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Newsletter August 2026

FROM THE DIRECTOR

This is the first edition of SICO's monthly market newsletter, something I've wanted to do for a long time and have finally made happen. For over forty years, SICO has supplied certified rubies and sapphires to jewellers, setters and dealers across the world and this newsletter is my way of sharing some of what I see in the market each month: pricing movements, origin trends, and the quality signals that matter to the trade.

My aim is simple — to give you something useful and specific, written by someone who handles these stones every day, so you can buy with more confidence and advise your own clients better. As always, I welcome enquiries for bespoke sourcing.

Anthony Aziz
DIRECTOR, SICO INTERNATIONAL LTD.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE

Premiums widen on certified, unheated Ruby and Sapphire

Ruby GRS-Certified Pigeon's Blood designation remains the most value-accretive quality indicator in the market, and supply of certified fine-quality goods remains difficult. Mozambique remains the world's largest producer of ruby, though most of its production is very deep in colour — only a small proportion displays the vivid red or Pigeon's Blood colour the market demands. Fine Burmese rubies remain exceptionally scarce: quality natural stones above 4–5cts now regularly command prices in the millions, while truly exceptional larger stones are very rarely seen. Sapphire Ceylon material in the 3–6ct range remains steady in UK wholesale demand, with unheated Royal Blue and Cornflower carrying a four to five times premium over heated equivalents. Heated Sri Lankan sapphires have eased slightly in price during 2026. However, fine unheated stones remain in extremely short supply, with well-cut sapphires showing even colour and good clarity continuing to attract strong demand and premium prices. 

Sapphire Ceylon material in the 3–6ct range remains steady in UK wholesale demand, with unheated Royal Blue and Cornflower carrying a four to five times premium over heated equivalents. Heated Sri Lankan sapphires have eased slightly in price during 2026. However, fine unheated stones remain in extremely short supply, with well-cut sapphires showing even colour and good clarity continuing to attract strong demand and premium prices. 

STONE SPOTLIGHT

CARATS

FEATURED AUGUST 2026

10.24

Oval Ruby
Burma, Mogok

RED  ·  MULTI LABS  ·  HEATED

US $160,000

A 10.24 carat oval ruby of this colour saturation is a genuinely rare offering. At over 10 carats and with a Burma origin, fine ruby becomes exponentially scarcer — this stone carries multiple laboratory certifications including GRS and AIGS, and presents exceptional "Red" colour, a designation commanding significant collector and jewellery-house interest.

Suitable for a major commission piece or as a portfolio-grade investment stone. Viewings available by appointment at our London office.

WEIGHT
10.24 cts
 

CUT
Oval
 

TREATMENT
Heated
 

CERTIFICATION
Multiple Labs
 

PRICE
US $160,000

AVAILABLE THIS MONTH

A curated selection from current inventory. All stones available for inspection in London. Contact us to discuss pricing, certification, or bespoke sourcing requirements.

BESPOKE SOURCING 

We maintain active relationships with select suppliers across Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Madagascar, allowing us to source against specific briefs — whether you require a precise carat weight, colour, treatment, or origin. I am happy to discuss your requirements in confidence.

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