Coloured gemstones are at the heart of key initiatives by Informa Markets Jewellery this year. Apart from the ICA Plus intensive multi-day programme in September, Informa’s 2026 activity calendar includes the Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge and the NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards by JWA (Jewellery World Awards).

The design challenge champions the next wave of design talent, unlocks the market potential of gender-fluid jewellery and amplifies the storytelling power of coloured gemstones.

The NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards by JWA, meanwhile, recognises promising entrepreneurs and professionals aged 45 and under who are energising the coloured gemstone sector.

"These initiatives reflect our commitment to fostering creativity, innovation and growth in the coloured gemstone industry," said Celine Lau, director of Jewellery Fairs at Informa Markets Jewellery. "By nurturing emerging talent and recognising the future leaders of the trade, we are ensuring the sustainable development of the coloured gemstone sector for generations to come."

Inclusive statements

The Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge seeks to inspire excitement, drive fresh demand and foster a love for jewellery − especially among younger consumers − while empowering the next generation of artists to embrace bold, inclusive perspectives beyond traditional gender norms.

Open to Asia-based students enrolled in recognised jewellery design or jewellery-making programmes, the international competition has three categories: Earrings, Rings and Brooches.

Earrings that defy convention − ear cuffs, climbers, studs and stacks − are the focus of the first category. Designers are encouraged to submit bold designs that go beyond traditional lobe piercings, experimenting with mixed metals, unique shapes and innovative gemstone combinations. They may incorporate materials like wood, shells and metals to produce wearable art that redefines ear adornments. 

The Rings category dares participants to create androgynous pieces that celebrate individuality and style over tradition, from multi-finger styles and cocktail rings to entirely new concepts. Alongside precious stones and metals, non-traditional materials such as wood, rough stones, mother-of-pearl shells and other elements may be used, offering endless possibilities for bold and gender-fluid designs.

Once considered outdated, brooches have made a striking resurgence as bold, statement accessories that transcend traditional fashion norms. This category challenges designers to reimagine brooches beyond the classic lapel pin, encompassing multiuse pieces that can double as pendants, belt buckles and stylish accents for bags, hats and scarves, as well as decorative charms with tech features.

Gem focus

Coloured gemstones must make up at least 60 per cent of the total materials used in the design. Moreover, the retail price of the finished product must not exceed US$1,000. Participants, who must not be professional designers, can submit a maximum of two entries.

The Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge is accepting entries – 3D renderings or hand-drawn sketches in high-resolution format, with dimensions and material specifications – until 6pm, Hong Kong time on April 30. Finalists’ designs will be showcased for judging and public voting at Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong (JGA) from June 18 to 21.

Three winners in each category will be announced in July and presented with their awards on September 17 during the Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW) Fair Reception at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The winning designs will be manufactured and displayed at JGW’s Gender-Fluid Jewellery Gallery and at select Informa Markets Jewellery fairs within and outside Hong Kong.

Winners will enjoy editorial coverage in JNA publications. Those outside Hong Kong will get a sponsored trip to JGW inclusive of airfare, hotel accommodation and a daily allowance for three days.

Leaders of tomorrow

JWA is likewise turning its attention to rising stars in the gemstone field.

The NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards by JWA celebrates changemakers aged 45 and under who stand out for their creativity, innovative thinking and commitment to sustainability.

They will be selected by Informa Markets Jewellery, in consultation with industry associations and leading players in the jewellery and gemstone trade, based on criteria such as performance and innovation, future focus, and community impact.

Award recipients will be revealed at JGA’s Media Gathering on June 18 and formally honoured at the JGW Fair Reception on September 17.