04/06/2026
There’s a reason you don’t see massive, planet-scarring open pits in Sri Lanka. Gems are a legacy here, and preserving the land is just as important as unearthing its treasures.
In this snippet, Senel breaks down the two primary mining methods and why one completely dominates the island:
1. Artisanal Mining (The backbone): Small-scale, highly regulated, and deeply traditional. Hand-dug vertical shafts use local timber and fern leaves for support to reach the illam (gem-bearing gravel). It’s low-impact, uses no toxic chemicals, and by law, the land must be fully restored—often back into functioning rice paddies—once mining concludes.
2. Industrial Mining (The exception): Heavy machinery and large-scale mechanical operations. While efficient, the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) strictly limits industrial mining to protect Sri Lanka’s vulnerable water tables, rich agricultural sectors, and community livelihoods.
At Zenva Gems, we are proud to support the artisanal ecosystem. It keeps the wealth in local communities and protects the beautiful island of Sri Lanka.
