Source: ABC News
One of the biggest discoveries made in the world of gems has come to light in Sri Lanka, and it is known by the name of ‘Star of Pure Land.’ This natural purple star sapphire weighs 3,536 carats, making it one of the biggest gems of its time. The discovery has been revealed for the first time at a Press conference organised by the gemstone’s owners in Colombo, and it has been described as a matchless fusion of science, culture, and history. Recognised by the Gemological Institute of America, it has been identified as a gem of its own kind because of its origin in Sri Lanka or Ceylon. This gem has achieved fame because of its extraordinary round cut, size, color, and clarity. The gemstone has been given a distinct name because of its spectacular six-ray star pattern or ‘asterism’ feature. This makes it a benchmark for scientific knowledge and a piece of history for cultural traditions.
Sri Lanka unveils the largest natural purple star sapphire in the world
The authenticity of the gemstone has been a matter of rigour. It received certification from the Gemological Institute of America, one of the most respected authorities in gemology, and independent validation by the Lanka Gemological Laboratory, confirming its origin to be Sri Lankan, or Ceylon. These certifications ensure that scientific and historical traceability of the gemstone’s provenance provides a critical factor in the global gem trade and in research.By confirming both local and international verification, the Star of Pure Land provides both a scientific and cultural record that will ensure it is recognised as a valid and exceptional natural specimen, which is valued at $300 million, as reported by Associated Press YouTube video. Gemologists have drawn particular attention to the sapphire’s extraordinary optical phenomenon of asterism-a very well-defined six-ray star that appears across its surface. An effect of this nature takes place because of specific alignments of needle-like inclusions of rutile within the sapphire. Unique to this stone is not just the asterism but also the size and round cabochon cut. Specialists confirm that there is no recorded natural purple star sapphire comparable in colour, clarity, size, and star effect to that of this stone.The formation of the sapphire is natural and takes millions of years under ideal geological circumstances. It is not possible to create the same thing artificially. Secondly, it is rare to create so perfect an asterism with natural clarity. That makes the Star of Pure Land a marvel in the scientific field, along with being a treasure for collectors.
Star of Pure Land reveals geological insights and preserves Sri Lanka’s gemstone heritage
More than its aesthetic value, this gemstone has significant importance as it provides information regarding the geological process behind which such gems are formed. Scientists analyzing this sapphire have access to data regarding how high-pressure and high-temperature conditions in the Earth’s crust help in forming crystals, as well as their inclusions in such a manner as to create asterism.Through the study of the Star of Pure Land, geologists and gemologists will be able to learn about the requirements in creating other precious gemstones, such as star sapphires. The Star of Pure Land is not only a scientific treasure but also a cultural one. Sri Lanka has a rich history of gemstones, known as the “Ceylon” sapphires in history books. The organizers of the Mimosa Rocks gem show are, in a way, preserving history by formally introducing the gemstone in a way that involves scientific verification.
Scientific and cultural preservation of the Star of Pure Land
Currently, as reported by Viva Sri Lanka, the Star of Pure Land is under the custodial care of the Tucson Masterpiece Gem Society in the United States, which serves in a stewardship role. The gem’s introduction was coordinated under the Star of Pure Land Project, an initiative focused on research, documentation, and responsible public communication.This project ensures that while the gemstone remains privately held, its scientific and cultural records are preserved. It also positions the gem for future ownership that will respect its importance, whether in a museum, research institution, or other custodial arrangements. The Colombo briefing attracted local and international media, scientific experts, and cultural representatives, both in person and online. Comprehensive documentation of the gemstone has been compiled to ensure a permanent record is available for scientific, professional, and institutional review.Maintaining such detailed records not only supports research but also provides a reference point for future generations, securing the Star of Pure Land’s place in gemological history. Go to Source
