How can visitors avoid gemstone scams in Sri Lanka?

Tourists in Sri Lanka can steer clear of gemstone scams by buying only from government-licensed jewellers who are registered with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and by strictly shunning unsolicited guides or tuk-tuk drivers pitching “special factory deals” that sound too good.

The NGJA provides free and impartial gem testing help for visitors, in places like Colombo, Ratnapura and Galle, so you can verify authenticity using scientific checks before you commit to any purchase. Make it a habit to ask for a proper, formal receipt, itemised, that states the stone’s exact weight, its treatment status and the mineral species. Also, keep in mind that bargain sapphire prices can hide synthetics or heavy treatments, so stay watchful.