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History of Ceylon Gems

1️⃣ Ancient History

Name in history: Ratna-Dweepa (“Island of Gems”)

Time period: Over 2,500 years ago

Key Points:

  • Mentioned by ancient writers like Pliny the Elder and Marco Polo.
  • Gems used in royal ornaments, religious offerings, and trade.
  • Exported to Rome, Egypt, China, and India.

2️⃣ Medieval Trade & Influence

Time period: ~5th to 15th century

Key Points:

  • Arab and Persian traders highly valued Sri Lankan gems.
  • Gems featured in Islamic jewelry and Middle Eastern artifacts.
  • Strong presence in Indian Ocean trade routes.

3️⃣ Colonial Era (1505–1948)

Portuguese (1505–1658): Started exporting Sri Lankan gems.

Dutch (1658–1796): Encouraged gem trading and set up administrative control.

British (1796–1948):

  • Introduced more systematic gem mining.
  • Promoted Ratnapura as the “City of Gems”.
  • Exported high-quality sapphires and other gems to Europe.

4️⃣ Modern Period (Post-1948 Independence)

Development of gem industry:

  • Growth of lapidary (gem cutting) and jewelry industries.
  • Establishment of State Gem Corporation (now NGJA – National Gem and Jewellery Authority).

Global recognition:

  • Sri Lanka becomes a world leader in Ceylon sapphires.
  • Gems featured in royal collections and international auctions.
  • Promoted Ratnapura as the “City of Gems”.
  • Exported high-quality sapphires and other gems to Europe.

5️⃣ Cultural & Religious Significance

Gems used in:

  • Buddhist rituals and stupas.
  • Ayurvedic healing practices.
  • Astrological recommendations (Navaratna – 9 planetary gems).
  • Believed to bring prosperity, health, and protection.

6️⃣ Gem Varieties from Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka produces over 70 types of precious and semi-precious stones.

💙 Precious Gems:

  • Sapphire (Ceylon Blue, Padparadscha, Star Sapphire)
  • Ruby
  • Emerald (rare)

🌈 Semi-Precious Gems:

  • Alexandrite
  • Chrysoberyl (Cat’s Eye)
  • Spinel
  • Tourmaline
  • Zircon
  • Garnet
  • Topaz

8️⃣ Famous Sri Lankan Gems in the World

  • Blue Belle of Asia – 400+ carat sapphire.
  • Logan Sapphire – 422.99 carats, on display in the Smithsonian.
  • Princess Diana’s Engagement Ring – Ceylon Blue Sapphire.

7️⃣ Important Gem Mining Locations

  • Ratnapura – Main mining center.
  • Elahera – Known for sapphires.
  • Balangoda, Rakwana, Okkampitiya, Nivithigala – Other gem-rich areas.

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Contact Information

  • +94 76 921 4415
  • Info@gemceylon.com
  • Rathnapura, Sri Lanka

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