FACETS 2027 to drive inclusive growth across gem and jewellery value chain

SLGJA President Akram Cassim (third from left) addresses the media on the 34th Edition of FACETS, scheduled to be held in Colombo in January 2027. Others from left: SLGJA Vice President/COO Shezan Mansoor, EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe, FACETS Sri Lanka 2027 Chairman Shezmin Mansoor, National Gem and Jewellery Authority Chairman Prof. S. P. Chaminda and Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Hotel Manager Roshan George – Pic by Ruwan Walpola

By Janani Kandaramage

The Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) is gearing up to host the first international gem and jewellery exhibition of the year as FACETS Sri Lanka 2027 opens on 4 January.

Now in its 34th year, the showcase promises relevance in an ever-changing global marketplace by capitalising on Sri Lanka’s varied craftsmanship that aligns with its distinct heritage.

“FACETS 2027 represents the very best of Sri Lanka,” said SLGJA President Akram Cassim at a press conference held at Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams last Thursday.

Explaining the significance of the annual exhibition, he said: “The event aims to bring together our skilled artisans, gemstone dealers, jewellers, and jewellery entrepreneurs, reminding the world that Sri Lanka is a trusted destination for excellence in global gem and jewellery trade.”

He added that this internationally recognised exhibition offers Sri Lankan SMEs opportunities to display their specialised products, build business partnerships, access foreign markets, and steer local economic growth in the process.

Outlining further benefits to the SME sector, Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe emphasised that FACETS 2027 can enhance the global market presence of more than 100 SME gem manufacturers.

He also noted that foreign consumer confidence can be further strengthened through ethical sourcing and sustainability efforts.

Such initiatives, he elaborated, include conducting sapphire mining through small-scale, Government-approved operations rather than industrial mining, causing less land disturbance and therefore alleviating potential environmental destruction.

These eco-friendly steps would appeal to international buyers who value responsibly sourced gemstones, as Government licensing and traceable supply chains offer greater transparency about their origins.

Discussing how local gemstones and jewellery can gain a competitive advantage, Wijesinghe called for cross-sector collaboration and public-private partnerships that will foster the innovation required to advance gem testing capabilities. Wijesinghe believes that such joint efforts will help diversify local gem and jewellery products while still reflecting Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

This flagship exhibition will showcase the country’s world-renowned sapphires and contemporary luxury jewellery while hosting special events such as Sapphire Night, Story Corner, Power Breakfast, a Mine Tour, as well as a Port City Tour, which will create opportunities for networking and knowledge exchange.

FACETS Sri Lanka 2027 Chairman Shezim Mansoor credited the continued success of FACETS Sri Lanka to the support received from the EDB and the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA).

“EDB plays a vital role in linking Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry to global markets, while the NGJA works to uphold industry standards and sustainable growth,” he stated.

He also remarked that by creating a platform for sponsors, investors, buyers, and key industry stakeholders such as SME entrepreneurs, Sri Lanka is slowly carving its position as an emerging leader in the global gem and jewellery market.

FACETS 2027 will be held from 4 January to 6 January, bringing together over 100 exhibitors and buyers from the USA, Europe, the Middle East, India, China, Thailand, and other key markets.