Economy & Market

FACETS 2026 concludes successfully

Showcases strong international participation and industry confidence
Draws over 4,500 registered visitors including 450 foreign buyers and international visitors

FACETS Sri Lanka 2026, the country’s premier international gem and jewellery exhibition, on Monday concluded successfully at The Forum, Cinnamon Life – City of Dreams, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from stakeholders, exhibitors, international buyers, and visitors.

FACETS 2026 recorded over 4,500 registered visitors, including approximately 450 foreign buyers and international visitors, reaffirming its position as a key sourcing and networking platform for the global gem and jewellery trade. It was organised by Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA).

Held across two well-curated floors at the Forum, the exhibition featured multiple pavilions and a thoughtfully designed layout that created a vibrant and engaging atmosphere throughout. The scale of the set-up, combined with the seamless flow between spaces, contributed to what many participants described as one of the most enjoyable and well-organised editions of FACETS to date.

The exhibition showcased an exceptional collection of gemstones, highlighting Sri Lanka’s world-renowned sapphires alongside a diverse range of coloured gemstones. With over 100 boothholders on display, exhibitors presented a wide variety of precious and semi-precious stones and jewellery, catering to a broad spectrum of buyers and visitors. The presence of the Gübelin Gem Lab further strengthened international confidence, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s reputation as a trusted global gem source.

FACETS 2026 also introduced enhanced facilities designed to elevate the buyer experience, including a dedicated open viewing room for buyers, a tea and coffee lounge hosted by Barista and Akbar Brothers, as well as an on-site travel counter to assist international visitors.

A series of signature events added depth and character to the exhibition. Sapphire Night, the Power Breakfast for Women, and the Story Corner brought together industry leaders, designers, buyers, and storytellers, creating meaningful conversations and memorable experiences beyond the exhibition floor.

SLGJA President Akram Cassim said: “FACETS 2026 has been a tremendous success and a real boost for the industry. The strong participation from exhibitors, international buyers, and visitors reflects growing global confidence in Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery sector. I thank everyone who contributed to making this edition such a meaningful and impactful showcase.”

Vice President and COO Shezan Mansoor said: “We are delighted to see the highly impactful outcome of this year’s event. Working closely with all stakeholders, including our partners and sponsors, we are gratified to have successfully raised the bar in profiling Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry on an international stage. With over 100 boothholders showcasing a vast range of precious and semi-precious stones and jewellery, the show catered to a wide spectrum of visitors and buyers, and this was clearly reflected in the positive responses received from all stakeholders.”

FACETS 2026 Chairman Armil Samoon highlighted the strong response from international buyers and exhibitors, noting the quality of engagement and business interactions throughout the exhibition.

At the conclusion of the show, the organisers announced that FACETS 2027 will be held from 5 to 7 January 2027, once again at Cinnamon Life – City of Dreams, building on the momentum created by the successful 2026 edition.

Source: Daily FT