Ancient Natural Violet & Yellow Mukkaru Beads from Galpaya Village
We’re excited to share two unique ancient Mukkaru beads from Galpaya Village—a 4.01-carat violet sapphire and a 3.66-carat yellow sapphire.
The discovery of ancient Mukkaru beads has shed light on the gem craftsmanship of the Mukkaru people, a skilled group that migrated to Sri Lanka over 700 years ago. These rare artifacts, found in the historic Galpaya Village, reveal the unique techniques used by the Mukkaru in creating gemstone jewelry. Two remarkable finds include a 4.01-carat violet sapphire bead and a 3.66-carat yellow sapphire bead, each polished and crafted with an attention to detail that has allowed them to survive the ages.
These Mukkaru beads, believed to be from a period dating back 700–1000 years, hold exceptional historical and gemological value. The Mukkaru people were specialists in gemstone mining and polishing, particularly skilled at working with corundum, one of the hardest materials on the Mohs scale, second only to diamond. Using traditional techniques, they polished and drilled sapphires, transforming them into beads for necklaces and other adornments. This particular pair of violet and yellow beads illustrates their mastery in working with natural, unheated gemstones.
The violet sapphire bead, measuring 10.7 x 7.2 x 4.8 mm, showcases a strong reaction under UV shortwave light, revealing a natural chromium content. Another captivating feature of this violet sapphire is its slight asterism, displaying a faint six-ray star effect, which adds to its rarity and visual intrigue. The yellow sapphire bead, with dimensions of 10 x 6.9 x 6.2 mm, is equally unique, offering a soft, natural hue that speaks to its untouched, unheated origin.
The Mukkaru legacy is further highlighted by the modern-day rediscovery of these stones in areas previously mined by the Mukkaru. Over the centuries, stones such as garnet and spinel, which were of lesser value in ancient times, have become highly prized today. The continued re-mining of these old deposits reveals the careful selection and polishing techniques employed by the Mukkaru, whose work remains relevant in today’s gemstone market.
For collectors and historians, these Mukkaru beads serve as precious relics that embody ancient craftsmanship and provide insights into the early gem industry in Sri Lanka. Holding a piece of Mukkaru history offers not only a connection to a bygone era but also a deeper appreciation of the timeless beauty and value of natural gemstones.
