Gemstones from Sri Lanka
The Gemstone Mines of Sri Lanka
Beautiful Sri Lanka. Besides touring, it was very exciting for me to visit a small mining operation for the first time. During my studies at the Gemological Institute of America, this was a regular topic. And now I finally got to see for myself what the gemstones of Sri Lanka are. Sri Lanka is a country rich in many types of gemstones, such as sapphire. In the Netherlands, we know blue sapphire. But in Sri Lanka, you also find them in colors like yellow, green, orange, and pink. Time for a visit to the mine where these sapphires are found.
Gemstones Sri Lanka
The extensive range of gemstones such as sapphire, ruby, garnet, beryl, tourmaline, and topaz are carried from the mountains by underground rivers with gravel or silt. Sri Lanka's gemstone-bearing gravel is one of the richest in the world. When the gravel is brought up, it forms a large pile. When you see it, you can't imagine that it contains so many special gemstones. Unfortunately, at the time of our visit to the mine, no gravel was being washed. This only happens when the owner or boss is present so that he can ensure that valuable gemstones do not disappear.
During my visit, the gentlemen naturally tried to sell their findings. But I did not let myself be tempted. Because one important rule I had certainly taken to heart during my studies: the closer you get to the mine, the greater the chance of being scammed. And despite my gemologist studies, I remain alert and critical when buying something.
After visiting the gemstone mine, of course, I couldn't resist looking for sapphires. And specifically, the pink sapphire. And hopefully, I will also come across the beautiful pink-orange sapphire, also known as padparadscha. In the Netherlands, you don't often find both pink sapphire and padparadscha. Even in Sri Lanka, it takes some searching for this beautiful, rare sapphire. At the various dealers, I find beautiful blue and pink sapphires. But not yet the beautiful padparadscha I am looking for.
Gemologist at work
At home, I am used to examining gemstones under a microscope; in Sri Lanka, I only have my loupe with me. That takes some getting used to. Also because I can completely lose myself when looking at a gemstone. But with the thought that I don't often get the opportunity to see so many beautiful sapphires, I ask the dealer to pull out all the stops. All colors of sapphires come under my loupe, and eventually, the padparadscha too. It's a dream come true to see so many beautiful gemstones in such a short time.
