Gem mines have operated for a long time in Kanchanaburi. Particularly in Amphoe Bo Phloi, rich veins have been found of Black Spinel and other gemstones as well as the blue gem which Kanchanaburi people call ‘Phloi Bo’. Cut and polished, Phloi Bo is very beautiful, hard as diamond; it ranges in color from light to deep blue. Kanchanaburi mines also yield gems of various colours such as yellow, purple, indigo-green and gray. Besides, a very beautiful and expensive gem ‘Phet Ranti’ is found in Ranti Stream of Amphoe Sangkhla Buri. 

As for Sapphires (Phloi Phailin), which originate in volcano lava, they are the birthstone of people born in September, and are considered to symbolize truth and stability. Black Spinel, usually found in the same veins, is not quite as hard as Sapphire. Black Spinel is considered another perfect gem because of its combination of hardness, beauty, glitter and durability. 

Aside from visiting gem mines and enjoying the jewel’s intricate manufacture, visitors can pay homage to Luang Pho Nin, a 19 m tall Buddha image constructed from gems. The revered Luang Pho Nin was made from 40 tons of Black Spinel. This Buddha image is enshrined at Khao Wong Chindaram Temple, Moo 1, Ban Bo Phloi, around KM 30 on Hwy 3086 (Kanchanaburi – Bo Phloi – Nong Prue). 

Another gem Buddha image, Luang Pho Phloi Phailin, is housed at Nong Yang Chang Temple in Amphoe Bo Phloi. The Buddha statue is 133 cm high and is made from 130 kg of gems donated by local people and merchants. The statue’s lap size is 25 inches (Buddha images are measured in terms of the size of the lap). 

Furthermore, the high quality jewels are from mines scattered in Bo Phloi district. Some are also on display at the Bo Phloi jewel exhibition centre while others can be purchased from several shops in the district.