Traditional Gold Jewellery in Sri Lanka, GMA Heritage Collection

Some jewellery is made to follow the latest trends. Other pieces carry the stories of generations.As we celebrate 7 years of GMA de Silva Jewellers in Galle, we wanted to mark this milestone in a way that reflects who we are, where we come from and the traditions we continue to cherish.

Over the years, we have preserved traditional gold jewellery designs that are rarely seen in modern jewellery collections. Rather than allowing these pieces to be melted down or forgotten, we decided to bring them together as our Heritage Collection.

From elaborate gold necklaces to traditional bridal chains, each design offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship, beauty and cultural significance of Sri Lankan jewellery from generations past.

More than a jewellery launch, our Heritage Collection is an invitation to rediscover the artistry of traditional gold jewellery, celebrate our journey in Galle and experience how jewellery designs have evolved over the years.

The Story Behind GMA’s Heritage Collection

Jewellery preferences have changed significantly over time.

In earlier generations, gold jewellery was often characterised by heavier weights, intricate detailing and elaborate designs. Today, many customers prefer lighter pieces that are more practical for everyday wear.

As these preferences changed, certain traditional designs became less common.

Rather than melting down existing pieces and losing the opportunity to showcase these designs, At GMA, we decided to bring approximately 100 jewellery pieces together as a dedicated Heritage Collection.

The idea was simple, preserve the visibility of traditional jewellery designs and allow customers to appreciate the craftsmanship behind them.

By presenting these pieces together, We  hopes to create an experience that feels different from a typical jewellery collection.

A Collection That Celebrates Generations of Gold Jewellery

One of the most interesting aspects of the Heritage Collection is the opportunity to observe how jewellery designs have changed across generations. The collection brings attention to traditional styles associated with earlier decades, including designs familiar to families in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, alongside styles with much older roots.

How has jewellery changed over time?

Traditional gold jewellery was often created with substantial amounts of gold, resulting in heavier pieces with bold detailing.These designs were especially popular for weddings, family celebrations and significant milestones.

Modern jewellery, by comparison, frequently places greater emphasis on lighter weights, simpler styling and versatility.

Neither approach is necessarily better. They reflect the changing lifestyles, preferences and purchasing decisions of different generations.

Traditional Sri Lankan Gold Jewellery Worth Rediscovering

Among the collection’s most significant highlights are traditional gold chains, including the Pol Mal Malaya and Siribo Mala.

These designs represent a style of jewellery that requires considerable craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Pol Mal Malaya: A Traditional Gold Necklace

The Pol Mal Malaya is a traditional Sri Lankan gold necklace design associated with the coconut flower motif.

Known for its distinctive structure and elaborate appearance, the design reflects the artistry of traditional gold jewellery making.

Unlike many modern, lightweight necklaces, traditional pieces of this kind can require substantial quantities of gold and detailed handwork.

At GMA, the Pol Mal Malaya is among the important designs being highlighted through the Heritage Collection.

Siribo Mala: Preserving a Traditional Design

Another notable design mentioned by GMA is the Siribo Mala.

According to the GMA team, these traditional chains are particularly demanding to produce because of the detailed handmade work involved.

Such pieces are not suited to straightforward mass production using machinery.

Their craftsmanship, gold content and labour requirements also contribute to their higher cost compared with many contemporary jewellery designs.

The Heritage Collection provides an opportunity to appreciate these pieces beyond their monetary value.

The Role of Traditional Gold Jewellery in Sri Lankan Weddings

Gold jewellery has long played an important role in Sri Lankan wedding traditions.

For many families, jewellery represents more than an accessory. It can symbolise family heritage, important life milestones and traditions passed between generations. Elaborate traditional chains such as those featured in the Heritage Collection were historically given to brides in certain Southern Sri Lankan wedding traditions.  “Jewellery is part of anyone’s worth in Sri Lanka. An assurance of financial security. It is an essential part of a bride’s dowry, or wedding gift from the parents The manufacture of jewellery has a long tradition in – Sri Lanka. Records show that from the day of the early Sinhalese kings jewellery manufacture was a well-established profession. Whole communities or castes were engaged in the trade.- Explore Sri Lanka

These pieces were valued for their craftsmanship, substantial gold content and cultural importance. As gold prices and jewellery preferences have changed, the practice of purchasing particularly heavy traditional chains has become less common.

However, some families continue to value these customs.

By showcasing such jewellery, GMA hopes to preserve awareness of designs and traditions that younger generations may not otherwise encounter.

Why Handcrafted Gold Jewellery Is So Special

One of the defining features of traditional gold jewellery is the skill involved in its creation.

Many older designs require detailed handcrafting techniques that cannot be easily reproduced through standardised machine production.

The process can involve shaping individual components, creating intricate patterns and carefully assembling each element into a finished piece.

This level of craftsmanship requires patience, precision and specialised knowledge.

For GMA, traditional jewellery making is also closely connected to its our  history.

Established in Ambalangoda in 1920, GMA de Silva Jewellers has developed its expertise through generations of jewellery manufacturing and retail.

The Heritage Collection offers a way to bring this craftsmanship into focus and introduce customers to designs that reflect a different period in Sri Lankan jewellery making.

More Than a Jewellery Collection: A Museum-Inspired Experience

What makes the GMA Heritage Collection particularly interesting is that it has not been created solely to encourage purchases.At GMA we also want customers to experience the collection as a display of traditional jewellery.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore designs from different periods, compare older styles with contemporary jewellery and learn more about how craftsmanship has evolved.

Some visitors may be interested in purchasing a piece.Others may simply want to see the designs, appreciate the artistry or introduce younger family members to jewellery styles that were once more familiar.

The intention is to create a viewing experience where traditional gold jewellery can be appreciated for its history and craftsmanship.

Where Can You View the GMA Heritage Collection?

The first presentation of the Heritage Collection is planned for the GMA Jewellers Galle branch, alongside the showroom’s anniversary celebrations in October 2026.

From 23rd to 24th October 2026, we also plan to showcase the same collection at other branches in the coming months, potentially including Ambalangoda and Maharagama.

Customers are welcome to discover the collection, appreciate the traditional designs, and enquire about individual pieces if interested in purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions About the GMA Heritage Collection

What is the GMA Heritage Collection?

The GMA Heritage Collection is a curated display of approximately 100 traditional jewellery pieces, brought together to showcase older gold designs and the craftsmanship behind them.

Is the Heritage Collection available for purchase?

The collection is intended for viewing and appreciation, but customers who are interested in purchasing individual pieces can enquire with GMA.

What makes the Heritage Collection different?

Rather than focusing only on contemporary designs, the collection highlights traditional, often heavier gold jewellery styles that have become less commonly available.

Where will the Heritage Collection be displayed?

The first viewing is planned for GMA Jewellers’ Galle branch, with potential presentations at other branches in the following months.

Will there be special prices for the collection?

GMA is planning special pricing for the Galle anniversary presentation. The confirmed details will be shared closer to the event.

Discover a Different Side of Sri Lankan Gold Jewellery

Jewellery trends may change, but the craftsmanship and traditions behind older designs remain worth celebrating.

Through its Heritage Collection, GMA de Silva Jewellers is bringing traditional gold jewellery into the spotlight, allowing visitors to appreciate designs that tell the story of earlier generations.

Whether you are interested in traditional bridal jewellery, handcrafted gold pieces or simply curious about how jewellery has changed over time, the Heritage Collection offers an opportunity to explore something different.

Discover the GMA Heritage Collection at the Galle branch and experience generations of Sri Lankan gold jewellery craftsmanship.

Visit GMA Jewellers for more information.