A rare purple star sapphire, claimed to be the largest of its kind, has drawn global attention for its immense size and staggering valuation. The sapphire weighing 3,563 carats, was unveiled on Saturday
in the Sri Lankan capital by the owners, who are ready to sell the precious stone, which is estimated to be worth at least $300 million.
The round-shaped gemstone, named “Star of Pure Land,” is the world’s largest documented natural purple star sapphire, according to consultant gemologist Ashan Amarasinghe.
“This is the largest purple star sapphire of its kind,” he told the media, adding that the gem “shows a well-defined asterism. It has six rays asterism. That’s something special out of all the other stones.”
The polished gemstone is owned by the Star of Pure Land team, who have chosen to remain anonymous citing security concerns.
According to the owners of the gem, it was found in a gem pit near the remote Sri Lankan town of Rathnapura, known as the “city of gems,” in 2023.
The gemstone was purchased along with other stones in 2023, and nearly two years later the owners realised it was exceptional. It was subsequently certified by two laboratories.
Amarasinghe said international valuers have estimated the stone’s worth at between $300 million and $400 million. He added that Sri Lankan sapphires are widely known for their distinctive colour, clarity and shimmer.
(With inputs from AP)
