7 TH Class

Gemstones Found in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka lies at the southern tip of India which is located at latitude of 6 10 N and longitude
of 80 82 E. The major part of Sri Lanka is made up of Precambrian crystalline rocks except for
a belt of sedimentary rocks along the north-west coast of the country. The Precambrian rocks
which covers nearly 90% of Sri Lanka, have been classified into three major lithological units,
which are Highland / Southwestern Complex, Vijayan Complex and Wanni Complex.
Sri Lanka is well known throughout the world for the large quantity and exquisite variety of its
gemstones. These gemstones occur mainly in alluvial gravels found in valley bottoms into which
flow tributary hillside streams which carry gem minerals released by weathering form the bed
rock sources located at hilltops or hillsides. Apart from the sedimentary formation which carry
gemstones some rocks too have been shown to contain gemstones particularly varieties of
Corundum. There are also gemstones associated with pegmatite which constituted an important
source.
During early times Sri Lanka was once quite fittingly referred to as Rathna-dweepa which
connotes the meaning The Island of Gemstones. The name Rathna-dveepa is found in many
chronicles. A Merchants Guide Periplus of the Erythrean Sea presumed to have been complied
during the first century.
Today around 200 minerals have been classified as gemstones either due to their beauty,
durability, rarity or a combination of some of these attribute which should be fulfilled make a
mineral worthy of being classified as a gemstone. Of these gemstones, around 75 varieties have
been mined or found in Sri Lanka. Although exploitation of Sri Lanka gemstone deposits has
been going on for many centuries, its only in reason times that effort has been made to make
study of the industry itself, the locations of possible gemstone deposits and most importantly.
Main species of Gemstones found in Sri Lanka are as follows.
Corundum
Beryl
Chrysoberyl
Zircon
Spinel
Quartz
Garnet
Topaz
Tourmaline
Feldspar
Corundum
Corundum as a group is one of the most important gemstone species that has the greatest
number of varieties as its members. This oxide of Aluminum probably produces the most
important range of valuable gemstones found in Sri Lanka. As water worn pebbles in Alluvial
deposits or less frequently in source rocks. The gemstones quality Corundum is highly priced
and specific name are given according to the shade of colour such as Ruby for deep red and
Padmaraga for pinkish orange or orangish pink. Corundum with colours of lesser importance
commercial varieties, being prefixed by the colour name.
Basic scientific details of Corundum family are mentioned below.
Chemical Composition - Al2O3
Crystal System - Trigonal
Hardness 9.0
Specific Gravity 3.99
Refractive Index 1.762 1.770
Blue Sapphire
Sri Lanka sapphires are universally renowned for their magnificent quality and the large sizes in
which these sometimes occur. Every possible shade of blue is represented among sapphires of
Sri Lanka, the various shades ranging from the palest to the darkest. High quality blue sapphires
from Sri Lanka are reputed for having pleasing tone of colour of whatever the shades are of
remarkable transparency. In superior quality material the Degree of transparency of very high
and its clarity is excellent. The most desired coloured and stones for a shapphire has been
describe as an instance corn flower blue with a Velvety luster. The combination such features
those rare, is the pride of Sri Lanka.
Ruby
Corundum of a red colour are identified as Rubies. Most Sri Lankan varieties are of a pinkish red
and display a tint of purple which factor perhaps is sufficient to betray to the experienced person
that the stones are of Sri Lankan origin. These purplish tints are attributed to the presence of iron
in addition to chromium oxide in the composition. Such stones when subject to instance heat
would either lose or diminish the purplish tint thereby highlighting the principle colour, red. This
colour is referred to as Pigeon Blood Red in gem circles.
As a rule, Ruby deposits as such have not been specifically localized in Sri Lanka and are found
in association with other members of Corundum family. However, as indicated earlier the stones
of better quality have been more often than not found within the Embilipitiya Udawalawe
environs.
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Padparadscha
The term Padparadscha is a Sinhalese term applied to a very special colour variety of Corundum,
so named after the lotus flower as its colour is sometimes akin to a variety of this flower. The
Padparadscha has an exceptional colour combination which is very attractive and rare. The
colour combination produces the beautiful colour of a sunset at its best as seen across a tropical
sky. The colour of Padparadscha is apparently a combination of pink and orange.
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Yellow Sapphire
Among Yellow Sapphires various shades are noted varying from pale yellow to saffron yellow
and from yellow slightly tinted red to a deep citron yellow. In local terminology the Yellow
Sapphires are identified as Pushparaga. Yellow sapphires are widespread and are found in all
Corundum producing areas, one of the most reputed areas being places around Aluthnuwara in
the Balangoda region.
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Asteriated Sapphires (Star Sapphires)

Asterism is a star like reflection effect caused by certain minerals within the host Corundum.
These are microscopic acicular mineral inclusions of special orientation. When these stones cut
Cabochon, displays a special reflection effect in the form of a six, or in rare instances a twelve
rayed star on the cabochon surface. Blue, Purple, Pink and Grey coloured Star Sapphires found
in Sri Lanka.
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Geuda
On a varietal basis Geuda Corundum is one of the more recently appreciated members of the
Corundum family. The term Geuda was initially used in Sri Lanka, to describe a property of
translucency associated with milky or cloudy appearance seen in some Corundum gemstones.
However with heat treatment of Geuda gemstones (a Corundum species) can be converted in to
transparent sapphires. The most common Geuda varieties are Diesel Geuda, Milky Geuda, Silky
Geuda, Dun Geuda, Ottu and Kowangu Pushparaga. The basic body colour in all these can be
pale Blue, Yellow or Pink.
It is thought that of all the Corundum mined in Sri Lanka, about 35 to 40 percent could be
categorized as treatable Geuda material in which the colours could be induced through heat
treatment. The treatable Geuda Sapphires of Sri Lanka are proven to give better results than
Geuda from other part of the world. Sri Lanka is blessed with a large supply of Geuda Sapphires
suitable for heat treatment. These deposits are widely spread within the Island.
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Chrysoberyl
In Sri Lanka gem chrysoberyl is mostly found as water worn pebbles in the alluvial gem gravels.
Chrysoberyl occurs only in a few colours and the common colours being yellow, golden yellow,
brownish yellow, yellowish green, bluish green and faint olive green. Chrysoberyl occurs in
varying degrees of transparency ranging from transparent and clear to cloudy translucent and
opaque. The gemstones of this group are known to have wide distribution in and among the main
gem producing regions of this country and are mostly lacalized around Rakwana, Bulutota,
Deniyaya, Morawaka, Elahera, Avissawella, Pelawatte, Horana, Matugama, Panadura,
Rathnapura, Aluthgama, Ambalantota, Agalawaththa, Bulathsinghala, Kalapugama and Mestiya.
Basic scientific details of Chrysoberyl family are mentioned below.
Chemical Composition - BeO.Al2O3
Crystal System - Orthorhombic
Hardness 8.5
Specific Gravity 3.72
Some inclusions make stones cloudy, reduce transparency and produce reflection effects. These
if properly oriented would, when cut cabochon displays the cats eye effect. What is produced is
a silvery streak of light which is displayed across the cabochon surface.
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Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl is perhaps rarest and Sri Lanka is famous for producing
larger stones with fair colour change. The primary beauty of this gem is due to its colour change.
At best Sri Lankan stones can be grass green in daylight and violet red to raspberry red in
incandescent or artificial light. The gem is priced according the percentage of colour change
found in the stone. Although most alexandrite can be faceted, occasionally there is unusual
colour changing alexandrite cats eye too.
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Spinel
Spinel is a gemstone found in greater abundance in Sri Lanka than either corundum or
chrysoberyl. Its very abundance makes Sri Lanka the second largest producer of this stone next
to Myanmar (Burma). Sri Lankan spinel range from ruby red, pink, orange, shades of reddish
brown, purple, blue, bluish green, mauve, greenish black, black to colourless. Apart from the
common varieties of spinel are also varieties identified as Ceylonite, Gahnite and Ghanospinel.
The occurrence of natural blue spinel coloured by cobalt has been found in Sri Lanka. Cobalt
spinel has been found around Rathnapura, Okkampitiya and Embilipitiya.
Basic scientific details of spinel family are mentioned below.
Chemical Composition - MgO.Al2O3
Crystal System - Cubic
Hardness 8.0
Specific Gravity 3.60 | 3.58 - 4.06 (Gahnospinel)
Refractive Index 1.712 1.725 | 1.725 1.753 (Gahnospinel)
Original colours are quite different to alexandrite, very often being violet in daylight and changing
to reddish Asteriatedspinels with either four or six rays are also found in the gravels of Sri Lanka.
Colour changing alexandrite-like spinel has also been found from time to time in this country.
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Garnet
Garnets are a group of minerals; which refer to a fairly complex group with a great amount of
isomorphic replacement resulting in intermixtures of chemical compositions giving a distinct
range of colours.
Of these varieties andradite and uvarovite have not been found in Sri Lanka. As in other gem
minerals garnets too occurs in varying degrees of transparency, the fully transparent ones with
good colour being the most beautiful. They could also display asterism in the form of a four rayed
star. Even chatoyancy has been noted from among the Sri Lankan material as has been
established by somebrownish red cats eyes. Different varieties of garnets have different
properties and these will be discussed separately.
Types of Garnets
Pyralspite Series
Other Garnet
Ugrandite Series
Almandine
Fe3Al2(SiO4)3
Rhodolite
Grossular
Ca3Al2(SiO4)3
Andradite
Ca3Fe2(SiO4)
Pyrope Mg3Al2(SiO4)3
Malaya
Hessonite
Demantoid
Spessartite
Mn3Al2(SiO4)3
Mali
Tsavorite
Melanite
Uvarovite Ca3Cr2(SiO4)3
Colourchanging
garnet
Hydrogrossular
Topazolite
Melanite
Topazolite
Rainbow garnet
Red and its diverse shades are the commonest colours in which the varieties, pyrope and
almandine occur. The beautiful purplish tinted garnets which are fairly abundant in the MataleElahera regions are really an intermediate variety between pyrope and almandine. The term
Rhodolite seems to be the more acceptable term probably because of its rhododendron-red
colour. This intermediate type of garnet is mostly confined to the Elahera regions. Here the
colours are extremely fine, the stones clear and transparent and what is more are found in
reasonably large sizes. The superior quality of this variety from this region is so renowned that
these are sometimes identified as Elahera garnets in order to make the variety more specific.
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Tourmaline
Tourmaline naturally results in a wide range of colours and even colour variations in the same
gem in concentric or horizontal bands. The noteworthy colours found in Sri Lanka are yellowish
green, dull green, honey yellow brown and rarely blue and bright green. The yellowish brown
tourmalines are more abundant in Sri Lanka compared to other colour varieties. Attractive pink,
bi-colour and Paraiba tourmalines are not found in Sri Lanka. The different colours could be seen
along the length of the crystal and here the colours are at the two ends where the colour
demarcations are very sharp.
Basic scientific details of tourmaline family are mentioned below.
Chemical Composition - Complex borosilicate of Aluminium, Magnesium and Iron
Crystal System - Trigonal
Hardness 7.0 - 7.5
Specific Gravity 3.01 3.11 (black 3.15 - 3.26)
The red and reddish varieties are identified as rubellite and in instances where the shade of red
carries a purplish tint, these are identified as siberite. These varieties are not known to occur in
Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan green products have always been of a dull green. These are more
yellowish green in appearance. Most of the brown and yellowish brown varieties are located
mainly around Uva, Rathnapura and Tissamaharama regions. The brown, brownish yellow and
the honey yellow colour varieties are broadly identified as uvaite and dravite respectively. Uvaite
has been named after the province of Uva where these varieties are most abundant and
widespread. The other areas in which tourmalines are found widespread and in fair abundance
are the Lunugala, Bibile, Passara, Nilgala region, Horana, Matugama, Pelawatte, Morawaka,
Deniyaya, Rakwana areas, around Rathnapura, Avissawella, Haputale and also around
Ambalantota in the south.
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Beryl
When beryl absolutely pure in composition beryl should be colourless, but a very close scrutiny
of such colourless material will reveal that these are more often than not very faintly tinged with
blue, green, pink or yellow. Beryl occurs in different colours, such as grass green, blue-green,
yellowish green, yellow, pink and pinkish red. Accordingly different varieties are identified. These
are emerald, aquamarine, golden beryl (heliodor), morganite and goshenite. Goshenite is the
term applied to the colourless variety.
Basic scientific details of beryl family are mentioned below.
Chemical Composition - Be3Al2(SiO3)6
Crystal System - Hexagonal
Hardness 7.5 - 8.0
Specific Gravity 2.70 2.80
Green variety of this family is named as emerald. Emerald is the most important member of this
family, but this variety is not indigenous to Sri Lanka. Morganite is a pinkish red or pink coloured
variety of beryl and this variety is also not found among Sri Lankan gem gravel. The term
aquamarine is applied to the pale blue and greenish blue coloured beryl. The general colour of
aquamarine has been often compared to the colour of sea water giving rise to the term
aquamarine. The colours are mostly pale or light, the dark shades being less abundant.
Auamarine of a flawless deep blue or greenish blue colour is undoubtedly a stone of beauty. The
depth of colour is most intense in large stones. The colour in smaller stones is comparatively
lighter. Generally the colours in aquamarine are very well distributed and large flawless stones
are by no means rare. Stones of good quality should be of deep colour and perfect transparency.
In Sri Lanka aquamarine has been found in Rathnapura, Rakwana, Morawaka, Hatton,
Nawalapitiya, Galle, Matara, Tissamaharama and Lunugamwhera.
Asteriated beryl has also been found in Sri Lanka on rare occasions.
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Quartz
Crystalline
Polycrystalline
Rock crystal
Chalcedony
Amethyst
Carnelian
Citrine
Sard
Smoky quartz
Prase
Prasolite
Chrysoprase
Rose quartz
Agate
Jasper Quartzite
Aventurine quartz
Quartz & silica replacements

Tigers-eye
Silicified
Moss agate
Onyx
Bloodstone
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Mystical Gemstone Heritage of Sri Lanka

Sanctified by picturesque landscapes, crystalline waves kissing the palm fringed golden sandy beaches,
misty mountains and friendly people, this island paradise homes an astonishing assortment of vividly
coloured precious Gemstones. Throughout history, the brilliance of Sri Lankan Gemstones inspired kings,
traders and historians across the globe. The legacy continues, as Sri Lanka still holds the crown for
producing world class Gemstones. Welcome to the Rathna Dveepaya or the Gemmed Island; and be
mesmerized by the beauties unearthed every day.
Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, has been known to the world for centuries as a land blessed with
dazzling Gemstones. Sea faring traders from all over the world chose this magical land as a much sought
after port of call in their voyages searching for the worlds finest gem stones. Famous historical chronicles
testify that royals around the world, including the English Royal Family have adorned their icons of
monarchy with Gemstones from Sri Lanka.
Spanning across 65,000 square Kilometres, out of which 80% of the landmass undisputedly declared as
Potential Gem Bearings, Sri Lanka possesses the highest density of Gemstone deposits in the world
producing over 70 varieties out of around 200 known Gemstone varieties in the world
Gems of Sri Lanka

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Traditional Gem Fields of Sri Lanka

Sri Lankas gem industry has a very long and colorful history. Sri Lanka was affectionately
known as Ratna-Dweepa which means Gem Island. The name is a reflection of its natural
wealth. Marco Polo wrote that the island had the best sapphires, topazes, amethysts, and other
gems in the world.[1] Ptolemy, the 2nd century astronomer recorded that beryl and sapphire
were the mainstay of Sri Lankas gem industry. Records from sailors that visited the island
states that they brought back jewels of Serendib. Serendib was the ancient name given to
the island by middle eastern and Persian traders that crossed the Indian Ocean to trade gems
from Sri Lanka to the East during the 4th and 5th century.
Sri Lanka, geologically speaking is an extremely old country. Ninety percent of the rocks of
the island are of Precambrian age, 560 million to 2,400 million years ago. The gems form in
sedimentary residual gem deposits, eluvial deposits, metamorphic deposits, skarn and
calcium-rich rocks. Other gems are of magmatic origin.
Residual deposits are mainly found in flood plains of rivers and streams. The metamorphic
types of gems constitute 90% of the gem deposits in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has the highest
density of gem deposits compared to its landmass. Ratnapura contains the most gem deposits
and derived its name from the gem industry. Ratnapura means city of gems.
The blue sapphires from Sri Lanka are known as Ceylon Sapphire. Ceylon Sapphires are
reportedly unique in colour, clarity and lustre compared to the blue sapphires from other
countries.
Gem Deposits Of Sri Lanka

