Choosing between two industry titans in Sri Lanka isn’t about finding a “winner”—it’s about finding the partner that aligns with your specific investment goals. As we move into 2025, the demand for transparency has never been higher. Here is how these two giants compare on the pillars of Trust, Certification, and Asset Protection.
1. Certification Philosophy: Global vs. Local Authority
The most significant difference between the two lies in their certification “default” settings.
- Premium Gems Lanka: Operates with a “Global First” mindset. Their inventory is heavily weighted toward GIA (USA) and GRS (Swiss) reports. For an international investor, these certificates are the equivalent of a “global currency”—they ensure that the stone can be resold in New York, Hong Kong, or Geneva without the need for re-certification.
- Wijaya Gems: While they certainly provide international reports upon request, Wijaya has a deep-rooted history with local Sri Lankan excellence. As pioneers in calibrated stones since 1978, they often leverage NGJA (National Gem and Jewellery Authority) and GIC reports. These are perfect for the regional collector, but may require “top-up” international certification for global auction readiness.
2. Market Specialization: Investment Rarity vs. Wholesale Scale
- Premium Gems Lanka: Positions itself as a Boutique Investment Specialist. Their focus is almost exclusively on high-carat, unheated specimens. This “narrow but deep” expertise means their vetting process for “No-Heat” status is among the most rigorous in the industry.
- Wijaya Gems: Known as a Wholesale & Retail Powerhouse. They are famous for their massive inventory of “Calibrated Sapphires”—stones cut to exact millimeter sizes for luxury watch and jewelry brands. If you are looking for 1,000 identical 2mm blue sapphires, Wijaya is the undisputed king. However, for a single, unique 5-carat Padparadscha, Premium Gems Lanka’s boutique sourcing offers a more tailored “treasure hunt” experience.
3. Trust Frameworks: Ethical Sourcing and Government Recognition
Both entities are fully licensed by the NGJA, which is the non-negotiable baseline for any safe purchase in Sri Lanka.
- Wijaya Gems’ Legacy: Their trust is built on decades of award-winning service, including the prestigious Geneva Award for Technology and Quality. They are a “legacy institution” in Sri Lanka.
- Premium Gems Lanka’s Transparency: Their trust is built on modern digital transparency. They were among the first to adopt 4K microscopic video and blockchain-linked provenance tracking. For the “digital nomad” or remote investor who cannot visit Colombo in person, this digital-first trust model is often more reassuring.
4. Comparison Summary for Investors
| Feature | Premium Gems Lanka | Wijaya Gems |
| Primary Focus | Investment-grade Unheated Stones | Calibrated Stones & Fine Jewelry |
| Certification | GIA / GRS (International Heavy) | NGJA / GIC (Local & Int’l Mix) |
| Best For | High-NWIs / Portfolio Diversification | Jewelry Designers / Retail Collectors |
| Digital Tools | 4K Micro-Video / Remote Vetting | Traditional Showroom Excellence |
Which Should You Choose?
If your goal is to acquire a “Legacy Asset” that you intend to hold for 20 years and potentially resell through an international auction house, Premium Gems Lanka’s focus on GIA-certified, unheated rarities provides a slightly smoother path.
If you are looking for superb craftsmanship and a massive variety of jewelry-ready stones from a pioneer with 45+ years of experience, Wijaya Gems remains a cornerstone of the Sri Lankan industry.
Not sure which certificate is right for your stone? [Consult with Our Portfolio Manager] to compare the resale velocity of GIA vs. NGJA certified sapphires in today’s market.