Love Always, JCK!

Earlier this month, the glittering world of jewelry converged in the vibrant city of Las Vegas for the annual Luxury by JCK and JCK Las Vegas exhibitions. Considered the “Super Bowl” of the jewelry industry, JCK continues to set the tone, the trends, and the mood for the jewelry industry for the year to come. 30,000 industry professionals from all facets of the jewelry industry joined JCK and Luxury for a week of product sourcing, education, and networking. The industry continued to gather under one roof with 17,300 attendees and over 1,900 exhibitors in over 20 different neighborhoods at The Venetian and The Venetian Expo as Luxury welcomed retailers from May 29 – June 3 and was open exclusively to invited retailers on May 29 and May 30 and JCK from May 31 – June 3, with the AGTA and GEMS pavilion, the Hong Kong pavilion and JCK Talks opening a day earlier on May 30.

-Luxury by JCK: An Exclusive Affair-

Running concurrently with JCK Las Vegas, Luxury by JCK provided an exclusive, invitation-only environment tailored to high-end jewelry buyers and exhibitors for the past 25 years. From May 29 to June 3, this event offered a more intimate setting where luxury brands could present their exquisite collections to a select audience. Luxury by JCK featured a carefully curated selection of exhibitors, ensuring that attendees had access to the finest and most unique pieces in the market. Brands showcased high-value gemstones, one-of-a-kind designs, and exceptional craftsmanship. The event emphasized a VIP experience, offering personalized services such as private appointments, exclusive lounge access, and concierge services to cater to the needs of discerning buyers. Luxury by JCK included trend presentations and fashion shows that highlighted upcoming styles and innovations in high jewelry. These events provided inspiration and insight into the future of luxury jewelry design.

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-JCK Las Vegas: A Comprehensive Marketplace-

JCK Las Vegas stands as the largest and most comprehensive jewelry trade event in North America. This year’s show lived up to its reputation, featuring over 1,900 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, offering a wide array of products that ranged from fine jewelry to technological innovations in manufacturing and retail. The event hosted a wide array of exhibitors, ranging from established brands to emerging designers. This diversity provided attendees with a comprehensive view of the latest trends and innovations in the jewelry industry.

JCK Las Vegas offered numerous educational opportunities, including seminars and workshops led by industry experts. Topics ranged from market trends and consumer behavior to advancements in technology and sustainability practices providing valuable insights for professionals looking to stay ahead in the competitive market.

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The “Social Stage,” was back after its impressive debut at JCK 2023. This year, Friday’s topics focused on content, Saturday’s highlighted data, and Sunday’s showed the how-to’s of bringing it all into practice. Content creators and influencers who have mastered the art of engagement led multiple sessions at The Social Stage.

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The Sustainability Summit at JCK brought together innovators, leaders and advocates for positive change to discuss a more sustainable future for the jewelry industry. The Summit featured a panel moderated by Dennis Campbell, Professor of Business Administration at Harvard with panelists and speakers throughout including Marie-Claire Daveu, Chief Sustainability and Internation Affairs Officer at Kering, Dr. M Sanjayan, CEO, Conservation International, Iris Van Der Veken, Executive Director & Secretary General, Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030, Melanie Grant, Executive Director, Responsible Jewelry Council, Glenn J. Hansen, Founder and CEO, Reduce 2, Tiffany Stevens, President, CEO and General Counsel, Jewelers Vigilance Committee, and Ann Grimmett, Vice President of Merchandising, Jared.

The President Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi of Botswana attended JCK with the House of Botswana and in a one-on-one Fireside Chat with Victoria Gomelsky, emphasized the importance of natural diamonds for Botswana’s economy. Alan Cook CEO of  De Beers announced it will suspend protection of lab-grown diamonds for jewelry purposes and that its Lightbox factory will be handed over to a subsidiary Element Six to become a “world-class CVD production hub” for industrial purposes.

The show facilitated numerous networking events, including cocktail receptions, private dinners, and special meet-and-greet sessions. These gatherings allowed industry professionals to connect in a more informal setting, fostering collaboration and partnerships. *Networking Events**: JCK Las Vegas facilitated numerous networking opportunities, including cocktail receptions, private dinners, and special meet-and-greet sessions. These events allowed industry professionals to build relationships in a more informal setting, fostering collaboration and new partnerships.

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-Diamonds Do Good Gala-

One of the most anticipated events during the JCK Las Vegas week was the Diamonds Do Good Gala, held on May 30, 2024. This annual gala celebrates the positive impact of the diamond industry on communities around the world. The gala brings together industry leaders, celebrities, and philanthropists to honor those who have made significant contributions to social and environmental causes. The honorees this year were:

VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AWARD: GIA

For their unwavering dedication to independence, excellence, trust, and transparency illuminating the path toward a more sustainable and socially responsible future. GIA’s commitment to protecting consumers, education, environmental conservation, and social responsibility has left an indelible mark on our industry and has contributed to the betterment of communities around the world.

COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD: LONDON JEWELERS

For their unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community betterment while also being a beacon of trust and integrity for over nine decades. London Jewelers exemplifies the profound influence a business can have by not only providing exquisite jewelry but also fostering a world where generosity and compassion thrive.

NEXT GEN AWARD: LISA BRIDGE President & CEO of Ben Bridge Jeweler

Recognizing her exceptional leadership in reshaping the natural diamond and jewelry industry landscape, connecting with Gen Z and Millennial consumers through innovative ideas, and making meaningful contributions to the communities where Ben Bridge Jeweler does business.

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-Natural Diamond Council Activities-

The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) played a significant role at JCK Las Vegas, showcasing their efforts to promote natural diamonds and support the industry. The NDC’s activities included various initiatives aimed at educating consumers and industry professionals about the value and ethical considerations of natural diamonds. The NDC hosted a series of educational seminars that covered topics such as the origin and journey of natural diamonds, the importance of ethical sourcing, and the latest trends in diamond jewelry. The NDC launched new campaign; Real. Rare. Responsible with global ambassador, Lilly James. This campaign is to celebrate the unique, timeless and ancient beauty of Earth’s finite natural wonder, and the responsible practices inherent to the natural diamond industry.

 

-The Future of Jewelry Trade Shows-

The success of JCK Las Vegas and Luxury by JCK 2024 underscores the resilience and dynamism of the jewelry industry. Despite global economic uncertainties, the enthusiasm and attendance at these events signal a robust market eager for innovation and quality. Looking forward, these exhibitions are expected to continue evolving, incorporating more digital elements and sustainable practices. As the industry embraces new technologies and adapts to changing consumer preferences, JCK Las Vegas and Luxury by JCK will remain pivotal platforms for driving growth and showcasing the brilliance of the jewelry world.

In conclusion, the June 2024 editions of JCK Las Vegas and Luxury by JCK not only highlighted the current trends and innovations in the jewelry industry but also reinforced the importance of connection, education, and sustainability in shaping the future of this dazzling sector.

Bebe Bakhshi

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