From the ancient era of Ratna-Deepa to the modern global gem trade, Ratnapura continues to supply the world with gemstones of unmatched beauty, authenticity, and heritage.
At SKY GEMS, we honor this journey by managing every step—from mining to value addition—with integrity, expertise, and pride.
Ratnapura lies within Sri Lanka’s high-grade metamorphic terrain, one of the oldest gem-bearing geological formations in the world. Over millions of years, gemstones formed deep within the earth and were naturally transported into alluvial deposits by rivers and erosion.
This unique geological process makes Ratnapura exceptionally rich in:
Sapphire (all colors)
Ruby
Cat’s Eye (Chrysoberyl)
Alexandrite
Spinel, Garnet, Tourmaline, Topaz and more
Sri Lanka’s gem mining industry is globally respected for its ethical, low-impact methods, especially in Ratnapura.
Shallow pits are dug by hand
Wooden supports used for safety
Water is pumped out manually or mechanically
Gem-bearing gravel layer (“Illam”) is carefully extracted
This method:
Preserves surrounding land
Minimizes environmental damage
Reflects centuries-old mining wisdom
Conducted along riverbeds and flood plains
Gravel is collected where gems naturally accumulate
Strictly regulated to prevent erosion
While traditional methods dominate, modern practices support efficiency:
Geological surveys
Improved pumping systems
Safety monitoring
Environmental compliance
Once the Illam (gem-bearing gravel) is collected:
Gravel is transported to washing sites
Washed using wicker baskets or wooden sieves
Repeated rotation allows lighter material to escape
Heavier gemstones settle at the bottom
This centuries-old washing method remains one of the most effective gem recovery techniques.
After washing:
Rough stones are hand-sorted
Experienced gem miners identify gemstones by:
Color
Crystal habit
Weight
Transparency
At this stage, stones are separated into:
Gem-quality material
Commercial-grade stones
Non-gem minerals
Generational expertise plays a crucial role here.
Each promising rough stone is evaluated for:
Color potential
Clarity and inclusions
Size and yield potential
Presence of special phenomena (star, cat’s eye, color change)
Decisions are made on:
Best cutting style
Orientation to maximize beauty and value
This step determines the future worth of the gemstone.
Sri Lanka has a long tradition of skilled lapidary craftsmanship.
Process Includes:
Pre-forming the stone
Faceting or cabochon shaping
Precision angle alignment
Maintaining weight retention
Star stones and Cat’s Eye gems are cut as cabochons, while transparent stones are faceted to enhance brilliance.
Polishing reveals the gemstone’s final beauty:
Diamond powder or specialized polishing compounds used
Multiple stages for mirror-like finish
Care taken to preserve natural color and clarity
High-quality polishing significantly increases gemstone value.
In Sri Lanka, heat treatment is:
Mild
Traditional
Fully disclosed
It is used to:
Improve color
Enhance clarity
Many Sri Lankan gemstones remain completely untreated, which adds exceptional value.
Finished gemstones are sent for testing at recognized laboratories such as:
National Gem & Jewellery Authority (NGJA) – Sri Lanka
International labs (GIA, IGI, GRS, etc.)
Certification confirms:
Gem identity
Natural origin
Treatment status
This ensures transparency and buyer confidence.
Final value addition includes:
Professional grading
Matching stones for jewelry sets
Custom cutting for client requirements
Secure packaging and presentation
Export documentation
At this stage, gemstones are ready for:
High-end jewelry
Collectors
Investors
International markets
Sri Lanka’s gem industry is internationally respected for:
Minimal environmental impact
Land restoration after mining
Community-based employment
Government regulation and licensing
Ratnapura remains a global model for ethical gemstone mining.
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Final value addition includes:
Professional grading
Matching stones for jewelry sets
Custom cutting for client requirements
Secure packaging and presentation
Export documentation
At this stage, gemstones are ready for:
High-end jewelry
Collectors
Investors
International markets
