Myanmar Miners Discover Enormous Ruby Amid Ongoing Conflict

Miners in Myanmar have uncovered a substantial ruby, now reported as the second-largest by weight ever found in the country. State media announced the discovery on Friday. The ruby, measuring 11,000 carats and weighing 4.8 pounds, emerged near Mogok town, located in the Mandalay region. This area is central to Myanmar’s gem-mining industry, which has been affected by intense fighting amid the country’s civil war.

According to the Global New Light of Myanmar, a state-run media outlet, the rough ruby was found in mid-April, shortly after the traditional New Year festival. Although this discovery weighs around half of a 21,450-carat gemstone found in 1996, it is deemed more valuable due to its exceptional color and quality. It features a purplish-red hue with yellowish undertones, a high-quality color grade, moderate transparency, and a reflective surface.

The ruby is currently exhibited at the president’s office in Naypyitaw, highlighting Myanmar’s dominance in ruby production. The country generates about 90% of the world’s rubies, primarily from Mogok and Mong Hsu areas. Despite being a major revenue source, both legitimate and smuggled gemstone trade finances Myanmar’s economy.

However, human rights activists and organizations like Global Witness are advocating for jeweler boycotts on Myanmar-sourced gems. The industry has financially supported military authorities for decades. Although a civilian government was recently installed following elections criticized as fraudulent, President Min Aung Hlaing, the military chief behind a 2021 takeover, returned to power.

Gem mining also funds various ethnic armed groups seeking autonomy, contributing further to the ongoing conflict. Security in mining areas remains unstable. In July 2024, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army, an ethnic minority guerrilla force, took control over Mogok. Subsequently, control was relinquished to the Myanmar army following a ceasefire agreement mediated by China.