Gemstones Mining
Among Asia’s most celebrated sources is the tropical island of Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon. Often referred to as the “island of gems,” Sri Lanka is renowned for the spectacular range of jewels found in its soil. While the country is most famous for its lovely sapphires—especially its vibrant blue sapphires—it also produces a wide variety of other precious stones. This natural abundance has made Sri Lanka a cornerstone of the global gemstones mining industry for centuries.
Gem deposits are scattered throughout central and southern Sri Lanka, but large‑scale mining is concentrated in the Ratnapura and Elahera regions. These areas are internationally recognized for their rich gemstone veins and long‑standing mining heritage. As global interest in sapphires and blue sapphires continues to grow, Sri Lanka’s traditional yet highly effective mining practices remain essential to meeting worldwide demand. For anyone eager to learn about gemstones mining, Sri Lanka offers one of the most fascinating and historically rich examples on Earth.
An entrance to a gem mine.
The mine is covered with a temporary structure.
The inside of a mine. To prevent the mine collapsing, a wooden structure is used.
Water is pumped out of the mine using a motor.
A wood-and-metal sieve used in separating the stones from the soil and debris.
Rough stones among the debris.
The stones left over after the gemstones are separated and taken out.