FACETS 2016 hosts 200 exhibitors

Over 200 local and foreign exhibitors showcased their gem and jewellery collections at the Facets Gem and Jewellery show in Colombo recently.

All collections displayed Sri Lanka's vast variety of gemstones; the workmanship of the skilled local artisans; and international designs.

The show also featured specialized exhibits by gem dealers, lapidarists, exporters, wholesalers, manufacturers, and retailers as well as machinery, equipment, tools, laboratory and certification, and educational and training services.

President Maithripala Sirisena was the chief guest. Several Members of Parliament, representatives of the Diplomatic Corps, members of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority and the Export Development Board as well as buyers and invitees were also present.

The jewellery made of various materials such as gold, silver, platinum and even coral in some instances, featured designs that stayed true to its Sri Lankan heritage.

"Sri Lanka brought to life the tales of riches and treasures that explorers chased after centuries ago. Not for nothing does Sri Lanka boast of names such as, 'The Pearl of the Indian Ocean', 'Ratna Dweepa' and 'The Sapphire Capital of the World', FACETS was proof that our little island nation had indeed earned each one of those titles," a spokesman for the organisers said.

Throughout the past two decades FACETS has gained international recognition as an exhibition that showcases some of the most beautiful collections of gems and jewellery. This year's show has been reported to be the best show in the history of FACETS, he said.