Brief history of ruby mining in Myanmar

Introduction to Myanmar Ruby: Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, has been known for its rich ruby mines for centuries. The country's ruby mines have produced some of the world's finest and most sought after rubies. In recent years, Myanmar has become the leading producer of high-quality rubies, accounting for over 90% of the world's ruby production.

Brief history of ruby mining in Myanmar: Ruby mining in Myanmar has a long and rich history that dates back to at least the 7th century. The first recorded ruby mine in Myanmar was discovered in Mogok, a small town located in the Mandalay region. This area is still considered the finest source of high-quality rubies today. Over the centuries, ruby mining in Myanmar became a major industry, with rubies being traded across Asia and Europe.

During the late 19th century and early 20th century, British colonials brought modern mining techniques to the region, leading to a surge in ruby production. However, the country's ruby mines were nationalized in the 1960s, leading to a decline in production and quality. It wasn't until the 1990s that the Myanmar government began to open up the ruby mines to international investors, leading to a revival of the ruby industry.

Interesting Fact: One of the most famous rubies in the world, the Burmese Ruby, is named after its place of origin in Myanmar. This deep red ruby is highly sought after for its rich color and high clarity.

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Reference Sources of Information:

1. Gemological Institute of America, "Burmese Ruby"

2. Ruby & Sapphire, Richard W. Hughes

3. Gemstones of the World, Walter Schumann

4. The Smithsonian Gem and Mineral Collection, Jeffrey E. Post

5. Myanmar Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation

Note: The above-mentioned sources provide detailed information about the history, characteristics, properties, formation, and value of Myanmar Ruby, along with interesting facts and references for further reading.