CEYLON GEMSTONES AND ROYAL FAMILY

Ceylon Gemstones and Royal Family

Table of Contents

Ceylon Gemstones and the British Empire

Historical relationship between Ceylon (now calling as Sri Lanka) and Britain date back to the early 19th century when the British East India Company (East India Company) established trade tie-up with the island nation. By 1815, Ceylon became a British colony, and its gemstone industry flourished under colonial rule. The British discovered that Ceylon was a repository of precious-coloured gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, and spinels. Ceylon’s reputation as the “Island of Gems” spread globally, and its gemstones became highly sought after by European magnates and royalty. Ceylon’s gemstone industry was valued at over £1 million by the mid-20th century. By the 1950s, Ceylon had become one of the world’s leading coloured gemstone producers, with the British playing a significant role in promoting Ceylon gemstones worldwide after Arabs.

Key events in Ceylon-Britain gemstone trade:

  • 1802: British East India Company establishes trade relations with Ceylon
  • 1815: Ceylon becomes a British colony
  • 1900s: Ceylon’s gemstone industry flourishes under British rule
British East India Company
British East India Company

Ceylon Gemstones in the British Royal Family

The British royal family has a long history of interest on Ceylon gemstones, particularly sapphires and spinel. Queen Victoria, who ruled from 1837 to 1901, was known to have an affection for Ceylon sapphires, which were often used in her jewellery collections. The royal family’s love for Ceylon gemstones continued through the generations, with Queen Elizabeth II owning several pieces featuring Ceylon sapphires and other coloured gemstones. The British royal family’s collection of Ceylon gemstones is valued at over £300 million right now. Besides sapphires, the royals have also cherished other Ceylon gemstones, such as rubies and spinels. For instance, the Imperial State Crown features over 3,000 precious stones, including several top Ceylon sapphires and rubies.

Examples of Ceylon gemstones in the British royal family’s collection:

  • Queen Victoria’s Ceylon sapphire necklace
  • Queen Elizabeth II’s Ceylon ruby tiara
  • Prince Philip’s Ceylon topaz cufflinks

Notable events featuring Ceylon gemstones:

  • 1953: Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, featuring the Imperial State Crown with Ceylon gemstones
  • 1981: Prince Charles and Lady Diana’s wedding, featuring a Ceylon sapphire engagement ring
Queen Elizabeth mesmerized by Sri Lankan Gems. Flanked by Mr. D. A. S. Wijeratne
Queen Elizabeth mesmerized by Sri Lankan Gems. Flanked by Mr. D. A. S. Wijeratne
Royal Crowns
Royal Crowns

Ceylon Sapphire in the Royal Wedding of Charles and Diana

The 12-carat ovel cut Ceylon royal blue sapphire ring set in white gold, chosen by Princess Diana, claimed attention of the world when Prince Charles proposed to her in 1981. The ring, valued at £28,000 at the time, was designed by Garrard, the Crown Jeweller. The sapphire was sourced from Sri Lanka, specifically from the Ratnapura district (owned by Beruwala gem dealer), known for its high-quality sapphires. According to the Telegraph, the sapphire was gifted to Prince Charles by the Sri Lankan government in 1980. The ring’s popularity sparked a trend, with Ceylon blue sapphires becoming highly sought after by couples around the world. The ring was seen as a symbol of the royal couple’s commitment to each other.

Interesting facts about the ring:

  • The sapphire was 12 carats, surrounded by 14 diamonds
  • The ring was set in white gold, a departure from traditional yellow gold
  • The ring was chosen by Princess Diana from a catalogue provided by Garrard, the Crown Jeweller, in 1981.

Impact of the ring on popular culture:

  • Increased demand for Ceylon blue sapphires
  • Inspired a new generation of jewellery designers to feature Ceylon sapphires in their collections

Prince William and Kate Middleton’s Engagement Ring

After death of Diana in 1997, the ring was passed down to Prince William, who kept it as a reminder of his mother’s love and legacy. When Prince William decided to propose to Kate Middleton, he knew that he wanted to give her the ring that had once belonged to his mother.

Prince William had been carrying the ring with him for weeks before the proposal, waiting for the perfect moment to ask Kate to marry him. The proposal took place on a private safari trip in Kenya, where Prince William got down on one knee and presented Kate with the ring.

Couple Prince William and Kate Middleton
Couple Prince William and Kate Middleton
Kate Middleton with ring
Kate Middleton with ring

The ring, now valued at over £100,000 (in 2024), was adjusted to fit Kate Middleton’s finger, with the band being made slightly smaller. The ring’s significance extends beyond its monetary value, as it ties the past and present generations of the British royal family. The ring’s symbolism is a testament to the enduring legacy of Ceylon sapphires in the royal family.

Adjustments made to the ring:

  • The band was made smaller to fit Kate Middleton’s finger
  • The ring was cleaned and polished to restore its original brilliance

Significance of the ring in the modern royal era:

  • Ties the past and present generations of the British royal family
  • Symbolizes the continuation of the royal family’s love for Ceylon gemstones
Ceylon Sapphire on Diana Engagement ring
Ceylon 12ct Sapphire on Diana’s Engagement Ring

Interesting Facts About Ceylon Gemstones and Royal Family

In Sri Lankan culture, sapphires are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to couples. The unique stories behind the rings, such as Diana’s personal choice to select the sapphire from a catalogue, add to their charm. Ceylon sapphires are considered a symbol of eternal love and commitment. The cultural and historical significance of Ceylon sapphires makes them a popular choice for couples around the world.

www.ceylonsapphire.co.uk
www.ceylonsapphire.co.uk

References

,

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *