A stunning gigantic sapphire has been unveiled, claimed to be the largest of its kind globally and potentially valued at over $300 million (£224m). The Purple Star Sapphire, weighing an impressive 3,563 carats, was showcased in Colombo, Sri Lanka, by its owners who are now looking to sell the remarkable gem named “Star of Pure Land.” Renowned gemologist Ashan Amarasinghe confirmed its uniqueness as the largest documented natural purple star sapphire with a well-defined six-ray asterism.
Star sapphires are highly sought after for their star-like patterns when illuminated, and purple variants are exceptionally rare. The gem, known for its rarity, has been polished and is kept by a group called the Star of Pure Land Team, choosing to remain anonymous for security reasons.
Discovered in 2023 near Rathnapura, Sri Lanka’s gem-rich region, the sapphire was initially bought alongside other stones before its true value was realized later. Following official verification by two laboratories, the gem’s rarity and size were confirmed.
International valuers estimate the sapphire to be worth between $300 million and $400 million (£224 million and £298 million), positioning it as one of the most valuable gemstones globally. Sri Lanka’s reputation for producing exceptional sapphires with distinct colors and clarity adds to the allure of this find.
The unveiling of the Star of Pure Land in the gem-mining hub of Rathnapura has attracted attention from collectors and investors worldwide, potentially leading to a historic gemstone sale. This discovery comes amidst a wave of extraordinary gemstones making headlines globally, including the record-breaking sale of The Regent Kashmir blue sapphire and the recognition of two colossal stones by Guinness World Records.
These rare gemstones, valued at over $500 million (£373m), showcase the exceptional beauty of natural gems, captivating collectors and designers alike. The gemstone market continues to thrive, with auctions featuring rare rubies, emeralds, and pink diamonds fetching significant sums, reflecting the growing demand for high-quality collectibles. The allure of rare gemstones remains strong, from celebrity-worn high-carat pieces to legendary finds from rich mines worldwide.