Classification of the gem deposits of Sri Lanka
Figure shows below illustrates the classification scheme for the gem deposits of Sri Lanka proposed by
Dissanayake and Rupasinghe (1995). The scheme follows the general classification of the three main rock
types and classification is based on deposit genesis. The advantage of the genetic classification of gem
deposits lies in its predictive value. For example, contact metamorphic zones associated with calcium rich
rocks are likely loci for certain gem deposits in Sri Lanka and identification of such features assists in the
location of target areas for detailed exploration.
Sedimentary gem deposits

Sedimentary gem deposits are by far the most important of all gem deposits in Sri Lanka and were
classified by Dahanayake et al. (1980) into residual, eluvial and alluvial types. The sedimentary placer gem
deposits occur in thin layers or lenses of gravel and sand, termed locally as Illam, in river beds and alluvial
plains and on hillslopes and hillsides. Among the most important factors that govern the depositional
nature of these gem deposits are the intensity and distance of transportation from the source and the
topographical suitability of the sites for deposition.
The residual gem deposits occur as beds containing gem minerals mostly deposited in-situ and are found at
depths ranging from a few centimeters to about 10 meters. These deposits mostly occur on the flood plains
of rivers and streams and their sources are assumed to be in the close vicinity. A characteristic feature of
the residual gem deposits is the presence of layers of alternating sand, clays and laterites containing
angular fragments, as exemplified by the Elahera gem deposit.
The eluvial sedimentary gem deposits are found on hillslopes and flat areas incised by valleys. Often, the
eluvial deposits grade into alluvial deposits making identification difficult. The presence of rock fragments
and the angular to sub-rounded nature of the gem minerals are characteristic of the eluvial beds.
Alluvial gem deposits are the most widely distributed gem deposit type in Sri Lanka, the Ratnapura gem
deposits being a good example. They often reach depths of more than 20 metres and usually contain two or
three gem bearing layers. They occur mostly in old stream terraces and flood plains and are characterized
by well-rounded grains. The gem-bearing layers in these alluvial deposits are markedly heterogeneous
exhibiting a variety of shapes and sizes that indicate frequent changes in stream courses and velocity.
Metamorphic gem deposits

Most of the gem deposits in Sri Lanka are clearly of metamorphic genesis reflecting the fact that
approximately 90% of Sri Lanka comprises high grade metamorphic rocks. Intense tropical weathering has
decomposed and disintegrated the gem bearing rocks to form sedimentary gem deposits.
Skarn and calcium-rich rock types
Recent research has shown that calcium-rich bed- rock is a source for gem minerals within the
metamorphic terrain of Sri Lanka. The mineral and fluid inclusions in gem corundum from Sri Lanka and
noted that all the fluid inclusions are pure CO2. Thus CO2 is an important indicator of the genesis of the
gem minerals. The microthermometry results for the primary inclusions suggested that these corundum
formed under granulite facies metamorphism (> 630 C, 5.5 kbar), while the presence of secondary fluid
inclusions indicated retrograde post metamorphic cooling and uplift of the source areas. Further, the high
density of the fluid inclusions (average density d = 1.05 g/cm3) was considered as being compatible with
the formation of corundum under granulite facies metamorphism. Gem deposits located at Bakamuna near
the main Elahera gem field an example of a corundum-bearing skarn deposit, and some other examples of
this type, at Elahera and at Ohiya respectively.
Aluminous metasedimentary rock types

One of the characteristic features of the Highland Complex is the abundance of aluminous
metasedimentary rocks. These have the chemical composition required for the formation of corundum and
other aluminous gem minerals. It is clear that in the Highland Complex a combination of the P-T
conditions and a suitable chemical composition has yielded voluminous sources for gems of this type. It is
known as these gemstones have an origin related to granulite facies metamorphism involving CO2
flooding, the purging of H2O-rich fluids and partial melting.
Gems of pegmatitic origin

Pegmatites are common in the Highland Complex and they are also considered as important sources of
gem minerals. One of the best known pegmatitic gem deposits is the moonstone deposit
at Meetiyagoda, southern Sri Lanka . In addition, moonstones have been located in regions around
Balangoda and Kundasale near Kandy. Pegmatites in Sri Lanka also contain gem minerals such as beryl,
chrysoberyl, zircon and corundum.
Our History
Wealth of the Nation
Srilanka the Gorgeous Pearl of The Indian Ocean is not only a beautiful Island nation veiled by the
Endless Sheets of Heaven , The Magnificently Picturesque Nation is a Treasure Island, enriched with
the astonishing splendor of vividly coloured bewitching gem stones that glitter to outshine the twinkling
stars
of
a
cloudless
night.
The brilliance of Coloured stones from the Serendib (Sri Lanka) have inspired ancient Kings, Infamous
Silk Road Traders of Chinese & Arabian & Chinese origin as well as Historians of medieval ancestry to
affectionately nick name their precious little Island as Rathna Dveepaya to mean The Gemmed Island
in
English.
I want you to understand that the island of Ceylon is, for its size, the finest island in the world, and from
its
streams
comes
Rubies,
Sapphires,
Topazes,
and
Amethyst
&
Garnet.
Marco
Polo
1292
A.D.
Little has changed since Marco Polos time. Such references reflective of the Historical Heritage and
Grand Antiquity of the Srilankan Gem Industry has indeed catalysed the Iconic Recognition of the Ceylon
Sapphire
as
the
Premium
Coloured
Stone
of
the
World.
The Mahavansa, the great historical chronicle of Ceylon whose authority is undoubted, refers to the
singular reputation of this island for its Wealth in Gems. Precious Gemstones recovered from the
shimmering belly of Sri Lanka have donned the Crowns, Thrones & Tiaras of many Emperors including
the British Monarchy.
Sri Lankan Gemstones were positionned amongst the Priceless Exhibits in the Royal Museum of Great
Britain. Precious and enticing spectrum of Blue Sapphires, Star Sapphires, Rubies, Star Rubies,
Alexandrites, Cats Eyes, Garnets, Zircons, Tourmalines and Spinals of unsurpassed Quality and
Quantities have been dotingly delivered in an uninterrupted continuum since the biblical days of Solomon
& Sheba to this date from the gem rich soil of the phenomenally blessed Island nation. A few of the
priceless treasures, whose origins are traceable to Sri Lanka, are Blue Giant of Orient (466 cts), Logan
Blue Sapphire (423 cts), Blue Belle of Asia (400 cts), Rossar Reeves Star ruby (138.7cts) and Star of Sri
Lanka (393cts) and the Ray of Treasure (105 cts Cats Eye). The Star of Sri Lanka" and Ray of
Treasure are the proud possessions of the National Gem & Jewellery Authority.
State Gem Corporation (SGC) Parliamentary Act No. 13 of 1971

Originally the first Government institute to be vested with the responsibility of the Sri Lankan Gem and
Jewellery Industry titled State Gem Corporation was established under the founder chairmanship of late
Mr. T.G.Punchiappuhamy on 1st November 1971 via Parliamentary Act No. 13 of 9th March of the
aforementioned year. The main scope of responsibilities bestowed upon the SGC were as follows,
Read more
National Gem And Jewellery Authority (NGJA) Parliamentary Act No. 50 Of 1993
The State Gem Corporation was subsequently retitled as the National Gem and Jewellery Authority in the
year 1993 via Parliamentary Act No. 50 of the same year. Unlike the SGC, the NGJA was conferred with
the task of the Development, Regulation and Promotion of the Sri Lankan Gem and Jewellery Industry.
Sri Lanka - The Blue Sapphire Capital

The Island of Ceylon was the worlds first source of Sapphires and remained the premiere supplier of
these Gem quality stones for centuries. No Sapphire in the world can equal that obtained on Sri Lanka Dr.
Eduward
Gublin
Sri Lanka is indeed the charming tropical paradise blessed with the unblemished generosity of natures
liberality and bounteousness. The Island ever so gorgeous and beautifully sculptured with meticulous
natural craftsmanship is the definite Treasure Cove of a seemingly unending retinue of vividly coloured
mesmerizing gemstones stones of alluring finery & radiance. Most famous among these equally alluring
gorgeous coloured Gemstones is the dazzling BLUE SAPPHIRE which also is the National Gemstone of
the
Island
nation.
The Blue Sapphires of Sri Lanka also referred to as Ceylon Sapphires as Sri Lankan was known during
the colonial era. Sapphires from Ceylon (Sri Lanka) are world renowned for their uniqueness in Color,
Clarity & Quality to shimmer in their Cornflower Blue luster. The Ceylon Sapphires have been
undoubtedly acknowledged and accepted to be conspicuously superior in value and preference to other
cradles of sapphires sourced from elsewhere Nations. The Blue Sapphire being most unique to Sri Lanka
constitute of an unsurpassed degree of extraordinary clarity and transparency has not only established its
position as the premier most coloured stone amongst the discriminatory International Gemstone &
Jewellery fraternity, but with its glorious brilliance has also established Sri Lanka as THE SAPPHIRE
CAPITAL
OF
THE
WORLD.
The Magnificent Ceylon Sapphires have continued to adorn Crowns, Thrones and Tiaras of many Kings
and Queens whilst several others have become the prized possessions of the Rich, Erudite collectors as
well as Prestigious Learning Institutes and Museums who have adored them among their priceless chattels.
Prince Charles Heir to the British Throne charmed his fiance Lady Diana Spencer with a dazzling
engagement ring consisting of uniquely magnificent 12 Carat Cornflower Blue Oval Ceylon Sapphire
encircled by 14 solitaire diamonds personally handpicked from Pelmadulla Sri Lanka by Garrads the Royal
Jeweler. The royal tradition continued over the years with Prince William signifying his engagement to Ms
Kate Middleton with the gracious Cornflower Blue Ceylon Sapphire and Diamond cluster ring.
Furthermore, the St. Edwards Sapphire, set in a Maltese cross resting atop the imperial crown of the
British Monarchy also traces its origins back to Sri Lanka. These testamentary artefacts admired and
highly desired across the universe tantalizingly embellished by the Blue Sapphires from Sri Lanka has
fittingly dubbed this paradise as the The Sapphire Capital of the World.
Ceylon Gems
Currently positioned in the global market as the most important source of high quality sapphires, the Island
has built her reputation as one of the finest gem cutting and finishing centres in the world, offering gem
stones that meet the highest international standards.
Sri Lanka is blessed with over 70 varieties of coloured stones out of the 200 found in the world and is
among the five most important gem-bearing nations. The countrys breath-taking natural heritage
comprises of varieties of gem minerals, which includes Blue, Pink, Yellow and Golden Sapphires, Rubies,
Padmaradchas, Star Sapphires, Star Rubies, Alexandrite, Cats F, Spinel, Aquamarines, Topaz, Zircons,
Garnets, Tourmalines, Moonstones, Quartz and a large number of rare gemstones. Sri Lankan Gem
Suppliers & Dealers take immense pride in the fact that Sri Lanka is the worlds choice for calibrated and
fancy cut gemstones, high value single stones and quality service cutting.
Amongst the outstanding gemstones that Sri Lanka has produced in the contemporary era are the Blue
Giant of the Orient (466 cts), Logan Blue Sapphire (423 cts), Blue Belle of Asia (400 cts), Rossar Reeves
Star Ruby (138.7 cts), Star of Lanka (393 cts. Star Sapphire) and Ray of Treasure (105 cts. Cats Eye). The
first three gemstones are on display at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC, USA.
The Blue Sapphire or Ceylon Sapphire is Sri Lankas gem supreme, the origin of a 30 year fashion trend.
The author Richard Hughes describes it thus the color of certain Ceylon blues has an ocular attack unlike
any other in the sapphire world. It slashes the eye like a razor. Such stones have that which makes electric
blue electric, and in the Island of Gems are often compared to the blue portion of a peacocks feather.
Sri Lankas Gem Industry consists of free size and investment gemstones, calibrated gemstones, rare
gemstones and gem cutting services. Abundance of gemstones is mined in Sri Lanka or imported freely
into the country.
International standards lapidaries coupled with a skilled workforce adds lustre to Sri Lankas coloured
gemstones making it the better alternative for calibrated and fancy cut gemstones, high-value single stones
and quality service cutting.
Charting the legendary history of the Ceylon Sapphire takes a traveler through such exclusive arenas as
Royal Weddings, the HMS Titanic, and the red carpet of Hollywood.
Kate Middleton wears a blue Ceylon Sapphire engagement ring, which Prince William famously
exchanged to seal his love for her. The iconic gem was picked out by the late Princess Diana of Wales for
her own engagement in 1981. The US$ 500,000 piece is an oval cut, 12-carat Ceylon Sapphire - of a
particularly vivid shade of Cornflower Blue.
In 1997, for the premiere of the blockbuster movie Titanic, Asprey & Garrard, the same London jewellers
who created Princess Dianas engagement ring, designed a real Heart of the Ocean necklace. The result
was a platinum-set, 170-carat heart-shaped Ceylon Sapphire surrounded by a row of 65 round diamonds,
totaling 36 carats and valued at over 2.1 million.
The gravels of Sri Lankas gem bearing land hold the greatest concentration of gems on Earth. Out of the
65,525 square kilometres that makes up Sri Lankas land area, 90% is estimated as potential gem bearing
land. Among the five major gem producing areas in Sri Lanka, Ratnapura or the City of Gems is the most
prolific gem producing area. To this date, no place on earth has surpassed Sri Lankas seemingly endless
supply of large, high quality precious gemstones.
Lapidaries employing cutting edge technologies coupled with a highly skilled workforce, are geared to
produces for the mass markets as well as the high-end luxury markets and even for the exclusive jeweled
watch industry, meeting the highest international standards at each level, adds luster to Sri Lankas
coloured gemstones. Sri Lanka is the worlds choice for calibrated and fancy cut gemstones, high value
single stones and quality service cutting.
Gem dealers in Sri Lanka were instrumental in founding the International Colored Gemstone Association
(ICA) in 1984, which is now the apex body for the global industry. Sri Lanka plays a leading role in
regulating and promoting international gem trade through the
Gemstones Found in Sri Lanka
Alexandrite
Alexandrite Cat's Eye
Almandine Garnet
Amethyst
Aquamarine
Beryl
Blue Sapphire
Chrysoberyl
Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye
Citrene
Hessonite Garnet
Moonstone
Orange Sapphire
Pathparaja Sapphire
Pink Sapphire
Pyrope Garnet
Rhodolite Garnet
Ruby
Spessartite Garnet
Spinel
Star Ruby
Star Sapphire
Tourmaline
Yellow Sapphire
Topaz
Zircon
Corundum
Blue Saphire
Ruby
Star Saphire
Star Ruby
Yellow Saphire
Golden Saphire
Padparadscha
White Saphire
Chrysoberyl
Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye Alexandrite
Alexandrite Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl
Spinel
Blue Spinel
Red Spinel, Mauve Spinel
Topaz
White Topaz
Beryl
Aquamarine
White Beryl
Pale Green Beryl
Zircon
Green Zircon
Yellow Zircon
Brown Zircon
Red & Blue Zircon(very rare)
Garnet
Rose Red Colored
Red Mauve
Hessonite Garnet
Spessartite Garnet
Tourmaline
Green
Brown Varieties
Quartz
Yellow
Brown
Rose
White
Purple(Amethyst)
Feldspar
Moonstone
Not so common Varieties
Sinhalite
Kornerupine
Andalucite
Apatite
Scapolite
Cordierite
Diopside
Enstatite
Taaffeite
Rare Gem Stones
Axinite
Damburite
Euclase
Kyanite
Sapphrine
Dumoritrite
Fibrolite
Monazite
Sphene
Ekanite
Fluoriet
Phenakite
Cassiterite
Epidote
Idocrase
Rutile
Sri Lankas Competitive Advantages in the Gem and

