28 July 2021 01:50 pm Views - 32354
The world's largest star sapphire cluster which was found in a backyard in Pelmadulla is expected to be sold at a gem auction in China in November, the Daily Mirror learns.
State Minister of Gem & Jewellery related Industries Lohan Ratwatte told Daily Mirror that the cluster would be sold at a foreign auction at the discretion of the owner.
He said the National Gem and Jewellery Authority has already commenced the process of assessing its value before selling it at an auction.
The government will get 10 per cent of the money from the sale of the stone.
The State Minister said that the stone is currently with the owner under special security.
The cluster weighs around 510 kilograms or 2.5 million carats and has been named the "Serendipity Sapphire".
The stone was found by workmen who were digging a well in his home at Pelmadulla in Ratnapura.
According to the experts, the stone, which is pale blue in colour, has an estimated value of up to $100 million in the international market. (Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya)