"RATHNA DEEPA: THE TIMELESS LEGACY OF SRI LANKA'S GEMSTONES"
Sri Lanka, renowned for its mineral-rich soils, has a long history of producing a seemingly endless supply of high-quality precious and semi-precious gemstones. According to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle Mahavamsa, the island was referred to as “Rathna Deepa” in Sanskrit, meaning “The Island of Jewels.” With a rich history of diverse gemstone deposits, Sri Lanka has been a global hub for precious stones for over 2,500 years.
Ratnapura, meaning “City of Gems” in Sinhalese, has long been famous for its remarkable variety of gemstones, many of which are unparalleled compared to those from other regions. Since ancient times, Sri Lanka has produced Blue, Golden Yellow, Pink, and Orange sapphires, as well as Rubies, Pinkish Yellow Padparadscha, Chrysoberyl cat’s eyes, Alexandrite, color-changing garnets, Star sapphires, Garnets, Zircons, Tourmalines, and Spinels. Historical records even mention gem-encrusted thrones belonging to Naga kings dating back to 540 BC, providing solid evidence of the island’s longstanding gem trade.
Throughout history, Sri Lankan rulers have sent gems and pearls abroad to foster trade and diplomatic relations. In 250 BC, the king gifted a collection of gems and pearls to an Indian emperor. Ancient scholars and explorers such as the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder, the Greek astronomer Ptolemy, the Venetian traveler Marco Polo, the Arab explorer Ibn Battuta, and the British adventurer Robert Knox all made notable references to the abundance of Sri Lanka’s gems, particularly Sapphires, Beryls, Topaz, Amethyst, and Garnets.
Sri Lanka’s reputation as a treasure trove of gems is matched only by its natural beauty. The island is known for its diverse wildlife, scenic rivers, and lush landscapes, along with a rich cultural heritage shaped by Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher communities. Its tropical climate and natural wonders, including destinations like Adam’s Peak, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and the Sinharaja Rainforest, make Sri Lanka a beloved destination for millions of tourists each year.
In addition to its gem industry, Sri Lanka is known for producing a variety of agricultural products such as coconuts, rubber, tea, and spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Its natural resources include not only gemstones but also limestone, graphite, mineral sands, phosphates, uranium, and clay. Rivers across the country are harnessed to produce hydroelectric power, sustaining both industries and households.
Historical accounts and legends suggest that Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and resources, including its gemstones, attracted early settlers and traders. Prince Vijaya, expelled from Southern India, is said to have established the first Sinhalese kingdom on the island around 543-505 BC. Over the centuries, numerous expeditions and voyagers arrived on Rathna Deepa, drawn by its wealth of resources. Arab traders, Moroccans, and Somalians came to exchange spices, while later European colonizers — Portuguese, Dutch, and British — sought control over the island’s valuable gems and other riches.
The geology of Sri Lanka has preserved its unique landscape and resources for millions of years. Positioned strategically in the Indian Ocean, it has long been a key nautical corridor between East and West. Following the end of a 25-year civil war in 2009, Sri Lanka has experienced significant economic growth in the service, industrial, and agricultural sectors. With relaxed regulations on mining and exports, the gem industry, along with other sectors, continues to prosper in this new era of development.