I had the opportunity to visit the International Gem and Jewellery Show in Ratnapura, which took place from August 15 to 17, 2025, at the Grand Silver Ray Hotel. This event, on a human scale, stands out from large international trade shows thanks to its more intimate and high-quality atmosphere.

 

The show is held in an exceptional setting, within the Grand Silver Ray Hotel, a luxury property located about 15 kilometers from the city of Ratnapura, which is world-renowned for its sapphires. Nestled in the heart of nature, the hotel is surrounded by tea plantations and rice fields, offering a peaceful yet prestigious environment.

 

Unlike major trade shows such as those in Bangkok, which host more than 1,000 exhibitors, the Ratnapura show features only a few dozen exhibitors. This smaller scale allows for more direct interactions and a more authentic experience. The organization is also very professional, with a structured registration process and badge issuance only upon presentation of a passport.

 

The show showcases a wide variety of gemstones, as well as specialized equipment for the mining industry. Among the exhibits are sorting machines, such as conveyor belts, and furnaces used for gemstone treatment. Notably, equipment from the well-known brand Lakmini is prominently featured.

 

Overall, the exceptional setting of the Grand Silver Ray Hotel combined with the quality of the exhibitors gives the event a distinctly premium atmosphere, making it a unique experience in the heart of one of the world’s most iconic gemstone regions.