The kyawthuite crystal was discovered in 2010 by sapphire hunters in the Chaung Gyi Valley, near Mogok, Myanmar. Initially mistaken for an ordinary gem, it was later identified as unique by Dr.

niche gemstones that may just be a shrewd investment. Found in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and some African countries, spinels come in a range of colors, from vivid blue ...

In 2003 the US imposed its first round of sanctions barring imports of gems from Myanmar in a bid to starve the military government of funds. Today the Mogok valley is marked with mines ...