gems, Pakistan, gold mine, ancient gold mines in Greece

Investigates the possible identification of the ancient gold-mining district of Skaptehyle with the Palaea Kavala region north of Kavala, Greece. Ancient writers describe Skaptehyle as a rich source of precious metals on the mainland opposite Thasos, but its location had remained uncertain. Field surveys identified approximately 150 iron–manganese ore occurrences, many containing lead, silver, and gold and preserving evidence of ancient exploitation. Detailed investigation focused on Mandra Kari, where an extensive network of ancient underground galleries survives. Combining chemical, mineralogical, and archaeometallurgical evidence with the historical accounts, the authors conclude that the modern Palaea Kavala mining district can plausibly be identified with Skaptehyle.