Jewellery Industry
Long history of gem cutting artisan culture which still sustains itself
An educated and trainable workforce
The availability of a wide variety of precious and semi-precious gem stones
A business friendly government,with minimum of formalities providing a wide array of

tax incentives
Duty free imports of raw materials
Active member of International Coloured Gemstone Association(ICA)
ATA Carnet system in operation in Sri Lanka and the issuing authority is
International Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka
The country is a signatory to all United Nations and International Labour

Organization conventions on Labour including those on Child Labour
World's largest blue star sapphire yours

for $300m
Sri Lankan gem trader ready to sell rare egg-shaped gem weighing 1,404.49 carats
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The worlds largest blue star sapphire after its discovery in Sri Lanka
Agence France-Presse in Colombo
Friday 8 January 2016 14.57 GMT Last modified on Friday 8 January 2016 23.40 GMT
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A Sri Lankan gem trader who owns the worlds largest blue star sapphire has decided to sell
the stone for the dizzying asking price of $300m (206m).
The rare egg-shaped stone weighs 1,404.49 carats and has been authenticated as the biggest
of its kind at the Gemological Institute of Colombo (GIC), a private laboratory in the Sri
Lankan capital.
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Industry experts say the stone is so rare it is impossible to give a valuation. Photograph:
AFP/Getty
Looking at the reserve price of other very famous gems, I have now valued this at over
$300m, the owner, who wants to remain anonymous for fear the stone might be stolen, said.
Unlike blue sapphires, which have complete clarity of colour, blue star sapphires, a form of
corundum, are opaque but when placed under light reveal a six-line star.
Industry experts said the stone was so rare it was impossible to give a valuation. We cant
put a price on something like this. It is so rare and unlike other, smaller sapphires, this is not a
stone that can be replaced, Ashan Amarasinghe, leading gemologist at the GIC, said. This
is something only collectors or museums can afford.
The owner said he based his asking price on the Black Star of Queensland, a star sapphire
reportedly sold for $100m in 2002, although details were not publicly disclosed.
The gem, named Lankan Star of Adam by its owner, beat the previous record for the biggest
stone of its kind also held by a Sri Lankan businessman by about nine carats. Both
sapphires were found in Sri Lankas central region of Ratnapura, known as the islands gem
capital, industry officials said.

The Duchess of Cambridges sapphire and diamond engagement ring. Photograph: Reuters
The owner said he bought the stone for an undisclosed price in September before realising the
rarity of his find. I have lived in affluence, but now I feel even more blessed, he said. This
[find] has not changed my lifestyle. But, I feel thrilled to be the man owning this gem. It is
good for the ego.
Sri Lanka is known for its blue sapphires, one of which was used in the the Duchess of
Cambridges engagement ring, formerly owned by Diana, Princess of Wales.
World's largest blue star sapphire yours

for $300m
Sri Lankan gem trader ready to sell rare egg-shaped gem weighing 1,404.49 carats
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Duration Time 0:37
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The worlds largest blue star sapphire after its discovery in Sri Lanka
Agence France-Presse in Colombo
Friday 8 January 2016 14.57 GMT Last modified on Friday 8 January 2016 23.40 GMT
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share via Email
Share on Pinterest
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Google+
Share on WhatsApp
Shares
761
761
Comments
144
Save for later Article saved
A Sri Lankan gem trader who owns the worlds largest blue star sapphire has decided to sell
the stone for the dizzying asking price of $300m (206m).
The rare egg-shaped stone weighs 1,404.49 carats and has been authenticated as the biggest
of its kind at the Gemological Institute of Colombo (GIC), a private laboratory in the Sri
Lankan capital.

Industry experts say the stone is so rare it is impossible to give a valuation. Photograph:
AFP/Getty
Looking at the reserve price of other very famous gems, I have now valued this at over
$300m, the owner, who wants to remain anonymous for fear the stone might be stolen, said.
Unlike blue sapphires, which have complete clarity of colour, blue star sapphires, a form of
corundum, are opaque but when placed under light reveal a six-line star.
Industry experts said the stone was so rare it was impossible to give a valuation. We cant
put a price on something like this. It is so rare and unlike other, smaller sapphires, this is not a
stone that can be replaced, Ashan Amarasinghe, leading gemologist at the GIC, said. This
is something only collectors or museums can afford.
The owner said he based his asking price on the Black Star of Queensland, a star sapphire
reportedly sold for $100m in 2002, although details were not publicly disclosed.
The gem, named Lankan Star of Adam by its owner, beat the previous record for the biggest
stone of its kind also held by a Sri Lankan businessman by about nine carats. Both
sapphires were found in Sri Lankas central region of Ratnapura, known as the islands gem
capital, industry officials said.

The Duchess of Cambridges sapphire and diamond engagement ring. Photograph: Reuters
The owner said he bought the stone for an undisclosed price in September before realising the
rarity of his find. I have lived in affluence, but now I feel even more blessed, he said. This
[find] has not changed my lifestyle. But, I feel thrilled to be the man owning this gem. It is
good for the ego.
Sri Lanka is known for its blue sapphires, one of which was used in the the Duchess of
Cambridges engagement ring, formerly owned by Diana, Princess of Wales.
SPICE GUIDE
MOST POPULAR SPICES USED IN SRI LANKAN
COOKING
The use of spices is very imperative to Asian cuisine. The spices that are mainly used in my kitchen are,
coriander, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, cinnamon, cardamom and cloves.
Sometimes, the spices are left whole or fried and sometimes they are roasted and ground, depending on the
preparation one is making.
SPICES
For meat and poultry, spices are roasted and ground to give more strength and taste to the curries.
Vegetables and seafood have their own delicate flavours. One must not drown their flavours by over
spicing them. Using little or no curry powder for spices ensures that the natural flavour of the vegetables
and seafood are retained.
Chilli powder and curry powder should be stored in airtight containers so that they do not lose their flavour.
BLACK PEPPER
The black peppercorn which is used in Indian cooking, is a dried berry from the pepper plant. Another
important ingredient in making curry powder. If used in excess it can give a hot burning taste to the curry.
Peppercorns may be kept whole when used as a flavouring for rice.
CARDAMOM
Called the Seeds of Paradise, Cardamom is an exotic spice native to India and Sri Lanka. Cardamom is
considered to be the most prized spice after saffron.
Over 4000 years ago it was mentioned in the Sacred texts of India and, 700 years before the birth of Christ
it was believed to have been grown as an ornamental plant in the gardens of the Babylonian Kings. The
pods can be used whole or the husks can be removed and the seeds released. They have a very aromatic
taste. They come in green and white varieties.
Cardamom is the only spice that can be used with sweet and savoury dishes or to flavour rice.
CHILLIES
It is important to understand the use of chillies in the making of curries as they are an important ingredient.
There are two varieties of chillies; the green variety, which is used fresh, and the red which is used in dried
form. Chillies are an important source of Vitamin C.
The green chillies are used in making salads and pickles or chutneys.
In these preparations they are used raw. In some savouries they are used for cooking. Recipes usually
indicate how the chillies are to be used, slit or chopped.
Some dishes call for broken-up red chilli, others for it to be ground into a paste with a little water or
vinegar, while in other recipes only red chilli powder is to be used.
The stalks of chillies are always removed before use.
To achieve the bright colour effect of red chilli powder with a less hot taste, some recipes suggest that
paprika can be added it can be mixed with paprika.
But I believe that the colour depends on the type of chilli used and the measurement as given in the recipe.
In authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, I do not use paprika.
One does not have to de-seed green chillies, but care must be taken to wash your hands after handling
chillies, otherwise you might rub your eyes with your hands and your eyes can start smarting for a little
while.
CINNAMON
Cinnamon is one of the earliest known spices and native to South India and Sri Lanka. Cinnamon has an
aromatic and sweet flavour. Usually they are bought in a stick form and are used whole in meat or rice
dishes. Cinnamon is known to have medicinal qualities as well.
CLOVES
Used whole for their flavour and aroma in meat or rice dishes. Known to be used in treatment of toothache.
CORIANDER LEAVES
This is an aromatic herb of the parsley family. It is sold in a bunch and can be grown at home. It is used
both as an ingredient at the beginning of cooking and at the end as a decorative and aromatic garnish.
It is also used in the preparation of coconut chutneys.
CURRY LEAVES
This tree is native to Asia. The leaves are smaller than bay leaves and shiny. Generally fresh curry leaves
are used. It is very fragrant and can be fried in the initial stages of a curry or put in at the simmering stage.
It can also be added at the final stage to bring out the maximum flavour
CUMIN SEEDS
Cumin seeds have a strong aroma and flavour and can be used whole or ground. Along with coriander it is
one of the most essential ingredients in preparing curry powder.
Although cumin physically resembles caraway seed, it is different in taste and aroma to the caraway seed.
FENNEL SEEDS
Used in the preparation of some dishes. Has a sweet taste.
FENUGREEK SEEDS
This is a rectangular shaped golden brown coloured seed which has a bitter taste, but is nevertheless an
important ingredient to making curries.
Care should be taken not to add too much. When used in the preparation of curry powder it is a sort of
thickening agent and it also is of medicinal use _ especially when the seeds are soaked in water and taken.
GINGER
Fresh ginger is used in all Asian cuisine. It has medicinal value as well.
MUSTARD SEEDS
Mustard Seeds are used whole. It is almost always the first ingredient to be used when preparing a curry. It
is first fried for a few seconds in hot oil and when it begins to splutter other ingredients are used.
Mustard seeds ground and mixed with vinegar are a base for pickles.
NUTMEG
Nutmeg is the dried seed of an evergreen tree. This spice is used in making curry powder and some sweet
dishes and cakes.
SAFFRON
Saffron is one of the most expensive of spices. It comes from the dried stamens of the crocus flower. A
tiny amount is infused in hot milk for about 10 minutes and added to rice dishes and desserts.
TAMARIND
Tamarinds sour fruity taste adds a distinctive, refreshing flavour to curries of all kinds. Tamarind is
widely used in India, Sri Lanka and South East Asia. Tamarind is sold as a soft block of pulp or as
concentrate in a jar.
Commonly used in fish curries.
TURMERIC
It is an aromatic powdered root of a plant grown in the West Indies and India. It is used mainly for
colouring and is also used as an antiseptic.
Spices in Sri Lanka

Spices enhance the colour, fragrance and flavour of food. In addition many of them also have many health
benefits. Used in the right combination, spices can turn the simplest food into an aromatic and rich experience in
the world of cooking. Of course, used incorrectly, if the wrong spices are combined, they will make food taste
terrible and bitter. Hence care and knowledge is important for the successful use of spices. Here are a few
interesting things to know when cooking with spices:
5 Things to know when you Cook with Spices:

1. A combination of spices when used properly depending on the food will mix to create a complex aroma and
spicy flavour.
2. The maximum number of spices that can be combined safely is said to be around 20.
3. Sometimes taking away (not using) too much flavour, can enhance the remaining aroma and spiciness.
4. Heating spices in oils or fats enhance their fragrance and flavour.
5. Fresh spices smell and taste better than dry or processed ones.
<img class="gdl-gallery-image" alt="Spices in Sri Lanka"

src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/spices-in-sri-lanka-1.jpg" style="display: block; opacity: 1;">
Spices in Sri Lanka
Asia, most specifically Southeast Asia, has always been quite famous for its spicy foods. The regions cooks
have dabbled with the science of spices for millenia and are very experienced and used to cooking using spices.
The fact that most spices are grown around the tropical regions of Southeast Asia played a large part in this. Sri
Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, has been the centre of the spice trade throughout history.
5 Spice-related Historical Facts about Sri Lanka

1. Sri Lanka, historically renowned under names such as Tabrobane, Serendib and Ceylon, was famous for its
high quality spices throughout history.
2. In ancient times it maintained relations with the Greeks, Romans and Arabs through its spice trade.
3. Old 14th century trade route maps of the world have proved that almost all trade routes passed through Sri
Lanka. The main reasons for this popularity were the spices and ivory found in the tropical island.
4. The Portugese, Dutch and English found the country attractive, when they conquered Asia, mainly due its
spice and ivory trade.
5. Tropical Sri Lanka with its diverse micro climates and soil types has many spices grown in the island, some
of them endemic, which has been the cause for their lucrative spice trade throughout the ages.
The spice trade of Sri Lanka namely consists of:
Curry Leaves (Karapincha)

The Curry Tree (binomial name: Murraya koenigii) is a tropical tree native to India and Sri Lanka. Its fragrant
leaves are called curry leaves as they are popular for spicing up curries. They are mostly used as seasoning in
the cooking of Sri Lanka, India and their neighbouring countries. Curry leaves have many medicinal properties
including being anti-diabetic.
<img class="gdl-gallery-image" alt="Curry Leaves (Karapincha)" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/curryleaves-karapincha.jpg" style="display: block; opacity: 1;">
Curry Leaves (Karapincha)
Turmeric (Kaha)
Turmeric (binomial name: Circuma longa), once processed from the rhizomes, is a deep orangish yellow powder.
It is used mainly to impart colour or in other words dye foods. When it comes to flavour, the spice tastes slightly
bitter and peppery with undertones of earthy flavour. Though used mainly as a powder, turmeric is also used
fresh in its rhizome form in certain regions of the world. Turmeric is grown in Southeast Asian countries due to
their tropical climes but is native to southwest India.
<img class="gdlgallery-image" alt="Turmeric (Kaha)" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/turmeric-kaha.jpg" style="display:

block; opacity: 1;">
Turmeric (Kaha)
Clove (Karambunatti)
Cloves, which are the flower buds of a form of evergreen tree, originate from the Maluku Islands, Indonesia.
They are primarily used as a spice, but are also used for medicine, fragrance (pomander) and clove cigars.
Cloves are harvested and traded mainly in Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, Madagascar, Pakistan, Tanzania and
Zanzibar. When it comes to culinary purposes cloves are used in Asian, African, Mexican and Middle Eastern
cuisine. They are most often used to add depth to meats, curries and marinades.
<img class="gdl-gallery-image" alt="Cloves (Karambunatti)"

src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/cloves-karambunatti.jpg" style="display: block; opacity: 1;">
Cloves (Karambunatti)
Cinnamon (Kurundu)
Cinnamon refers to Cinnamomum Verum or true cinnamon,which is a plant endemic to Sri Lanka. Most other
cinnamon (from other countries) is from related species of plants and is called cassia. It is a spice obtained by
making shavings (also known as quills) of the inner bark of the cinnamon plant. Cinnamon trade has a very long
history and records show cinnamon in the spice trade of Egypt as early as 2000BC. Cinnamon is often used to
spice up chocolates, deserts and beverages but also for alcohol flavouring and medicine. 90% of the true
cinnamon traded around the world comes from Sri Lanka.
<img class="gdl-gallery-image"
alt="Cinnamon (Kurundu)" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/cinnamon-kurundu.jpg" style="display: block;
opacity: 1;">
Cinnamon (Kurundu)
Pepper (Gam Miris)

