Helping the gem and jewellery sector

Sri Lanka is renowned the world over for its exquisite gems and meticulously crafted jewellery. Perhaps only Ceylon Tea is better known. This industry deserves the fullest support of the authorities, being a top foreign exchange earner for the country.

The Sri Lankan gem and jewellery industry is facing major problems with the introduction of new taxes and lack of new markets and techniques, as we reported in these pages last week. In addition the non-availability of lands, duties on the import of rough stones and the lack of a national policy are among other main problems.

This is a serious issue as the industry collectively employs more than 300,000 people, from mine workers to polishers to craftsmen. However, they are not organised under a single union or organisation and their voice is not heard well enough.

These factors stress the need for a national level organisation representing all sectors of the industry. It should be especially active in areas such as Ratnapura where the industry is predominant. It is heartening to note that the industry itself has taken the initiative in this regard. At the same time, there should be a clear national policy on the gem and jewellery industry, which should remain intact even if there is a change of Government.

The long-term goals of the industry should be clearly outlined. The authorities, in consultation with industry players, should also formulate standards on worker safety, quality of products, use of advanced technology and employees wages.

Such an effort is essential because our competitors are moving ahead with both natural and artificial stones. Sri Lanka cannot afford to lose its standing in the lucrative international gem and jewellery market.

That would be disastrous for the economy and those involved in the industry. The local gem industry must keep pace with the rapid developments in their field. Technical developments including high-pressure high-temperature methods to change a gemstone's colour, and the creation of gem-quality synthetics - are a new challenge to the industry. This could have serious repercussions for our gem and jewellery sector.

It needs a more aggressive marketing strategy to counter these pretenders. Regular participation in premier gem and jewellery shows is a must to find new markets and win more orders. The main local event, FACETS, should be expanded. It is also prudent to tighten certification procedures to fight against bogus certificates for synthetic gems.

The industry must also contemplate formulating a recognition and rewards scheme for the top performers, be it companies, craftsmen, lapidarists and even the humble gem miners. An annual awards scheme which recognises their talent will be an incentive to industry workers. They should be given opportunities to study further in some of the other gem/diamond centres of the world.

Some experts have also advocated the publication of a quality magazine/journal for the industry with information on latest developments. This will no doubt appeal widely to the gem and jewellery community, as it could be an ideal platform to voice their opinions and concerns.

The industry must maintain an active dialogue with the authorities, which in turn must recognise the gem and jewellery sector as a pivotal component of the economy and grant it more concessions and incentives.