October 28, 2025 - By Lustella Gems By H&M

World-Famous Ceylon Gems – The Pride of Sri Lanka

For centuries, the name “Ceylon” has been synonymous with gemstones of exceptional beauty and quality. Sri Lanka’s gem industry, especially centered around Ratnapura — known as the “City of Gems” — produces some of the most sought-after treasures in the world. From royal blue sapphires to the rare padparadscha sapphire, Ceylon gems are celebrated for their brilliance, purity, and historical significance.

Sri Lanka’s gemstone deposits are among the oldest in the world, dating back over 500 million years. The island’s alluvial gem gravels have produced over 70 varieties of precious and semi-precious stones, making it one of the richest gem sources globally. Many world-famous gems displayed in royal collections and museums trace their origins back to Sri Lanka.

“Ceylon gems are nature’s finest masterpieces — born from the heart of the earth and polished by centuries of craftsmanship.”

🌍 The Most Famous Ceylon Gemstones

Here are some of the most prized and globally recognized gemstones found in Sri Lanka:

• Blue Sapphire (Ceylon Sapphire): The most famous gem of all, known for its deep royal blue hue and unmatched clarity. The British Crown Jewels and Princess Diana’s engagement ring feature Ceylon sapphires.
• Padparadscha Sapphire: A rare and exquisite gemstone displaying a delicate mix of pink and orange — found almost exclusively in Sri Lanka. The name means “lotus blossom” in Sinhalese.
• Star Sapphire: A unique sapphire with a six- or twelve-rayed star that appears under light, symbolizing divine protection and good fortune.
• Cat’s Eye Chrysoberyl: Recognized by its sharp light reflection resembling a cat’s pupil. It’s believed to bring luck and safeguard its wearer from evil.
• Ruby: Ceylon rubies are known for their vivid color and durability, often treasured by collectors for their rarity and brilliance.
• Alexandrite: A gemstone that changes color from green in daylight to red under incandescent light, showcasing nature’s magic in one stone.
• Garnet, Spinel, and Tourmaline: These colorful stones are also mined in abundance, each admired for its beauty and versatility in fine jewelry.

💎 Priceless Ceylon Gems in the World

Several gems from Sri Lanka have become part of world history due to their size, color, and unmatched brilliance:

• The Blue Belle of Asia: A 392.52-carat blue sapphire discovered in Ratnapura, sold for over $17 million — one of the largest and most valuable sapphires ever found.
• The Logan Sapphire: A 423-carat flawless blue sapphire housed in the Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C.
• The Star of Lanka: A massive star sapphire that gained global fame for its size and stunning star pattern.
• The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby: A 138.7-carat vivid red ruby, one of the most perfect examples of its kind, also of Sri Lankan origin.

🌸 Gem Categories in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan gemstones are broadly categorized into precious stones and semi-precious stones. Precious gems include sapphires, rubies, and cat’s eye, while semi-precious varieties include tourmaline, garnet, zircon, spinel, and topaz. Each stone is valued not only for its color and clarity but also for the craftsmanship that brings its brilliance to life.

Sri Lanka continues to uphold its reputation as a global leader in the gemstone industry. From the mines of Ratnapura to fine jewelry showrooms worldwide, Ceylon gems symbolize the island’s timeless beauty, craftsmanship, and natural wealth.