Sri Lanka is known as the Island of Jewels. This is because Sri Lanka has a lot of gems like Sri Lanka gems. People who visit Sri Lanka to buy Sri Lanka gems will see that the people of Sri Lanka really love gems. They have been mining and trading gems for a time. This guide will help you navigate the gem industry of Sri Lanka find the markets learn about the different types of Sri Lanka gems and buy them safely.
The Treasures of Ceylon
Sri Lanka is famous for its corundum gems, especially the Ceylon Blue Sapphire, which is the national gem of Sri Lanka. The Ceylon Blue Sapphire is very special because of its blue color and clarity. Sri Lanka also has a gem called the Padparadscha sapphire, which has a beautiful pinkish-orange color. You can also find gems like rubies, alexandrites, spinels, tourmalines and garnets in Sri Lanka. In the part of Sri Lanka you can find moonstones, which are known for their translucent body and blue sheen. These moonstones are really beautiful.
Essential Gem Destinations
If you want to see the real gem trade you have to visit Ratnapura, which means the City of Gems. Ratnapura is four to five hours away from Colombo. This place is where traditional mining and trading happen. In Ratnapura there is a market where miners and traders meet to buy and sell gems. If you prefer to go to the coast you can visit Meetiyagoda, which’s near Hikkaduwa. This place is known for its moonstones. If you are already visiting Kandy or Colombo you can also find gem showrooms and museums there. You can even watch people cutting and polishing gems.
The Buying and Bargaining Process
Buying gems from the source can be very exciting but you have to be careful. You have to know what you are doing. The markets in Ratnapura and other places can be. It is easy to mistake fake gems for real ones. When you are looking at a gem make sure to check it in light. This will help you see its color and clarity. It is normal to bargain when buying gems in Sri Lanka. If the price is too low it might be a fake gem. You have to be careful when buying Sri Lanka gems.
Verification and Safe Export
The important thing when buying gems in Sri Lanka is to make sure they are real. You should only buy from dealers who are registered with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority. For gems you need to get a certificate that says the gem is real and where it came from. The National Gem and Jewellery Authority can help you with this. When you are leaving Sri Lanka you need to have the papers to prove that you bought the gems legally. This is to prevent smuggling.
