Sri Lanka produces an extraordinary variety of gemstones. These are among the most valuable and sought-after stones the island is known for.
Padparadscha sapphire
The rare pink-orange “lotus” sapphire is Sri Lanka’s most coveted gem, and fine examples can rival or exceed blue sapphire in price.
Blue and fancy sapphires
Vivid blue sapphires lead the island’s reputation, but fine yellow, pink and white sapphires are highly valued too — especially in untreated form.
Ruby
Ceylon rubies — bright, often pinkish-red corundum — are prized for their clarity and ethical provenance.
Star sapphires and cat’s-eye chrysoberyl
Sri Lanka is famous for phenomenal gems: star sapphires showing a six-rayed star, and cat’s-eye chrysoberyl with a single luminous band of light — both highly collectible.
Spinel and others
Vibrant red and pink spinels, garnets and other natural stones round out the island’s remarkable gem wealth.
