The gems of Sri Lanka have been famous since Biblical
times. It was to Ratnapura the City of Gems, that King Solomon sent emissaries
to procure the jewel which won him the heart of the Queen Sheba.
The largest sapphire in the British Crown is the
Blue Belle of Asia, found in a village near Ratnapura.
The best gems to buy in Sri Lanka are sapphires
and rubies, although you can also find exquisite cat's eyes, spinels,
aquamarines, blue topaz, garnets, tourmalines, amethysts, zircons,
moonstones and alexandrites.
When buying gems do not be fooled by friendly people
with a "relation" in the gem trade.
Remember you are the buyer. Don't be
pressured into making a snap decision. View the stone in both
natural and artificial light.
If you are spending a large amount or have a suspicion about
authenticity, go with the stone(s) to the State Gem Corporation
to get it tested.
This organization is located at 310, Galle Road, Colombo 03.
On the floor below is the Colombo Gem Exchange where
most of the best Sri Lankan stones are sold to foreign merchants
for export.
Remember you are the buyer. Don't be
pressured into making a snap decision. View the stone in both
natural and artificial light.