Judge rejects California man’s claim to giant emerald

In a lengthy written ruling issued Friday, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge John A. Kronstadt concluded that Anthony Thomas’ claim that he purchased the emerald for $60,000 from Brazilian miners in 2001 was not credible.
Thomas testified that the emerald was stolen before he had an opportunity to ship it to his Morgan Hill home. He says he lost the bill of sale when his house burned down.
Thomas is one of several people to claim ownership of the emerald.
Kronstadt must still resolve two competing claims before the 840-pound rock, now in the custody of authorities, finds a permanent home.