Massive 11,000-Carat Ruby Unearthed in Myanmar’s Conflict-Hit Mogok Region

A rare 11,000-carat ruby has been discovered in Myanmar’s conflict-affected Mogok region, one of the most important gemstone mining areas in the world, according to updated reports from state media and international agencies.

The gemstone was found in mid-April near Mogok in the upper Mandalay region , the historic heart of Myanmar’s ruby trade, which has been deeply impacted by the ongoing civil war and shifting control between the military and ethnic armed groups.

State media outlet Global New Light of Myanmar confirmed that the ruby weighs about 2.2 kilograms and is considered the second-largest ruby ever found in Myanmar , after a 21,450-carat stone discovered in 1996. However, experts and officials say the new find may be more valuable due to its superior natural quality.

The ruby features a purplish-red hue with yellowish undertones, moderate transparency, and a strong vitreous lustre. Authorities describe it as an untreated, naturally formed gemstone , making it highly significant in the global gem trade.

Myanmar is estimated to produce around 90 per cent of the world’s rubies , with Mogok and Mong Hsu being the main mining hubs. The sector has long been controversial, as gemstone revenues are believed to fund both the military and various ethnic armed organisations involved in the country’s prolonged conflict.

Human rights groups, including Global Witness , have repeatedly raised concerns over the trade, urging restrictions on Myanmar-origin gemstones due to their links to conflict financing and human rights abuses.

Recent reports confirm that the ruby was formally examined by junta chief Min Aung Hlaing in Naypyitaw, highlighting state interest in the discovery amid international scrutiny of Myanmar’s governance and mineral wealth management.

Mogok itself remains a strategically contested region. The town was captured in 2024 by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) during intensified fighting but was later returned to military control following a China-mediated ceasefire agreement .

The ruby is being compared to earlier historic finds, including a 1996 Mogok ruby, though officials say the latest discovery stands out for its colour quality and clarity despite being smaller in weight.