A ‘Star Of Pure Land’ Is Born: Sri Lanka Reveals Rare 3,536-Carat Purple Sapphire

Last Updated:January 20, 2026, 21:02 IST

Certified by the Gemological Institute of America, the sapphire has been identified as a unique specimen originating from Sri Lanka, historically known in gemology as Ceylon.

The Star of Pure Land is currently under the custodial care of the Tucson Masterpiece Gem Society in the United States.

Sri Lanka unveiled what experts describe as one of the most extraordinary gemstone discoveries in recent history- a natural purple star sapphire weighing 3,536 carats and named the Star of Pure Land. The gemstone was presented publicly for the first time at a press briefing in Colombo, where its owners described it as a rare convergence of science, culture and history. Certified by the Gemological Institute of America, the sapphire has been identified as a unique specimen originating from Sri Lanka, historically known in gemology as Ceylon.

What Makes This Sapphire So Unusual?

The Star of Pure Land stands out for its striking six-ray star pattern- a phenomenon known as asterism- which appears clearly across its surface. Gemologists say the effect is unusually sharp and well-defined, a rarity even among star sapphires. The stone’s deep purple colour, large size and round cabochon cut further set it apart. Specialists said that there is no recorded natural purple star sapphire that matches this combination of colour, clarity, size and star effect.

How Was Its Authenticity Established?

The gemstone underwent extensive verification before its public unveiling. It received certification from the Gemological Institute of America, along with independent validation by the Lanka Gemological Laboratory, confirming both its natural formation and Sri Lankan origin. Experts said that such dual certification is crucial in the global gem trade, where provenance and traceability significantly affect both scientific value and market credibility. The stone has been valued at around $300 million.

What Creates The ‘Star’ Effect?

Gemologists explained that asterism occurs due to the alignment of microscopic, needle-like inclusions of rutile within the sapphire. These inclusions interact with light to create the star-shaped reflection. What makes the Star of Pure Land exceptional, they said, is not just the presence of asterism but its scale and clarity. The formation of such a gemstone takes millions of years under precise geological conditions of pressure and temperature, making it virtually impossible to replicate artificially.

Why Does It Matter Beyond Its Price?

Scientists studying the sapphire said that it offers valuable insight into how gemstones form deep within the Earth’s crust. Analysis of its structure and inclusions can help researchers better understand crystal growth, mineral alignment and the conditions needed to produce star sapphires and other rare gems. Beyond science, the stone also carries cultural weight. Sri Lanka has a long history as a source of prized sapphires, often referred to as Ceylon sapphires in historical records. Organisers of the presentation said the unveiling was intended not just to showcase the gem, but to preserve and document that heritage.

Where Is The Sapphire Now?

The Star of Pure Land is currently under the custodial care of the Tucson Masterpiece Gem Society in the United States, which is overseeing its stewardship. Its introduction forms part of the Star of Pure Land Project, an initiative focused on research, documentation and responsible public presentation.

News world A ‘Star Of Pure Land’ Is Born: Sri Lanka Reveals Rare 3,536-Carat Purple Sapphire

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