Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo Shore Excursion From Colombo Port

Uncover the captivating world of Sri Lanka’s gem industry with the Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo Shore Excursion. This 4-hour journey takes travelers on a captivating exploration of the island’s 3,000-year-old gemstone heritage, revealing the beauty of Ceylon sapphires and other exquisite stones. From the renowned Gem Museum to the Gem Mine Pvt Ltd, visitors will enjoy the intricate process of gemstone craftsmanship, all while enjoying the comfort of a luxury car. With flexible pickup and drop-off options, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the true allure of Sri Lanka’s dazzling jewels.

Good To Know

• This 4-hour shore excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s 3,000-year-old gemstone heritage, including visits to a Gem Museum and a Gem Mine.
• The tour provides insights into the history, varieties, and global significance of precious gems like blue sapphires, star rubies, and padparadscha sapphires.
• Participants can witness skilled artisans demonstrating the process of cutting, polishing, and jewelry creation for Sri Lankan gemstones.
• The tour offers flexible pickup and drop-off arrangements at various locations in Colombo, making it convenient for cruise ship passengers.
• The "reserve now & pay later" option and free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance ensure a stress-free booking experience.

Tour Overview

The Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo Shore Excursion from Colombo Port is a captivating 4-hour journey that invites visitors to uncover the rich gemstone heritage of Sri Lanka.

Priced from $20 for up to 3 participants, this tour is offered in English, Japanese, and German, with flexible booking and free cancellation.

Pickup and drop-off can be arranged at various locations around Colombo, ensuring convenience for travelers.

The tour’s highlights include visits to the Gem Museum, Gem Mine Pvt Ltd, and several other gem-related sites, allowing participants to learn about Sri Lanka’s 3,000-year-old gem industry and its renowned blue sapphires, star sapphires, and padparadscha sapphires.

Itinerary and Locations

Pickup locations for the Jewel Hunt Tour span several prominent Colombo hotels and the passenger terminal at the Port of Colombo, ensuring convenient access for travelers.

The tour’s main stops include the iconic Galle Face Hotel, the captivating Gem Museum, the serene Viharamahadvi Park, and the renowned Gem Mine Pvt Ltd.

Visitors will also explore the historic Independence Square, the charming 49 Braybrooke St, the iconic Gangaramaya Temple, and the luxurious Jewel Qudsi.

The tour concludes at the modern One Galle Face Mall.

Drop-off is provided at the same locations as pickup, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Gem Industry History

Sri Lanka’s gem industry boasts an illustrious history spanning over 3,000 years, with the island nation long recognized as a leading global source of exceptional gemstones.

The country’s gems have adorned the crowns and thrones of royalty throughout history, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for connoisseurs and collectors alike.

Some key highlights of Sri Lanka’s gem industry include:

• Approximately 75 varieties of gemstones found, notably blue sapphires, star sapphires, star rubies, and the rare and coveted padparadscha sapphires.

• The "Trumpet Brooch," gifted to Queen Elizabeth II in 1981, features vibrant Sri Lankan gemstones, underscoring the island’s global importance in the world of fine gemstones.

• The Ceylon Sapphire holds a unique reputation among gemstone enthusiasts, renowned for its unparalleled quality and beauty.

• Sri Lanka’s gem mining and jewelry manufacturing processes, including cutting, polishing, and certification, continue to captivate visitors.

Gemstone Varieties

Amidst Sri Lanka’s storied gem industry, the island nation boasts an impressive array of gemstone varieties that captivate visitors. From vibrant blue sapphires to the rare and coveted padparadscha sapphires, Sri Lanka’s gem bounty is truly remarkable. The country’s gemstone repertoire includes:

Gemstone	Color
Sapphire	Blue, yellow, pink
Ruby	Red
Topaz	Yellow, blue, pink
Aquamarine	Blue-green
Amethyst	Purple

These gemstones have adorned crowns and thrones for centuries, with the "Trumpet Brooch" gifted to Queen Elizabeth II in 1981 showcasing the brilliance of Sri Lankan gems. Visitors can witness the intricate processes of cutting, polishing, and jewelry manufacturing during the Jewel Hunt Tour.