Pepper generally refers to black, white and green pepper. Black pepper is the unripe fruit of the pepper plant,
piper nigrum, cooked and dried. Green pepper refers to the dried, but uncooked, unripe fruit of the pepper plant.
White pepper, on the other hand, is the seeds from ripe pepper fruits. Pepper is the spice that is most commonly
traded in the world.It is used for its strong aroma and for its spiciness as a chilli replacement. In addition to its
use as a spice it has medical purposes and is also used for massages (pepper oil). Pepper is native to South and
Southeast Asia.
<img class="gdl-gallery-image" alt="Pepper (Gam Miris)" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/pepper-gammiris.jpg" style="display: block; opacity: 1;">
Pepper (Gam Miris)
Cardamom (Enasal)
Cardamom, also known as Cardamon, is a small spindle shaped seedpod with black seeds inside. The covers are
thin and pale green (Elettaria) or dark brown (Amomum). It is the third on the list of the worlds most expensive
spices, right behind vanilla and saffron. Cardamom is used as a cooking spice as well as flavouring (mainly for
tea and coffee). It is also used in medicine. Cardamom is native to India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Bhutan, Nepal and
Bangaladesh. A few other countries, like Sri Lanka, have also taken up cultivation.
<img class="gdlgallery-image" alt="Cardamom (Enasal)" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/cardamom-enasal.jpg"

style="display: block; opacity: 1;">
Cardamom (Enasal)
Lemongrass and Citronella (Sera)

Lemongrass is a culinary herb which as a subtle citrus flavour. It is very popular in Asian cuisine and can be
used fresh or dried and powdered. Lemongrass is used as a medical herb, pesticide and preservative as well.
When it comes to citronella grass, it is from the same family of plants and is a very close relative to lemongrass.
It is used in soaps, candles and insect repellant sprays. East Indian lemongrass is from Sri Lanka, India, Burma,
Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. West Indian lemongrass is native to South Asia and the Southeast Asian
islands.
<img class="gdl-gallery-image" alt="Lemon

Grass (Sera)" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/lemon-grass-sera.jpg" style="display: block; opacity: 1;">
Lemon Grass (Sera)
Nutmeg and Mace (Sadikka and Wasawasi)

Nutmeg is the seed of a type of evergreen tree (Myristica fragrans), while mace is the reddish netlike covering
surrounding the seed. Nutmeg and mace are used as a flavouring for many sweet dishes from the cuisines of
various countries, and as a spice in many savoury dishes. Nutmeg is also an essential ingredient in many
Christmas favourites such as mulled cider, mulled wine and eggnog. Nutmeg is also used for perfume and
medicine. The common nutmeg is native to the Banda islands of Indonesia. The plant was a lucrative trade spice
throughout history. Therefore after the Napoleonic war it was transplanted by the British to Sri Lanka, Penang,
Bencoolen and Singapore. However records show that the plant existed in Sri Lanka even before this.
<img class="gdl-gallery-image" alt="Nutmeg and Mace

(Sadikka and Wasawasi)" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nutmeg-and-mace-sadikka-and-wasawasi.jpg"
style="display: block; opacity: 1;">
Nutmeg and Mace (Sadikka and Wasawasi)
Vanila
Vanilla is a word that has Spanish origins and comes from the word vaina, literally translating to little pod. It
is a flavouring extracted from orchids of the Vanilla genus, mainly the Mexican flat-leaved Vanilla. Since the
only natural pollinator is a Mexican species of bee, hand pollination is required to grow it in any other countries
other than Mexico and South America. Due to this labour intensive cultivation, Vanilla is the second most
expensive spice in the world. Vanilla may be sold as whole pods, powder, extract or as vanilla sugar mix. There
are many types of vanilla due to the related species of orchids that produce vanilla; Bourbon Vanilla, Mexican
Vanilla, Tahitian Vanilla, West Indian Vanilla. Sri Lanka has Bourbon Vanilla.
<img class="gdl-gallery-image" alt="Vanila"

src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/vanila.jpg" style="display: block; opacity: 1;">
Vanila
Ginger
Ginger is the root of flowering plant. It is used as a spice for food, flavouring for beverages or in folk medicine.
Ginger originated in South China and later spread all over Asia followed by the African continent. The spice
was introduced to Europe from India in the 1st century AD. Today it is a very commonly used spice globally.
<img class="gdl-gallery-image" alt="Ginger" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ginger.jpg" style="display:

block; opacity: 1;">
Ginger
There are many other spices in Sri Lanka, but these are the main. If you would need more information on the
spices of Sri Lanka and their uses, The Sri Lankan Spice Council website has more information.
Join us from Lakpura as we guide you on the Spiceperience, a sensual journey you will never forget. Let us
guide you into the world of spice so you may understand spices the Sri Lankan way!
Spices & Allied Products
Known as the Spice Island, Sri Lanka was historically attractive to the Western nations for its spice riches.
Sri Lankan Spices and Allied products Suppliers export the most sought-after cinnamon, pepper,
cloves, cardamoms, nutmeg, mace and vanilla. These grow in abundance all over the island in fertile
and diverse soil types and varying temperature conditions.
56% of Sri Lankan agricultural exports consist of spices, allied products and essential oils. These
varieties of condiments are used to season, flavour and aromatise various forms of cuisines across the
world.
Cinnamon is the most important spice commodity among the spice sector. People in ancient Sri Lanka
used Cinnamon for many purposes such as, medicine, spice, perfumery material & soft drink. At present
the cinnamon is widely used in bakery products, pharmaceutical preparations & cosmetics worldwide.
Cinnamon exports in primary form as well as in the value added form such as cut pieces, powder form
and crushed form. Cinnamon is considered as unique product exporting from Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is the
world largest producer & exporter of Cinnamon to the world. Cinnamon has originated in Sri Lanka & it
has unique characteristics, which can be branded under GI protection. Accordingly Ceylon Cinnamon
introduced to the international market as a branded product namely "Pure Ceylon Cinnamon" which
reflects a combination of several intrinsic characteristics of Cinamomum Zylanicum.
Pepper is the second important commodity among spices and Sri Lankan pepper has high intrinsic quality.
The Sri Lankan Pepper has higher piperine content which gives it a superior quality and pungency.
Pepper is offered in different grades for grinding and extraction of essential oils and oleoresins. In Sri
Lanka pepper is grown in the wet and intermediate zones mostly as mixed crops.
Other spices such as cloves, cardamom, nutmeg and mace also have high aromatic flavour. Sri Lankan
clove is found to be richer in oil than those from other growing countries in the world. The odour, flavor and
oil contents are the important criteria of cloves. Cardamom is popularly known as 'Queen of Spice'.
Cardamom lands are generally termed as spice forests. Cardamom exports from Sri Lanka constitute
light green verities. Nutmeg & mace are two distinctly separate spices derived from the same plant. It is an
evergreen tree which grows in the up country in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka also has the potential for ginger, turmeric and vanilla cultivation and exports. Vanilla
fragrance is important as a source of natural vanilla. It is used as a flavour ingredient in confectionary
industry and also in perfume and pharmaceutical industries. The production of spice crops continues to be
largely confined to mix home gardens particularly for pepper, cloves, nutmeg and cardamom. 70% of the
Cinnamon is grown as a pure crop in small holdings. Further, out-grower systems and community based
cultivations are linked with the exporters.
The above products can be exported in primary form, value added form such as gift packs, branded retail
packs and powder form. In value addition companies have to use the upgraded technology for grinding and
packaging of spices according to the buyers requirements.
At present companies engaged in the exports of high value products are used quality assurance at the
several production stages of the raw material, pre processing and final packing stages. If export
companies can certify under GMP, HACCP & ISO, would receive more opportunities in the international
trade.
In terms of foreign exchange earnings to the country, Spice exports have indicated US$ 214Mn in year
2011 indicating 11.73% of growth. Net foreign exchange earnings from Spices & Allied product sector is
recording above 80%.
Sri Lanka has taken several steps to enhance and improve the spice industry. Processing centres have
been upgraded to achieve international quality standards such as HACCP. More emphasis is given to
improve agronomic practices by educating farmers on good agricultural practices. Small producers are
encouraged to follow good manufacturing practices when drying and processing these products.
With the increase of international demand for natural products, and the island's focus on enhancing and
evolving its value added range, spices will continue to be a key facet of Sri Lanka's export income.
Important certificates for spice export purposes
Certificate of Origin (compulsory)
Quarantine Certificate
Quality Certificate
Why Ceylon Cinnamon?
Ceylon Cinnamon is known to offer plenty of health benefits, including the following.
Diabetes. Recent studies have found that cinnamon may help control blood sugar levels. In 2003, for
example, Diabetes Care found that people with type 2 diabetes who took 1, 3, or 6 grams of cinnamon
reduced their fasting blood glucose levels by 1829 percent, and also reduced triglycerides by 2330
percent. It also reduced LDL cholesterol by 727 percent, and total cholesterol by 1226 percent.
Alzheimers Disease - According to a 2009 study, extracts of Ceylon cinnamon inhibited the formation of
the proteins and filaments that are the hallmark of Alzheimers disease. Researchers isolated a certain
flavonoid (proanthocyanidin) from the cinnamon and determined it had the majority if the inhibitory
properties.
Cancer - One animal study found that a particular component in cinnamon impaired the proliferation of
cancer cells and slowed tumor growth. A second study published in 2010 also found that cinnamon
extracts were directly linked with anti-tumor effects.
Anti-inflammatory - A study from South Korea found that compounds from cassia cinnamon had promise as
an anti-inflammatory agent, with potential in treating dyspepsia, gastritis, and inflammatory diseases.
Anti-microbial. Several studies have indicated that cinnamon has the ability to fight off bacteria. One
published in 2007, for example, found that even low concentrations boosted the activity of antibiotic
clindamycin. Study authors wrote that the results suggested that cinnamon could be used in combination
therapy against certain stubborn strains of bacterial infections.
As far as other health benefits related to cinnamon, such as weight loss, the research is still limited. A
scientific analysis published in 2010 reviewed the studies published to date, and concluded that cinnamon
has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumor, cardiovascular, cholesterol-lowering, and
immunomodulatory effects. It added that animal studies have demonstrated strong blood-sugar-lowering
properties, and that cinnamon as an adjunct to the treatment of type 2 diabetes is a most promising area.
Major Sri Lankan Spices and Allied Products
Sri Lanka has been famous for an exquisite range of spices for centuries. These include cinnamon, pepper,
cloves, cardamoms, nutmeg, mace and vanilla. Out of exports under other agriculture commodities, 56%
comprise of spices and allied products and essential oil sector and 55% of this is cinnamon and related
products.
Cinnamon
Introduction
Cultivation
Harvesting
Products of Cinnamon
Classification for quills
Quality Requirements
http://www.srilankanspices.com/sl_spices_cinnamon.html
Introduction
Taxonomy
Family
Lauraceae
Species
-
Cinnamomum zealanicum Blum.
Cinnamon
Introduction
Cultivation
Harvesting
Products of Cinnamon
Classification for quills
Quality Requirements
Introduction
Taxonomy
Family
Lauraceae
Species
Cinnamomum zealanicum Blum.
FROM 1824....
It was as far back as the year 1824 in which the British brought a tea plant from China to Ceylon (as Sri Lanka
was known at the time). It was planted in the Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya and is considered to have
been the first non-commercial tea plant in Sri Lanka.
After nearly two decades in 1867, James Taylor, Scottish by origin, planted 19 acres of tea in the city of Kandy in
Ceylon, at the Loolecondra Estate as the first commercial tea plantation. The eventual sale of Loolecondra teas
resulted in 1872, in Kandy and the first tea consignment to London in 1873. These pioneering efforts were done
by trial and error and improved over the years via the introduction and improvement of tea processing machines
and methods, by different individuals and companies.
The first broking firm John Brothers & Co. was established in 1876 and the first public Colombo auction took
place in 1883 under the guidance of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (which was established in 1839). The
Colombo Tea Traders' Association was formed in 1894 and in 1925 the Tea Research Institute was established.
These organizations helped boost the production and export of Ceylon Teas in its early stages.
Milestones
One million tea packets sold at Chicago World's Fair - 1893
The prohibition of export of poor quality teas - 1932,
Ceylon as world's largest tea exporter for first time - 1965
Establishment of the Sri Lanka Tea Board - 1976)
Export of Tea Bags 1976
Export of Green Tea 1982
Abolition of Tea Export Duty and Ad Valorem Tax- 1992
Establishment of Tea Research Board - 1992)
Ceylon tea production exceeds 300,000 metric tons 2000

Quick Facts
Chinese
Emperor
Tea
is
the
In
the
U.S.
Shen
most
approx.
Nung
accidentally
discovered
popular
beverage,
next
1.42
million
pounds
of
Approx.
3
billion
cups
of
tea
are
Four pounds of fresh tea leaves produce one pound of dried tea.
TEA GROWING REGIONS
Almar Tea Gallery

left
to
tea
tea
in
2737
BC
water,
in
the
world.
are
consumed
a
day
consumed
daily
worldwide.
Pure Ceylon Tea
Sri Lankan tea (known for generations as Ceylon Tea) carries behind it a
heritage and success story like no other. A product that began as a
diversification experiment in 1867 spanning just 19 acres of land has today
surpassed all geographical borders to satisfy 19% of global demand. Reputed
for its signature taste and aroma, Sri Lanka has become the world's third
largest tea exporter to the world, the country's largest employer and has the
distinction of supplying tea to the Olympic and Commonwealth Games. It is a
great equalizer, demanding attention from the counter of the smallest eatery
to the most exclusive tea-bars in the world.
Ceylon Tea is also the cleanest tea in the world in terms of pesticide residues,
a fact confirmed by the ISO Technical Committee. Sri Lanka was also the first
to achieve the "Ozone Friendly Tea" label recognized under the Montreal
Protocol Treaty and is the proud owner of the first Ethical Tea Brand of the
World recognized by the United Nations Global Compact.
Far from being just a scenic wonder, the panoramic tea gardens of Sri Lanka
provide a countless number of blends and single garden tea of premium value.
Most are situated at elevations between 3,000 and 8,000 feet, which span the
lush mountains of the central highlands and the fertile plains of the southern
inland areas of the island. Sri Lankan tea possesses unique and specific
characteristics of quality and taste attributed to geographical origin and unique
manufacturing practices.
These have been mastered over the years and infused with contemporary
creativity and imagination to satisfy the most judicious aficionado.
Low-grown teas, at an elevation below 2000 feet, produce good colour and
strength and are popularly drunk with milk. Mid-grown teas, grown between
2000 to 4000 feet, are rich in flavour with good colour. High-grown teas, from
heights of 4000 feet and above, are considered premium, and exude beautiful
golden liquor and an intense, powerful aroma. Some estates also produce
silver tips that give very pale straw-coloured liquor, best drunk plain.
Tourists and export markets alike have access to famous unorthodox variants
and health beverages from Sri Lanka such as green tea, instant tea, bio tea
and flavoured tea.
With the development of Sri Lankan tea exports, Green Tea has acquired a
commanding position in the global market. Currently, Sri Lanka exports green
tea to more than 40 countries. The Major buyers are United Arab Emirates,
Russian Federation and Jordan. With Sri Lanka's awe-inspiring status of
being the number one manufacturer cum exporter of orthodox black tea, the
tea export trade from Sri Lanka is simply at US$ 1.5 billion.
Sri Lankan tea is also grown under the highest social and environmental
standards; excellence in process and purity of product are reflected by world
class certifications. Several plantations are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
accredited and GLOBAL GAP compliant.
Tea processing factories are continually improved and upgraded to maintain

sufficient technical and hygienic standards through the implementation of ISO
22000, and HACCP. Buyers are thus assured that tea produced in Sri
Lanka is not only synonymous with quality, but also conforms to
internationally acceptable food safety regulations.
Due to its supreme quality, Ceylon Tea manufacturers and Ceylon Tea
suppliers from Sri Lanka have carved for themselves a sizable share of the
global tea market over the decades.
Why Pure Ceylon Tea?

