Sri Lanka rank as one of the world’s most important gem bearing nations.The story of Sri Lanka’s gems is as old as civilization itself.Legends, myths and the occult have been associated with the long history of the island’s precious stones.Gems are deeply embedded in the traditional beliefs and the religious life of the majority of Sri Lankans. Priceless gems are among the treasures kept in the relic chambers of the great Buddhist stupas in the island.

The earth’s greatest concentration of gems in over 50 varieties is found within the country’s land area of approximately 25,000 square miles.The abundance of a variety of gems in the country earned it the name Ratna Deepa (Island of gems) centuries ago.The Arabs called this the land Jazirat Kakut, which denotes the same meaning. The fame of her gems spread far and wide. These priceless precious stones have adorned the crowns and thrones of royalty in many parts of the world.

Neither ingenuity nor the latest technology can duplicate a Sri Lankan gem. It is a unique product of nature, which has gifted this country the most rare, best and most precious of gems, including Blue sapphires, Cat’s eyes, Alexandrites, Star Rubies, Moonstones, Amethysts, Aquamarines, Garnets, and Zircons etc. Other rare gemstones include Andalusite, Apatite, Diopside, Ekanite, Enstatite, Epidote, Euclase, Fibrolite, Fluorite, Indocrase, Kornerupine, Kyanite, Sinhalite, Scapolite and Taffeite.