Sri Lanka, often referred to as the “Gem Island,” is one of the world’s most renowned destinations for high-quality gemstones. With a history of over 2,500 years in gem mining and trading, the country is famous for its exquisite blue sapphires, rubies, cat’s eyes, and other precious stones. If you are visiting Kandy, the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, you have the perfect opportunity to explore and purchase authentic gemstones.
However, buying gems in a foreign country can be overwhelming, especially if you are not familiar with the market. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about purchasing genuine Sri Lankan gems in Kandy—from identifying authentic stones to finding a reputable seller.
Why Buy Gems in Kandy?
Kandy is one of the best places to buy Sri Lankan gemstones because it is home to trusted gem museums, certified dealers, and skilled gem artisans. The city’s proximity to Sri Lanka’s major gem mining areas, such as Ratnapura and Balangoda, ensures a steady supply of high-quality stones.
Visiting a Gem Museum in Kandy allows you to learn about the history of gemstones in Sri Lanka, witness the cutting and polishing process, and even see rare gem collections. Whether you’re a collector, an investor, or just looking for a stunning souvenir, Kandy offers authentic and certified gemstones at competitive prices.
Types of Gems Available in Kandy
Sri Lanka is world-famous for its wide variety of precious and semi-precious gemstones. Some of the most sought-after gems include:
1. Blue Sapphire
The Ceylon Blue Sapphire is one of the finest and most valuable sapphires in the world. It has a deep royal blue color and is often used in engagement rings and high-end jewelry.
2. Ruby
Known for its rich red hue, Sri Lankan rubies are highly prized for their exceptional clarity and durability.
3. Cat’s Eye (Chrysoberyl)
A rare and fascinating gem, Cat’s Eye exhibits a unique band of light that moves across the stone, creating a stunning visual effect.
4. Alexandrite
This gemstone is famous for its color-changing properties, shifting from green in daylight to reddish-purple in artificial light.
5. Star Sapphire & Star Ruby
These rare stones display a star-like effect known as asterism, which enhances their beauty and uniqueness.
6. Garnet, Topaz, and Amethyst
In addition to high-end precious stones, Sri Lanka is also known for semi-precious gems like garnet, topaz, and amethyst, which are perfect for unique jewelry pieces.
How to Identify Genuine Sri Lankan Gems
When purchasing gemstones in Kandy, it is essential to ensure their authenticity and quality. Here are some key tips to help you make a secure purchase:
1. Buy from Reputable Sellers
Always choose a licensed and certified gem dealer or visit a trusted gem museum in Kandy. Look for shops affiliated with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority of Sri Lanka to guarantee quality and ethical sourcing.
2. Request a Certification
A genuine gemstone should come with a certification from a recognized gem laboratory. This certificate verifies the stone’s authenticity, origin, and characteristics.
3. Examine the Cut and Clarity
Authentic gems should have precise cuts and natural clarity. Be cautious of gems that look too perfect, as they may be synthetic or artificially enhanced.
4. Perform the Light Test
Hold the gemstone up to natural light to observe its color consistency and internal reflections. Genuine stones often display natural inclusions (tiny imperfections), while fake ones appear flawless.
5. Compare Prices
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Genuine gems have market-standard prices, so compare rates at different stores before making a purchase.
Best Places to Buy Gems in Kandy
To ensure you get a high-quality gemstone at a fair price, visit these trusted locations in Kandy:
1. Gem Museums
A Gem Museum in Kandy is one of the safest places to explore and purchase authentic gemstones. Here, you can learn about the gem-cutting process, see raw stones, and buy certified gems directly from experts.
2. Government-Approved Gem Shops
Look for licensed and well-established gem shops in Kandy that are registered with Sri Lanka’s National Gem and Jewellery Authority.
3. Jewelry Stores with On-Site Gem Labs
Some high-end jewelry stores in Kandy have in-house gemologists who can verify and certify gemstones on the spot.
Tips for Buying Gems Safely in Kandy
To make your gem-shopping experience smooth and secure, follow these expert tips:
✔ Do Your Research – Before visiting a store, educate yourself about different gem types and their market value.
✔ Ask for a Gem Certificate – Never buy a gemstone without a proper certification of authenticity.
✔ Negotiate Wisely – Bargaining is common, but be mindful of extremely low prices, which might indicate a fake or low-quality stone.
✔ Understand the Return Policy – Ensure that the seller offers a fair return or exchange policy in case of any concerns.
✔ Check for Ethical Sourcing – Ask about the gem’s origin and whether it was sourced through ethical and sustainable mining practices.
Why Buy Gems from a Gem Museum in Kandy?
Purchasing a gemstone from a Gem Museum in Kandy comes with several advantages:
🔹 Guaranteed Authenticity – All gemstones sold are certified and tested by professionals.
🔹 Educational Experience – Learn about Sri Lanka’s gem industry, mining process, and cutting techniques.
🔹 Expert Guidance – Trained gemologists provide valuable insights to help you choose the perfect stone.
🔹 Exclusive Collections – Museums often feature rare and unique gemstones not available elsewhere.
Make Your Visit to Kandy Sparkle with a Sri Lankan Gem
Whether you are looking for a stunning blue sapphire, a rare cat’s eye, or a dazzling ruby, Kandy is the perfect place to buy genuine Sri Lankan gemstones. By visiting a trusted gem museum or a certified gem dealer, you can ensure that you are investing in a high-quality and authentic gem.
Make your Sri Lankan adventure truly memorable by bringing home a piece of the island’s rich gemstone legacy!
Ready to explore the world of Sri Lankan gems? Visit a Gem Museum in Kandy today and discover the beauty of authentic Ceylon gemstones!
