15th March 2007

BANGKOK GEMS & JEWELRY SHOW - REPORT & TRENDS BY HIBISCUS JEWELRY CO., LTD.
 
The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair has established itself as one of The World’s Favorite Gem & Jewelry Destinations of top gem and jewelry professionals through the efforts of Thailand’s skilled and talented workforce, beautiful natural resources and a world-class manufacturing center capable of producing jewelry to fit every taste. Thailand is also one of the world’s foremost cutting and trading centers for diamond and colored gemstones making the Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair an excellent choice for all your gem and jewelry needs. Bangkok is also one of the most exciting and exotic cities in the world to host a gem and jewelry fair with every modern convenience nestled right in alongside ancient Thai culture.

The 39th Bangkok Gem & Jewelry fair kicked off on the 28th of February with an array of opening seminars from key members in the industry. Seminars were held on a daily basis on topics ranging from international jewelry trade concepts to advances in integration of CAD in the jewelry industry.

The co-organizers, the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association and the Department of Export Promotion, hosted over 1,500 exhibitors and specialty pavilions from 30 countries presenting offering the largest range of products found at any gem and jewelry exhibition in the world. The co-organizers were encouraged to expand the venue to accommodate the many exhibitors waiting to acquire booth space in this popular event. The expansion will also make way for more international pavilions, more special exhibits, more special events, and more facilities and conveniences.
 
 
"The results of this event are the fruits of much work by both the fair organizers and the participants. It is obvious that if we look beyond the attendance figures which in themselves are already positive, we also see a newfound vitality in the Thailand gems and jewelry industry."

- Puneet Jain. CEO, Super Cabs Co., Ltd.
 
 
TRENDS : JEWELRY
 
Necklaces   

Singular Sensation Necklaces: Shoppers will be looking for one signature necklace. Whether it is a large gold chain or a Victorian inspired platinum choker, the prominent look of the season sits closer to the neck in a V-shape or choker style.

Chain Gang: Some layering of necklaces will continue. Ropes and chain link will come in various shapes and sizes with interesting hammered finishes.

Pearls: This timeless classic can look fresh and young this season when layered, twisted and accented with gemstones. Also look for large South Sea pearl cocktail rings, Baroque strands, watches with pearls, and those in brown hues.

Bracelets

In the Thick of It: Consumers will be seeking important bracelets, such as cuffs, thick bangles, or chunky charm bracelets. Load up on bracelets with cabochon and large bezel-set gemstones, in addition to those with freeform designs and oxidized metals.

Rings

Ring Bling: Cocktail rings that feature grandiose colored gemstones are the way to make a statement as the weather cools. Also note the large thick precious metal bands with interesting carvings that are available.

Brooches and Pins

Brooch the Subject: Brooches and pins are the perfect accessory to be added to the two of the hottest looks of the season, which are cropped jackets and headbands.

Earrings

Button Up: Adornments that sit close to the ear are the newest style in the earring evolution. Seek out oversized studs and pavé diamond versions, which look more modern and fresh than the ones worn during the last button earring wave in the 1980s.

FINE JEWELRY THEMES

Victorian

Gilded and lacey details incorporated into important pendants and regal brooches evoke a sense of yesteryear. The Victorian era, which was consumed with romance and death, has inspired austere new jewelry. Dark gemstones, such as onyx, amethyst, and garnet, will be popular. Jewelry with bows and especially the white metals like platinum, white gold and sterling silver will also be important.

Skulls

Skulls and crossbones are edgy and popular right now. Even the most pristine jewelry designers are inspired by this punk rock symbol. Crosses and crests and heavy metal details like grommets and rough-cut and black diamonds will also be all the rage.

Flora and Fauna

Traces of whimsy are being incorporated into fine jewelry. Some key looks include: drooping, oversized flowers; leaves; branches; acorns; in addition to animals; insects; and winged creatures.
 
 
"Customers want the perfect piece that is different, but will move fast for a price. It’s all about value."

- Harikishin Tanwani. Managing Director, S. Grand Gems Co., Ltd.

 
TRENDS : COLORED GEMSTONES
 
Semi-precious gemstones

A surge in demand for greens, blues & purples are driving the semi-precious market into a pricing war, stones such as peridot, topaz (Swiss & London blue) & amethyst have been on the rise in terms of price for the last 6 months or so.

Peridot's have seen the largest gain in price due to global demand for jewelry with green hues. Natural Burmese peridot's being the most prized have seen an price increase of almost 40%-50% (10 ct size and up)

Mr. Yothin Naetsawan of Saket Inter Co., Ltd. had on display the largest natural burmese peridot weighing in at 115 Ct. Indeed a very beautiful gem.

Jewelers such as Tiffany's stress on the colors above in their latest collections, check out Sugar Stacks Collection & New Collections at Tiffanys Jewelry

Precious gemstones

Colors as mentioned above are also pushing the precious gems sector into full gear. Emeralds & sapphires proving to be the strongest market drivers since their colors match global trends.

Green, purple and blue sapphires are selling stronger than last years pink sapphire driven phase. Market prices for these stones have aggregated 5%-8% due to demand and currency fluctuations.

Emeralds as always have been one of the most prized and sought of gems. Larger sizes with strong green hues are in strong demand as well as smaller sizes in princess and baguette cuts.

Jewelers such as Macy's stress on the colors above in their latest collections, check out Macy Jewellers.
 
This report is compiled by Hibiscus Jewelry Co., Ltd.
 
We would like to thank the following companies for allowing us to interview them as well as photograph their booths, without them this report would have not been possible!

Mr. Puneet Jain / Mr. Nitin Mehta - Super Cabs Co., Ltd.

Mr. Ravi Patel - New Suren ROP

Mr. Harikishin Tanwani - S. Grand Gemstones Co., Ltd.

Mr. Yothin Naetsawan - Saket Inter Co., Ltd.