Sri Lanka is world renowned for her gemstones, particularly for her bountiful supply of multi-colored sapphires, which have been widely acclaimed in literary works throughout the ages dating from as far back as 250 B.C.

Out of about 200 varieties of gemstones found in the world, Sri Lanka is host to over 70 varieties. Besides Rubies and Sapphires, Chrysoberyl Cat’s Eyes and Alexandrites, Moonstones, Aquamarines, Tourmalines, Spinel, Topaz, Garnets, Amethyst and zircons, a wide variety of other gemstones are found in Sri Lanka.

Blue Sapphire, also referred to as “Ceylon Sapphire” is the king of Sri Lanka gems. Three of the best known sapphires are the 392 carat Blue Sapphire named “Blue Belle of Asia” which sold for US$ 17.3 million recently, the beautiful 563 carat star sapphire misnamed the “Star of India” which is displayed at the American Museum of Natural History in New York city and the 104 carat Stuart Sapphire which is owned by Queen Elizabeth II of England. Sri Lanka also has a rich history and tradition of jewelry and jewelry making, evidenced by the intricate pieces on display at the national museum in Colombo including jewels dating back to the Reign of King Kashyapa in the 5^th Century. Today, a modern and vibrant jewelry manufacturing industry caters to discerning tourists and sophisticated exports markets.

The industry employs over 500,000 persons including miners, dealers, gem cutters, designers, jewelry craftsmen product from Sri Lanka, accounting for about US$384 million or 4% of national export revenues in year 2014. The industry is a vital component of our export economy and an important source of employment and foreign exchange generation. The most important event in the industry calendar, the 'facets' Sri Lanka international gem and jewelry exhibition which is held annually to showcase the rich heritage and spectacular product range available in Sri Lanka, will be celebrating its 25^th Anniversary in September 2015.