Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, is one of the richest gem-bearing nations on earth, producing over 75 varieties of gemstones from its alluvial gravels. The island is especially renowned for its blue sapphires, padparadscha sapphires, and alexandrites, along with fine spinels, moonstones, and zircons. Sri Lankan sapphires are treasured for their vivid medium blue color and excellent brilliance, often called 'Ceylon blue'.
História
A mineração de gemas no Sri Lanka foi documentada há mais de 2.500 anos, com antigos comerciantes da Arábia e da China visitando a ilha por suas pedras preciosas. Marco Polo descreveu o Ceilão como possuidor das melhores safiras, topazes e ametistas do mundo durante suas viagens no século XIII.
Notable Gems
Sapphire, Ruby, Spinel, Alexandrite, Moonstone, Garnet, Tourmaline, Zircon, Topaz