The scale of the gathering was immediately palpable. Visitors arrived from 130 countries, with international attendance holding at 60 percent. The United States led foreign participation, followed by the United Kingdom, India, and Germany, reinforcing how global the Vicenza stage has become. Walking the halls felt like moving through a living map of the industry. Conversations unfolded in multiple languages, introductions turned into reunions, and every meeting seemed to hint at a future collaboration. Networking here is never incidental. The scale was impressive, but what stayed with me most was the atmosphere. There was momentum, but also intention. This year’s message, People, Products, Places, was not simply a theme. It was evident in how the fair unfolded.

The Products spoke first. Despite a market navigating fluctuating precious metal prices and global trade tensions, high jewellery did not retreat into caution. It leaned into clarity. Collections felt deliberate and composed. There was an emphasis on exceptional gemstones, refined proportions, and craftsmanship that did not seek attention but commanded it. Many maisons presented pieces that balanced grandeur with wearability, understanding that today’s collector wants both presence and purpose.

With more than 560 high profile buyers brought to the show through collaboration with the Italian Trade Agency, these unveilings carried real commercial significance. Buyers were not browsing casually. They were previewing the design language of the year ahead, identifying pieces that would resonate across diverse markets. VICENZAORO remains one of the rare environments where the entire supply chain is visible, but what distinguishes it is the level of curation and discernment within that scale.

The debut of the VO Awards added an emotional and symbolic dimension to this edition. By recognizing manual artisan tradition alongside contemporary design and innovative materials, the awards underscored a truth we often discuss but rarely formalize. Our industry survives because it evolves without abandoning its roots. Seeing artisans celebrated for technical mastery, for the patience and discipline that sit behind every setting and every polished surface, was quietly powerful. It affirmed that excellence is not accidental. It is cultivated.

For me, one of the most meaningful moments unfolded within the educational program led by CIBJO, the World Jewellery Confederation. I had the privilege of participating in a panel discussion focused on educating the next generation of jewellery buyers. It is a subject I feel deeply connected to.

During the conversation, I shared that Gen Z approaches jewellery differently. They use social media not only for aspiration but as a research platform. Before stepping into a boutique, they have already explored origin narratives, compared stones and cuts, assessed ethical sourcing, and absorbed brand storytelling. Their purchases are rarely impulsive. Jewellery, for them,Their purchases are rarely impulsive. Jewellery, for them, is a form of self-expression — intentional, emotional, and personal.

This shift reshapes how we communicate. Education therefore cannot remain internal. Transparency, storytelling, and accessible expertise must meet them where they are. When a young buyer chooses a jewel, they are aligning with a narrative as much as with a gemstone. Sitting on that panel, I felt both responsibility and optimism. A generation that seeks understanding is a generation that will build lasting relationships with fine jewellery.

Another highlight came from Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting, the independent observatory directed by Paola De Luca. In the session titled “Coded Couture”, she explored how jewellery is increasingly read as a cultural code in the age of data, identity and evolving aesthetics. Her trend forecasting reminded us that the future of jewellery is not only about beautiful objects but about decoding the signals of cultural transformation — movements that guide creative direction, design language, and consumer connection.

And then there were the evenings.

After long days immersed in products and panels, the nights were charged with good food and even better company. From visiting the newly renovated Museo del Gioiello to intimate private dinners where conversations continued well past dessert, the experience extended far beyond the show floor. Returning each night to my wonderful room at Premiere hotel in Abano, there was always a quiet anticipation for the next day. Beyond the exceptional jewels and strategic meetings, it was the rhythm of connection that made the week memorable.

VICENZAORO remains more than a marketplace. It is where People gather with purpose, where Products set the tone for the year ahead, and where Places frame the experience with culture and warmth. This January edition reaffirmed that our industry is not only about extraordinary stones. It is about the community that gives them meaning.

And that is what ensures its continuity.

Held from January 17 to 21, 2025, in Vicenza, Italy, the exhibition welcomed 1,300 brands and buyers from 145 countries, setting a new benchmark for international participation. With a strong presence from Turkey, the United States, Germany, Spain, and Greece, and growing interest from regions like North Korea and Australia, the show reaffirmed its status as a truly global business and networking platform.

Beyond its role as a trade hub, Vicenzaoro embraced contemporary themes, including sustainability, technology, and the next generation of jewellery professionals. The event also ran concurrently with T.Gold, the leading international show for machinery and technological innovations in jewellery manufacturing, reinforcing Vicenzaoro’s comprehensive industry presence.

This year’s show emphasised on loose gemstones and diamonds (Hall 3.1) as well as fine to high jewellery, with a strong focus on large gemstones, pearls, and convertible designs—a trend shaping both haute joaillerie and commercial collections. The demand for versatility and innovation in design was evident across exhibitor showcases, reflecting the evolving tastes of modern collectors.

The continued rise of Made in Italy jewellery was also a key theme. In the first ten months of 2024, the Italian jewellery industry saw a 5.8% increase in revenue, with exports growing at 7.2%, surpassing domestic market growth. This solidifies Italy’s position as a driving force in global jewellery design and craftsmanship.

