From Mine to Jewelry: Sigiriya Natural Gemstone Experience｜Sri Lanka

Discover the fascinating journey of Sri Lanka’s natural gemstones during this educational and cultural experience in Sigiriya.

Sri Lanka is world-famous for its gemstones, particularly its Ceylon Sapphires. During your visit, learn how these precious stones are formed, discovered through traditional mining, carefully cut and polished, and eventually transformed into beautiful jewelry.

Begin with an introduction to Sri Lanka’s gemstone heritage and learn about the different stones found across the island, including sapphire, ruby, alexandrite, cat’s eye, garnet, tourmaline, moonstone, amethyst, topaz, zircon and aquamarine.

Visit the gemstone museum to see examples of natural stones and learn how rough gemstones differ from their finished forms.

Continue to discover traditional gemstone mining methods and the techniques used by local miners to recover gemstones from the earth. Your guide will explain the tools, methods and traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Next, visit the workshop and watch skilled craftsmen demonstrate how rough stones are transformed through cutting, shaping, grinding, polishing and faceting.

Finally, discover how gemstones can become beautiful pieces of jewelry, from selecting the right stone to designing, setting and finishing rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets.

Throughout the experience, you can ask questions and learn about the history, culture and craftsmanship behind Sri Lanka’s gemstone industry.