Hong Kong: Considered the world’s largest trading centre for gems and jewellery, two of the jewellery industry’s leading trade fairs are set to dazzle in Hong Kong next month. Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 3rd Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show takes place from 1 to 5 March at the Asia World-Expo, while the 33rd Hong Kong International Jewellery Show will open from 3 to 7 March at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre.

India will be represented through a total of more than 180 exhibitors at the two shows. Asia Pacific consists of the world’s largest jewellery market, with the main contributors being China and India, who are the largest consumers of jewellery in the world with a large, thriving processing and manufacturing industry.

World’s largest jewellery marketplace tailored to industry needs:

“This is the third year that we are using the ‘two shows, two venues’ format, an arrangement that has been well received by exhibitors and buyers alike,” said HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau, during a pre-show press conference on 18 February. “By showcasing raw materials and finished pieces separately, we can accommodate more exhibitors with a more spacious exhibition environment and provide a greater selection of products to buyers with enhanced product specialization.”

This year, the two shows will welcome more than 4,380 exhibitors from 50 countries and regions, forming the world’s largest jewellery marketplace. From India, there will be over 120 exhibitors at the Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show and around 60 exhibitors at the International Jewellery Show. The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council will have a pavilion at both events.

Consumer demand for jewellery rebounding:

Benedict Sin, Chairman of HKTDC’s Jewellery Advisory Committee, said consumer demand for jewellery had rebounded since the price of precious metals fell last year, including gold and platinum. “According to a report published by the World Gold Council, global gold demand for jewellery in the first half of 2015 dropped by eight per cent; but in the second half of the year demand increased by two per cent year-on-year,” said Mr. Sin. “This indicates that consumers had capitalised on the price drop and returned to the consumer market for jewellery. Under the current economic conditions, consumers may prefer high quality and reasonably priced products rather than conspicuous brands. This may be good news for Hong Kong’s exporters as they are likely to receive more orders.”

New zones and pavilions:

At the two shows, new zones and pavilions will be set up to cater to different buyer demands. At the Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, a new Rough Stones & Minerals zone will be set up to showcase unpolished and uncut stones and gems. Over at the Jewellery Show, there will be a new zone, Wedding Bijoux, which showcases wedding rings and other bridal jewellery; and a new pavilion, T-GOLD+ METS, which features international professional jewellery and watch making machinery, equipment, technology and supplies. T-GOLD+ METS is co-organized by the HKTDC, Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA) and Fiera di Vicenza.

The Hall of Extraordinary will present a series of high-end fine jewellery pieces. Dehres, one of Asia’s top diamond jewellers, will showcase a range of pear-shaped diamond jewellery each valued at over US$1 million. Dawn Jewellery, renowned for its fusion of East-West elements, will feature a necklace made of icy jade, Tahitian pearls, diamonds and emeralds that is worth nearly HK$2 million. Other renowned exhibitors include Louis Glick & Company from the United States, Switzerland’s Thomas Faerber and Zebrak London from the United Kingdom.

Hall of famous brands:

Apart from eye-catching materials, jewellers are also gaining attention for their unique designs and high-quality brands. The Jewellery Show’s Hall of Fame will showcase collections by more than 40 top-tier international brands. Famous Italian jewellery designer Roberto Coin will bring his signature. The Fifth Season by Roberto Coin collection to the show. Another local brand Lady Heart will present its heart-shaped jewellery collections for the first time at the Jewellery Show. Other exhibitors include renowned jewellers TTF Haute Joaillerie and Lao Feng Xiang from the Chinese mainland, Kuwayama from Japan and Imperial Collection from Hong Kong, all set to introduce their finest to Hall of Fame visitors. Other highlighted exhibition zones include Designer Galleria, Antique & Vintage Jewellery Galleria, World of Glamour featuring Hong Kong exhibitors, and Treasures of Craftsmanship, which displays ornaments and decorative pieces.

Many countries and regions are setting up group pavilions at the two shows, reflecting the event’s global influence. France will present its first pavilion at the Jewellery Show, while the Tanzanite Foundation pavilion will debut at the Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show. Tanzanite is a special kind of violet-blue gemstone that was discovered in Tanzania less than 50 years ago, and is already highly sought after by the gem industry.

Networking activities aplenty:

Lawrence Ma, Chairman of the shows’ organizing committees, said, “The jewellery industry sees the shows both as important trade and sourcing platforms and an opportunity for exchanging industry intelligence, understanding market trends and networking. That is why the HKTDC will be organizing a series of seminars and networking activities for visitors during the shows.”

On the first night of the Jewellery Show, the HKTDC will host a Royal Cruise-themed Gala Dinner with a menu designed by celebrated chef Michael Gilligan, Royal Caribbean International’s Director of Culinary. Guests will be able to enjoy a night of fine dining while networking with other industry professionals. The HKTDC will also invite expert speakers to host seminars on such topical issues as Tanzanite, brand establishment of chuk kam (pure gold) jewellery and consumer trends. A number of jewellery parades will enable buyers to sample a series of collections in a short period of time.

Jewellery competition pieces on display:

The 17th Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition received 277 entries this year. Winners of Open and Student Group awards and the Craftsmanship& Technology Award have been selected. The winning pieces will be exhibited during the Jewellery Show (Hall 1E Concourse). The competition was jointly organized by the HKTDC and Hong Kong Jewellers’ & Goldsmiths’ Association, Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association, Hong Kong Jewellery Manufacturers’ Association and Diamond Federation of Hong Kong, China.