Sri Lanka is known for its beautiful gems, which have been mined in the country for centuries. Some of the most famous gems from Sri Lanka include blue sapphires, cat's eyes, and rubies.

The country is famous for its precious and semi precious stones and shops selling gemstones and jewellery can be found all over. It is also possible to have a piece of jewellery made to specifications. Colombo has a number of jewellery shops on Sea Street in the Pettah and two floors of World Trade Center in Fort are dedicated to gems.

In the gem capital of Ratnapura visitors are likely to come across people trading gems on the streets, who often attempt to sell fake items. Do not succumb to any offers made by street side vendors, and purchase stones or jewellery only from a reputable dealer who has a proper license. Gemstones can also be verified for authenticity at a branch of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, but customers are expected to buy the stone before the shop agrees to verification.