Why pure ceylon tea Passion & Provenance Ceylon Tea is grown and produced according to
uncompromising, traditional methods and standards since 1880.
Sri Lanka is considered a model to the world across the value chain, from growing to production and
from physical distribution to the most admired auction system in the world.
Quality Certified by the Government -The name Ceylon Tea and the famous Lion logo that goes
with it indicates the tea grown, manufactured and packed entirely in Sri Lanka conforming to strict
quality standards laid down and administered by the Sri Lanka Tea Board.
Diversity Ceylon Tea is much loved for its unmatched quality and variety in taste, character and
appearance based on the different parts of its tea growing regions. The 7 agro climatic regions Nuwara Eliya, Uva, Uda Pussellawa, Dimbula, Kandy, Ruhuna & Sabaragamuwa
The Low Grown teas produced in Sri Lanka below 2000-ft sea level, are known for their superior leaf
appearance uniformly black, highly valued in the Middle East for its quality and strong - reddish
brewed liquor.
The High Growns, above 4000-ft sea level, on the other hand are known for their bright, coloury,
brisk and aromatic liquors. High grown Ceylon teas do not share the dense, black colour of the
quality low grown leaf being browner in leaf appearance, but have unsurpassed liquors ranging from
light, bright golden colour to deep red.
Ceylon Teas are Handpicked -The relative amounts of the polyphenols present in tea, the polyphenol
oxidase (enzyme), the theaflavins, thearubigins, caffeine, essential oils, sugars, amino acids in the
bud and the first two tender leaves will all contribute to the quality of the brewed liquor in a positive
way. Hence the importance of traditional and disciplined picking of teas in Ceylon.
The Cleanest tea in the world Sri Lanka retains its position as the Best in Class producer of Quality
Tea, considered by the Technical Committee of the ISO as the cleanest tea in the world.
Ozone friendly Ceylon Tea- Sri Lanka has implemented various measures to comply with
environment related international conventions & agreements and secured the place of becoming
the first tea beverage to be certified globally as being ozone friendly.
Ceylon Tea is Ethical The Industry is well regulated with a unionized workforce that is governed by
a collective labour agreement.
Original Orthodox Tea Use of original Orthodox tea manufacturing process
Freshness Handpicked tea preserving the freshness and inherent aroma of the tea. By choosing
100% organic and fair-trade, Green (Ceylon) tea, Green (Ceylon) Black tea, you will be supporting the
Small Organic Farmers towards a better life style through the fair-trade concept
Pure Ceylon Tea
Pure Ceylon Tea
Major Ceylon Tea Products and Varieties
Ceylon Tea manufacturers and Ceylon Tea suppliers from Sri Lanka provide several varieties of
Ceylon tea and a range of value added Ceylon Tea products to the global market.Sri Lanka mainly
produces orthodox tea. In the orthodox process of production, semi dried green shoots are ruptured by
rolling, achieved from a rotary movement. The rolling process ruptures and twists the leaves. When tea
leaves are crushed an oxidation process begins, which is followed by firing and commonly known black tea
is produced. Sri Lanka also produces tea through unorthodox methods, namely:
Cut Tear and Curl (CTC)
Green tea
Instant tea
Bio tea
Flavoured tea is also produced in Sri Lanka. High grown teas from Sri Lanka are reputed for their taste
and aroma. The two types of seasonal tea produced in these areas - Dimbula and Nuwara Eliya are much
sought after by blenders in tea importing countries. Tea is exported to many destinations in various
methods such as:
Tea Packets
Tea Bags
Tea in Bulk
Instant Tea
Flavoured Tea
Tea production in Sri Lanka


Main articles: Economy of Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka
Tea plantation (Dambatenne estates) at about 1800 m above sea level in Haputale, Hill
Country
Tea production is one of the main sources of foreign exchange for Sri Lanka (formerly called
Ceylon), and accounts for 2% of GDP, contributing US $1,527 million in 2013 to the
economy of Sri Lanka.[1] It employs, directly or indirectly, over 1 million people, and in 1995
directly employed 215,338 on tea plantations and estates. Sri Lanka is the world's fourthlargest producer of tea. In 1995, it was the world's leading exporter of tea (rather than
producer), with 23% of the total world export, but it has since been surpassed by Kenya. The
highest production of 340 million kg was recorded in 2013, while the production in 2014 was
slighly reduced to 338 million kg.[2]
The humidity, cool temperatures, and rainfall of the country's central highlands provide a
climate that favors the production of high-quality tea. The industry was introduced to the
country in 1867 by James Taylor, a British planter who arrived in 1852.[3][4][5][6][7][8][9]
Contents
[hide]
1 History
o 1.1 Pre-tea era
o 1.2 Foundation of tea plantations
o 1.3 Growth and history of commercial production
2 Labour
3 Cultivation and processing
o 3.1 Cultivation areas
3.1.1 Registered tea production by elevation
o 3.2 Infrastructure
4 Products
5 International market and prices
o 5.1 Main destination of Sri Lankan teas
5.2 Branding and grading

6 Institutions and research
o 6.1 Ceylon Tea Museum
6.1.1 Periodontal research
7 See also
8 References
9 Further reading
10 External links
History[edit]
Pre-tea era[edit]
Cinnamon was the first crop to receive government sponsorship in Ceylon, while the island
was under Dutch control.[10] During the administration of Dutch governor Iman Willem Falck,
cinnamon plantations were established in Colombo, Maradana, and Cinnamon Gardens in
1769. The first British governor Frederick North prohibited private cinnamon plantations,
thereby securing a monopoly on cinnamon plantations for the East India Company. However,
an economic slump in the 1830s in England and elsewhere in Europe affected the cinnamon
plantations in Ceylon. This resulted in them being decommissioned by William Colebrooke
in 1833. Finding cinnamon unprofitable, the British turned to coffee.
Hemileia vastatrix or "coffee rust" which brought the downfall of coffee production and
transition to the tea industry
By the early 1800s the Ceylonese already had a knowledge of coffee.[11] In the 1870s, coffee
plantations were devastated by a fungal disease called Hemileia vastatrix or coffee rust, better
known as "coffee leaf disease" or "coffee blight".[12] The death of the coffee industry marked
the end of an era when most of the plantations on the island were dedicated to producing
coffee beans. Planters experimented with cocoa and cinchona as alternative crops but failed
due to an infestation of Heloplice antonie,[citation needed] so that in the 1870s virtually all the
remaining coffee planters in Ceylon switched to the production and cultivation of tea.[13]
Foundation of tea plantations[edit]
James Taylor in Kandy, Sri Lanka in 1860s

In 1824 a tea plant was brought to Ceylon by the British from China and was planted in the
Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya for non-commercial purposes.[14] Further experimental
tea plants were brought from Assam and Calcutta in India to Peradeniya in 1839 through the
East India Company and over the years that followed. In 1839 the Ceylon Chamber of
Commerce was established followed by the Planters' Association of Ceylon in 1854.[14] In
1867, James Taylor marked the birth of the tea industry in Ceylon by starting a tea plantation
in the Loolecondera (Pronounced Lul-Ka(n)dura in Sinhala - ) estate in Kandy in
1867. He was only 17 when he came to Loolkandura, Sri Lanka. The original tea plantation
was just 19 acres (76,890 m2). In 1872 Taylor began operating a fully equipped tea factory on
the grounds of the Loolkandura estate and that year the first sale of Loolecondra tea
(Loolkandura) was made in Kandy. In 1873, the first shipment of Ceylon tea, a consignment
of some 23 lb (10 kg), arrived in London. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle remarked on the
establishment of the tea plantations, "the tea fields of Ceylon are as true a monument to
courage as is the lion at Waterloo".
Soon enough plantations surrounding Loolkandura, including Hope, Rookwood and Mooloya
to the east and Le Vallon and Stellenberg to the south, began switching over to tea and were
among the first tea estates to be established on the island.
The total population of Sri Lanka according to the census of 1871 was 2,584,780. The 1871
demographic distribution and population in the plantation areas is given below:[15]
Kandy District, the heartland of tea production in Sri Lanka

1871 Demographic Distribution
Total
population
No. of
estates
Estate
population
% of
population
on estates
Kandy District
258,432
625
81,476
31.53
Badulla District
129,000
130
15,555
12.06
Matale District
71,724
111
13,052
18.2
Kegalle District
105,287
40
3,790
3.6
Sabaragamuwa
92,277
37
3,227
3.5
Nuwara Eliya District
36,184
21
308
0.85
Kurunegala District
207,885
21
2,393
1.15
Matara District
143,379
11
1,072
0.75
1,044,168
996
123,654
11.84
District
Total
Growth and history of commercial production[edit]
Henry Randolph Trafford, one of the pioneers of tea cultivation in Ceylon in the 1880s
Tea production in Ceylon increased dramatically in the 1880s and by 1888 the area under
cultivation exceeded that of coffee, growing to nearly 400,000 acres (1,619 km2) in 1899.[16]
The only Ceylonese planter to venture in to tea production at the early stage was Charles
Henry de Soysa.[17][18][19] British figures such as Henry Randolph Trafford arrived in Ceylon
and bought coffee estates in places such as Poyston, near Kandy, in 1880, which was the
centre of the coffee culture of Ceylon at the time.[16] Although Trafford knew little about
coffee, he had considerable knowledge of tea cultivation and is considered one of the pioneer
tea planters in Ceylon.[16] By 1883, Trafford was the resident manager of numerous estates in
the area that were switching over to tea production.[16] By the late 1880s, almost all the coffee
plantations in Ceylon had been converted to tea. Similarly, coffee stores rapidly converted to
tea factories in order to meet increasing demand. Tea processing technology rapidly
developed in the 1880s, following on from the manufacture of the first "Sirocco" tea drier by
Samuel Cleland Davidson in 1877 and the manufacture of the first tea rolling machine by
John Walker & Co in 1880essential technologies that made realizing commercial tea
production a reality.[14] This realization was confirmed in 1884 with the construction of the
Central Tea Factory on Fairyland Estate (Pedro) in Nuwara Eliya.[14] As tea production in
Ceylon progressed, new factories were constructed and innovative methods of mechanization
introduced from England. Marshall, Sons & Co. of Gainsborough in Lincolnshire, the
Tangyes Machine Company of Birmingham, and Davidson & Co. of Belfast[20] supplied the
new tea factories with machinery, a function they continue to perform to the present.
Early planters in Loolecondera

Tea was increasingly sold at auction as its popularity grew. The first public Colombo Auction
was held on the premises of M/s Somerville and Company Limited[21] on 30 July 1883, under
the auspices of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.[14] One million tea packets were sold at the
Chicago World's Fair in 1893. That same year the tea netted a record price of 36.15 per lb at
the London Tea Auctions. In 1894 the Ceylon Tea Traders Association was formed and today
virtually all tea produced in Sri Lanka is conducted through this association and the Ceylon
Chamber of Commerce. In 1896 the Colombo Brokers' Association was formed and in 1915
Thomas Amarasuriya became the first Ceylonese to be appointed as Chairman of the Planters'
Association. In 1925 the Tea Research Institute was established in Ceylon to conduct
research into maximising yields and methods of production. By 1927 tea production in the
country exceeded 100,000 metric tons (110,231 short tons), almost entirely for export. A
1934 law prohibited the export of poor quality tea. The Ceylon Tea Propaganda Board was
formed in 1932.
In 1938 the Tea Research Institute commenced work on vegetative propagation at St.
Coombs Estate in Talawakele, and by 1940 it had developed a biological control (a parasitic
wasp, Macrosentus homonae) to suppress the Tea Tortrix caterpillar, which had threatened
the tea crop.[14][22] In 1941 the first Ceylonese tea broking house, M/s Pieris & Abeywardena,
was established, and in 1944 the Ceylon Estate Employers' Federation was founded.[14] On
October 1, 1951, an export duty on tea was introduced and in 1955 the first clonal tea fields
began cultivation.[14] In 1958, the State Plantations Corporation was established, and on June 1,
1959, Ad Valorem Tax was introduced for teas sold at the Colombo auctions.[14]
Tea processing plant in Kandy exhibiting machinery dating back to the 1850s
By the 1960s, Sri Lanka's total tea production and exports exceeded 200,000 metric tons
(220,462 short tons) and 200,000 hectares (772 sq mi), respectively, and in 1965 Sri Lanka
became the world's largest tea exporter for the first time.[14] In 1963, the production and
exports of Instant Teas was introduced, and in 1966 the first International Tea Convention
was held to commemorate 100 years of the tea industry in Sri Lanka. During the 19711972
period, the government of Sri Lanka nationalized estates owned by British companies,[23]
taking over some 502 privately held tea, rubber and coconut estates, and in 1975 it
nationalized the Rupee and Sterling companies.[14] Land reform in Sri Lanka meant that no
cultivator was allowed to own more than 50 acres (202,343 m2) for any purpose. In 1976, the
Sri Lanka Tea Board was founded as were such other bodies as the Janatha Estate
Development Board (JEDB), Sri Lanka State Plantation Corporation (SLSPC) and the Tea
Small Holding Development Authority (TSHDA) to supervise the estates thus appropriated
by the state.[15] In 1976, the export of tea bags commenced.[14]
In 1980, Sri Lanka was the official supplier of tea at the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympic
Games, in 1982 at the 12th Commonwealth Games in Brisbane and again in 1987 at Expo 88
in Australia.[14] In 1981, the country began importing teas for blending and re-export and in
1982 commenced the production and export of green tea.[14] In 1983, the CTC teas method
was introduced. In 1992, the industry celebrated its 125th anniversary with an international
convention in Colombo. On December 21, 1992, the Export Duty and Ad Valorem Tax were
abolished and the Tea Research Board was established to further research into tea
production.[14] In 19921993 many of the government-owned tea estates which had been
nationalized in the early 1970s were returned to private ownership.[14] The industry had
incurred heavy losses under state management, and the government made the decision to
return the plantations to private management, selling off its remaining 23 state-owned
plantations.
By 1996, Sri Lanka's tea production had exceeded 250,000 metric tons (275,578 short tons),
and by 2000 had grown to over 300,000 metric tons (330,693 short tons).[14] In 2001, Forbes
& Walker Ltd.[24] launched the country's first on-line tea sales at the Colombo Tea Auctions.[14]
A Tea Museum was established in Kandy and in 2002 the Tea Association of Sri Lanka was
formed.[14] According to the minister of plantation industries, Lakshman Kiriella, the Tea
Association of Sri Lanka is "intended to transform the 135-year-old industry into a truly
global force and facilitate a greater private sector role in strategy formulation, and
implementation, and plantation industries".[25] The association, which works with those that
preceded it in Sri Lanka, represents tea producers, traders, exporters, smallholders, private
factory owners and brokers, and is funded largely through Asian Development Bank.[25]
Labour[edit]
Female workers picking tea leaves

Directly and indirectly, over one million Sri Lankans are employed in the tea industry. A
large proportion of the workforce is young women and the minimum working age is twelve.
As tea plantations grew in Sri Lanka and demanded extensive labour, finding an abundant
workforce was a problem for planters.[10] Sinhalese people were reluctant to work in the
plantations. Indian Tamils were brought to Sri Lanka at the beginning of the coffee
plantations. Immigration of Indian Tamils steadily increased and by 1855 there were 55,000
new immigrants. By the end of the coffee era there were some 100,000 in Sri Lanka.[10]
Young girls typically follow their mothers, grandmothers and older sisters on the plantations,
and the women are also expected to perform most of the domestic duties.[26] They live in
housing known as "lines", a number of linearly attached houses with just one or two rooms.[26]
This housing system and the environmental sanitation conditions are generally poor for
laborers in the plantation sector.[26] There are typically 6 to 12 or 24 line rooms in one line
barrack.[26] Often rooms for laborers are without windows and there is little or no ventilation
and as many as 6 to 11 members may often live in one room together.[26] In the housing
system for plantation workers in Sri Lanka, women and girls have no privacy from the male
workers, which places them at a higher risk for sexual harassment.[26] In June 2007, a study
conducted in the Nuwara Eliya tea growing area revealed that the serious lack of privacy has
led several women to commit suicide, especially newly wedded women.[26] According to
studies by Christian Aid, the female Indian Tamil plantation workers are particularly at risk
from discrimination and victimization.[9] Some concern towards women's rights have been
made in regards to the female plantation workers in Sri Lanka, resulting in some 85
neighborhood women's groups being formed across the country, educating them in gender,
leadership and preventing violence against women.[26]
The tea plantation is structured in a social hierarchy and the women, who often consist of
75%85% of the work force in the tea industry, are at the lowest social strata and are
powerless.[26] This is not unusual as the subordinance of women under men is present
domestically and in the social community in many parts of Sri Lanka.[26] Wages are typically
particularly low. In Nuwara Eliya, women were once paid as little as 7 rupees per kilogram,
the equivalent of 4 pence, or 7 cents, and many must complete 16 kilograms a day.[9] Given
the social stratification in Sri Lanka's past, the pay had to be collected by a husband or
father.[9] The men who work on the tea plantations typically cut down trees or operate
machinery and are better paid at 155 rupees (82p) a day and finish the day hours earlier.[9]
Due to the severely low wages, industrial action took place in 2006.[27] Wages in the tea sector
were increased with the average daily wage earned in the sector now significantly higher at
378 rupees for men and 261 for women in some places.[27] However studies have revealed that
poverty is still a major problem and despite the tea industry employing a large number of
poor people, employment has failed to alleviate poverty since workers are often highly
uneducated and unskilled.[27] Poverty levels on plantations have consistently been higher than
the national average and although overall poverty in Sri Lanka has declined in the last thirty
years, it is now significantly concentrated in rural areas.[27] Poverty in the estate sector has
been reported to be increasing with roughly one in three suffering from poverty, rising from
30 percent in 2002 to 32 percent in 2006/07.[27] Likewise, Nuwara Eliya showed a significant
increase in poverty among workers from 2002 to 2006/07 from 22.6 percent in 2002 to 33.8
percent in 2006/07.[27] But by no means is employment secure in the tea sector in Sri Lanka.
Like other industries, job security in the tea industry has been threatened by the current
financial crisis. In Sri Lanka over 50,000 private sector employees are expected to lose their
jobs in 2009 due to the current slump.[28]
Cultivation and processing[edit]

