FACETS 2026 launches in Sri Lanka, setting a new benchmark for the gem and jewellery industry. This premier exhibition combines immersive experiences, world-class partnerships, and global innovation to celebrate the country’s rich gemstone legacy.
Discover FACETS 2026 at Cinnamon Life, showcasing Sri Lanka’s gem heritage and global innovations
Sri Lanka is preparing to host FACETS 2026, the first international gem and jewellery exhibition of the year, opening on 3rd January. Now in its 33rd year, the event marks a milestone by moving to The Forum, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, creating the most expansive edition of FACETS to date.
Spread across two floors, this year’s exhibition promises an elevated and immersive experience for buyers, traders, collectors, and jewellery enthusiasts from around the globe. The modern facilities of Cinnamon Life, combined with redesigned exhibition spaces, inject fresh energy into this iconic showcase of Sri Lanka’s gemstone heritage, highlighting both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation.
A First for Sri Lanka: Gübelin Gem Lab Arrives
One of the landmark features of FACETS 2026 is the arrival of the internationally renowned Gübelin Gem Lab as the Official Gem Lab Partner. With over a century of expertise, Gübelin is widely respected in the gemstone industry. Its first-ever participation in a Sri Lankan gem exhibition allows visitors and exhibitors to access world-class gem testing and certification, further raising the global profile of Sri Lanka’s gemstones.
Strengthened by Premier Partnerships
FACETS 2026 is supported by a strong network of partners that elevate the overall event experience. Cinnamon Life serves as Hotel and Venue Partner, while Akbar Brothers and Barista host the Tea and Coffee Lounge. John Keells Properties acts as the Real Estate Partner, Alpha Industries as Safe Partner, Universal Travel Bureau (UTB) as Travel Partner, Brinks as Official Security Partner, and LMD serves as the Official Business Magazine.
Additionally, eleven leading exporters and jewellers have joined the Sapphire Sponsorship Circle, underscoring the industry’s collaborative effort to expand the global reach of Ceylon sapphires. These partnerships reflect both the prestige and the unified ambition of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery sector.
Innovation Enhances Visitor Experience
FACETS 2026 introduces several innovative features designed to enrich the visitor journey. The Virtual Reality Gem Mine Experience allows guests to explore Sri Lanka’s gem-mining heritage through immersive storytelling, while the EDB Pavilion and NGJA Pavilion highlight the SME sector. Emerging jewellers, lapidarists, and gemstone traders will exhibit alongside established industry leaders, fostering knowledge exchange and networking opportunities.
Organised and Endorsed with National Support
The exhibition is organised by the Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Association (SLGJA) and endorsed by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, National Gem & Jewellery Authority, Sri Lanka Export Development Board, and supported by the International Coloured Stone Association. This national backing underscores the strategic significance of FACETS 2026 in promoting Sri Lanka’s gemstones on the world stage.
Voices of Leadership
SLGJA President Akram Cassim highlighted the importance of the event, stating, “FACETS 2026 represents an important step forward for the industry as it shifts to a larger venue and introduces new global partnerships. This edition elevates the presence of Sri Lankan gemstones and reflects the brilliance and innovation of our industry.”
FACETS Chairman Armil Samoon emphasized, “With a world-class venue and the arrival of Gübelin Gem Lab, we are enhancing every touchpoint of the visitor experience. FACETS 2026 will be bigger, bolder, and truly world-class.”
A Global Celebration of Sri Lanka’s Gem Legacy
FACETS Sri Lanka 2026 will run from 3rd to 5th January at The Forum, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams. With its modern venue, strategic global collaborations, and expanded programme, the exhibition aims to redefine how Sri Lanka presents its gemstone legacy to the world. This edition promises to set a new standard for international gem and jewellery exhibitions, combining heritage, innovation, and immersive experiences to celebrate the country’s gem industry on a truly global stage.