The History of Gems in Sri Lanka (Ceylon): The Legendary Rathna Deepa
An Ancient Legacy of Gemology Sri Lanka’s gemological history is deeply woven into its cultural fabric. The ancient chronicle Mahavamsa provides evidence of a thriving gem trade dating back over 2,500 years. It mentions gem-encrusted thrones owned by a Naga king in 540 BC. Sri Lankan kings frequently used these natural treasures for diplomacy; as early as 250 BC, a king sent…
