Miners in Myanmar have unearthed an 11,000-carat ruby, the second-largest ever discovered in the conflict-ridden nation, state media reported Friday. The gem, found near Mogok in the Mandalay region, weighs 4.8 pounds (2.2 kilograms) and boasts a purplish-red hue with yellowish undertones, making it more valuable than a 21,450-carat ruby found in 1996 due to its superior quality.
Myanmar’s military government, led by President Min Aung Hlaing, recently examined the ruby in Naypyitaw, the capital. The country produces 90% of the world’s rubies, primarily from Mogok and Mong Hsu, with gemstones serving as a major revenue source for both the military and ethnic armed groups.
Human rights activists, including Global Witness, have urged jewelers to boycott Myanmar-sourced gems, citing the industry’s long-standing ties to military funding. The ostensibly civilian government installed this year followed elections widely condemned as a sham, reinforcing military control. Meanwhile, ongoing civil war and volatile security in mining regions complicate ethical sourcing efforts.