Over 188,175 hectares (727 sq mi) or approximately 4% of the countrys land area is covered
in tea plantations. The crop is best grown at high altitudes of over 2,100 m (6,890 ft), and the
plants require an annual rainfall of more than 100125 cm (3949 in).
Women waiting to get paid for their bags full of freshly harvested tea leaves
Tea is cultivated in Sri Lanka using the contour planting method, where tea bushes are
planted in lines in coordination with the contours of the land, usually on slopes. For
commercial manufacture the flush or leaf growth on the side branches and stems of the bush
are used. Generally two leaves and a bud, which have the flavour and aroma, are skilfully
plucked, usually by women.[29] Sri Lanka is one of the few countries where each tea leaf is
picked by hand rather than by mechanization; if machinery were used, often a considerable
number of coarse leaves and twigs could be mixed in, adding bulk but not flavor to the tea.[29]
With experience the women acquire the ability to pluck rapidly and set a daily target of
around 15 to 20 kg (33 to 44 lb) of tea leaves to be weighed and then transported to the
nearby tea factory. Tea plants in Sri Lanka require constant nurturing and attention. An
important part of the process is taking care of the soils with the regular application of
fertilizer. Younger plants are regularly cut back 1015 cm (46 in) from the ground to
encourage lateral growth and are pruned very frequently with a special knife.
The tea factories found on most tea estates in Sri Lanka are crucial to the final quality and
value of manufactured tea. After plucking, the tea is very quickly taken to the muster sheds to
be weighed and monitored under close supervision, and then the teas are brought to the
factory.[29] A tea factory in Sri Lanka is typically a multi-storied building and located on tea
estates to minimize the costs and time between plucking and tea processing. The tea leaves
are taken to the upper floors of the factories where they are spread in troughs, a process
known as withering, which removes excess moisture in the leaf. Once withered, the tea leaves
are rolled, twisted and parted, which serves as a catalyst for the enzymes in the leaves to react
with the oxygen in the air, especially with the production of black tea.
The leaves are rolled on circular brass or wooden battened tables and are placed in a rotating
open cylinder from above. After rolling is finished, the leaf particles are spread out on a table
where they begin to ferment upon being exposed to heat. However, the preliminary heat is
from the natural air temperature, so fermentation times fluctuate according to the temperature
and humidity. Regulating the temperature, humidity and the duration of fermentation times
requires a great deal of attention, and failure to follow the exact guidelines will make the
flavor of the tea disappear.[29] As oxidization occurs the colour of the leaf changes from a
green to a bright coppery color. It is now that artificial heat comes into play as the fermented
leaf is inserted into a firing chamber to prevent further chemical reactions from taking place.
The tea leaves are fired to retain the flavour after the fermentation process is complete.[29]
Again the regulation of the temperature plays an important role in the final quality of the tea,
and on completion the tea will become black and harder.
Graded tea
Grading (ordered by size in Sri Lanka) then takes place as the tea particles are sorted into
different shapes and sizes by sifting them through meshes. No artificial preservatives are
added at any stage of the manufacturing process and sub-standard tea which fails to initially
comply with standards is rejected regardless of the quantity and value.[29] Finally, the teas are
weighed and packed into tea chests or paper sacks and then given a close inspection. The tea
is then sent to the local auction and transported to the tea brokering companies.[29] At the stage
of exporting the Sri Lanka Tea Board will check and sample each shipment after the
completion of packing to ensure that the finest quality tea is exported and then it is finally
shipped in various forms of packing to many parts of the world.[29]
Cultivation areas[edit]
Plantation workers
The major tea growing areas are Kandy and Nuwara Eliya in Central Province, Badulla,
Bandarawela and Haputale in Uva Province, Galle, Matara and Mulkirigala in Southern
Province, and Ratnapura and Kegalle in Sabaragamuwa Province.
There are mainly six principal regions planting tea Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, Kandy Uda
Pussellawa, Uva Province and Southern Province.[30] Nuwara Eliya is an oval shaped plateau
at an elevation of 6,240 feet (1,902 m). Nuwara Eliya tea produces a unique flavour.
Dimbula was one of the first areas to be planted in the 1870s. An elevation between 3,500 to
5,000 ft (1,067 to 1,524 m) defines this planting area.[31] South-western monsoon rain and cold
weather from January to March are determining factors of flavour. Eight subdistricts of
Dimbula are Hatton/Dickoya, Bogawanthalawa, Upcot/Maskeliya, Patana/Kotagala, Nanu
Oya/Lindula/Talawakele, Agarapatana, Pundaluoya and Ramboda.
Kandy is famous for Mid-grown tea. The first tea plantations were established here. Tea
plantations are located at elevations of 2,000 to 4,000 ft (610 to 1,219 m).[31]
Pussellawa/Hewaheta and Matale are the two main subdistricts of the region. Uda Pussellawa
is situated between Nuwara Eliya and Uva Province. Northwest monsoons prevail in this
region. Plantations near Nuwara Eliya have a range of rosy teas. The two subdistricts are
Maturata and Ragala/Halgranoya.
Uva area's teas have quite a distinctive flavour and are widely used for blends. The elevation
of tea plantations range from 3,000 to 5,000 ft (914 to 1,524 m).[31] Being a large district, Uva
has a number of subdistricts, Malwatte/Welimada, Demodara/Hali-Ela/Badulla,
Passara/Lunugala, Madulsima, Ella/Namunukula, Bandarawela/Poonagala, Haputale, and
Koslanda/Haldummulla.
Low-grown tea mainly originates from southern Sri Lanka. These teas are grown from sea
level to 2,000 ft (610 m), and thrive in fertile soils and warm conditions.[31] These areas are
spread across four main subdistricts, Ratnapura/Balangoda, Deniyaya, Matara, and Galle.
The high-grown tea thrives above 1,200 m (3,937 ft) of elevation, warm climate and sloping
terrain.[31] Hence this type is common in the Central Highlands. Mid-grown tea is found in the
6001,200 m (1,9693,937 ft) altitude range. Various types of tea are blended to obtain the
required flavour and colour. Uva Province, and Nuwara Eliya, Dimbuala and Dickoya are the
areas where mid-grown tea originates. Low-grown tea is stronger and less-subtle in taste and
is produced in Galle, Matara and Ratnapura areas.
Registered tea production by elevation[edit]
Registered tea production in hectares and total square miles by elevation category in Sri
Lanka, 19592000:[15]
High Medium Low
Total Infrastructure[edit]
Total
Year altitude altitude altitude
square
hectares
hectares hectares hectares
miles
1959 74,581
1960 79,586
66,711
46,101 187,393 723.5
69,482
48,113 197,181 761.3
1961 76,557
97,521
63,644 237,722 917.8
1962 76,707
97,857
64,661 239,225 923.7
1963 76,157
1964 81,538
95,691
65,862 237,710 917.8
1965 87,345
1966 87,514
92,806
1967 87,520
1968 81,144
93,872
1969 81,092
1970 77,549
98,675
1971 77,936
98,624
92,281
93,305
99,359
98,624
High Medium
Year altitude altitude
hectares hectares
65,759 239,578 925.0 The advent of the railways in Sri Lanka

transported tea directly to the ports for
60,365 240,516 928.6
exportation
60,563 241,382 932.0
60,945 242,337 935.7 After the introduction of tea, the Sri
Lankan economy transformed from a
61,292 241,795 933.6
traditional economy to a plantation
61,616 241,383 932.0 economy. At the time of the Kandyan
65,625 241,798 933.6 Kingdom it was policy not to build
[10]
65,625 242,185 935.1 roads for reasons of strategic defense.
Therefore, when the plantations started,
Low
Total there was very little infrastructure in
Total
altitude
square place in the hill country. Transporting
hectares
hectares
miles the products to the Colombo port was a
65,968 241,859 933.8 major problem. Therefore, the Sri
Lankan government undertook a
66,343 242,301 935.5 massive program of road, rail and
66,622 242,190 935.1 urban development in the plantation
64,099 241,882 933.9 areas. Governor Sir Edward Barnes
pioneered the building of roads. During
66,363 240,578 928.9 his government, Captain Dawson,
67,523 242,011 934.4 Major Skinner and others in the public
the
68,023 243,242 939.2 works department completed
Colombo-Kandy road.[32][33]
68,401 244,099 942.5
1972 77,639
1973 77,793
98,252
1974 77,693
1975 79,337
97,875
1976 79,877
1977 79,653
94,338
1978 79,628
1979 78,614
95,591
1980 78,786
1981 78,621
96,950
68,969 244,705 944.8
96,853
69,444 244,918 945.6
1982 77,769
96,644
67,728 242,141 934.9
1983 71,959
90,272
67,834 230,065 888.3
1984 74,157
90,203
63,514 227,874 879.8
98,165
98,446
94,835
97,084
High Medium Low

Total
Total
Year altitude altitude altitude
square
hectares
hectares hectares hectares
miles
1985 74,706
1986 73,206
89,175
67,769 231,650 894.4
85,216
64,483 222,905 860.6
A lorry transporting tea from the estates

Building roads did suffice to solve the transportation problem. Finding enough carts was
difficult and it was a slow medium.[34] The Ceylon Planters Association was founded in 1854
in protest of the government's reduction of expenditures on highways. This association
lobbied the government to build and maintain roads. Although construction of the first rail
line commenced in 1858, the line did not open until 1865 due to these protests.[34][35]
The railway was originally known as Ceylon Government Railways. The Main Line was
constructed from Colombo to Ambepussa, 54 km (34 mi) to the east. The railway was
initially built to transport coffee and tea from the hill country to Colombo for export. For
many years, transporting such goods was the main source of income on the line. The first
train ran on 27 December 1864. The line was officially opened for traffic on 2 October 1865.
The Main Line was extended in stages with service to Kandy in 1867, to Nawalapitiya in
1874, to Nanu Oya in 1885, to Bandarawela in 1894, and to Badulla in 1924.
Other lines were completed in due course to link the country: the Matale Line in 1880, the
Coast Line in 1895, the Northern Line in 1905, the Mannar Line in 1914, the Kelani Valley
Line in 1919, the Puttalam Line in 1926, and the Batticaloa and Trincomalee Lines in 1928.
The rail lines helped develop what had hitherto been an undeveloped country. Today, instead
of transporting tea to the ports, the railways primarily transport passengers, especially
commuters to and from Colombo.
Products[edit]
Ceylon black tea
Ceylon Super Pekoe black tea

Ceylon black tea is one of the country's specialities. It has a crisp aroma reminiscent of citrus,
and is used both unmixed and in blends. It is grown on numerous estates which vary in
altitude and taste.
Ceylon green tea
Ceylon green tea

Ceylon green tea is mainly made from Assamese tea stock. It is grown in Idalgashinna in Uva
Province. Ceylon green teas generally have the fuller body and the more pungent, rather
malty, nutty flavour characteristic of the teas originating from Assamese seed stock. The tea
grade names of most Ceylon green teas reflect traditional Chinese green tea nomenclature,
such as tightly rolled gunpowder tea, or more open leaf tea grades with Chinese names like
Chun Mee. Overall, the green teas from Sri Lanka have their own characteristics at this time
they tend to be darker in both the dry and infused leaf, and their flavour is richer; this could
change in the future. As market demand preferences change, the Ceylon green tea producers
start using more of the original Chinese, Indonesian, Japanese and Brazilian seed base, which
produces the very light and sparkling bright yellow colour and more delicate, sweet flavour
with which most of the world market associates green teas. At this time, Sri Lanka remains a
very minor producer of green teas and its green teas, like those of India and Kenya, remain an
acquired taste. Much of the green tea produced in Sri Lanka is exported to North Africa and
Middle Eastern markets.
Ceylon white tea
Ceylon Silver tip tea

Ceylon white tea, also known as "silver tips" is highly prized, and prices per kilogram are
significantly higher than other teas. The tea was first grown at Nuwara Eliya near Adam's
Peak between 2,2002,500 meters (7,2188,202 ft). The tea is grown, harvested and rolled by
hand with the leaves dried and withered in the sun. It has a delicate, very light liquoring with
notes of pine & honey and a golden coppery infusion. 'Virgin White Tea' is also grown at the
Handunugoda Tea Estate near Galle in the south of Sri Lanka.
International market and prices[edit]
A tea plantation near Nuwara Eliya in a medium altitude area
Tea plantation near Haputale in a high altitude area
A tea picker in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan tea continued to have international success into the 2000s (decade). In 2001,
despite falling tea prices in every major tea exporting country and increasing competition, Sri
Lanka retained its position as the world's top tea exporter by selling a record 294 million
kilograms (648.16 million lbs) in 2001 compared to 288 million kilograms (634.93 million
lbs) in 2000.[36] World tea production in 2001 rose 3.7% to 3.022 million tonnes (3.331
million short tons), but in Sri Lanka tea exports rose to an all-time high of $658 million from
$595 million the previous year.[36] Currently, however, Sri Lanka, whilst the world's largest
exporter of tea, is far behind India and China in terms of total production.
In 2003 the government in Sri Lanka sought to protect the country's near $700 million tea
industry during the 2003 Iraq War. The war in Iraq caused panic, particularly among smallscale Sri Lankan tea growers who represent 69% of all tea production in Sri Lanka, who
demanded that the government bail them out.[37] Iraq buys up to 15% of Sri Lanka's tea, and a
third of this would enter the country illegally on small boats from Dubai as well as into
neighbouring countries such as Iran.[37] Exporters called for the government to assist them
with concessionary bank loans and some tea factory owners in Sri Lanka demanded a
moratorium on electricity bill payments.[37] Prices fell in Colombo as a result of the crisis.[37]
Plantations Minister Lakshman Kiriella responded, saying, "tea promoters would receive
diplomatic postings in Sri Lankan missions abroad to give an extra push to the island's 'green
gold'".[37] $15 million was funded to promote Sri Lankan brands on international markets
during the Iraq war.[37] Later in 2003 the island suffered severe floods in the lower growing
tea areas of Sri Lanka.[38] However production still increased slightly by 1.3 percent to
309,000 tonnes (340,614 short tons) in 2004, as the crop recovered.[38] Kenya surpassed Sri
Lanka as the largest exporter of tea with an 8.9 percent growth in exports for the year
totalling nearly 293,000 tonnes (322,977 short tons).[38] In 2004 actual tea production in
Kenya had increased by more than 11 percent to reach 328,000 tonnes (361,558 short tons),
as a result of a good harvesting season, wealth and improved processing facilities.[38]
The Sri Lankan tea industry continued to grow into 2007 and 2008. Tea production hit a
record 318.47 million kilograms (702.1 million lbs) in 2008, up from 305.2 million kilograms
(672.9 million lbs) produced in 2007.[39] In 2008 export earnings struck a record high of $1.23
billion for the full year, up from $1.02 billion in 2007.[39] However, more recently the industry,
like many others across the world, has suffered from the contemporary global financial
crisis.[39] The Sri Lanka Tea Board revealed in March 2009 that the industry had suffered a 30
percent drop in overseas sales in January 2009.[39] The downfall in tea production has been felt
not only by Sri Lanka but by all the major tea producing nations.[40] Total volume of tea
exports fell 25 percent to 17.76 million kilograms (39.2 million lbs) and sales from tea
shipments fell to 6.9 billion rupees ($61.37 million ) in January, compared to 9.8 billion
rupees in the same period a year earlier.[39] Prices have collapsed to an average of $2.65 per
kilogram ($1.20/lb) from record highs of $4.26 per kilogram ($1.93/lb) experienced between
January and September 2008.[39] Drought has also been a contributing factor to the 2009 crisis
in Sri Lankan tea as it has in India.[40] The Sri Lankan industry has been hit worst though with
a fall of 8.7 million kg (19.2 million lbs) produced in January 2009.[40]
Main destination of Sri Lankan teas[edit]

