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Gem Wallet opens a native path from Zcash to other blockchains: our users can now swap ZEC via THORChain for BTC, ETH, USDT, and other assets. No wrapped ZEC, no bridges, and no accounts on third-party platforms - just native ZEC moving straight to other networks. Swaps are available from October 8, 2026, in version 2.114.67 on iOS and Android.
What Is THORChain?
THORChain is a decentralized protocol for cross-chain swaps of native assets: you send a coin on one network and receive the real coin on another, not a wrapped copy. In Q2 2026, ~$2.06 billion in swap volume went through THORChain.
The protocol keeps liquidity in its own pools (shared token reserves), and a network of independent nodes watches the blockchains and sends you the payout. THORChain has been running since 2021 - learn more in our article What Is the THORChain Blockchain?
Gem Wallet Supports Zcash Swaps via THORChain
Zcash has lived through several crypto cycles and keeps pushing forward the idea crypto started with: only you decide how your funds move. Zcash is the first privacy-focused asset on THORChain, and Gem Wallet opened this route to our users right away.
You can now swap ZEC for native BTC, ETH, BNB, SOL, or USDT on the TRC20 network - and just as easily get ZEC for these assets. This is only part of the routes: many other pairs are available too.
Gem Wallet compares THORChain quotes with other providers and shows you the best rate, and if you prefer, you can pick a provider yourself from the list.
How to Swap ZEC via THORChain DEX Provider
- Open Gem Wallet and tap Swap
- Choose ZEC as the asset you pay with and enter the amount
- Choose the asset you want to get - for example, BTC or USDC on Base
- Check the rate and confirm the swap - the funds will arrive at your address on the chosen network
Important: The Zcash network fee is paid in ZEC - keep a small extra amount on your balance on top of the swap amount.
Benefits for Gem Wallet Users
Gem Wallet is a mobile self-custody wallet with 100% open-source code for iOS and Android, supporting over 100 blockchains, where you can store, swap, stake, buy crypto, and much more. Every swap goes through trusted DEX providers, and all fees are shown before you confirm. Here are its main benefits for our users:
- Full Self-Custody: Your private keys stay only on your device - THORChain pays out the swap, while Gem Wallet signs and sends the transaction itself, so no middleman touches your funds.
- Fully Open-Source Code: Gem Wallet’s code is open on GitHub (CertiK audit, April 2026) - anyone can check how the wallet builds a ZEC swap via THORChain.
- Privacy by Default: No email, no phone number, no documents - install Gem Wallet and swap ZEC with no sign-up and no KYC.
- Built-in DEX Aggregator: Swap ZEC via THORChain for native assets on other networks - for example, DOGE on Dogecoin or AVAX on Avalanche, in one transaction right from the wallet.
- Top Up Your ZEC Balance: Buy ZEC with a credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay and swap it via THORChain in the same app.
- Simple and Clear Interface: Gem Wallet is easy to understand from the first seconds, for both crypto beginners and experienced users - store, send, and swap assets with no extra steps.
Resources for Developers
Besides THORChain, Gem Wallet routes swaps through other top DEX providers: Uniswap, PancakeSwap, Relay, Chainflip, Maya Protocol, NEAR Intents, Mayan, and others.
Conclusion
Gem Wallet connects the strongest cross-chain protocols so your assets can move freely between blockchains while your keys stay only with you - today this path opens for Zcash via THORChain. Open Gem Wallet and swap ZEC for BTC or USDT - privately and securely.
