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Discovering the Riverside Mine: A New Era for Sri Lankan Sapphires

Our story begins in the heart of Nivithigala, a town renowned for its rich gem heritage and vibrant mining community.

A Fresh Start at the Lapidary

We are excited to introduce our newly built lapidary, which has recently opened its doors. With a team of skilled artisans dedicated to perfecting the craft of cutting and polishing sapphires, we are well-equipped to transform raw gemstones into breathtaking works of art.

The team consists of one master cutter and five talented cutters, including three recent graduates from a local vocational school. Since September 2023, these new hires have been honing their skills under the guidance of a experienced senior cutter, who has deep roots in the gem trade. Growing up in Nivithigala, he possesses invaluable knowledge and connections that enrich the operation.

Empowering Local Talent

Among the team, we are proud to highlight one exceptional apprentice—a mother of a young child—who has shown remarkable promise despite starting with no prior experience. Her dedication and skill development have been nothing short of inspiring. The diversity of our team, including two ladies and three gentlemen, not only reflects our commitment to inclusivity but also enhances our creative approach to gem cutting.

The energy in our lapidary is infectious. As the apprentices gain confidence and expertise, they are transforming raw sapphires into dazzling gemstones that capture the essence of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. 

Strong Community Connections

Being centrally located in Nivithigala provides them with a unique advantage. They are surrounded by several hundred small-scale mines within just a 15-minute drive. This proximity allows them to cultivate strong relationships with local miners, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality raw sapphires. Our network is built on trust and mutual support, and we are proud to play a part in the local economy.