A remarkable purple star sapphire, weighing a staggering 3,563 carats and valued at approximately $300 million (around Rp5.06 trillion), has been showcased in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Saturday, January 17.
This extraordinary gemstone, known as the "Sacred Star," is hailed as the largest documented natural purple star sapphire in the world, according to gem expert Ashan Amarasinghe.
What’s truly fascinating is that international appraisers estimate its worth could range from $300 million to $400 million (approximately Rp5.06 trillion to Rp6.06 trillion).
"This is indeed the largest purple star sapphire of its kind," Amarasinghe remarked during a media briefing, as reported by the Associated Press.
He elaborated, stating, "The gemstone exhibits a clear asterism phenomenon with six rays, which sets it apart from all other stones." To clarify, asterism refers to the star-like pattern that can be seen on certain gemstones when viewed under direct light, as explained by Britannica.
The polished gem is owned by a group known as the Sacred Star Team, who have chosen to remain anonymous for security reasons. One of the owners revealed that the stone was unearthed from a gem mining pit near the remote town of Rathnapura, often referred to as the "city of gems" in Sri Lanka, back in 2023.
The stone was acquired alongside other gemstones during the same year, and it was not until about two years later that the owners recognized its unique significance. They subsequently secured certifications from two laboratories verifying the stone's exceptional qualities.
Sapphires hailing from Sri Lanka are celebrated for their distinctive characteristics, which include vibrant color, clarity, and an unmatched brilliance that captures the eye.
What do you think about the rarity and value of such gemstones? Are there ethical considerations we should ponder regarding their extraction and sale? Share your thoughts in the comments!
