Sapphires in Sri Lanka

In November 2014, while on a cruise with my mother, Julia, we visited Ratnapura in Sri Lanka, the “City of Gems.” As far back as 1292, Marco Polo described Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, as the “Jewel Box of the Indian Ocean” and the finest island of its size in the world, a title that still feels fitting today. We explored local mines and met skilled gem traders, witnessing the beauty and craftsmanship behind Sri Lanka’s famous sapphires and rubies. Wandering through vibrant gem markets, we were immersed in a tradition that has captivated the world for centuries, a truly unforgettable experience.

© All images copyright Joanna Hardy Ltd