The most important foreign markets for Sri Lankan tea are the former Soviet bloc countries
of the CIS, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, Syria, Turkey, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the UK,
Egypt, Libya and Japan.[36]
The most important foreign markets for Sri Lankan tea are as follows, in terms of millions of
kilograms and millions of pounds imported. The figures were recorded in 2000:[15]
Sacks of tea ready to be shipped

Total Exports
Country
Million
kilograms
Million
pounds
Percent
of total
CIS Countries
57.6
127.0
20
UAE
48.1
106.0
16.7
Russia
46.1
101.6
16.01
Syria
21.5
47.4
7.47
Turkey
20.3
44.8
7.05
Total Exports
Million
kilograms
Million
pounds
Percent
of total
Iran
12.5
27.6
4.34
Saudi Arabia
11.4
25.1
3.96
Iraq
11.1
24.5
3.85
UK
10.2
22.5
3.54
Egypt
10.1
22.3
3.51
Libya
10.0
22.0
3.47
Japan
8.3
18.3
2.88
Germany
5.0
11.0
1.74
Others
23.7
52.2
8.23
Total
288
634.9
100
Country
Branding and grading[edit]

Ceylon tea is divided into three groups: High or Upcountry (Udarata), Mid country
(Medarata), and Low country (Pahatha rata) tea, based on the geography of the land on which
it is grown.
Tea produced in Sri Lanka carries the "Lion Logo"[41] on its packages, which indicates that the
tea was produced in Sri Lanka. The use of the Lion Logo is closely monitored by the Sri
Lanka Tea Board,[42] which is the governing body of the tea industry in Sri Lanka. If a tea
producer demands to use the Lion Logo on his packaging, they need to gain permission from
the Sri Lanka Tea Board. The tea board then performs a strict inspection procedure, the
passing of which allows the producer to use the logo, along with the "Pure Ceylon Tea
Packed in Sri Lanka" slogan on their tea packaging. Each and every consignment is
thoroughly inspected by Sri Lanka Tea board officers before being shipped. Therefore, the
Lion Logo and the wording is indeed the assurance of the origin of the tea and of its quality.
Most of the Sri Lankan tea exporters now focus on adding more value to the exports rather
than exporting raw tea. The name "Ceylon Tea" or "Sri Lankan tea" is still regarded as a sign
of quality throughout the world.
Grading names which are used in Sri Lanka to classify its teas are not by any means the
indication of its quality but indicate its size and appearance. Mainly there are two categories.
They are "Leaf grades" and "Smaller broken grades". Leaf grades refers to the size and
appearance of the teas that were produced during Sri Lanka's colonial era (which are still
being used) and the other refers to the modern tea style and appearance.
Institutions and research[edit]
Kandy Tea Museum
Ceylon Tea Museum[edit]

The Sri Lanka Tea Board opened a Tea Museum in Hantana, Kandy in 2001. Although
exhibits are not abundant they do provide a valuable insight into how tea was manufactured
in the early days. Old machinery, some dating back more than a century, has been lovingly
restored to working order. The first exhibit that greets visitors is the Ruston and Hornsby
developed diesel engine, as well as other liquid fuel engines, located in the Engine Room on
the ground floor of the museum. Power for the tea estates were also obtained by water-driven
turbines.
The museum's "Rolling Room" offers a glimpse into the development of manufacturing
techniques, with its collection of rollers. Here the showpiece is the manually operated 'Little
Giant Tea Roller'.
Periodontal research[edit]
Beginning in the early 1970s, two researchers from the National Institute of Dental Research
in Bethesda, Maryland, USA conducted a series of research projects in which they arranged a
longitudinal study group of a large number of Tamil tea laborers who worked at the
Dunsinane and Harrow Tea Estates, 50 miles from Kandy. This landmark study was possible
because the population of tea laborers were known to have never employed any conventional
oral hygiene measures, thereby providing some insight into the natural history of periodontal
disease in man.[43]
Education in Sri Lanka

Education in Sri Lanka
Ministry of Education
Ministry of Higher Education
National education budget (2012)
Budget
1.7% of GDP [1]
General details
Primary languages
Sinhala, Tamil and English
System type
Provincial
Literacy (2012)
Total
98.1
Male
97.7
Female
98.6
Enrollment
Total
350,000
Secondary
200,000
Post secondary
14,000 (10-12%)
Education in Sri Lanka has a long history that dates back two millennia. The Constitution
of Sri Lanka provides for education as a fundamental right. Sri Lanka's population has a
literacy rate of 98.1%, higher than that expected for a developing nation; it has the highest
literacy rate in South Asia and overall, one of the highest literacy rates in Asia. Education
plays a major part in the life and culture of the country and dates back to 543 BC. Sri Lanka's
modern educational system was brought about by its integration into the British Empire in the
19th century. Education currently falls under the control of both the Central Government and
the Provincial Councils, with some responsibilities lying with the Central Government and
the Provincial Council having autonomy for others.
Contents
[hide]
1 Administration
2 History
o 2.1 Primary and secondary schools
o 2.2 University
3 Primary and secondary education
o 3.1 Structure
3.1.1 Normal ages
3.1.1.1 Primary
3.1.1.2 Secondary
o 3.2 Government schools
3.2.1 National schools
3.2.2 Provincial schools
3.2.3 Piriven
o 3.3 Non-government schools
3.3.1 Private schools
3.3.2 International schools
4 Tuition
5 Tertiary education
6 Vocational education and training
7 Criticisms
o 7.1 Compulsory leadership training for undergraduates
8 References
9 External links
Administration[edit]
Primary school to higher education are primarily funded and overseen by three governmental
ministries.[2]
Ministry of Education: for schools, pirivenas (schools for Buddhist priests), teachers
training colleges and colleges of education
o Department of Examinations: National examination service
Ministry of Higher Education & Highways: for universities
Ministry of Education Services: for supplying the physical facilities required for
general education
Ministry of Skills Development and Vocational Training: for vocational education
and technical colleges
Exceptions to this system exist mostly when it comes to tertiary with several public
universities and institutes coming under the purview of different ministries. These divisions
have led to a high degree of mismanagement and inefficiency over the years.
History[edit]
Education in Sri Lanka has a history of over 2300 years. It is believed that the Sanskrit
language was brought to the island from North India as a result of the establishment of the
Buddhism in the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa from the Buddhist monks sent by
Emperor Asoka of India. Since then the an education system evolved based around the
Buddhist temples and pirivenas (monastic colleges), the latter primarily intended for clergy
(even to this day) and higher education. Evidence of this system is found on the Mahawamsa
and Dipavamsa, the Chronicle of Lanka that deals with the history of the island from the
arrival of Prince Vijaya and his followers in the 6th century BC.[3]
With the outset of the colonial expansion on the island, first in the coastal provinces and then
interior, Christian missionary societies become active in education. The Church's monopoly
in education ended following the Colebrooke Commission set up by the British
administration.
Primary and secondary schools[edit]

A standard system of schools were begun by the British based on the recommendations of the
Colebrooke Commission in 1836. This is regarded as the beginning of the modern schooling
system in the island. It started with the establishment of the Royal College in Colombo
(formerly the Colombo Academy) and lead to the formation of several single sex schools
constructed during the colonial period, by the British.[4] Some of these schools were affiliated
to the Anglican Church. These included S. Thomas' College in Mount Lavinia and Trinity
College in Kandy. The education in vernacular schools was largely free due to government
grants to cover the cost of teaching and local philanthropists providing the buildings,
equipment and the books.[5]
Royal College Main building

In 1938 the education system in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) was made formally free following
the granting of universal franchise in 1931. The Minister of Education, late Hon. Dr. C.W.W.
Kannangara, and the Executive Committee of Education which included members such as H.
W. Amarasuriya took the initiative in establishing free education. Under this initiative the
government established Madhya Maha Vidyalayas (MMV, Central Colleges) that were
scattered around the island to provide education to all. The medium was either Sinhala or
Tamil.
In 1942 a special committee was appointed to observe the education system and, among the
suggestions that followed, the following play an important role:
i. Make available to all children a good education free of charge, so that education
ceases to be a commodity purchasable only by the urban affluent.
ii. Make national languages the media of instruction in place of English so that
opportunities for higher education, lucrative employment open only to small number
of the urban affluent, would become available to others as well.
iii. Rationalize the school system so that educational provision is adequate, efficient
and economical.
iv. Ensure that every child is provided with instruction in the religion of his/her
parents.
v. Protect teachers from exploitation by managers of schools.
vi. Make adequate provision for adult education.
After independence, the number of schools and the literacy rate substantially increased.
According to the Ministry of Statistics, today there are approximately 9,830 public schools
serving close to 4,030,000 students, all around the island.
During the colonial times, late national heroes like Anagarika Dharmapala with foreigners
like Colonel Henry Steel Olcott and Madame Blavatsky of the Buddhist Theosophical
Society installed Buddhist schools to foster Sinhala students with an English education rich in
Buddhist values and to bring Buddhism to life, at a time when it was slowly fading away.
Most of these schools were established in the capitals of the major provinces of Sri Lanka.
The first of these were Ananda College, Colombo (formerly English Buddhist School);
Dharmaraja College, Kandy (formerly Kandy Buddhist High School); Mahinda College,
Galle (formerly Galle Buddhist Theosophical Society School);[6] Musaeus College, Colombo[7]
and Maliyadeva College, Kurunegala (formerly Kurunegala Buddhist Institution) which were
followed decades later by Visakha Balika Maha Vidyalaya (formerly Buddhist Girls College),
Colombo, Nalanda College, Colombo and Mahamaya Vidyalaya, Kandy.
Sri Lanka also has many Catholic schools such as St. Joseph's College, St Bridget's Convent,
St Peter's College, St. Anthony's College, Kandy and the Joseph Vaz College named after the
Sri Lankan saint Joseph Vaz. The earliest schools such as Richmond College, Galle, Jaffna
Central College, Wesley College, Colombo, Kingswood College, Kandy(formerly Boys' High
School,Kandy); Girls' High School, Kandy and Methodist College, Colombo were started by
the Methodist Church.[8]
Many schools were built in the post-colonial era. However, the established schools who had
their origins in the colonial era dominate social life in Sri Lanka mainly due networks of old
boys and old girls.[citation needed]
Several superficial changers to the school system took place in the post-independence era.
These include the change of the primary medium of education to the national languages,
nationalization of private schools and the introduction of national/provisional school
system.[citation needed]
University[edit]
Higher education in Sri Lanka has been based on the several prominent pirivenas during the
local kingdoms. The origins of the modern university system in Sri Lanka dates back to 1921
when a University College, the Ceylon University College was established at the former
premises of Royal College Colombo affiliated to the University of London. However, the
beginning of modern higher education in Ceylon was in 1870 when the Ceylon Medical
School[9] was established followed by Colombo Law College (1875),[10] School of Agriculture
(1884) and the Government Technical College (1893).
Sri Jayewardenepura University, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Building

The University of Ceylon was established on 1 July 1942 by the Ceylon University
Ordinance No. 20 of 1942 which was to be unitary, residential and autonomous. The
university was in Colombo. Several years later a second campus was built in Peradeniya. The
University of Ceylon became the University of Sri Lanka follow in the University of Ceylon
Act No. 1 of 1972 resulting in a more centralized administration and more direct government
control. This gave way for creation of separate universities after the Universities Act No. 16
of 1978. Even though new universities of independent identities were created, the government
maintained its direct control and centralized administration though the University Grants
Commission. Late Hon. Lalith Athulathmudali as Minister of Education developed an
initiative to develop the higher education of the country in the 1980s, the Mahapola Fund,
established by him provided scholarship and much-needed founding to higher education
institution to this day. Until amendments to the University Act were made in 1999 only state
universities were allowed to grant undergraduate degrees; this has since changed.
Primary and secondary education[edit]

Structure[edit]
School Girls of Jaffna Hindu Ladies' College

Sri Lanka's education structure is divided into five parts: primary, junior secondary, senior
secondary, collegiate and tertiary. Primary education lasts five to six years (Grades 1-5) and
at the end of this period, the students may elect to write a national exam called the
Scholarship exam. This exam allows students with exceptional skills to move on to better
schools. After primary education, the junior secondary level (referred to as middle school in
some schools) lasts for 4 years (Grades 6-9) followed by 2 years (Grades 10-11) of the senior
secondary level which is the preparation for the General Certificate of Education (G.C.E)
Ordinary Level (O/Ls). According to the Sri Lankan law, it is compulsory that all children go
to school till grade 9 (age 14) at which point they can choose to continue their education or
drop out and engage in apprenticeship for a job or farming. However, the Ministry of
Education strongly advises all students to continue with their studies at least till the G.C.E
Ordinary Level. Students who are pursuing tertiary education must pass the G.C.E O/Ls in
order to enter the collegiate level to study for another 2 years (grades 12-13) to sit for the
G.C.E Advanced Level. On successful completion of this exam, students can move on to
tertiary education, there for the GCE A/Ls is the university entrance exam in Sri Lanka.[11]
Due to the variety of ethnic groups in Sri Lanka, many schools teach only in either Sinhala
medium or in Tamil medium and not the English medium. The elite colleges in major cities
such as Colombo and Kandy, teach in all three media.
Normal ages[edit]
Primary[edit]
Kindergarten: 4-5 year olds

Grade 1: 5-6 year olds
Grade 5: 9-10 year olds - Scholarship Examination
Secondary[edit]
Junior secondary

Senior secondary

Grade 11: 15-16 year olds - G.C.E Ordinary Level Examination
Collegiate

Grade 13: 17-19 year olds - G.C.E Advance Level Examination
Vincent Girls' High School Batticaloa

