Massive 5-pound, 11,000-carat rare ruby discovered by miners in war-torn Myanmar
New York Post • • world
Key Points:
- Miners in Myanmar have discovered a rare five-pound ruby weighing 11,000 carats near the town of Mogok, a key gem-mining region, according to state media.
- The ruby, unveiled by President Min Aung Hlaing, is the second-largest ever found in Myanmar and is considered more valuable than the largest ruby discovered in 1996 due to its superior color, transparency, and reflective surface.
- Myanmar produces up to 90% of the world’s rubies, with the Mogok region being the primary source, making gemstones a major revenue stream for the country.
- Despite the discovery’s significance, human rights groups have criticized the gemstone industry in Myanmar, urging jewelers to avoid purchasing gems linked to the military regime and ongoing conflict.
- Gemstone mining also funds armed groups seeking autonomy following the 2021 military coup, complicating the industry’s role amid the country’s political and humanitarian crisis.