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Precious Stones as Objects of Commerce. 41
The
position of the people of Saffragam is so much improved of late years
that they are able to retain for themselves any stones they find of
great worth. Now and then they are induced to exchange them for
Diamonds or gold, which they can equally well conceal. The artificers
who cut and polish the stones on the spot are generally Malays. Their
work was formerly very imperfect, and their knowledge of the art
faulty, but of late years they have much improved in the art of cutting
gems. Stones of inferior value, such as Cinnamon-stone and Tourmaline,
are cut and polished by ordinary workmen in Kandy, Matura and Galle,
while artistic and experienced workmen, who cut Sapphires, Cats' Eyes
and Rubies, live chiefly in Kalutara, and Colombo.
The
rare gems are cheaper in London than in Colombo. Precious Stones are
brought from all parts of the world, both in the rough arid native-cut
to be re-cut by London lapidaries. In Ceylon the stock is so uncertain,
that the price is largely determined at the moment by the rank and
wealth of the buyers. The small Malay dealers do not purchase rare and
fine jewels, knowing quite well that the best and finest specimens are
carefully held back by the rich traders, or travellers, who consign
them to England, or obtain from the native princes of India, who have
an ardent passion for gems, such remuneration as keeps up the prices of
high-class jewels.
It
is quite impossible to judge accurately by the Customs' Register in
Ceylon of the worth of the Precious Stones which are sent out of the
island. Only a small part is directly consigned to England ; the
remainder is bought up by private hands, but, for the most part
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