Sri Lanka has unveiled what is believed to be the largest sapphire ever discovered. According to the Associated Press, the gemstone weighs 3,563 carats and is valued at $300 mln –$400 mln.
The rare purple star sapphire, named Star of Pure Land, was found near the city of Ratnapura, a long-established centre of gemstone mining. The stone was officially presented to the public in January 2026.
AP reports that the sapphire displays a pronounced asterism effect — a distinctive star pattern visible on its surface — which significantly increases both its collectible appeal and market value. Experts say gemstones of this kind are extremely rare, particularly given the stone’s size and state of preservation.
Sri Lankan authorities and representatives of the jewellery industry expect the discovery to draw renewed international attention to the country as one of the world’s leading hubs for gemstone mining and exports.
