The objectives of the competitions were to identify and recognize the capabilities of talented jewellery designers and help promote the gem cutting and lapidary industry to be in par with the required export quality.
The gem cutting competition, sponsored by the National Gem and Jewellery Authority was conducted under two categories, Standard and Creative. Under the standard category H.T. Sunil Shantha emerged as the winner whilst Pamudith Asanka Hettiarachchi and W. H Priyantha were adjudged as the first and second runner-up. In the creative category Pamudith Asanka Hettiarachchi was declared as the winner while S. D Jayasena and K.V Shashika were selected as the first and second runner-up. This competition is introduced by the Lapidary segment of the SLJGA.
Juzar Adamaly, Chairman FACETS Sri Lanka 2014 said, “It is important to realize the increasing importance of world class design trends and needs as we move towards Sri Lanka’s goal of becoming a significant gem and jewellery producer and exporter globally. This provides Sri Lanka an opportunity to promote our commitment in producing world class gem and jewellery designs moving forward”.
