Myanmar (Burma)

Myanmar, formerly Burma, has for centuries been regarded as the most important source of fine rubies. The heart of production is the Mogok Stone Tract in the north of the country, a marble landscape where rubies and sapphires have been mined for generations.

Ruby from Mogok

Mogok rubies combine high chromium with low iron. This produces a glowing red with strong fluorescence – the benchmark against which other rubies are measured, and the origin of the term «Pigeon Blood». Since the 1990s rubies have also come from Mong Hsu; these are usually heated.

Sapphire and note

Mogok also yields deep blue sapphires, called «Royal Blue» in the trade, as well as star sapphires. Import restrictions apply to gemstones from Myanmar in several countries; the law at the buyer’s place of residence is decisive.