Story perspectives

11,000-Carat Ruby Displayed by Myanmar Junta, Rights Groups Protest

5/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The 11,000-carat ruby discovered near Mogok is judged more valuable than the 21,450-carat 1996 find because of its superior color and clarity.
Min Aung Hlaing’s government displayed the stone in the presidential office in Naypyitaw.
State media said the ruby weighs about 4.8 pounds and shows a purplish-red hue with yellowish undertones.
Human-rights groups have urged jewelers to avoid Myanmar gems because the trade funds the military and armed factions.

History

Historical Context

Following the UN’s December 2000 Resolution 55/56, the Kimberley Process—pushed by NGOs such as Global Witness—required participants to certify rough diamonds as conflict-free, a response to rebel groups earning about $600 million annually from diamonds. Decades later, Myanmar’s ruby exports (2022-2024) overseen by Min Aung Hlaing fund the Tatmadaw, prompting Human Rights Watch to demand comparable bans.

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Story summary

The 11,000-carat ruby discovered near Mogok is judged more valuable than the 21,450-carat 1996 find because of its superior color and clarity.
Min Aung Hlaing’s government displayed the stone in the presidential office in Naypyitaw.
State media said the ruby weighs about 4.8 pounds and shows a purplish-red hue with yellowish undertones.
Human-rights groups have urged jewelers to avoid Myanmar gems because the trade funds the military and armed factions.

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