Named "Star of the Pure Land", the 3,563-carat sapphire is the world's largest natural round purple star sapphire. It was unveiled in Colombo, Sri Lanka's capital, on 17/1.

The 3,563-carat purple star sapphire during its unveiling in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on 17/1. Photo: AP

The 3,563-carat purple star sapphire during its unveiling in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on 17/1. Photo: AP

"This is the largest purple star sapphire of its kind", said gem consultant Ashan Amarasinghe. He added that the stone "displays a very clear star effect, a 6-ray star. This is unique compared to other stones".

An owner of the stone stated it was mined in 2023 at a gem mine near Rathnapura, Sri Lanka's remote "city of gems". Sri Lankan sapphires are world-renowned for their rare color, clarity, and sparkle.

They acquired it with other stones, but only two years later did they recognize its special features and have it authenticated. According to Amarasinghe, international experts estimate the sapphire's value at approximately 300-400 million USD.

By Hong Hanh (According to AP)