His Excellency, President Sirisena being formerly welcomed by the Chairman of the FACETS Committee, Mr. Mushtaq Jabir

The 1st of September 2016 saw the beginning of the 26th annual FACETS Gem & Jewelry Show at the BMICH. His Excellency, President Maithripala Sirisena attended the inauguration ceremony as chief guest, along with a number of members of parliament, representatives of the Diplomatic Co, members of the National Gem & Jewelry Authority and the Export Development Board as well as buyers and other special invitees. Among the invitees were many buyer delegates from all over the world, all of whom expressed their admiration of the range of features and versatility of the exhibition.

The president visited many stalls within the Sirimavo Bandaranayake Memorial Hall. The Premier Jewelry Pavilion and the Gem & Jewelry Mart especially impressed His Excellency. The main goal of the Premier Jewelry Pavilion is the targeting of premium high-profile local and international clientele while the Gem & Jewelry Mart serves the purpose of focusing the spotlight on small and medium jewelry enterprises. 

The President lighting the traditional oil lamp

All collections showcased at the exhibition display Sri Lanka’s vast variety of magnificent gemstones; the workmanship of the highly skilled local artisans; and its unique and trendsetting international designs. The show also features specialized exhibits by gem dealers, lapidarists, exporters, wholesalers, manufacturers, and retailers as well as machinery, equipment, tools, laboratory & certification services and educational & training services

Over 200 local and foreign exhibitors are showcasing their wares at the exhibition, which will continue on until the 4th of September. 

This year’s edition of FACETS offers something for everyone with items available at reasonable prices to suit any budget, while also providingone with an opportunity to admire an exceptional showcase of Sri Lanka’s topmost resource. 

Chairman of the NGJA, Mr. Asanka Welagedara lighting the traditional oil lamp in the presence of His Excellency, the President

Chairman of the SLGJA, Mr. A.H.M Intizam lighting the traditional oil lamp in the presence of His Excellency, the President

Mr. Mushtaq Jabir, the Chairman of the FACETS Committee lighting the traditional oil lamp in the presence of His Excellency, the President

The President reading through the official booklet

Mr. Mushtaq Jabir, the Chairman of the FACETS Committee, welcoming the President and the rest of the gathering

Chairman of the SLGJA, Mr. A.H.M Intizam delivering the vote of thanks

The President heading towards the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Hall to declare open the exhibition

 President Sirisena declares open the 26th Edition of the FACETS 2016

The President admiring a necklace at the exhibition

His Excellency, President Sirisena chatting with one of the dealers at the exhibition