August M
Human rights groups are again warning international jewellers about Myanmar’s gemstone industry after state media reported the discovery of a massive ruby in one of the country’s most famous mining regions.
The find comes as Myanmar remains gripped by political unrest and renewed scrutiny over how profits from its lucrative ruby trade are used, reports The Express.
Industry under fire
Global Witness has previously argued that Myanmar’s gemstone sector has provided significant income to the country’s military rulers for years.
The advocacy organisation and other rights groups have urged buyers and luxury jewellers to avoid sourcing stones from Myanmar, citing concerns over military-linked revenues and conflict in the country.
Myanmar introduced a new government earlier this year, but opposition groups described the administration as lacking genuine civilian authority after military leader Min Aung Hlaing retained power following elections.
The UK government also continues to advise against travel to several regions of Myanmar because of ongoing violence and instability.
Rare discovery
Against that backdrop, Myanmar’s state-run Global New Light of Myanmar reported that miners uncovered an 11,000-carat ruby near Mogok in the Mandalay region last month.
Officials later displayed the gemstone at the president’s office, according to the newspaper.
The ruby reportedly weighs about 4.8 pounds, similar to the size of a Chihuahua dog. State media described the stone as moderately transparent with a rich purplish-red colour and slight yellow tones.
According to the report, experts believe the gem may carry greater value than a much larger ruby found in 1996 because of its stronger colour and overall quality.
Ruby powerhouse
Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is widely regarded as the world’s leading ruby supplier and is estimated to produce around 90% of global rubies.
Much of that trade comes from Mogok, sometimes referred to as “Ruby Land,” as well as the Mong Hsu mining district.
The country shares borders with India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand, and gemstones remain an important source of national revenue despite years of civil conflict and international criticism.
Sources: The Express, Global New Light of Myanmar, Global Witness, UK Government
