Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka, is renowned for producing some of the world’s most exquisite sapphires. The rich blue hue of Ceylon sapphires has captivated gem enthusiasts for centuries, with its deep and mesmerizing shades reminiscent of the ocean at dusk. These precious gemstones are valued not only for their beauty but also for their rarity and unique color variations, ranging from cornflower blue to velvety indigo.
In the world, Sri Lanka is one of the top gem-bearing countries, with over 75 varieties of precious and semi-precious gemstones that can be found in Sri Lanka. The gem retail section offers a wide range of gemstones, including Ruby, Spinel, Amethyst, Alexandrite, Zircon, Garnet, Citrine, Rose Quartz, Aquamarine, Tourmaline, Agate, Cymophane, Topaz, and Moonstone.
Ceylon Sapphires: Prized for their exceptional quality and clarity, Ceylon sapphires are highly sought after in the world of fine jewelry. Their alluring brilliance and stunning luster set them apart from other gemstones, making them the perfect choice for elegant and sophisticated pieces.Sri Lanka has a long history of ethical gemstone mining, ensuring that each Ceylon sapphire is sourced responsibly and sustainably. This commitment to ethical practices not only preserves the natural beauty of the land but also supports the local communities that rely on the gemstone industry for their livelihood.Beyond Ceylon sapphires; the world of gems is a treasure trove of beauty and wonder. Each gemstone possesses its own unique charm and significance. Diverse Colors and Symbolism: Gemstones come in a kaleidoscope of colors, shapes, and sizes, each with its own symbolism and lore. Whether it’s the passionate red of a ruby or the cool tranquility of a sapphire, each gemstone has a story to tell and a beauty to behold. From the depths of the earth to the hands of skilled artisans, gemstones are a testament to the wonders of nature and the ingenuity of humanity. Gemstone jewelry has long been cherished for its beauty and symbolism, with each piece telling a unique story and capturing a moment in time. Whether it’s a sparkling Royal Blue Sapphire ring or a vibrant other color of sapphire can range from blue to violet, green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and intermediate hues known as fancy sapphires. Gemstone jewelry is a testament to the enduring allure of these precious stones and the artistry of the craftsmen who bring them to life.
In conclusion, Ceylon sapphires and gemstones in the world are not just beautiful adornments but also symbols of nature’s bounty and human creativity. Their timeless appeal and ethereal beauty continue to enchant and inspire generations, making them truly timeless treasures to be cherished and admired
Sri Lanka emerges a treasure trove of Ceylon gems, each one a testament to the island’s rich geological history and the skilled hands that shape them. These gemstones, born deep within the Earth’s embrace, carry stories of time immemorial of whispers of nature herself.
When we talked about Ceylon Sapphire, the royal blue gem, reigns supreme in Ceylon. Its velvety depths evoke the cerulean seas that cradle this island nation around. Sri Lankan gem deposits have been found within the Highland and, to a lesser extent, Southwest Groups. Today, large expanses of alluvial deposits have been extensively mined in the main Ratnapura and Elahera gem fields in Sri Lanka, where a majority of colored gemstones are found
In Specially in Ratnapura, and you’ll find gem markets teeming with sapphires—their hues ranging from cornflower blue to midnight indigo. In the gem workshops of Ratnapura, master craftsmen transform rough any type of gems stone into exquisite facets, their brilliance rivaling the island’s sunsets its self.
Second to Ratnapura, most of the world-class gem traders reside in Kandy Town. (Kandy is called Maha Nuwara, meaning “Great City” or “The Capital”)Well-known gem traders from around the globe have their own shops lining the streets. There are gemologists specializing in gem certification, and Nilmini Gems and Gem Laboratory Kandy CEO and Founder have received international awards recognized by the Gemological Association of Great Britain, United Kingdom, including the prestigious Christie’s Prize for the best trade candidate in 2002. Gem trading and gem testing have flourished in Kandy Town, largely due to the presence of renowned gemologists. Additionally, there are newly qualified gemologists operating a new gem testing lab in Kandy Town. If you’re seeking world-class, reputable gem certification, I recommend exploring Kandy Town itself and considering the expertise of professionals in the field. Some gem certifiers boast up to thirty to twenty years of experience in the gemological industry, ensuring reliable gem certification overall..
Palitha Ariyarathna – GIA Alumni Member
- Note: Special thanks to Nilmini Gems & Gem Laboratory Kandy (Pvt) Ltd for their contributions in educating and revealing precious hidden gems for articles 1. Their expertise and dedication have enriched our understanding of these remarkable treasures.
- GIA stands for the Gemological Institute of America. It’s a nonprofit organization that specializes in gemstone research and education. Since 1931, GIA has been a prominent authority on all things related to gemstones