UK Gemstone Expert Killed in Kenya

The internationally-renowned gemmologist has lived in the African country most of his life, and is credited with discovering the green Tsavorite gem, a rare stone unique to the region. File photo

A leading Scottish gemstone expert has been killed in Kenya by a gang armed with clubs, spears, bows and arrows.

71-year-old Campbell Bridges was attacked Tuesday by 20 men in the grounds of his 600-acre property near the southern town of Voi.

He fought off the mob with his son Bruce and four Kenyan staff but died of his injuries on arrival at hospital.

Police are investigating the attack which is reportedly connected to a three-year dispute over access and control of Mr Bridges' gemstone mines.

Witnesses said his injuries were caused by stab wounds from a knife. No-one else was injured in the attack.

The internationally-renowned gemmologist has lived in the African country most of his life, and is credited with discovering the green Tsavorite gem, a rare stone unique to the region.

He also worked as a special consultant to the New York jewellers, Tiffany and Company.

 

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