Author: chrisstoner040575

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.

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has appealed to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for permission to manufacture jewellery for the domestic market within export-oriented units in Mumbai’s SantaCruz Electronics Export Processing Zone. Amidst rising US tariffs that have severely impacted exports, the industry is seeking a six-month interest moratorium on loans. With domestic demand on the rise and job losses looming, GJEPC officials emphasize the urgent need for financial relief and policy adjustments to support the struggling sector. As capacity utilisation in key processing hubs declines by 40%, the stakes for thousands of workers grow ever higher.

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council has formally requested that the Indian government permit export-oriented jewellery units in special economic zones to produce for the domestic market, amidst crippling U.S. tariffs that have slashed export orders. The council is also advocating for a six-month interest moratorium on export loans to ease financial pressures. With a reported 40% drop in capacity utilization at SEEPZ, industry leaders warn of potential job losses and emphasize the growing demand for lab-grown diamonds, hoping to safeguard the sector’s future while navigating these challenges.

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has urged Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to allow export-oriented units in Mumbai’s SantaCruz Electronics Export Processing Zone (SEEPZ) to supply the domestic market, as a response to a significant downturn in export orders exacerbated by steep US tariffs. Industry leaders also called for a six-month interest moratorium on jewellery export loans to mitigate financial strain. With demand for lab-grown diamonds surging in both the US and India, the GJEPC emphasizes the need for immediate relief measures to protect jobs amidst a reported 40% drop in capacity utilization within SEEPZ manufacturing units.

India’s diamond industry faces a precarious future as the U.S. imposes a staggering 50% tariff on cut and polished diamonds. With Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra bearing the brunt of this economic blow, calls for government intervention are growing louder. The Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council warns that around 1.7 lakh jobs are at risk, with small and medium-sized enterprises particularly vulnerable. Industry leaders advocate for extending export obligations and a hefty bailout package of ₹500 crore to mitigate the impact, stressing the urgent need for support to safeguard a sector crucial to India’s economy.

India’s diamond and jewellery industry is facing a significant crisis following the U.S. imposition of a staggering 50% tariff on diamond exports. The move threatens to disrupt the livelihoods of approximately 1.7 lakh workers, particularly within small and medium enterprises that dominate the sector. Key states such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra are expected to bear the brunt of job losses. Industry leaders are urgently calling for government intervention, including an extended export obligation and a ₹500 crore bailout package, to shield the sector from potential collapse amid escalating financial pressures.

Yoko London has unveiled a new boutique on the ground floor of Selfridges, positioning itself alongside luxury heavyweight brands like Prada and Dior. This relocation marks a significant growth phase for the pearl jeweller, with CEO Michael Hakimian highlighting the enhanced visibility and customer access offered by the new design. Showcasing both contemporary and traditional pearl collections, the boutique promises an elevated shopping experience, complete with exclusive pieces unique to this location.

The Emirati Goldsmiths platform, initiated by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will feature prominently at the 56th Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show, taking place from 24 to 28 September 2025. This ambitious initiative aims to empower nearly 400 Emirati designers, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation within the gold and jewellery sector. With a focus on blending traditional craftsmanship with modern artistry, the platform showcases unique collections that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the UAE. As the Chamber emphasizes support for young talent, attendees can expect to see striking pieces that make a compelling statement in both style and heritage, underscoring the growing prominence of Emirati artisans on the global stage.

A. Lange & Söhne continues to assert its place at the pinnacle of horology with the updated Lange 1 Time Zone, a luxurious travel watch that marries functionality with exquisite craftsmanship. Recent enhancements, including improved dial legibility and the incorporation of a Daylight Saving Time indicator, elevate its practicality for travellers. Enthusiasts are captivated by the watch’s refined aesthetics and the rich detailing of its hand-finished movement, affirming that wearing a Lange evokes admiration and respect within the watch community. With designs that balance elegance and usability, the Lange 1 Time Zone stands out as a quintessential symbol of German engineering in luxury watchmaking.

The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has launched its first retail campaign, aiming to elevate sustainability awareness within the jewellery and watch industries. Utilizing the hashtags #LoveResponsibleJewellery and #LoveResponsibleWatches, the initiative provides members with communication tools to engage consumers about ethical practices. An online workshop on 18 September will support members in implementing these resources effectively. RJC Chairman Dave Meleski highlighted the campaign’s goal to strengthen trust and promote responsible practices across supply chains, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future in the sector.