Key Industry Discussions: Sustainability & Traceability

Vicenzaoro is not just about showcasing fine jewellery—it’s also a space for industry leaders to shape the future. Among the most anticipated discussions were two high-impact CIBJO-sponsored panels, addressing the most pressing topics in the diamond sector:

1. De Beers’ New Paradigm for the Diamond Market
   Led by Mahiar Borhanjoo, Chief Commercial Officer at De Beers, this session highlighted the enduring value of natural diamonds and their vital role in sustainable communities. The discussion reinforced the importance of preserving the legacy of natural diamonds while ensuring their positive economic and social impact.
2. The Technology of Traceability
   Moderated by Feriel Zerouki, Senior Vice President, Provenance, Ethics & Industry Relations, De Beers Group and President of the World Diamond Council.
   This panel gathered eight industry pioneers specialising in diamond provenance and traceability. The discussion revolved around the need for a unified global protocol to ensure transparency and accountability in diamond traceability.
   The panel featured:

• Wesley Tucker, CEO, Tracr™ – world’s leading digital platform for tracing natural diamonds from source at scale.
• Andrew Rimmer, CEO, Opsydia – known for laser inscription technology that provides a secure, tamper-proof identity for diamonds.
• Jennifer Moriconi, Chief Sales Officer, iTraceiT – offering a robust traceability tool for all worldwide supply chain.
• Leanne Kemp, Founder & CEO, Everledger – a leading advocate for blockchain’s role in ensuring ethical sourcing.
• Bruno Scarselli, Founder, Authentia – offering the industry’s first legally recognized protocol on public blockchains, providing the most comprehensive solution for diamond origin and authenticity.
• Nicholas Molkte, Founder & CEO, Botswanamark – focusing on provenance and ethical sourcing of diamonds from Botswana. Each Botswanamark diamond carries with it a guaranteed chain of custody – from the mines in Botswana to the consumer. 
• Tai Wong, Director, Innovation and Product Development, Platinum Guild International (PGI) – a marketing organisation created in 1975 with the vision to develop the global platinum jewellery market as a new demand source for platinum.
• Pritesh Patel, Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Gemological Institute of America (GIA) – ensuring GIA’s role in accurate certification and provenance tracking.

The conclusion was clear: for traceability to be truly effective worldwide, these platforms must collaborate to create a standardized and interoperable protocol that works across the entire industry.

Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting: PORTRAITS

Led by Paola de Luca–an Italian luxury trends forecaster known for developing a trend book on global jewellery design.

“The Anthropology of Body and Ornament”, exploring jewellery as a cultural expression and tool for self-expression, innovation, and identity. The discussion  examined how body adornment has influenced collections and transformed the way jewellery is worn, bridging past, present, and future perspectives.

In addition to The Portraits, this  year’s The Jewellery Trendbook 2026 was also introduced. This year’s focus is on  the evolution of consumption in the luxury market and takes a careful look at the emerging phenomena that condition the evolution of society, reflecting on purchasing behavior.

Expansion & The Future of Vicenzaoro

While hosting an event of this scale, the Vicenza Expo Centre is also undergoing significant expansion, with work progressing seamlessly alongside the show’s schedule—ensuring no disruption to exhibitors or buyers. This investment reinforces Vicenzaoro’s role as a long-term hub for global jewelry trade and innovation.

Beyond Vicenzaoro January, the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) has unveiled an ambitious calendar of eight international events in 2025, bringing the spirit of Vicenzaoro to key global markets. Upcoming highlights include:

• OROAREZZO (May)
• SIJE Singapore (July)
• Vicenzaoro September, including the return of VO’Clock Privé
• The inaugural Vicenza Symposium (September)—a groundbreaking scientific event exploring the intersection of technology, metals, and sustainability in jewelry and fashion
• Valenza Jem Forum (October)
• JGTD Dubai (November)
• Italian Jewellery Summit in Arezzo (December)

A Global Pulse for the Jewelry Industry

Vicenzaoro’s success is a testament to the strength and resilience of the jewelry and goldsmithing industry. The event’s unique blend of business, innovation, and cultural exchange makes it the beating heart of the global jewelry sector. With a clear vision for the future—driven by sustainability, technology, and craftsmanship—Vicenzaoro continues to shape the trajectory of high jewelry and diamond markets worldwide.

As the industry looks ahead to a year filled with innovation and opportunity, Vicenzaoro remains the essential starting point for 2025’s jewelry calendar—where tradition meets the future.

Aerial view of Venice while arriving into Marco Polo Airport

The dynamic show was full of exciting programs, talks and events, as well as a vast number of exhibitors from high jewellery to fine and costume jewellery, material sourcing, technology and equipment. The show covered the whole production line of jewellery, marketing and e-commerce, and did it well. Each hall was dedicated to a specific section and with the latest app; The Jewellery Golden Cloud it was easy to navigate the halls to find the brands and categories easily and swiftly.

