Kuripan Diamond Village

Kampung Permata Kuripan

A specialized village near Martapura where diamond craftsmen create intricate jewelry pieces in small workshops. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase directly from local makers, offering insight into the region's gemstone heritage.

Things to do

• Workshop Tours at Diamond Cutting Studios — Watch master craftsmen shape and polish rough diamonds into finished gemstones using traditional and modern techniques in family-run workshops throughout the village.
• Diamond and Jewelry Shopping Direct from Artisans — Browse and purchase handcrafted diamond rings, pendants, and necklaces directly from makers at their workshops, often at lower prices than retail shops in nearby Martapura.
• Gemstone Market Visit at Martapura Square — Explore the famous diamond and gemstone trading market in nearby Martapura, just 10 minutes away, where dealers and collectors gather to buy and sell precious stones.
• Traditional Lapidary Demonstrations — Observe skilled lapidaries use grinding wheels, polishing compounds, and specialized tools to refine diamonds and other gemstones in real-time demonstrations.
• Learn Diamond Grading Basics — Participate in informal educational sessions where artisans explain the four Cs—carat, cut, clarity, and color—and how they evaluate diamond quality.
• Photography of Craftsmen at Work — Document the intricate work of diamond cutters and jewelry makers as they shape stones, with many artisans welcoming respectful visitors and photographers.

Food to try

• Soto Banjar — A spiced beef soup native to South Kalimantan featuring turmeric, galangal, and other aromatics, traditionally served with rice and sambal for a warming local meal.
• Ikan Bakar (Grilled Fish) — Freshwater fish caught from local rivers, marinated in spices and charcoal-grilled, commonly found at village food stalls and nearby warungs with sambal and lime.
• Martabak Banjar — Sweet or savory stuffed pancakes filled with cheese, chocolate, or meat that are a popular street snack throughout the Martapura region near Kuripan.
• Pisang Goreng with Local Honey — Deep-fried banana slices drizzled with dark palm honey and sometimes sprinkled with sesame seeds, a simple but beloved dessert sold at village food vendors.
• Kopi Kuripan (Local Coffee) — Strong, traditionally brewed South Kalimantan coffee served hot or iced, often enjoyed in small warung cafes while watching artisans work in nearby studios.

Local customs & good to know

• Bargaining is Expected but Respectful — While shopping for diamonds and jewelry, gentle negotiation on prices is customary and accepted, but maintain respect for the artisans' craftsmanship and time.
• Morning Visits Preferred for Workshop Access — Artisans typically work early in the day before the heat intensifies, so plan visits between 7 AM and 11 AM to catch craftsmen actively engaged at their benches.
• Dress Modestly in the Village — South Kalimantan is a conservative Muslim region, so wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees to show respect when visiting workshops and interacting with local makers.
• Support Small Family Businesses Directly — Purchasing directly from workshop owners supports individual families and preserves traditional diamond-cutting knowledge passed down through generations in Kuripan.