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Sri Lanka shows off giant natural blue sapphire


Written by ReutersColombo, Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan authorities on Sunday put on display what they say is the world’s largest natural corundum blue sapphire, weighing 310 kilograms (683 pounds), found in a gem pit about three months ago.

Local gemologists, who have examined the sapphire, say it is one of the rarest gemstones in the world as it weighs more than 300 kilograms (661 pounds). International organizations have not yet certified the gem.

The stone is on display in Horana, a suburb of the Sri Lankan capital Colombo.

The stone is on display in Horana, a suburb of the Sri Lankan capital Colombo. Credit: Image of Ishara S. Kodikara / AFP / Getty

The sapphire was on display at the home of one of the owners of the gem pit in Horana, 65 kilometers (40 mi) south of Colombo. A group of Buddhist monks chanted blessings for the gem before it was inaugurated.

The stone was found in the gem-rich Ratnapura area, where locals had previously stumbled across the world’s largest sapphire cluster in their backyard.

People examine the blue sapphire, known as "Asia Queen," in Horana, Sri Lanka.

People inspect a blue sapphire, dubbed the “Asian Queen” in Horana, Sri Lanka. Credit: Image of Ishara S. Kodikara / AFP / Getty

Ratnapura is known as the gem capital of the South Asian nation, a leading exporter of jade and other precious stones.

The country made about half a billion dollars through exports of gems, diamonds and other jewelry last year, the local gem and jewelry industry body reported.

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