Du ring the 4th and 5th centuries, Middle Eastern and Persian traders, traversing the Indian Ocean for commerce, gave Sri Lanka the ancient name “Serendib”. This name became closely associated with the island’s wealth in gems within the Middle East. The term “Serendib” is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit word “Simhaladvipa,” meaning “Dwelling-Place-of-Lions Island,” or possibly “Suvarna-dvipa,” meaning “golden-isle” . The Arabic form, “Sarandīb,” was likely adopted from Indian traders with whom the Arab sailors interacted. The active gem trade across the Indian Ocean during this period is evident in records from sailors who visited the island and returned with “jewels of Serendib” . The tales of the Arabian Nights, with their references to the “jewels of Serendib,” further cemented the island’s reputation for gem wealth in the Arab world. Notably, the English word “serendipity,” coined by Horace Walpole in the 18th century, is derived from “Serendib,” inspired by the Persian fairy tale “The Three Princes of Serendip,” whose heroes frequently made fortunate discoveries by chance. This etymological link subtly suggests that the very act of finding gems in Sri Lanka was often perceived as a lucky and unexpected occurrence. Sri Lanka’s strategic location within the Indian Ocean trade network played a crucial role in its historical significance as a trading hub, connecting the East and West. The adoption of a Persian/Arabic name for Sri Lanka (“Serendib”) indicates the substantial influence of Middle Eastern traders in the early history of the island’s gem trade. This naming convention suggests their active involvement and recognition of Sri Lanka as a primary source of valuable gems, facilitating trade routes towards the East. Furthermore, the connection to “serendipity” implies a cultural understanding that valuable finds in this region were often a matter of chance and good fortune, likely due to the nature of gem discovery in alluvial deposits. The island’s central position in the Indian Ocean trade routes naturally positioned it as a vital point for the exchange of these precious stones between different regions.

The name “Ceylon” has also left an indelible mark on the gem industry, historically used to denote stones originating from Sri Lanka, a practice that continues in some contexts today. The name “Ceylon” originated from the Portuguese “Ceilão” when they colonized the island in 1505. Subsequently, the Dutch referred to it as “Zeylan,” and when the British took control in 1798, they transliterated it to “Ceylon”. Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948 and officially adopted its current name in 1972. Despite the name change, “Ceylon Sapphire” remains a highly regarded and premium designation in the global gem market, signifying both origin and quality. These sapphires are celebrated for their vibrant blue hues, often likened to the color of a cornflower or a peacock’s neck. Numerous  famous “Ceylon Sapphires” have graced royal collections and iconic jewelry pieces, including Princess Diana’s renowned engagement ring featuring a 12-carat oval Ceylon blue sapphire and Queen Victoria’s cherished Ceylon sapphire brooch. The magnificent Logan Blue Sapphire, weighing 423 carats, and the breathtaking Blue Belle of Asia, around 400 carats, are also prominent examples of Ceylon’s exceptional sapphires. The continued use of “Ceylon” in gem industry terminology, even after the country’s official name changed, underscores the lasting impact of the British colonial era on global trade and branding. Colonial powers often established trade routes and marketing names that became deeply entrenched in international commerce. The persistence of “Ceylon” reflects the historical dominance of British trade and the established global recognition of Sri Lankan gems under this name, creating a strong and enduring brand association. Furthermore, the premium associated with “Ceylon Sapphires” indicates that the quality and reputation established during the colonial period continue to hold significant value in the modern gem market, signifying a legacy of excellence built upon historical production, royal patronage, and effective marketing.