in the world. This is a qualitative research article, encompassing both document-based and field research, using tools from the principles of Usul al-Tafsir, Mustalah al-Hadith, Usul al-Fiqh, history, geography, geology, and gemology, and employing analysis principles and classification into six types based on the event framework.

The research findings conclude that Muslims have been involved in transmitting culture and values related to gems through both the maritime Silk Road and the modern air routes. Muslims participate in professions related to gems and play significant roles in the processes that have led to many types of gems being ranked as the most expensive in the world. Consequently, Muslims contribute to the path of prosperity with Thai gems. However, a significant issue affecting the future of the Thai gem business is the lack of proactive and continuous innovation. This is evident from the ease with which Thais can access raw gems, but those who possess raw gems face difficulties in verifying the type, quality, and price assessment from credible state institutions. This is due to the insufficient number of reliable certification institutions by the Thai government, and the high fees for such assessments. Assessments without fees by experts often result in discouraging outcomes rather than fulfilling dreams, making it hard to encourage Thais to pursue the gem business as a supplementary occupation. Additionally, experienced gem experts have not been sufficiently promoted by government organizations, whose duty is to establish certification institutions for gem types, quality, and price assessment that meet global standards, with continuous government support and proactive innovation.