Madagascar: Military Leader Unveils 300 kg Gem Discovered at Presidential Palace

Madagascar's interim president, who assumed power last month on the Indian Ocean island, has unveiled a 300 kg (661 lbs) gem that he claims was discovered at the presidential palace. This was reported by Reuters on their website on November 19th.

The dark block, laced with sparkling green veins, was displayed on Tuesday evening inside the Ambohitsorohitra state palace in the capital city, Antananarivo.

Described as an 'emerald in its matrix,' the stone is yet to be analyzed by experts to determine the size and quality of the emerald it contains.

'It is a national treasure,' stated Colonel Michael Randrianirina, standing next to the discovery.

'It could be sold, and it will be up to the minister to explain the procedures that will be followed to increase state revenue,' he added, promising 'total transparency.'

He provided no details about the circumstances of this discovery, merely stating that 'upon our arrival, we found this incredible national treasure' and that 'it is unclear why it was brought here.'

The Minister of Mines, Carl Andriamparany, described the stone as a 'dream object for collectors.' 'An emerald preserved in its natural matrix is rare,' he emphasized, noting that no similar specimen has ever been recorded in Madagascar.

The government specified that the proceeds from any potential sale would be directed to the public treasury.