Massive Emerald Rock Found in Presidential Palace
November 24, 25
(IDEX Online) - One of the world's biggest emerald rocks - weighing 300kg (661lbs) - has been discovered in Madagascar's presidential palace after the country's former leader Andry Rajoelina was overthrown in a coup last month.
The massive gem has reportedly been hidden away in the Ambohitsorohitra State Palace, in the capital Antananarivo, since 2009.
Emerald rock is the raw, natural rock material with emerald crystals embedded within it.
It is now likely to be sold on behalf of the state treasury, to offset a small part of the country's huge debts. More than 70 per cent of its population live below the poverty line.
The country's new president Michael Randrianirina said: "We don't know why it was hidden here, but we are simply glad to show that we are ready to live with transparency."
Rajoelina was overthrown in a military coup after weeks of escalating protests and political unrest.
Pic shows generic emerald with (inset) the country's new president Michael Randrianirina.