Quick Questions: Buying Gems in Sri Lanka

Q: Can I buy a loose stone and set it later?
A: Absolutely. Many visitors purchase loose Certified Ceylon Sapphires to set back home. However, Tiesh specializes in express manufacturing for tourists, meaning we can design, cast, and set a custom ring for you in as little as 24 to 48 hours while you enjoy your holiday.

Q: Does Tiesh offer VAT refunds?
A: Yes. Tourists are eligible for VAT refunds on luxury goods at the airport. Tiesh provides all the necessary official invoices and documentation required for you to claim this refund at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) upon departure.

The Return of the “Golden Hour”

If you are planning a visit to Colombo or Kandy in 2025, you are arriving during a massive shift in global jewelry trends. After years of white gold dominance, the world is returning to the warmth of Yellow Gold—a trend the De Fonseka family has curated for decades.

At Tiesh, we are seeing a renaissance of “The Golden Hour.” This isn’t just about fashion; it’s about a desire for jewelry that feels vintage, authentic, and “real”. Our Pure Gold by Tiesh collection is dedicated to this demand, offering 22kt gold pieces that serve as both stunning adornments and a “Safe Haven” investment during uncertain economic times.

Expert Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix metals. A yellow gold stack ring from Tiesh pairs perfectly with your existing platinum bands.

The “Eclipse” Trend: Why Blue Sapphires are King in 2025

While gold sets the stage, the star of the show remains the Ceylon Blue Sapphire. The 2025 color trend “Eclipse” celebrates deep, royal blues—making this the perfect time to invest in a piece of Sri Lankan heritage.

When researching Blue Sapphire Price Sri Lanka, it is vital to understand that value is determined by the “4 Cs” and the stone’s origin. Unlike street dealers where the origin might be a mystery, Tiesh operates on a strict “Mine-to-Market” philosophy. We source rough stones directly from mines in Ratnapura and process them in-house, eliminating middlemen and guaranteeing authenticity.

Did You Know? Tiesh is home to the Tiesh Blue Empress, the world’s largest commercial Blue Star Sapphire (332 carats). It is a rare geological marvel you can view at our Kandy showroom.

“Mocha Mousse”: The Unexpected Color of the Year

For those seeking something edgier than traditional blue, 2025 introduces the “Mocha Mousse” trend—a high demand for earthy browns and organic tones.

At our Colombo branch, we have translated this global trend into our Black Temptations collection. This unique line features Black Rhodium-plated sterling silver set with precious stones, offering an enigmatic, modern aesthetic that perfectly captures the “dark luxury” look. We are also showcasing exquisite Cognac Sapphires and Smoky Topaz to match this
earthy palette.

Custom Jewellery Colombo: The 48-Hour Promise

One of the most common questions we hear is, “I’m only here for two days; can I get a
custom ring?”

The answer is Yes.

While standard jewelers may take weeks, Tiesh’s on-site lapidary and workshops allow us to offer Custom Jewellery Colombo services with unmatched speed. You can sit with our designers (often the De Fonseka family themselves) to sketch a bespoke piece, and we can cast and set it before you fly home.

This capability is particularly popular for the rising “East-West” engagement ring trend, where an oval stone is set horizontally—a style we can craft for you in 48 hours.

Authentic vs. The Street Market: A Safety Warning

Tourists visiting areas like Ratnapura often encounter touts selling synthetic or heat-treated stones without disclosure. “Too good to be true” prices are the biggest red flag.

The Tiesh Guarantee:

• Certification: All significant stones come with international certification.
• Lifetime Warranty: We cover manufacturing defects and offer free after-sales polishing.
• Ethical Sourcing: We are committed to conflict-free diamonds and responsible mining practices.

Your Invitation to the Gem Mine

Don’t just buy a stone; experience its history. Visit our Kandy Gem Emporium (No. 676, Peradeniya Road) to walk through our Replica Gem Mine, a cool, air-conditioned recreation of the traditional mining process. It’s the safest and most comfortable way to understand the journey of your gem, from the earth to your finger.

Next Step: Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Contact us via WhatsApp to book a complimentary private viewing or a consultation with our design team before you arrive.