FACETS Sri Lanka 2024, Asia’s leading Gem and Jewellery Exhibition organised by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA), is proud to announce the unveiling of the country’s first-ever Sustainability Pavilion. This ground-breaking initiative is set to captivate and educate visitors from around the world, offering a unique glimpse into the rich history of the Sri Lankan gem industry and its modern commitment to ethical practices, responsible sourcing, and community engagement.
At the heart of the Sustainability Pavilion, FACETS Sri Lanka 2024 presents a historical journey through the evolution of the Sri Lankan gem industry. Interactive displays and state-of-the-art touchscreens will immerse visitors in the fascinating transformation that has taken place over generations, shedding light on the industry’s incredible past. The Pavilion delves into the critical aspects of ethical sourcing, highlighting how gems are meticulously obtained with minimal impact on the environment and maximized benefits for the local community. It explores fair-trade practices, manufacturing methods, and responsible mining approaches, underscoring the ecological impacts of mining and the conservation efforts aimed at restoring mined lands to their natural states.
Armil Sammoon, Chairman of the Sustainability Pavilion for FACETS Sri Lanka 2024, shared his thoughts: “Many people are unaware of the rich history of Sri Lanka’s gem industry. The idea behind the Sustainability Pavilion is to showcase this history and, more importantly, the journey towards responsible practices and sustainability. Our main focus is on how gems are responsibly sourced with minimal ecological impact and the direct benefits this brings to our community. This journey encompasses not just the industry itself, but the rich tapestry of communities that it supports.”
The Pavilion also casts a spotlight on the vibrant communities within the industry, from miners to jewellers to lapidarists. These are the unsung heroes who have dedicated their lives to this profession, creating a unique and sustainable legacy. Visitors will be provided with invaluable insights into FACETS’ practices, revealing the intricacies of the gem supply chain, from mine to market, and highlighting the strides made over the decades to ensure sustainability. The Pavilion boasts interactive displays and screens that depict this transformation, engaging visitors in a dynamic learning experience.
In addition to the immersive historical and educational exhibits, the Pavilion will also showcase renowned gemstones that have found their way from Sri Lanka to global destinations like the Tower of London and the Smithsonian. These gems hold stories that span generations and continents, providing a connection to the world’s most celebrated jewellery. FACETS Sri Lanka 2024 welcomes all visitors, from gem enthusiasts and historians to those interested in sustainable practices and responsible sourcing, to explore the Sustainability Pavilion and join the conversation on fostering an ethical and sustainable gem industry.
The Sustainability Pavilion at FACETS Sri Lanka 2024 is an invaluable resource for those wishing to learn more about the rich history, responsible practices, and vibrant communities that define the Sri Lankan gem industry. The Pavilion is a testament to FACETS Sri Lanka 2024’s commitment to preserving this heritage while embracing a sustainable future.
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