Pearl industry experts will explore the pearl’s rising popularity among a younger generation of buyers at a panel discussion on the sidelines of Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong (JGA) 2025.

The event, “For the Love of Pearls: A Millennial and Gen Z Affair,” will discuss how pearls have adeptly adjusted to evolving trends, solidifying their timeless status as the quintessential luxury gem that transcends generations. The panel, scheduled for June 20, 2025, will also look at how the fusion of fashion, powerful narratives and the unmatched beauty of pearls is winning over the hearts and wallets of Millennial and Gen Z consumers.

Speakers at the event are Ruby Autore (Autore Group), David Wong (Fukui Shell Nucleus Factory) and Julien-Loïc Garin (The Collection by JLG).

Next-gen pearl leaders

Ruby is marketing head and international jewellery manager of Autore Group as well as founder and creative director of Autore Moda, the pearl specialist’s contemporary demi-fine jewellery brand. 

With a fresh vision and a passion for design, Ruby launched Autore Moda to reimagine pearls for a new generation – making luxury more accessible without compromising on quality, craftsmanship or ethical values.

Drawing on her background in fashion and business, Ruby has positioned the brand as a modern expression of everyday elegance. Her designs are bold yet wearable, crafted to reflect the individuality of the wearer while honouring the timeless beauty of the South Sea pearl. Under her direction, the company bridges the gap between fine jewellery and fashion, bringing pearls into a new era with style and confidence.

Meanwhile, Wong is project director of Fukui Shell Nucleus Factory. Deeply passionate about pearls, Wong tirelessly works to share their overlooked stories and traditions with others. He enjoys finding creative ways to connect people with this heritage, hoping to spark appreciation for its beauty and meaning. Wong developed a patented pearl identification technology to support authenticity in the industry.

Wong also offers a unique pearl workshop at sea, where participants can explore Hong Kong’s maritime past and learn about marine conservation. Further supporting his advocacies are school visits that he conducts to talk about caring for the planet, aiming to inspire young people to think about sustainability. 

In a world that values eco-conscious choices, Wong sees pearls as a meaningful part of sustainable luxury, appealing to Millennials and Gen Z who care about the environment and heritage. Through his efforts, he hopes to contribute to a future where tradition and responsibility go hand in hand.

For his part, Garin is founder and creative director of The Collection by JLG. Born in France, he came to Hong Kong in 2011 to join Le French May Arts festival as CEO, bridging French and Hong Kong cultures.

From his love of unique and unusual gemstones and his passion for antique and historical jewellery, Garin created The Collection by JLG, a collection of timeless and genderless jewels that he designs from stories, moments and memories. Handmade in Hong Kong, his jewellery pieces are conceived as amulets to adorn the simple moments of the day or the main events of the night.

Garin is currently the executive director of the Fondation de France in Asia, where he leads the development of the Hong Kong-based Foundation for Art and Culture created by Arthur de Villepin, a connecting ecosystem of institutions and programmes, fostering exchanges and dialogues between Europe, China, and other international cultural scenes.
 

Click here to register for JGA 2025.