NB: In some cases students may be slightly younger.
Government schools[edit]
Most of the schools in Sri Lanka are maintained by the government as a part of the free
education. Currently there are 9,829 government schools with a student population of 3.8
million and 212,441 teachers, 561 Pirivenas.[11] With the establishment if the provincial
council system in the 1980s the central government handed control of most schools to local
governments. However the old schools which had been around since the colonial times were
retained by the central government, thus creating three types of government schools;
National Schools
Provincial Schools
Pirivenas (Schools for Buddhist priests)
National schools[edit]
Main Building of St. Michael's College National School, Batticaloa. It is an example for
national schools in Sri Lanka
National schools come under the direct control of the Ministry of Education and therefore
have direct funding from the ministry. Most of these schools were established during the
colonial period and therefore are established institutions. These few are referred to as famous
schools or elite schools since they have a rich history and better maintained facilities than the
average public school. This is mainly due the support of their alumni. In recent years newer
schools and several central colleges have been upgraded to national schools from time to time,
thereby making the total number of national schools 323.[11]
Provincial schools[edit]
Provincial Schools consists of the vast majority of schools in Sri Lanka. Funded and
controlled by the local governments many suffer from poor facilities and a shortage of
teachers.
Piriven[edit]
Piriven are monastic colleges (similar to a seminary) for the education of Buddhist priests.
These have been the centers of secondary and higher education in ancient times for lay
people as well. Today 561 Piriven are funded and maintained by the Ministry of Education.
Young priests undergo training at these pirivenas prior to being their Ordination and study for
GCE O/L and A/L examinations. They may gain entrance to State Universities for higher
religious studies.
Non-government schools[edit]
Private schools[edit]
C.M.S Ladies College one of Sri Lanka's private girls' school as seen from its grounds
There has been a considerable increase in the number of private schools in Sri Lanka, due to
the emergence of the upper-middle class during the colonial era. These private schools follow
the local curriculum set up by the Ministry of Education in the local language mediums of
Sinhala, Tamil or English. Many of the private schools have access to newer facilities than
state run schools. Currently there are 66 Private schools (registered before 1960 and not since
then) of these, 33 non-fee-levying Assisted Private Schools (also known as semi-government
schools) and 33 fee levying autonomous Private Schools, in addition to the Government
Schools.[11]
International schools[edit]
International schools in Sri Lanka are not restricted to the expatriate community, anyone with
the ability and willingness to pay can join these schools. Starting in the late 1980s these
schools have no regulation or control by the Ministry of Education as it comes under the
Board of Investment (BOI),[11] due to this the standard of education varies greatly between
schools and with lesser levels of student discipline compared with other types of schools. The
schools are mainly for the children of the expatriate community, charge high tuition fees and
can therefore provide good facilities and high standards.
The majority of International schools prepares students for the Edexcel General Certificate of
Education (GCE) Ordinary, Advanced Subsidiary (AS) and Advanced (A2) Level
examinations, which is the most popular qualification. Preparation for Cambridge
International Examinations is also offered by a few schools but is less popular.
Tuition[edit]
Due to the high competitive nature of exams such as year 5, GCE O/L and GCE A/L as well
as London O/Ls and A/Ls; parents seek additional help at home and at group/mass classes to
improve their children's grades and performance. In recent years this has become a lucrative
enterprise, which has resulted in successive governments attempting to regulate it. Many
scholars have also accused tution classes of robbing the childhood and having a negative
impact on the child's health.
Tertiary education[edit]
Undergraduate education in state universities is free but extremely competitive, limited and
standardized. Fewer than 16% (less than 16,000 students) of those who qualify get admission
to state universities[12] and of that only half graduate.[13] Admission to the university system is
based on the highly competitive GCE Advanced Level examination. Selection of students is
done on the basis of rank order on average Z Scores obtained by candidates at the GCE
Advanced Level under a transparent national policy to replicate a district basis representation.
Only the top students from each district get admissions.
The top students from urban and rural districts get the chances of having tertiary education.
However, top students who got qualified under the minimum Z Scores requirements for
admissions from remote districts may get in with relatively lower marks than those from
urban districts. As a result, many students who are not granted admission find other means of
higher education. Around 8% those qualified but could not get admission for higher
education go abroad to pursue their studies,[14] others enroll themselves at the Open University
of Sri Lanka or at the few state-owned autonomous degree awarding institutes (such as the
SLIIT, ITS[clarification needed]), or study as external students of traditional universities or at private
institutes (such as the IIT) that conduct classes and exams on behalf of foreign universities
(such as the ULEP).
Some study for entrance/membership for professional bodies both foreign (such as CIMA,
BCS, ACCA, etc.) and local (such as ICASL, SLIM) or do studies at vocational technical
colleges that specialize in mechanical and electronic subjects. Government has schemes to
provides financial aid in addition to free education to financially support to those qualified to
get admission to state universities.[15]
There are only 15 state universities in Sri Lanka. The prominent ones are University of
Colombo, University of Peradeniya, University of Ruhuna, University of Kelaniya,
University of Sri Jayawardhenapura and University of Moratuwa. In recent years, with
changes to the University Act, a few institutes have been given permission to grant their own
degrees: The most prominent is the government-owned Sri Lanka Institute of Information
Technology.[16]
Still, there are unemployed graduates in Sri Lanka, except in the fields of medicine,
information technology, commerce, law and engineering disciplines. Many claim that if state
university graduates are unemployed or causes brain drain that is because of limited exposure
in the country for the degrees they have.
Many intellectuals express the need for private universities in the country, where students
who chose not to attend or do not gain admission to state universities could study in their
home country at a lower cost. The North Colombo Medical College (NCMC) was one such
institute. Before its nationalization, it produced some of the best doctors in Sri Lanka. But
efforts to establish private universities have been blocked due to protests conducted by many
parties claiming that it would create more competition for state university students. In recent
years this has become a reason for students who do not attend state universities to prefer
going abroad or study at other institutes and professional bodies.
For a complete list, see Sri Lankan universities
Classification of tertiary qualifications
Certificate: 1 year or less than 1 year of study.

DiplomaL 12 years of study.
Bachelor's degree
o General degree: 3 years of coursework without a major.
o Honours/Special degree: 4 years of coursework and research with a
major/specialization in a field.
Master's degree: undertaken after the completion of one or more bachelor's degrees.
Master's degrees deal with a subject at a more advanced level than bachelor's degrees
and can consist either of research, coursework, or a mixture of the two.
Doctorate: most famously Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), which are undertaken after
an honours bachelor's or master's degree, by an original research project resulting in a
thesis or dissertation.
Vocational education and training[edit]
Vocational education and training in Sri Lanka is managed by the Tertiary and Vocational
Education Commission of the Ministry of Vocational & Technical Training. Training
includes course based curriculum at vocational technical training centres and apprenticeship
at private or public organisations. Higher education in vocational fields could be archived
though several universities. The National Vocational Qualifications Systems in Sri Lanka
(NVQSL) provides a structured seven levels of qualifications from Level 1 to Level 7.
Vocational education and training is carried out for degree level at the Open University, Sri
Lanka and the University of Vocational Technology, as well as at diploma level at 37
technical colleges, Sri Lanka Institute of Advanced Technical Education and the Sri Lanka
School of Agriculture.
Apart from these, the Ministry of Education has launched a non-formal vocational education
program which allows school drop-outs and adults who did not complete their school
education, to earn a living, through self-employment. Most of these courses are held at
community centres and they cover a wide range of fields such as dressmaking, beauty culture,
hairdressing, stitching, carpentry, plumbing, painting and so on.
Criticisms[edit]
Critics of the education system, including academics and parents, state that the education
system is too competitive and rigid unlike education systems in other societies.[17]
Efforts to establish private universities have been blocked, resulting in only state universities
awarding local degrees.[citation needed] Opponents of private universities claim that private
universities as privatization of education and damaging the standard of the education.
However the demand for higher education has created several private institutions that conduct
courses for degrees in foreign universities, these are not regulated or evaluated for proper
standards by the government or independent organizations.[citation needed]
Compulsory leadership training for undergraduates[edit]

Main article: Compulsory leadership training for undergraduates
In 2011, the government made it mandatory for all students selected for undergraduate
courses in state universities to undergo Compulsory leadership training for undergraduates at
military and police bases. The government sited the need for residential three week training
to increase employability thus reducing the high graduate unemployment in state universities.
This move has drawn criticisms from the opposition, student groups and human rights groups
as the nature of compulsory military type training seen in conscription.[18][19][20] However,
shortly after the 2015 presidential election, the newly elected president Maithripala Sirisena
along with the Sri Lankan Parliament put an end to this training in 2015.[21]
Health in Sri Lanka


This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this
article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be
challenged and removed. (August 2010)

Sri Lanka provides free universal healthcare and it scores higher than the regional average in
healthcare having a high Life expectancy and a lower Maternal and Infant deaths than its
neighbors.[1][2] It is known for having one of the worlds earliest known Healthcare systems and
has its own Ayurvedic Medicine.
Contents
[hide]
1 History
2 Overview
o 2.1 Hospitals
3 Medical schools
o 3.1 Government Owned
o 3.2 Other
4 Herbal medicine
5 Eye donation
6 See also
7 References
8 External links
History[edit]
The Sinhalese medical tradition records back to pre historic era. Besides a number of medical
discoveries that are only now being acknowledged by western medicine, the ancient
Sinhalese are believed to be responsible for introducing the concept of hospitals to the world.
According to the Mahawansa, the ancient chronicle of Sinhalese royalty. King Pandukabhaya
had lying-in-homes and hospitals (Sivikasotthi-Sala) built in various parts of the country after
having fortified his capital at Anuradhapura in 4th century BCE. Ruins of a hospital in
Mihintale which was built by King Sena II (851-885 A.C.) that dates back to the 9th century
has been discovered and it is considered as one of the worlds oldest hospitals. Several
Sinhalese kings ancient Sri Lanka are known to be practitioners of medicine, King
Buddhadasa (340-368 AC) was said to be adept in general medicine, surgery, midwifery and
veterinary medicine and he is known for the surgical operation on an outcaste (Chandala)
woman in order to deliver her child and the surgical removal of a lump in the belly of a snake.
"Sarartha Sangraha", a comprehensive medical treatise in Sanskrit is also attributed to King
Buddhadasa. King Aggabodhi VII (766-772 A.C.) is known for his medical research and
According to the Culavamsa, the king "studied the medicinal plants over the entire island of
Lanka to ascertain whether they were wholesome or harmful to the sick."[3] Excavations of the
ruins of Ancient hospitals have uncovered several surgical instruments like Forceps, Scalpels
and Scissors as well as spoons that are believed to be used to mix or administer medicine.
The hospitals in Ancient Sri Lanka had Toilets and baths that were attached to the living
quarters .The hospitals had been designed for ventilation and free circulation of air due to two
open courts in addition to the windows which indicates that psychological aspects of
therapeutics were understood by Medical practitioners.[4]
Overview[edit]
Sri Lanka has a universal health care system that extends free healthcare to all citizens, which
has been a national priority. OPD facilities are readily available in public (general) hospitals
situated in major towns and cities, with laboratory and radiology facilities common in most.
But most illnesses can be treated in teaching hospitals in Colombo, Colombo South, Colombo
North, Kandy/Peradeniya, Galle (Karapitiya Hospital) and Jaffna. All doctors and nurses in
the government hospitals are qualified and trained, with some of the most experienced staff
working at the teaching hospitals. For emergencies, especially accidents, it is highly
recommended to go directly to general hospital accident services as they are equipped with
the staff and facilities to handle emergencies.
Hospitals[edit]
Main article: List of hospitals in Sri Lanka
There are 555 government hospitals in Sri Lanka, in addition to several hospitals treating
according to the Ayurvedic System.
A large number of private hospitals have appeared in Sri Lanka, due to the rising income of
people and demand for private healthcare services. They provide much more luxurious
service than government hospitals, but they are mostly limited to Colombo and its suburbs
and also have high prices. Some of the best known private hospitals are Nawaloka Hospital,
Asiri Hospital, Hemas Hospital, Lanka Hospitals and the Durdans Hospitals.[5] In Colombo,
many of the private hospitals are located in Narahenpita area; namely, Asiri, Asiri Surgical,
Oasis, Ninewells, etc. In addition to Colombo, many leading cities such as Gampaha, Kandy,
Galle also have private hospitals.
As of 2014 the public sector accounted for 73% of the hospitals and 93% of the available bed
capacity in Sri Lanka, while handling over 90% of the total patient admissions and outpatient
visits to hospitals.In the private sector, the top five players the Dr Neville Fernando Teaching
Hospital (NFTH), Asiri, Nawaloka Hospitals PLC (Nawaloka), Durdans Hospitals (Durdans)
and The Lanka Hospitals accounted for nearly 45% of the private-sector bed capacity , with
NFTH the market leader with 1,002 beds.[6]
Medical schools[edit]
Government Owned[edit]
These institutions are government owned and funded. Education is provided for free.
This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.
Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo
The Faculty of Medicine of the University of Colombo was established in 1870. As a medical
establishment of 138 years it has been the mother of medical education in Sri Lanka. The
Faculty of Medicine has been actively involved in all milestones of Health development in
Sri Lanka. It has been responsible for the training and graduation of medical graduates in Sri
Lanka according to the health needs of the country. The Ceylon Medical College Council
based at the Faculty of Medicine, Colombo still continues to provide the certification of
training needed for the licensing of para medical personnel.
Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya
The Faculty of Medicine of the University of Kelaniya is situated on a spacious 35 acre

campus at Ragama. It is one of eight state medical schools in Sri Lanka. The Faculty
commenced classes with the admission of 120 students in September 1991.The first batch of
students completed their five year course and graduated MBBS in September 1996. From
2004, the Faculty has adopted an organ-system based integrated curriculum. Today, the
faculty has about 1000 students on its roll. This includes several foreign students, mainly
from other South Asian countries, who have been admitted on a fee levying basis.
College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka

North Colombo Medical College
Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya
Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna
Faculty of Medicine, University of Sri Jayawardenapura
Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna
Other[edit]
Few other paid medical institutes operates within the country which offer MBBS degree.
Kotalawala Defence Academy and South Asian Institute of Technology and Medicine offers
MBBS degree in Sri Lanka. But still have problems with the degrees those institutes offer.
Other than that there are private nursing training institutions.
Herbal medicine[edit]
University of Jaffna
Eye donation[edit]
Main article: Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society
Sri Lanka is one of the Biggest Donors of Human Eyes to the World, with a supply of
Approximately 3,000 Corneas per year.[7]
See also[edit]
Sri Lanka National Pharmaceuticals Policy

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Gemstones Found in Sri Lanka

Chemical Composition - Al2O3

Crystal System - Trigonal

Specific Gravity 3.99

Refractive Index 1.762 1.770

Asteriated Sapphires (Star Sapphires)

Chemical Composition - BeO.Al2O3

Crystal System - Orthorhombic

Specific Gravity 3.72

Refractive Index 1.746 1.755

Chemical Composition - MgO.Al2O3

Crystal System - Cubic

Specific Gravity 3.60 | 3.58 - 4.06 (Gahnospinel)

Refractive Index 1.712 1.725 | 1.725 1.753 (Gahnospinel)

Chemical Composition - Complex borosilicate of Aluminium, Magnesium and Iron

Crystal System - Trigonal

Hardness 7.0 - 7.5

Specific Gravity 3.01 3.11 (black 3.15 - 3.26)

Refractive Index 1.62 1.66

Chemical Composition - Be3Al2(SiO3)6

Crystal System - Hexagonal

Hardness 7.5 - 8.0

Specific Gravity 2.70 2.80

Refractive Index 1.56 1.59

Quartz & silica replacements

Mystical Gemstone Heritage of Sri Lanka

Gems of Sri Lanka

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Traditional Gem Fields of Sri Lanka

Gem Deposits Of Sri Lanka

Sedimentary gem deposits

Metamorphic gem deposits

Skarn and calcium-rich rock types

Aluminous metasedimentary rock types

Gems of pegmatitic origin

State Gem Corporation (SGC) Parliamentary Act No. 13 of 1971

Sri Lanka - The Blue Sapphire Capital

Gemstones Found in Sri Lanka

Alexandrite Cat's Eye

Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye

Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye Alexandrite

Alexandrite Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl

Red Spinel, Mauve Spinel

Pale Green Beryl

Red & Blue Zircon(very rare)

Rose Red Colored

Not so common Varieties

Rare Gem Stones

Sri Lankas Competitive Advantages in the Gem and

An educated and trainable workforce

The availability of a wide variety of precious and semi-precious gem stones

A business friendly government,with minimum of formalities providing a wide array of

Duty free imports of raw materials

Active member of International Coloured Gemstone Association(ICA)

The country is a signatory to all United Nations and International Labour

World's largest blue star sapphire yours

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