Introduction and Founding Story
Welcome to Shola Gems.
I believe that every great journey begins with a story. Our story is one of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to making a difference.
I am Afrih Anver, a professional chemical engineer, overseeing our family legacy that spans over three decades. It all began with my grandfather trading in a small village called Atulugama, strategically located in the heart of the gem triangle encompassing Ratnapura, Colombo, and Beruwala.
Initially, our business operated in a traditional manner, lacking proper structure, a business name, or registration. However, when I assumed leadership from my father, we took steps to formalize our operations. Today, we are proud to be registered with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and actively engage with international communities such as the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA). Our three decades of involvement in local and African trades have forged strong networks with miners, merchants, and other relevant parties.
As a first-generation engineering graduate in my family, I earned a merit scholarship from the government to attend the University of Moratuwa, thanks to my high distinction at the A/L level. After a six-year corporate career spanning the Maldives, UAE, and Australia, I decided to transition into the family business in late 2020s, driven by my passion and interest. Despite my prior knowledge of the gem industry through family involvement, I sought to enhance my academic credentials by participating in programs offered by the Gem and Jewellery Research and Training Institute (GJRTI). I also completed a diploma in colored stones from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
Beyond trading, my personal interest in applying engineering principles to traditional treatment methods led us to establish our own gemstone research lab. Here, we focus on experimenting with available opportunities, particularly in corundum treatment methods. Drawing insights from local research papers, books, and consultations with local and foreign experts, we strive to integrate modern technologies into traditional processes.
Through our journey, we remain dedicated to advancing our craft, fostering innovation, and contributing to the evolution of the gemstone industry.
Mission and Values
Our Mission is to expand Shola Gems into the global market, offering high-quality gemstone masterpieces while preserving our three-decade legacy to be passed on to the next generation. We are dedicated to making a positive impact on the world while providing exceptional value to our community, who have journeyed with us.
Core Values
We embrace creativity and continuously strive to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Through ongoing experimentation, we develop solutions that surpass expectations and catalyze meaningful change.
We uphold a commitment to excellence in every facet of our operations. From sourcing raw materials to crafting final products, we prioritize quality and reliability to ensure the utmost satisfaction for our partners.
We conduct ourselves with honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior across all aspects of our business processes. Upholding the highest standards of integrity, we engage with miners, traders, and partners with respect and fairness.
Collaboration, diversity, and inclusivity are integral to our values. We cultivate a sense of belonging within our team and actively contribute to the communities in which we operate, striving to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Committed to environmental stewardship, we seek to minimize our ecological footprint and promote sustainability throughout our operations. Through innovative approaches, we aim to reduce waste, conserve resources, and safeguard the planet for future generations.
Community Involvement
As a professional chemical engineer, I feel a profound responsibility to contribute to the sustainable enhancement of the gem industry and to uplift the knowledge base of the communities residing within its sphere. It is imperative to add value to the lives of families engaged in various aspects of this business process, including miners, enhancement teams, cutters, merchants, consultants, and academic experts. By prioritizing the protection of the environment, we ensure a legacy that sustains for future generations.