Garnet

Garnets are a gemstone that many recognise in dark red shades. But garnet is a diverse group and can occur in many different hues including green, orange, purple , pink and more.

Many of Nineteen48’s garnets are responsibly sourced from artisanal miners in north-east Tanzania, who are part of the Moyo Gems project. They are typically red, purple or orange in colour, occasionally, there are small pieces of green garnet.

Other garnets are responsibly sourced from Sri Lanka, either from our the Nineteen48 artisanal mine near Kuruwita or through our trusted network of artisanal miners and mine owners.

We do not treat our garnets in any way.

Ratnapura has been the focal point of gemstone mining and trading in Sri Lanka for generations. It is situated in the major gem mining region in Sabaragamuwa Province and is the provincial capital.

As well as numerous gem traders, lapidaries and jewellery makers, there is also an office of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority.