In the world of gemstones, few inspire as much admiration as the Ceylon sapphire. Known for their vivid blue color and exceptional clarity, these sapphires from the island nation of Sri Lanka have been prized for centuries, gracing royal crowns, engagement rings, and some of the most treasured heirlooms in existence.

A History Written in Blue

Sri Lanka (known as Ceylon until 1972) has been a source of sapphires for over 2,000 years. The island has been called “Ratnadeepa” in ancient Sanskrit, meaning “Island of Gems,” and with good reason. Early traders from the Middle East, China, and Europe all made their way to this lush paradise, drawn by whispers of rivers that ran rich with gemstones.

By the 19th and early 20th centuries, Ceylon sapphires had become favorites in European high jewelry. Their lighter, more vibrant blues stood apart from the deep, velvety hues of Burmese stones, offering a fresh and distinctive alternative. These were the sapphires chosen for many royal engagement rings, including the one that famously belonged to Princess Diana and is now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales.

Victorian 7.23ct GIA No-Heat Sri Lankan (Ceylon) Sapphire & Old Mine Cut Diamond Ring // Walton's Jewelry

Why Ceylon Sapphires Stand Out

While sapphires come in a rainbow of colors, the classic Ceylon sapphire is celebrated for its bright, lively blue, often described as “cornflower” or “royal” blue. While sapphires are mined in many locales—Kashmir, Burma, Madagascar, and even in the United States—Ceylon sapphires tend to be more vibrant and open than the darker, inky blues seen in some other origins.

What makes them unique? It's all in the geology. Sri Lanka's gem deposits are mostly alluvial, meaning the gemstones have been washed down from their original host rocks into riverbeds over millions of years. That journey polishes the crystals naturally and helps preserve their clarity. Many Ceylon sapphires are remarkably "clean" to the naked eye, their internal inclusions subtle and often beautiful rather than distracting.

And the color? It's like the difference between a painting done in oil versus watercolor. Ceylon sapphires often have a bright, open blue that catches light in a way that feels almost alive. It's why jewelers and collectors alike can spot one across a showroom.

French Edwardian 6.44ct GIA No Heat Sri Lankan (Ceylon) Sapphire and Diamond Ring // Walton's Jewelry

Value & Collectibility

If you're a gemstone collector or aspire to be, Ceylon sapphires should be on your radar. Their historical significance, beauty, and durability make them ideal heirloom gemstones. A fine sapphire can outlast generations, and its value tends to hold strong in the market, particularly for gemstones with exceptional color and size.

Untreated gemstones, those that have not been heat-treated to enhance color, are especially rare and highly sought after. But even fine-quality heat-treated Ceylon sapphires are cherished for their beauty and historical prestige.

There's a romance to the idea that the gemstone you're wearing could have been forming in the earth 500 million years ago, long before humans ever set foot on the island. The light you see bouncing back from its facets is the same light that danced off it in a Sri Lankan river centuries ago, when some early trader first plucked it from the gravel.

French Art Deco GIA 3.20ct No-Heat Sri Lankan (Ceylon) Sapphire and Diamond Ring // Walton's Jewelry

Not Just Blue

Although the word "sapphire" instantly brings a blue gem to mind, Ceylon sapphires come in an entire kaleidoscope of colors. "Fancy sapphires," as they're called, can be pink, yellow, purple, or even a fiery orange-pink known as padparadscha, a color so rare that its name is derived from the lotus blossom in Sri Lanka’s native language.

Padparadscha sapphires are another Sri Lankan specialty and are among the most coveted gems in the world. Their delicate, sunset-hued glow is unlike anything else in nature. Collectors often joke that padparadscha pricing follows its own set of rules, because when one appears on the market, people will pay almost anything to own it.

At Walton’s Jewelry, we’ve spent decades handling some of the world’s most remarkable gemstones, and Ceylon sapphires are among our favorites to source and share. Our expertise in antique and estate jewelry means we recognize the qualities that make a sapphire truly exceptional—its color, clarity, cut, and the craftsmanship of the piece it’s set in. When you choose a sapphire from Walton’s, you’re bringing home a piece of history, carefully selected by a team that knows exactly what makes these treasures shine.