Similar to the past editions, this time the entrance was decorated with shimmering gold, perfect sentiment to the show and glistening jewellery on display. Whenever you would walk past the entrance, the captivating golden wall was enchanting visitors and no one could stop filming and photographing in front of it.

September edition kicked off on September 9th with over 1,000 exhibitors spread through 8 halls, and in comparison with 2019, overall number of visits was up by 10% with over half of the attendance (51%) was international from 124 countries. Vicenzaoro proved to be the hub for business, training, information and networking. 

Subscribe to Vicenzaoro YouTube channel to watch all the talks and seminars. Click Here!

Here are some of the highlights of the show:

FABERGÉ x Game of Thrones one of a kind egg, watch the video here!

FABERGÉ x Game of Thrones one of a kind egg, watch the video here!

Yoko London High Jewellery Collection

Mattioli unique creations

Nanis iconic Transformista necklace

In addition to wonderful jewels, The Jewellery Trendbook event was anothr highlight of the exhibition which was conducted by Paola De Luca, discussing strategy and marketing as well as upcoming trends.

Click here to get your own copy with a 10% discount using this code: CHAMPAGNEGEM

Tracey and I with our THE JEWELLERY TRENDBOOK 2024 walking the city of Vicenza

Another highlight was when Tracey and I were chosen to share our favourite pieces from the show, you can watch the complete video on YouTube, and here are some behind the scenes photos of us:

With Michael Hakimian wearing Empress Collection by Yoko London

With Alessio Boschi explaining his latest collection with Persian culture influence; Harem Garden

Showcasing Palmiero ALTER watches

Balmy and breezy weather of September was simply perfect to walk around and enjoy the  beautiful city of Vicenza. In addition the great company of all jewellery bloggers and influencers who worked so hard to provide a comprehensive live coverage of the show. Each evening we had events organised by VO which was a great opportunity to discuss our best finds and share our discoveries with each other.

The best group of journalists, bloggers & influencers in jewellery industry

The best group of journalists, bloggers & influencers in jewellery industry

Tracey, Stefania and I

Last morning in Vicenza!

Special thanks to the Golden Team at vicenzaoro , Stefania Favaro, Francesca Bicciato, Michela Moneta and Marco Carniello for making this experience as seamless as possible and make us all feel at home. See you in January 2023!

Crisp and fresh air of spring  also added to the allure of the show, specially walking through the main entrance you were greeted by Lorenzo Quinn iconic “GIVE” sculpture which is a symbol of peace, life, love, empathy and sustainability.

Lorenzo Quinn “GIVE” sculpture at the entrance of vicenzaoro

Upon arrival and after providing proof of vaccination (or Super Green Pass) you would enter the wonderful world of gems and jewellery in a very beautiful and intimate setting. With over 1,000 exhibitors spread through various halls, from gemstones and diamonds to gold and finished pieces,  everything was accessible to the trade under one roof for the period of 5 days. There were 300 hosted buyers and 53% of buyers and visitors were from abroad.

The opening ceremony started with Industry Event organized by Italian Exhibition Group, moderated by Marco Carniello, Global Exhibition Director of Jewellery & Fashion of Italian Exhibition Group. Through the following days numerous talk session happened covering variety of topics from trends to sustainability.

Here are some of the highlights of the show:

SCHREINER FINE JEWELLERY 20-carat flawless fancy vivid green diamond ring

UTOPIA Australian South Sea Pearl and Coral broach

GORGOGLIONE 80+carat Zambian emerald

SUTRA tanzanite and diamond bracelet in ceramic

NANIS layers of iconic Ivy necklace

PICCHIOTTI stunning gemstone and diamond rings

GISMONDI 1754 “Genesi” Emerald & Diamond Necklace with Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring

ANAN JEWELS 5-carat each Kite shaped diamond earrings

YOKO LONDON “Royal Wedding” Pearl & Diamond Choker

SCHREINER FINE JEWELLERY 40-carat emerald and diamond ring

To wind down after a full day of gems and jewels, you could either hangout at the entrance of the show for drinks while DJ pumping music through the crowd. Or as Tracey and I did, having a chill dinner at the Oliver restaurant of Golf Hotel Vicenza while enjoying a fabulous ambience with exceptional quality and service. We had a fabulous time with the most hospitable chef and staff who were showering us with exquisite food samples and creating custom plates on request.

Finale to our trip to Vicenza was visiting Museo del Gioiello Vicenza (Museum of Jewelry) which for their fourth edition, they have added another level of perception of the jewels in terms of creating and manufacturing. Throughout the nine exhibition rooms, plus the Director’s Choice, you can find an exquisite selection of Italian jewelry, dedicated to both large fashion houses and small/medium sized companies.

Editor’s Choice: necklace designed by Gianmaria Buccellati and handcrafted in 1996 in the Milanese ateliers of Buccellati.             photo credit: TheDiamondsGirl

Multi strand bead necklace attributed to EMILIO PUCCI. photo credit: TheDiamondsGirl

Thank you again vicenzaoro and Italian Exhibition Group for this incredible experience and your outstanding hospitality, see you in September!