COLOMBO (Dunya News) - Sri Lanka has unveiled the world’s largest purple star sapphire of its kind, with the rare gemstone now on public display in the capital, Colombo.
The stone weighs an extraordinary 3,563 carats, and its owners have expressed readiness to sell it. Experts have estimated its value at a minimum of $300 million.
According to gemologist Ashan Amarasighe, the round-shaped jewel has been named “Star of Pure Land” and is the largest documented and verified natural purple star sapphire in the world. He said the gemstone displays a clearly visible star effect, which adds significantly to its rarity and value.
Amarasighe explained that the sapphire features a six-rayed star effect, a characteristic that makes it distinct from other gemstones. The stone has already been polished and is currently in the possession of the Star of Pure Land team, whose members have chosen to remain anonymous for security reasons.
One of the owners revealed that the gemstone was discovered in 2023 during gem mining near Ratnapura, a city widely known as Sri Lanka’s “City of Gems.” The stone was initially purchased along with other gems, and it was only nearly two years later that its exceptional nature was fully recognized. Its authenticity was subsequently confirmed by two independent laboratories.
Amarasighe added that international experts have valued the sapphire between $300 million and $400 million, noting that Sri Lankan sapphires are globally renowned for their unique colors, clarity, and brilliance.