China-Fort which is the main gem-cutting hub of Sri Lanka., Predominately a Muslim Town with 80% of its Population engaged in The Gem (precious Stone) business. In the late 60’s at the height of the Gem Boom in the country, these Muslim Traders went to Far Inland Places, Like Ratnapura, Pelmadulla, Elehera in Search in Precious Stones which were been mined by Sinhalese People and bought their ston
es in the Natural Form, Called "Rough Stones". The Market called "Pathe" was where most of the trading was done from the early times of the Gem boom in the late 60’s. Today one could see the many array of stones been sold in the streets at reasonable prices. Many traders, buyers from both Local and overseas come to this Market to buy their requirements. Usually Trading takes place Everyday from about 10.30am to 3pm. At GEM BANK could purchase fine Sapphires in all colors, Rubies, Cats Eye’s, Alexandrite, Star Sapphires in Blue, Pink, and Grey, Padparadsha’s, Tsavarite and a Ray of Semi Precious stones. You could also buy them in the form of finished or even in the rough form.
