First Field Guide to Gemstones of Southern Africa

There are three basic methods of copying gemstones:

The traditional method of panning is still practised by many communities around the world such as in Sri Lanka, where sapphires are panned from rivers. Panning involves sifting through deposits of sand and gravel. The swirling action of water is used to wash away lighter material, leaving behind only the heavier material, including any gemstones.