-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.

-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.

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.

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.

-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.

-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.

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!

High-Jewelry this year is unbelievably creative with three main jewelry houses monopolizing the red carpet, here are the best jewelry on the Festival de Cannes red carpet so far, I will update this post again after closing ceremony, so make sure to save it and check it again after July 17th! (Click on each photo for details)

Boucheron

Chopard

Messika

more high-jewelry

As members of press we had a very packed schedule to visit and experience as much as possible during our stay. Our schedule included 2 factory visits to Nanis & Peruffo for understanding the process of creating each piece, getting a feel of the atelier, production line, design studios and experience Italian jewelry to the best. Followed by a festive dinner, of course authentic Italian feast from handmade gnocchi, hand rolled cigars and Amarone wine!

Our nights were followed by attending events around the city and my favourite was an evening walk through the old town to enjoy Salvador Dalí sculptures all around the Basilica toward Museo del Gioiello Vicenza! Currently there is a temporary exhibition of ‘Precious Art: the jewellery sculptures of Salvador Dalí’ at Museo del Gioiello Vicenza that conveys his passion to express himself in space and three dimensions. The jeweled sculptures pay tribute to Dalí’s most important iconographic images, like the ballerinas, the angels and the watch. They are made from 18-carat gold and encrusted with precious stones, diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Each work of art is mounted on a translucent rock crystal base and signed in gold by Dalí. There are various rooms at the museum each dedicated to different aspects of jewelry such as symbol, fashion, beauty, magic, future and more.

Special thanks to Italian Trade Agency in Houston and Vicenzaoro team for inviting me to attend 2019 edition. To learh more about Italian Jewelry please visit: The Extraordinary Italian Jewelry www.teijewelry.com!