Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, is a small island country located in the Indian Ocean. It is one of the most important sources of sapphires in the world, with a rich history of mining and trading this precious gemstone. Sri Lankan sapphires are highly regarded for their quality, beauty, and unique characteristics. In this post, we will explore some of the most famous sapphires from Sri Lanka.

The Star of India

The Star of India is one of the most well-known sapphires in the world, and it originated in Sri Lanka. It is a 563.35-carat star sapphire, and it is currently on display at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. The Star of India has a blue-gray color and displays a six-point star pattern, which is caused by the presence of titanium dioxide in the crystal structure.

The Blue Belle of Asia

The Blue Belle of Asia is another famous sapphire from Sri Lanka. It is a 400-carat cushion-shaped sapphire that was sold for $17.3 million at a Christie's auction in Geneva in 2014. The Blue Belle of Asia has a vivid blue color, and it is one of the largest sapphires ever discovered.

The Logan Sapphire

The Logan Sapphire is a 423-carat sapphire that was discovered in Sri Lanka in 1902. It was later acquired by Mrs. John A. Logan, the wife of a United States senator, and it has since become one of the most famous sapphires in the world. The Logan Sapphire has a deep blue color and is considered to be one of the finest and largest sapphires in existence.

The Queen Marie of Romania Sapphire

The Queen Marie of Romania Sapphire is a 478-carat sapphire that was discovered in Sri Lanka in the early 1900s. It was named after the Queen of Romania, who was given the sapphire as a gift from her husband. The Queen Marie of Romania Sapphire has a deep blue color and is considered to be one of the most valuable sapphires in the world.

The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby

Although not a sapphire, the Rosser Reeves Star Ruby is a famous gemstone from Sri Lanka that is worth mentioning. It is a 138.7-carat star ruby that was discovered in Sri Lanka in the 1950s. The gemstone displays a six-point star pattern, and it is named after its former owner, Rosser Reeves, who was an advertising executive. The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby is currently on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka is home to some of the world's most famous sapphires, including the Star of India, the Blue Belle of Asia, the Logan Sapphire, and the Queen Marie of Romania Sapphire. These gemstones are highly prized for their beauty, quality, and rarity, and they have become an important part of Sri Lanka's history and culture. Whether you are a gemstone collector or a lover of fine jewelry, these famous sapphires are sure to capture your imagination and spark your curiosity.