A massive natural purple star sapphire discovered in Sri Lanka has been formally introduced into the global scientific and cultural record, with experts describing it as the largest documented gemstone of its kind in the world.
Known as the “Star of Pure Land,” the gemstone weighs 3,536 carats and was presented at a briefing in Colombo on Saturday. It has been certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and independently documented by the Lanka Gemological Laboratory, which confirmed its Sri Lankan, or Ceylon, origin.
Gemologists said the stone is distinguished by a rare and sharply defined six-ray star effect, known as asterism, visible across its surface. Specialists noted that its round cabochon cut, combined with its size, clarity and color, makes it the largest known round-cut natural purple star sapphire ever recorded.
Experts said the sapphire was formed through natural geological processes over millions of years and cannot be replicated or artificially engineered, describing the conditions required to produce such a specimen as extremely rare.
Beyond its scientific value, the gemstone was presented as an object of cultural and historical significance. Organizers said its formal introduction marked the first time the sapphire had been placed within a structured framework combining scientific verification, geological context and long-term cultural documentation.
Custodial responsibility for the Star of Pure Land is currently held through the Tucson Masterpiece Gem Society in the United States, which represented the gemstone in a stewardship role. The introduction was coordinated under the Star of Pure Land Project, an initiative aimed at supporting research, documentation and responsible public communication.
While the gemstone remains under private custodial stewardship, organizers said it is being positioned for future ownership that recognizes its scientific, cultural and historical importance.
The Colombo briefing drew local and international media, scientific observers and cultural representatives, with participation both in person and online. Comprehensive scientific documentation related to the gemstone will be maintained as part of the permanent record and made available for institutional and professional review under established protocols. (Newswire)
