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Bringing Sri Lankan Heritage to Australia: The Story of Asian Gems and Jewellers
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It’s an art form that tells a story, a tradition passed down through generations of skilled Sri Lankan artisans.
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On February 9, 2025, Asian Gems and Jewellers Australia will be making its debut at Lissiman Street Markets - Vintage Threads, Antiques and Collectables, offering a stunning collection of handcrafted 925 silver jewellery—each piece unique, with no duplicates. This marks a special milestone for founder Mihi Doraliyagoda, who has brought her family’s 50-year jewellery-making legacy from Sri Lanka to Australia.
For Mihi, jewellery is more than just an accessory; it’s an art form that tells a story, a tradition passed down through generations of skilled Sri Lankan artisans. Now, she’s sharing that story with the local community, offering meticulously handcrafted designs featuring some of Sri Lanka’s world-renowned gemstones.
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Handcrafted Jewellery with a Touch of Sri Lanka
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Jewellery-making has been in Mihi’s family for nearly five decades, with her relatives in Sri Lanka designing and crafting intricate pieces using the country's famous gemstones. Their creations have found homes all over the world, including Australia, Europe, and North America.
After migrating to Australia in 2012, Mihi settled into her career as an IT Business Analyst. But her passion for jewellery never faded. She knew she wanted to introduce her family’s work to a new audience. In 2024, she finally took the leap, launching Asian Gems and Jewellers Australia as a way to bring heritage-rich, handcrafted jewellery to Australian customers.
"I think the biggest achievement so far for me was to come out of my comfort zone and actually launch this business in Australia," Mihi shares. "It’s something I thoroughly enjoy, and I want to see it grow."
All jewellery from Asian Gems and Jewellers Australia is handmade in Colombo, Sri Lanka, using ethically sourced gemstones and high-quality materials. Skilled goldsmiths and silversmiths bring each design to life, combining traditional Sri Lankan techniques with modern aesthetics to create truly one-of-a-kind pieces.
Mihi plays a key role in the design process, selecting styles that she knows will appeal to her Australian clientele while staying true to her family’s craftsmanship.
"You can really see the quality of our work when you look closely at the jewellery," she explains. "Each piece is handcrafted with care, making every item truly special and unique."
At the Lissiman Street Markets - Vintage Threads, Antiques and Collectables on February 9th, shoppers can browse a wide range of 925 silver jewellery, each with its own distinct character. Because every design is unique, once a piece is sold, there’s no second one—making these treasures even more exclusive.
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Building a Business, One Market at a Time
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As a new business owner, Mihi has faced her share of challenges—particularly when it comes to marketing. "Attracting more buyers has been the hardest part," she admits. "Social media is so competitive, and it’s difficult to stand out."
That’s why she’s turning to local markets as a way to connect with customers directly. This upcoming market will be her first-ever in-person event, and she’s eager to meet jewellery lovers face-to-face, hear their feedback, and learn more about what they’re looking for.
"I thought participating in markets would be the best way to attract clients and get to know them better," she says. "It’s also a great way to showcase the quality of our work in person."
Mihi is especially excited that her first market is right in her local community. Having lived in Southern River for five years, she feels a strong connection to the area and is looking forward to sharing her passion with fellow locals.
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While Asian Gems and Jewellers Australia is still in its early stages, Mihi has ambitious plans for the future. She hopes to grow her business both in Australia and globally, expanding her designs and finding innovative ways to promote her unique jewellery.
For now, her focus is on building relationships with customers and getting her brand noticed. "I want to improve my creative process and continue finding ways to make my jewellery even more special," she says.
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Visit Asian Gems and Jewellers Australia
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If you love handcrafted, high-quality jewellery, this is a stall you won’t want to miss. Here’s what makes Asian Gems and Jewellers Australia stand out:
- One-of-a-kind pieces – No duplicates! Each design is unique.
- Handcrafted in Sri Lanka – Made by experienced goldsmiths and silversmiths.
- Authentic Sri Lankan gemstones – World-famous for their beauty and quality.
- Elegant 925 silver jewellery – Timeless, high-quality designs.
This is a rare opportunity to browse and shop for handcrafted jewellery that isn’t mass-produced. Whether you’re looking for a gift or something special for yourself, you’ll find a piece that truly speaks to you.
Find Mihi at the Lissiman Street Markets - Vintage Threads, Antiques and Collectables, on February 9th, 9 am - 1 pm.
Be sure to stop by, meet Mihi in person, and see these stunning pieces for yourself. And don’t forget to follow Asian Gems and Jewellers Australia on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on new designs, special offers, and upcoming markets @asiangemsandjewellersaus
This is just the beginning of an exciting journey—and you’re invited to be part of it!
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