Origins / Ratnapura

Ratnapura

Sri Lanka Sabaragamuwa Province Premium Active mining

Ratnapura, meaning 'City of Gems' in Sinhalese, is Sri Lanka's most important gem-trading center and a major alluvial mining area. The gem gravels (illam) extracted from the flood plains of the Kalu Ganga river yield an astonishing variety of stones including sapphires, rubies, alexandrites, spinels, and moonstones. Ratnapura serves as the commercial hub where miners, dealers, and cutters converge in open-air markets to trade rough and polished gems.

History

Ratnapura has been the center of Sri Lankan gem commerce for over a thousand years, mentioned in ancient Sinhalese chronicles and Arab trading records. The traditional pit-mining methods used here have remained largely unchanged for centuries, passed down through generations of mining families.

Notable Gems

Sapphire, Ruby, Moonstone, Alexandrite, Spinel

Gemstones from this Origin

various

Alexandrite

Hardness: 8.5
white

Moonstone

Hardness: 6.0
red

Ruby

Hardness: 9.0
blue

Sapphire

Hardness: 9.0
various

Spinel

Hardness: 8.0

Frequently Asked Questions

What gemstones come from Ratnapura?
Notable gemstones from Ratnapura include Alexandrite, Moonstone, Ruby, Sapphire, Spinel.
What is the quality tier of Ratnapura?
Ratnapura is classified as a premium quality mining origin.
Is mining still active in Ratnapura?
Yes, mining is currently active in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka.
What is the mining history of Ratnapura?
Ratnapura has been the center of Sri Lankan gem commerce for over a thousand years, mentioned in ancient Sinhalese chronicles and Arab trading records. The traditional pit-mining methods used here have remained largely unchanged for centuries, passed down through generations of mining families.

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