Experts from pearl producers, top dealers and brands will delve into the unique appeal of pearls to the younger generation of buyers at a panel discussion on September 18 during Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW) 2024.

Taking place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 3:15pm to 4:15pm, “The Power of Pearls: Sustainable Gems for a New Generation” will explore innovative strategies to attract a broader demographic and redefine pearl jewellery for the influential millennial consumer segment. 

Guest speakers include Jacques Christophe Branellec, CEO of Jewelmer; Dr. Rebecca Koss, sustainability manager of Paspaley Pearling Company Pty Ltd; and Rosario Autore, founder and CEO of Autore Group.

The session will examine how the industry can leverage the sustainability factor of pearls to differentiate them from other gemstones and attract environmentally conscious millennial consumers. It will also explore the role storytelling and education play in increasing the appreciation for and understanding of pearls among younger consumers. Speakers will likewise share strategies to make pearl jewellery more accessible to the millennial consumer segment without compromising on quality or sustainability.

Speakers

Jacques Christophe Branellec is the CEO and executive vice president of Jewelmer. He aims to deepen the Philippine South Sea pearl’s roots through Jewelmer’s presence in over 15 countries, and by establishing the brand as a revered name in pearl jewellery worldwide. Recognised for his work in environmental conservation, Branellec holds the rank of Captain in the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary and is the director of Save Palawan Seas Foundation. He also serves as the vice president on the Pearl Commission of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) and is currently the president of the French Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.

Dr. Rebecca Koss is the sustainability manager of Paspaley Pearling Company. In addition to holding a Global Executive MBA, she has over 20 years of sustainability professional experience across both the public and private sector. Understanding that sustainability is good for business, Dr. Koss is passionate about helping businesses develop their sustainability strategy so that they can be leaders in their sector. She enjoys collaborating with all stakeholders and is currently the chair of the Environmental Science Advisory Board at Deakin University, Australia. 

Rosario Autore, founder & CEO of The Autore Group, has worked in the South Sea pearl industry for 38 years, having established 10 South Sea pearl farms across Australia and Indonesia. He is also a two-time finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year. In 2007, alongside his team, Rosario developed the industry’s first South Sea Pearl Classification Guide, a comprehensive overview of the five characteristics of South Sea pearls. This guide was developed to assist both the consumer and trade. Recognising AUTORE’s contribution to pearl education, the French Senate awarded him with a Medal of Distinction. 

When at the Head Office, Rosario is found at the grading tables, his quiet abode where he works on creating some of the largest and most lustrous strands to hit the market. From farming and distribution to design and marketing of the 11-time international award-winning jewellery brand, Rosario has a passion for pearling and is renowned for his creative and innovative approach across all aspects of the group.

Online registration for JGW 2024 is now open.

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