Author: chrisstoner040575

The CIBJO Congress, set for October 27, 2025, in Paris, is poised to address pressing concerns regarding business integrity in the jewellery sector. The latest report from the CIBJO Ethics Commission underscores vital issues such as transparency, ethical marketing, and consumer disclosure. With technology offering both opportunities and challenges for enhancing integrity, industry leaders stress the necessity of upholding ethical practices to foster consumer trust and ensure long-term success.

Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter faces uncertainty as the city council moves forward with plans to sell key properties within the Café Block, provoking backlash from Conservative councillors. They argue the sale threatens the area’s World Craft City status and jeopardises the livelihoods of local businesses reliant on collaboration. With concerns over economic implications and a noted lack of prior consultation, the council’s decision has sparked a robust debate on the future of this cultural landmark. Local leaders stress the urgent need to protect the unique craftsmanship that defines the Jewellery Quarter amid fears of jeopardising its rich heritage and economic viability.

Jewellery retailer Lovisa has officially opened a new outlet in Islington’s Angel Central, expanding its global footprint with a 711 sq ft space that includes a dedicated piercing station. Known for its affordable accessories, Lovisa joins a roster of popular fashion brands in the centre, which has recently welcomed the Bababoom restaurant as well. This retail expansion aims to bolster the diversity and appeal of the shopping destination, catering to a growing community of fashion enthusiasts.

The 2025 Sustainability Awards, held on September 17 during the Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong trade fair, celebrated seven winners across six countries for their significant contributions to sustainability in the jewellery sector. Recognized for excellence in categories such as Environmental Stewardship and Community Catalyst, the awards highlight the industry’s commitment to sustainable practices. Celine Lau, director at Informa Markets Jewellery, emphasized the intensive selection process, noting the inspiring entries that reflect a growing dedication to environmental and social responsibility. Since its inception in 2012, the awards have aimed to set benchmarks for sustainability in the fine jewellery and gemstone industries.

The ASEAN Gems & Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) and the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA) have joined forces to host the 2025 AGJA Conference in Hong Kong, marking a significant milestone during HKJJA’s 60th anniversary. This partnership aims to bolster ASEAN’s presence in the global jewellery sector, leveraging the region’s youthful, digitally savvy population of 600 million. Industry leaders emphasized the potential for a cohesive jewellery network that connects Hong Kong’s trading expertise with ASEAN’s rich resources, fostering innovation and growth for businesses across the industry.

The recent 2025 AGJA Conference in Hong Kong, hosted by the ASEAN Gems & Jewellery Trade Association and the HKJJA, has underscored the vital role of ASEAN in the global jewellery landscape. With strong international participation, discussions focused on the creation of a unified ASEAN jewellery network, catering to a young, digital-savvy market of 600 million consumers. Industry leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration and the potential for innovative opportunities, setting a promising future for the jewellery sector in the region.

The ASEAN Gems & Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) and the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA) have marked a significant milestone by hosting the 2025 AGJA Conference in Hong Kong. This partnership underscores the growing importance of ASEAN’s jewellery market, highlighting the region’s vibrant, young, and digitally savvy consumer base. The event brought together industry leaders to explore collaborative opportunities, with discussions centred around establishing a united ASEAN jewellery network and leveraging Hong Kong’s trading expertise. As ASEAN emerges as a pivotal player in the global jewellery industry, the conference showcased a commitment to innovation and cooperation among stakeholders.

In August, Swiss watch exports to the United States plummeted by 24% following a significant tariff increase to 41% enacted by the Trump administration. This decision has raised alarms among Swiss manufacturers, even as year-to-date exports to the U.S. remain up 19%. Meanwhile, sharp declines in exports to China and Hong Kong, alongside a more stable European market, highlight a complex global landscape for the iconic Swiss watch industry. Despite challenges, select markets like Spain and Saudi Arabia offer a glimmer of hope amidst an overall slight global decline.

Grand Seiko has unveiled its latest Spring Drive movement, the 9RB2, at Watches and Wonders in Geneva, promising remarkable accuracy of ±20 seconds per year. The new SLGB005 ‘Violet Dawn’ showcases a stunning purple dial, reminiscent of frost-covered trees, and is crafted from corrosion-resistant Ever-Brilliant Steel. Limited to just 1,300 pieces, the watch will be available from November but notably lacks the micro-adjust clasp featured in previous models. Retailing at $11,100, this exquisite timepiece exemplifies Grand Seiko’s commitment to innovative design and precision craftsmanship.

The 56th Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show has launched in Sharjah, featuring over 500 exhibitors and the awe-inspiring “Dubai Dress,” a Guinness World Record holder for the heaviest and most valuable gold dress, weighing over 10 kilograms. With free public entry available, visitors can explore a vast exhibition space, participate in workshops, and enjoy competitions, including exciting prize draws. This year’s event underscores the region’s prominence in the global gold and jewellery industry, showcasing a blend of traditional artistry and modern design.