Gem Mining in srilanka
Gem mining in Sri Lanka is primitive. Usually, pits are dug to the depth of the gem-bearing gravel layer. Depending on the level of the groundwater, and on whether the area is wet or dry, some method of drainage is used.
Gem mining in Sri Lanka is an art passed down through generations, intertwining tradition with modern techniques. The island nation, known for its precious gems, employs various methods to extract these sparkling treasures from the earth. From ancient practices that date back centuries to contemporary technologies, the process of gem mining in Sri Lanka has evolved, shaping the country’s rich gemological landscape.
Here’s a more detailed look at the methods:
Open pit mining
History: With the advancement of mining techniques, open-pit mining became a prominent method during the colonial era. British colonizers introduced organized and systematic excavation to uncover gem-rich deposits.
Method: Open-pit mining involves the removal of large quantities of soil and rock to expose gem-bearing gravel. Miners use manual labor and basic tools to extract gem-rich material, a process that continues to be employed in some regions today.
