Jewellery

Jewellery making in Sri Lanka is an ancient craft that has been in practice for centuries. Sri Lanka’s jewelry history dates back some 3,000 years. Recently, archaeological discoveries were made in Sri Lankan burial grounds which can be traced back to 1000 BCE. The ancient discoveries included pieces of jewelry set with polished gemstones and beads originating
from Sri Lanka. Due to its rich gem and jewelry history, centuries ago, Sri Lanka earned itself the nickname of ‘Ratnadeepa’ or ‘Gem Island’. The beneficial effects that certain metals and gems are supposed to confer on the wearer have also been important for the continuity of the tradition of crafting jewellery. The best-known jewelry in Sri Lanka is Kandyan jewellery. Kandyan jewellery is handmade and was designed specifically for the royal families. It carries symbols of wealth , prosperity , grandeur , strength , well-being , solidarity , virtue and passion . It is worn by women and men of royal or noble births.