On December 12th, 2021, a rare gemstone known as the Corundum blue sapphire, was displayed for the first time at the residence of the gem pit owner. It was discovered three months ago in a gem pit in Ratnapura (Gem City), located near Colombo, Sri Lanka.
It is said to be the biggest known natural corundum blue sapphire in the world. It is dubbed as the “Queen of Asia,” and it weighs about 310 kg.
This precious stone is composed of aluminium oxide, titanium, iron, and nickel. Corundum is an aluminium ore that is mostly composed of aluminium oxide in its crystalline form.
It is the hardest natural substance known after diamond. Corundum’s best varieties are known as sapphire and ruby.
The gem stone has been verified by Sri Lanka’s National Gem and Jewellery Authority, and preparations are being made to sell it on the worldwide market. The rare stone is yet to be certified by international gem organisations.