Meeting the People Behind the Stones
A highlight of travelling to Sri Lanka with Robin is the opportunity to meet the people behind the gemstone trade.
The industry is highly personal and relationship-driven, with gemstones moving through a close-knit network of miners, local dealers, and traders.
Robin's established relationships allow you to experience this world from within, not simply as an observer. You will meet people working directly with gemstones, hear their stories, and gain insight into an industry that has shaped Sri Lankan life for generations.
Staying at Glenross Living, Kalutara
During your time in Sri Lanka, you’ll stay at Glenross Living. A peaceful hideaway surrounded by the island’s natural beauty.
After days spent exploring the world of Sri Lankan gemstones, Glenross offers a place to slow down and enjoy the island’s quieter side.
The setting, hospitality, and connection with the landscape are integral to the experience, allowing you time to relax and immerse yourself rather than moving constantly from place to place.
The accommodation has been chosen to complement the character of the journey, a comfortable retreat, considered and connected to its surroundings. You'll have time to enjoy the property, unwind, and experience the slower rhythms of Sri Lankan life.
The Heart of Sri Lankan Gem Mining
Sri Lanka has a long and fascinating history of gemstone mining and is well known for producing exceptional sapphires and other precious stones.
Much of Sri Lanka’s mining remains small-scale and traditional. Many mines are privately owned, often by local landowners, who use techniques passed down through generations.
Sri Lanka's gemstones are frequently found in secondary, alluvial deposits. Over thousands of years, the island's landscape has worn and eroded, releasing gemstones from the surrounding rock and concentrating them in layers of gravel and soil.
The mining process is often remarkably simple. Miners excavate the ground, wash and sift the material, and search for gemstones within the gravel often relying on seasonal rainfall and minimal machinery.
During your visit, you will see this process firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of where these extraordinary stones begin their journey. For more information please visit glenrossliving.com.
Learning from the Stone
Robin is an award-winning designer, fine Jewellery craftsman and traditional gemstone cutter.
Throughout the journey, he will share his expertise, explaining what he looks for when assessing a gemstone and how a cutter considers each stone's unique character. Colour, clarity, inclusions, proportions, and the potential of the rough material all play a part.
This is an opportunity to see gemstones from a craftsman's perspective, from their natural state to the possibilities they hold.
General Itinerary & Pricing
Given the bespoke nature of the journey, the itinerary is intentionally flexible and will be tailored to the group and the opportunities available during the trip. It will, however, include:
- Visits to two mines - 1x pit mine and 1 x open-cast mine
- Introductory and intermediate gem talks hosted by Robin Girling
- A wellness experience package at Glenros Living
- Geology talk with local experts, exploring how gemstones are formed within Sri Lanka’s landscape
- Day trip to a beautiful beach location
- Wildlife excursions, offering opportunities to experience Sri Lanka’s remarkable natural environment
Further experiences will be shaped around Robin’s local knowledge, relationships and exclusive access throughout the journey.
£6,750 per single occupancy room
£5,250 per person per double/ twin occupancy room
From Gemstone to Bespoke Jewellery
If you decide to purchase a gemstone during the journey that you would like to bring home, the story can continue at Selini Jewellery.
Robin can work with you to develop a bespoke piece around your chosen stone, considering its colour, character, cut, and potential.
The design process is collaborative, beginning with the gemstone itself and developing into a piece that is entirely personal to you.
This may involve:
- An initial consultation and discussion of your ideas
- Reviewing design sketches and gemstone layouts
- Considering cutting and setting options
- Creating the finished piece in the Selini workshop
The result is a piece of jewellery whose story begins in Sri Lanka and continues through the hands of Robin back at Selini.
Responsible Procurement & Verification
Our approach to gemstones is built on transparency, expertise, and trusted relationships. Visiting mining areas lets you see the environment where stones are recovered and meet the people involved in the process.
Through Robin's existing relationships with local miners, landowners and dealers, we aim to work with trusted sources and understand as much as possible about the stones we encounter.
Where appropriate, we will also seek certification and documentation to support a gemstone's provenance and characteristics.
Practical Details
essential information for your journey
- Dates: February / March 2027, TBA
- Duration: 5 nights / 6 days
- Group Size: Limited to 6 guests for a personal experience
- Accommodation: Glenross Living, nestled in the Sri Lankan countryside
- Meals: Daily breakfast and dinner included
- £6,750 per single occupancy room
- £5,250 per person per double/ twin occupancy room
- Transportation: All ground transfers provided throughout the experience
- Language: English
- Activity Level: Moderate walking on some days
- Travel Insurance: Required
- Visas: Most travellers require a visa. Guidance will be provided upon booking.
- Packing: A recommended packing list will be sent upon reservation
What’s Included
Your five night Sri Lanka experience includes
- Personal guidance from Robin and team throughout the journey
- Luxury accommodation at Glenross Living
- Exclusive wellness package at Glenross Living
- Ground transportation throughout the experience including airport transfers
- Selected meals (breakfast & dinner)
- Day excursion costs
- Guided visits to 2+ gemstone mining areas
- Introductions to local miners and members of the gemstone trade
- Opportunities to learn about Sri Lankan gemstones, cutting and Jewellery craftsmanship through practical experience and informative talks and discussions hosted by Robin and local experts
What’s Not Included
costs not covered in your experience
- International flights to and from Sri Lanka
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Optional gemstone purchases
- The cost of any bespoke Jewellery created following the trip
Bespoke Jewellery
CREATE a custom piece from your chosen gemstone
If you choose to have a gemstone fashioned into a bespoke piece following the experience, we will provide a separate quotation based on your chosen materials and design.
Frequently Asked Questions
common queries about your experience and logistics
What level of physical activity is involved?
The itinerary includes some walking on uneven ground during mine visits and in rural settings. If you have mobility concerns, please let us know in advance so we can accommodate your needs where possible.
What is the group size?
To ensure a personal and immersive experience, the group is limited to a small number of participants.
What should I pack?
We recommend light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, sturdy shoes for excursions, and sun protection. We will provide a detailed packing list when you book.
Are special dietary requirements accommodated?
Yes, please let us know about any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance. We will do our best to accommodate your needs throughout the journey.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes, all participants must have comprehensive travel insurance.
What is the weather like in Sri Lanka in February and March?
February and March are ideal months to experience Sri Lanka, with warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine and generally dry conditions. Expect daytime temperatures of around 25°C–32°C (77°F–90°F), with cooler evenings inland and the occasional tropical shower - perfect conditions for exploring, wildlife, time by the coast and enjoying the outdoors.
Am I required to purchase a gemstone?
During the trip, you will have opportunities to view and select gemstones, should you wish. However, purchasing a gemstone is entirely optional. You may simply want to experience Sri Lanka, explore the mines, meet local people, and learn more about gemstones and the craft of Jewellery making. If you find a stone you love, Robin will help you assess its qualities, understand its potential, and navigate the local market with confidence. Most importantly, the experience is yours to enjoy in the way that feels right to you.
Next Steps & Contact
BOOK AN ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME
To reserve your place or request further information, please contact us at rob@selini.com. Spaces are strictly limited to ensure a high-quality, personal experience. Upon enquiry, you will receive a detailed itinerary, pricing, and answers to any further questions you may have.
We look forward to sharing this remarkable journey with you.
