Ratnapura Set to Shine: Major Gem & Jewellery Expo in the Spotlight

Key Highlights to Note

 

The highly anticipated Gem City Ratnapura 2025 International Gem and Jewellery Show is scheduled from August 15 to 17, 2025, at Hotel Grand Silver Ray, Pelmadulla near Ratnapura.

 

This event is organized by the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) in collaboration with multiple government bodies and industry associations.

 

Ratnapura, known as the "City of Gems" and the sapphire capital of the world, serves as the historic and vibrant heart of Sri Lanka’s gem mining and trade.

 

The exhibition presents a comprehensive platform featuring precious and semi-precious gemstones, calibrated cutting, jewelry manufacturing, trading, heat treatment, testing labs, and related professional services.

 

Buyers will gain direct access to authentic gems from source traders alongside exclusive benefits like tax-free purchases with VAT refunds, onsite export services, buyer logistics support, and field visits to mining and processing sites.

 

The event aims to boost the gem and jewellery sector, enhance global market linkages, and promote Sri Lanka’s rich heritage in gemstones and craftsmanship.

 

Bringing the World to the Gem Island: Exhibition Overview

 

Gem City Ratnapura 2025 stands as a premier international trade exhibition rooted in the gem-rich Sabaragamuwa Province, especially the city of Ratnapura, which has a storied legacy of producing world-renowned gemstones such as the Logan Sapphire and Star of India. This venue brings global buyers, traders, miners, cutters, designers, and manufacturers under one roof for three days of networking, business, and celebration of Sri Lanka’s unique gem heritage.

 

Organizers and Collaborators

 

The event is spearheaded by the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA), a statutory body under the Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development. It partners with:

 

Lanka Gem Dealers and Miners Association

 

Sri Lanka Export Development Board (SLEDB)

 

Gem and Jewellery Research and Training Institute (GJRTI)

 

Department of Commerce

 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

 

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau

 

Various industry associations

 

This collaboration ensures the highest standards of trust, authenticity, and professionalism, reinforcing Sri Lanka's position as a global leader in gemstones and jewellery.

 

Exhibitor and Visitor Profile

 

Exhibitors hail from across every segment of the industry, including gem mining and processing, precision cutting services, heat treatment, jewellery design and manufacturing, testing labs, mining equipment suppliers, and training institutions. Visitors include local and international buyers, traders, designers, investors, and enthusiasts seeking both investment-grade gems and exquisite custom jewellery pieces.

 

Exclusive Buyer Advantages

 

Direct sourcing opportunities from Ratnapura’s top gem traders and miners

 

Tax-free shopping with 18% VAT refunded onsite, making purchases financially attractive

 

Onsite export facilitation and competitive shipping rates

 

B2B networking sessions connecting buyers and suppliers worldwide

 

Complimentary transportation and logistics support for select premium buyers

 

Curated field visits to traditional gem mining areas and advanced processing factories

 

Ratnapura: The City of Gems and the Island of Gems

 

Sri Lanka, revered as Rathna Dweepa or the Island of Gems, is famed for hosting over 70 varieties of gemstones, including the iconic blue sapphire, padparadscha, alexandrite, star ruby, and rare cat's eye varieties. Ratnapura itself is synonymous with legendary gems that have featured in prestigious collections and museums globally. The event underscores Ratnapura’s blend of age-old mining traditions and modern innovation in lapidary arts.

 

Strategic Importance and Economic Impact

 

This exhibition not only celebrates the cultural and natural heritage of Sri Lanka’s gemstone industry but also plays a critical role in boosting exports and enhancing Sri Lanka’s footprint in the global gem trade. By facilitating direct business opportunities at the source, the show contributes to increased transparency, trust, and value addition across the supply chain.

 

Looking Ahead

 

Gem City Ratnapura 2025 promises an immersive experience far beyond a trade show, with industry insights, networking opportunities, and live demonstrations. It is positioned to strengthen partnerships and foster an environment conducive to sustainable growth and innovation in Sri Lanka’s invaluable gem and jewellery sectors.

 

For buyers and industry stakeholders interested in participating, registration details and direct contacts are available through the National Gem and Jewellery Authority’s official channels.

 

Sources: National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA), Sri Lanka Export Development Board, Lanka Gem Dealers and Miners Association