GEMSWORLD | 17 | 2019/20 精辟洞见 The ICA official also raised the importance of setting harmonised grading standards, practices and nomenclature in the coloured gemstone sector to bolster consumer confidence. “Industry players should be able to feel confident in securing just one gemmological report. There should be no need for a second or third opinion, which means additional costs,” disclosed Sabbagh. “We need major associations, dealers and gemmological laboratories to agree on this set of standards. It will involve cooperation among industry players.” Currently, ICA, the American Gem Trade Association and the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) follow a Common Disclosure Code. What’s needed now is an industry-wide set of standards accepted by global dealers, gem labs and other stakeholders, he added. Sparkling future Krish Creations’ Patel sees robust demand for sapphires of 1 to 5 carats, particularly from Europe, the US and other Asian countries since these are the most active in the market. Demand from China may remain subdued, with buyers incessantly asking for more affortable items, he added. The future is equally dazzling for rubies especially at the upcoming September Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair, noted Khunaprapakorn of Gemburi, adding that a bigger show will surely attract a higher number of serious buyers. Rubies and sapphires will likely be bought for inventory due to lack of top-quality stones in the market. Nomad’s Saltzman is upbeat about business prospects as well, saying that consumers are expected to come back from their summer vacation and start replenishing their supplies in September. “Based on the outcome of the June Fair, we are quite positive. For regional customers, we’ve seen those from Japan, China, Taiwan and Singapore, and they were all actively sourcing stones. It seems promising unless a major development occurs,” he noted. Santpal Sinchawla of Sant Enterprises is also maintaining a stable outlook despite uncertainties hovering above the market. “We don’t feel the effect of the US-China trade war yet but there will be some impact. The Chinese market is still buying like usual,” he noted. “Business will be steady; it’s not going to be a booming period but there won’t be huge problems. It’s all about stability.” Sabbagh, for his part, said the top end of the market will continue to experience enthusiastic demand and be less price sensitive. “It is hoped that the middle- and lower-priced end of the market will see some growth as current global economic roadblocks are gradually resolved,” he noted. Emerald | 祖母绿
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