Diya Tharippu: Transforming gemstones into eyeglasses
How it originated may be lost in time, but the earliest traces of Diya Tharippu being crafted can be found in the 14th Century, during the ascension of the Gampola Kingdom. The creation of these eyeglasses is almost magical, as it requires a high level of training and skill to transform a Beryl gemstone into a perfectly functioning visual correction device! How is this even possible? Find out by visiting one of the few remaining artisans still engaged in this curious practice in Pilimathalawa and understand the different stages of creation of a Diya Tharippu and maybe even get one crafted for you to take back home!