GSI’ Colored Stone Professional program enhances gemstone education with field trip to Elahera gem mine in Sri Lanka

In the program, students received an introduction to traditional mining techniques and geological factors at Elahera Gem Mine, engaging with local miners, and exploring gem assessment and sales processes in Kandy’s market

Mumbai: Gemological Science International (GSI), a leader in gemological education, recently took students from its Colored Stone Professional (CSP) program on a field trip to the renowned Elahera Gem Mine in Sri Lanka. This visit offered students a firsthand look at the gemstone mining process and the significance of Sri Lanka in the global gemstone trade.

The CSP program at GSI combines classroom learning with practical experiences, emphasizing the importance of real-world exposure in understanding the coloured gemstone industry. Field trips, mine visits, and guest lectures are integral to this educational approach.

Located in central Sri Lanka, the Elahera Gem Mine is famed for its high-quality sapphires, as well as other gemstones like spinels, garnets, and tourmaline. The region is celebrated for its rich blue sapphires, which are highly sought after in international markets.

During their visit, students learned about traditional mining techniques and explored the geological factors that contribute to gemstone deposits. They engaged with local miners, gaining insights into the mining community’s generational knowledge and the historical context of gemstone extraction in the area.

The group also visited local gem dealers, who explained the complexities of assessing rough gems’ quality, the cutting and polishing techniques used, and the challenges within the global gem trade. Additionally, students explored a vibrant gemstone market in Kandy, observing the sales process from rough stones to polished gems.

Ramit Kapur, Managing Director of GSI, emphasized the value of experiential learning, stating, “At GSI, we prioritize bridging the gap between theory and practice. The Elahera visit allowed our students to witness the entire gemstone lifecycle—from extraction to market. Such experiences not only enhance knowledge but also cultivate problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of the global trade.”

Student Akshat Garg shared his reflections, saying “Experiences like this mine visit transform theoretical knowledge into something tangible. It has profoundly changed my understanding of the gemstone industry.”

This initiative highlights GSI’s commitment to ethical sourcing, quality awareness, and transparency in the gemstone trade, essential elements for success in the global gems and jewellery industry.

About GSI

Founded in 2005 in New York City, Gemological Science International (GSI) is a prominent gemological organization with laboratory facilities on four continents. GSI offers a range of gemstone identification and grading services, while also focusing on advancing gemological research and education for both trade professionals and the general public.

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