Description
Ancient Natural Blue Sapphire Mukkaru Bead from Ancient Galpaya Village
Sri Lanka has long been recognized as one of the world’s most important sources of precious gemstones, particularly sapphires. Among the rarest treasures to emerge from this rich landscape is the ancient Natural Blue Sapphire Mukkaru Bead, found in the historic gem mining area of Galpaya. This sapphire bead, weighing 7.55 carats, carries a profound historical significance, as it was crafted by the Mukkaru people, an ancient race of gem specialists who migrated to Sri Lanka between 700-1000 years ago.
The bead, measuring 12 x 11.7 x 6.9 mm, is a polished stone with an included clarity and retains its natural blue color, completely untreated and unheated. As a bead made from natural corundum, the species to which sapphires belong, it exemplifies the incredible craftsmanship of the Mukkaru people, who were renowned for their knowledge and skill in mining and trading gemstones.
The Mukkaru people, gem specialists from a distant land, came to Sri Lanka during the reign of the ancient kings specifically to mine and trade gems. They used traditional polishing techniques, using kabarondum dust, to work with some of the hardest stones on earth, including sapphires with a Mohs hardness of 9. This sapphire bead is a testament to their artistry, as they drilled and polished these precious stones to create exquisite jewelry, such as necklaces.
Remarkably, this piece from Galpaya shows traces of their advanced technology. The bead itself contains drill holes with diameters of 1.5 mm on one side and 1.7 mm on the other, showcasing the precision and meticulousness of their work.
In modern times, gem miners in Sri Lanka have begun re-mining these ancient sites now they are privet lands, often uncovering gems left behind by the Mukkaru people. At the time, some stones, such as spinel and garnet, were not as highly valued as they are today. These gemstones, now considered to be of great worth, are being rediscovered in the very places the Mukkaru once worked.
This 7.55 ct Natural Blue Sapphire Mukkaru Bead is more than just a gemstone; it is a piece of history that represents an ancient legacy of gem mining and craftsmanship. Its discovery provides a glimpse into the rich history of the gem industry in Sri Lanka and highlights the enduring value of the island’s natural treasures.
For those interested in ancient gems, this bead serves as a tangible link to the past, offering not only beauty but a story that spans centuries. The Galpaya “Mukkaru” deposit mining area continues to yield these remarkable gems, adding to Sri Lanka’s reputation as a gem island.
