Huge Ruby Discovered in Burma
A significant ruby has been found in Burma, making headlines as the second-largest ever discovered in the country. Weighing around 11,000 carats, or roughly 4.8 pounds, this stone was unearthed near Mogok in the Mandalay region, which is central to Burma’s gem industry.
The remarkable gem was discovered in mid-April, soon after the country celebrated its traditional New Year. Experts note that while this ruby is about half the size of a 21,450-carat ruby found in 1996, it could be more valuable due to its superior quality. The ruby features a rich purplish-red hue with slight yellow undertones, moderate transparency, and a glossy surface.
Burmese President Min Aung Hlaing and his cabinet have inspected the ruby at the capital, Naypyidaw, showcasing its importance not just as a gem but as a potential asset for the nation.
Burma is known to produce nearly 90% of the world’s rubies, mainly sourced from Mogok and nearby areas. The gem trade—both legal and illegal—serves as a crucial income source for the country. However, rights groups like Global Witness have long urged consumers to think twice before purchasing Burmese gemstones, as the trade can support the military government in power.
The mining operations in the region can be tumultuous, often funding various ethnic armed groups that are involved in ongoing conflicts, complicating the situation further.
As this ruby turns the spotlight on Burma’s gem industry, it raises both hopes for economic growth and concerns about the ethical implications of gem sourcing in conflict zones.
