A stunning colossal sapphire, believed to be the largest of its kind globally, has been unveiled, with experts approximating its value at over $300 million (£224m). The Purple Star Sapphire, weighing an impressive 3,563 carats, made its debut in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Named “Star of Pure Land,” this round gem is identified as the largest known natural purple star sapphire by esteemed gemologist Ashan Amarasinghe, who emphasized its unique six-ray asterism. Star sapphires are highly sought after for their star-like patterns, especially in rare purple hues. The gem, polished and owned by the anonymous group Star of Pure Land Team, was discovered in 2023 near Rathnapura, Sri Lanka’s renowned “city of gems.” After recognizing its significance post-purchase, the stone underwent official verification by two laboratories, confirming its rarity and immense size. International valuers estimate its worth between $300 million and $400 million (£224 million and £298 million), solidifying its position as one of the most valuable gemstones globally. Sri Lanka’s reputation for exceptional sapphires, known for their vibrant colors and natural sparkle, adds to the allure of this extraordinary find. Renowned for its gem-mining heritage, Sri Lanka has attracted gem enthusiasts for generations, with the unveiling of the Star of Pure Land poised to spark significant interest from collectors and investors worldwide. This remarkable sapphire joins a lineup of exceptional gemstones that have captivated global attention, including record-breaking sales and extraordinary discoveries in the gem industry.
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