Is this the world’s biggest Sapphire?

by Rukshana Rizwie

Less than a fortnight after the discovery of the world’s largest Star Sapphire in Sri Lanka, a gem merchant from Beruwala is claiming to have found a 2,476 karat Blue Sapphire, making it the world’s largest Sapphire discovered so far.

The previous largest Sapphire, named Star of Adam Sapphire, weighed a mere 1404 karats, 1072 karats lighter than the newest find.

Reportedly, the egg shaped 3 ½ inches long Blue Sapphire, the value of which is yet to be estimated, had been found in Elahera. It is said to look similar to the Star of Adam with fibre reflecting light into the distinctive star pattern.

A leading gem and jewellery dealer in Colombo, Armil Samoon, said while the stone may be big in size, it’s the quality that would matter the most. “The beauty, rarity and durability are what ultimately translate to a quality gemstone,” he said adding though it could be the biggest stone, the value of it will depend on its quality.

The Star of Adam Sapphire was valued at $300 million.