Global Gem Significance

Sri Lanka’s globally renowned gem industry has long held a unique reputation among gemstone connoisseurs worldwide. As a major source of fine sapphires, the island nation is recognized for its exceptional Ceylon Sapphires, which are prized for their vivid hues and exceptional quality.

The country’s gem heritage dates back over 3,000 years, with its gems adorning crowns and thrones throughout history. Notable varieties found in Sri Lanka include:

• Blue sapphires
• Star sapphires
• Star rubies
• Padparadscha sapphires

This global significance is further exemplified by the renowned "Trumpet Brooch," gifted to Queen Elizabeth II in 1981, which features vibrant Sri Lankan gemstones.

Gemstone Manufacturing

The gemstone manufacturing process in Sri Lanka involves a range of intricate techniques, including cutting, polishing, and jewelry creation.

Skilled artisans meticulously shape and refine the raw gemstones, transforming them into stunning pieces of jewelry. Each step requires precision, from the initial cutting to the final polishing, ensuring the gemstones’ natural beauty is accentuated.

The resulting products, such as rings, pendants, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces, are adorned with vibrant Sri Lankan gems, including the renowned blue sapphires, star sapphires, star rubies, and padparadscha sapphires.

Visitors can witness this intricate process and even obtain GIA-certified gemstones, solidifying Sri Lanka’s reputation as a global hub for exceptional gemstone craftsmanship.

Transportation and Suitability

Facilitated by full-time transport in a luxury car, the tour offers an English-speaking driver to guide participants throughout the excursion. The driver’s expertise ensures a seamless experience, allowing guests to enjoy the tour’s highlights without the hassle of navigation.

Notably:

• The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 70 years of age, ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants.

• Guests can select their preferred date and check availability, providing flexibility to accommodate their schedules.

• The tour’s transportation and accessibility cater to a wide range of travelers, catering to their needs and preferences.

• With its comprehensive itinerary and knowledgeable driver, the Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo offers a truly memorable shore excursion experience.

Booking Flexibility

Guests can easily reserve their spot on the Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo, taking advantage of the flexible booking options. The tour offers a "Reserve now & pay later" policy, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment. Plus, the tour boasts a generous cancellation policy, providing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility ensures a stress-free booking experience, catering to the diverse needs of visitors.

Booking Flexibility	Description
Reserve Now & Pay Later	Secure your spot without immediate payment
Free Cancellation	Up to 24 hours in advance for full refund
Availability Check	Participants can select date and check

This level of booking flexibility elevates the Jewel Hunt Tour, empowering guests to plan their Sri Lankan adventure with confidence and ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is casual, allowing participants to move comfortably between the tour’s varied activities. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended to make the most of the day’s diverse experiences.

Are There Any Food or Drink Options Provided?

The tour does not include any food or drink options. However, participants can explore the local cuisine at their own expense during the sightseeing stops. Nearby cafes and restaurants offer a range of Sri Lankan delicacies and refreshments.

Can We Make Personalized Jewelry Purchases During the Tour?

Absolutely, participants can choose to purchase custom-made jewelry during the tour. The jewelry manufacturers offer a wide selection of rings, pendants, earrings, and more, allowing visitors to create personalized pieces with Ceylon’s renowned gemstones.

Is There Any Additional Information About the Tour Guides?

The tour guides are knowledgeable experts on Sri Lankan gems and jewelry. They provide insightful commentary, assist with personalized purchases, and ensure a seamless, enriching experience for all participants.

What Is the Process for Claiming a Refund if the Tour Is Cancelled?

According to the cancellation policy, customers can receive a full refund if they cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance. The process is simple and hassle-free, allowing flexibility for tour participants.

The Sum Up

The Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo Shore Excursion offers travelers a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich gemstone heritage. From the renowned Gem Museum to the Gem Mine Pvt Ltd, this tour showcases the island’s 3,000-year-old gem industry. With flexible pickup and drop-off options, guests can enjoy the beauty of Ceylon sapphires and other exquisite gemstones while enjoying a comfortable ride in a luxury car.