e gems found are the ruby and sapphire (plain and star varieties), cat's eyes, alexandrite, topaz, amethyst, aquamarine, tourmaline, garnet, zircon and a host of others. Rubber and tea estates are also an attraction. Visits to see the production of Sri Lanka's two leading export commodities are worthwhile. The Ratnapura town has a splendid view of Adam's Peak on the eastern horizon, and is surrounded by densely forested hills. The Gemological and National Museum located in Ratnapura demonstrates the cutting and polishing of stones. |