Colombo, April 29 (IANS) Sri Lanka has gifted a sapphire-studded hair pin to British royal bride Kate Middleton on her wedding to Prince William, an official said.

State-owned Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Authority (SLGJA) said the gift was in appreciation of the British royal family’s association with Sri Lankan sapphires over many generations.

Macky Hashim, SLGJA chairman, said replicas were in great demand since the announcement of the royal wedding.

Britain is among the top 15 buyers of Sri Lankan gems, according to the official Sri Lankan government website.