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Myanmar Ruby Sapphire and Jade |
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| Since the days of the ancient Burmese
kings, foreign traders and merchants have been drawn by the country's
superb gems. The story goes that the first French gem merchants were
astounded by the quality of Padamyar Nga Mauk rubie and declared it to
be priceless. The awe of the French gem traders is best captured in a magnificent mural that decorates the lobby of the Gems Emporium Hall. The esteem for Myanmar gems continues to this day. For this reason, hundreds of visitors arrive each year in Yangon to participate in the gems fair ever since first held in 1964, which is now held twice annually. Many reference books on gems acknowledge Myanmar to be the foremost producer of first-class rubies, sapphires and jade. Mogok in Upper Myanmar is the center of ruby and sapphire mining where rubies have been found for 800 years. the area is also well known as source of sapphires, which may be violet, green, yellow or orange in addition to the usual deep blue. Star sapphires and star rubies, reflecting a six-pointed star in the light, are particularly attractive. Myanma gold and silver pearls are grown in the ocean surrounding the unspoiled islands of the Myeik archipelago in the south. The giant pearls are available either as cultured or natural baroque. The most coveted is the deep Gold Pearl, produced only in Myanmar. |
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<courtesy from allmyanmar.com> |
