Sri Lanka’s Gem Heritage: A Treasure Trove of Ceylon Sapphires
6ct Unheated Ceylon Blue Sapphire
Sri Lanka’s gem industry boasts a storied and vibrant history, earning the island the affectionate nickname Ratna-Dweepa, or “Gem Island,” a testament to its rich natural resources. Among these treasures, the blue sapphires, known globally as Ceylon Sapphires, are particularly celebrated. Deriving their name from the Latin word “Sapphirus,” which means blue, these gems are often revered as the ‘gem of the heavens’ or ‘celestial gem,’ reflecting the sky’s myriad hues throughout the day.
Blue sapphires, a symbol of sympathy, calmness, and loyalty, remain one of the most cherished gemstones. Known for their impressive hardness, second only to diamonds, these sapphires mainly come from the alluvial deposits of Sri Lanka. A fascinating aspect of some sapphires is the asterism or ‘star effect,’ a rare phenomenon where intersecting bands of light appear across the gem’s surface, a feature also seen in rubies.
Historically, Ceylon has been a pivotal source of high-quality sapphires. The gems from this region, especially the sought-after cornflower blues, set the standard for premium sapphires. The most prized shades range from light to medium blue, typically commanding the highest prices in the market. Mining in Sri Lanka continues in the gem-rich alluvial gravels beneath the tea-covered slopes of Elahera and Rathnapura, areas renowned for their quality sapphire yields.
Princess Diana Wearing Ceylon Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring – Pic: andreali.com
The global allure of Ceylonese Blue Sapphires soared in 1981 when Prince Charles chose a stunning 18-carat Ceylonese sapphire engagement ring for Lady Diana. This moment significantly boosted their popularity, highlighting their royal appeal.
Sri Lanka is not only a prolific source of sapphires but also home to some of the world’s largest examples. Notable among these are the “Blue Giant of the Orient” at 466 carats, the “Logan Blue Sapphire” at 423 carats, and the “Blue Belle of Asia” at 400 carats. These remarkable gems underscore Sri Lanka’s status as one of the oldest and most productive sapphire mining locales globally.
This illustrious history and the exceptional quality of Ceylon Blue Sapphires make them a coveted choice for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike, each stone a piece of the celestial tapestry framed in the deep blues of the vast sky.
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