The allure of a vibrant, fiery Burmese ruby is undeniable, but the ethical implications surrounding these gemstones have led to import restrictions in many countries. Why Are Burmese Rubies Illegal? The answer lies in the complex political history of Myanmar (formerly Burma) and the human rights abuses associated with the ruby mining industry.
The Dark History Fueling the Ban
The primary reason Burmese rubies are illegal to import into many countries, including the United States, is due to sanctions imposed in response to human rights abuses perpetrated by the Burmese military junta. For decades, the military regime controlled significant portions of the ruby mining industry, using the profits to fund their oppressive rule and suppress democratic movements. The trade in these “blood rubies” became a source of revenue for a regime accused of widespread human rights violations, including forced labor, displacement of civilians, and political repression.
The sanctions were designed to cut off this funding stream and pressure the junta to improve its human rights record and move towards a more democratic government. The bans on importing Burmese rubies were part of a broader package of economic sanctions targeting various sectors controlled by the military. These sanctions aimed to isolate the regime economically and politically, incentivizing them to address the concerns of the international community. The effectiveness of these sanctions has been debated, but the intention was clear to disrupt the junta’s ability to profit from the exploitation of Myanmar’s natural resources, including its renowned rubies.
The sanctions specifically target rubies (and other gemstones) originating from Myanmar, regardless of where they are processed or sold. This means that even if a ruby is cut and polished in another country, it is still illegal to import it into countries with sanctions if it can be traced back to Myanmar. The restrictions have had a significant impact on the global gem market, prompting jewelers and consumers to seek alternative sources of rubies from countries such as Mozambique, Thailand, and Madagascar. Here’s a breakdown of the key players and their stance:
- United States: Import ban on Burmese rubies.
- European Union: Previously had restrictions, largely lifted as of 2012 (though ethical concerns remain).
- Canada: Also previously had sanctions, but have relaxed them in recent years.
For a more in-depth understanding of the complex political landscape and the specific legal frameworks surrounding the Burmese ruby trade, we encourage you to consult credible sources like reports from human rights organizations and government publications detailing the sanctions policies.