Museum gemstones locked for 60 years, unvalued: Audit calls for action

• While the collection was intended to be examined by the Gem and Jewellery Authority, concerns about transporting the valuable stones abroad delayed the process

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya  

The audit of the Department of National Museums has highlighted delays in assessing the value of 271 gemstones held by the Geology Section. These gems have been deposited at the Metropolitan Branch of a state bank since 18 September 1964.  
A physical examination conducted in 1993 revealed that one of the gemstones was synthetic, which was returned to the Geology Section. However, the remaining 271 gemstones are yet to be valued by a gemologist from the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, despite recommendations in the Annual Detailed Management Audit Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 under Section 11(2) of the National Audit Act, No. 19 of 2018. No action had been taken as of March 2025.  
The audit recommended that immediate action be taken to assess the current financial value of the gemstone collection. The Accounting Officer stated that while the collection was intended to be examined by the Gem and Jewellery Authority, concerns about transporting the valuable stones abroad delayed the process.  
An official of the Department confirmed that a departmental committee has now been appointed to weigh, photograph, and report on the collection, and the report has been submitted to the Ministry for approval. Once approved, the gems will be properly assessed within the bank premises.