From small beginnings to glittering success

GEMS: A gem and jewellery manufacturing and marketing company set up three years ago today has developed into one of the most sought out manufacturers in the trade both in the local and overseas markets.

Chamathka Jewellers (Pvt) limited, was founded three years ago by its present Managing Director, S. A. C. Angelo at Rajagiriya having gained the knowledge in working in several companies doing similar business. " I was in the trade for nearly 20 years," he said.

Before setting up his business he underwent advanced training in Japan to get acclimatised to latest techniques and to learn about the world trends.

He wanted to do something different to the other manufactures and one of his main successes was innovation and quick turn around time for special orders.

His success and trust resulted many export orders coming his way and soon he set up another company, De' Angelo to look after his international business.

His exports are mainly to the US, Japan and Europe and at one point he exported one single order to Japan to the value of Rs. 5 million.

One of the most sought after products in the US market is the rainbow gold bracelet studded with tiny gems of seven different colours.

"Our price range for the international market for both Silver and Gold starts at around US $ 20 and goes up to over US $ 1,000," he said.

"I concentrate more on silver jewellery for the local market as there is a growing demand for them," he said. The trend today is for 'chunky' jewellery and this is one reason for people to go in for silver.

He also said that there is an increasing demand for silver wear coupled with stones and even brides wear them for home comings and going away. "One of our specialties is the undertaking of complicated designs," he said.

Today they manufacture over 1000 designs and all the moulds are manufactured in Sri Lanka. He also buys white gold, gold and silver from local banks and all the other expertise is local.

He has also developed a new technique to reduce the waste of around 10 percent to nearly half. "Today we have a staff of around 30 and have opened branches in Crescat, Liberty Plaza and at Arpico Battaramulla.

We are planning to have more outlets in Colombo and in the outstations as well as there is an increase demand," he said.

The investments for the company too have increased and today he has invested more than Rs. 10 million for his operations.

He said that he was satisfied in the manner in which the Government is helping the industry for exporters, as there are no unwanted taxes imposed on them.