ROYAL WEDDING ‘BOOSTS SRI LANKA SAPPHIRE SALES’

Sri Lankan gemstone dealers say demand for blue sapphires has risen strongly since Britain’s Prince William married Kate Middleton in April.

They say the stone in the bride’s ring, previously worn by Princess Diana, originated in Sri Lanka.

In the first half of this year, Sri Lankan gem exports rose 35% over the past year to be worth more than $48m.

An ordinary sapphire can cost $17,000 per gram, as the gems are difficult to mine.

Gems from Sri Lankan pits include rubies and so-called cat’s eyes - but the best-known are Ceylon Sapphires, above all the blue ones, although there are also yellow and pink gems.

‘Prestige’

The Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association has said it is beyond doubt that the sapphire in Kate Middleton’s engagement ring, came from Sri Lanka more than three decades ago.
Sinan Salahudeen Sinan Salahudeen says there has been a rush for sapphires

However, earlier this year the royal jewellers, Garrard, declined to comment to the BBC on its origins.

A dealer at the 21st annual Gem and Jewellery exhibition in Colombo says the royal wedding has made stones like it very popular.

“There’s been quite a rush here, especially for sapphires,” said Sinan Salahudeen.

“It’s something great that she’s wearing a Ceylon Sapphire. That brings a lot of value to the stone and it’s a prestige to our country as well.” (BBC)