Ratnapura Int’l Gem and Jewellery Exhibition to kick off on June 29

Ratnapura International Gem and Jewellery Exhibition 2024 will be held from June 29 to July 1, 2024, at the prestigious Grand Silver Ray hotel in Pelmadulla, for the very first time. 

The exhibition is organised and presented by the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and aims to highlight the region’s rich gem heritage and create new economic opportunities. 

The NGJA, the key regulator and promoter of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry, held a press conference on June 12 to officially launch the event. The press conference detailed the extensive collaboration between the NGJA, Industries Ministry, Lanka Gem Dealers and Miners Association in Ratnapura and various associations representing the gem traders and miners and other key stakeholders.

 
This year’s exhibition is set to play a crucial role in achieving Sri Lanka’s target of US $ 2 billion in gem and jewellery exports by 2025, cementing Ratnapura’s status as a premier sourcing city for high-quality gems.
NGJA Chairman and CEO Viraj De Silva said, “This exhibition is not only a showcase of our rich gem and jewellery heritage but is also a pivotal event for the future of our industry, as we aim to position Ratnapura as a global gem-trading hub.”

De Silva added, “The Ratnapura International Gem and Jewellery Exhibition is a global event, attracting delegations from China, India, Vietnam, Germany, Thailand and many other countries.”

Featuring Sri Lanka’s best gem stones and some highly-sought-after stones from around the world, the jewellery exhibits are expected to highlight intricate designs that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. Live demonstrations during the exhibition will allow attendees to witness master gem cutters and jewellery designers in action. Meanwhile, educational insights will be provided through deep-dive sessions into gemmology, historical significance of gem mining in Ratnapura and sustainable practices the industry is adopting.

The exhibition will host 80 high-value booths displaying a wide variety of precious stones and jewellery. Additionally, 12 booths will be allocated to small and medium entrepreneurs, helping them to promote their products and find international markets.