睿智角度 PEARL REPORT | 17 | 2022-2023 TPAHK recently launched a DIY (do-it-yourself) workshop to teach participants how to make their own Tahitian pearl bracelets. This was well-received in the market, revealed Ida Wong, general manager of TPAHK. More workshops and seminars are in the offing to raise public awareness on Tahitian pearls. Joining the postCovid digital revolution, several Tahitian pearl companies are also incorporating online solutions to their businesses such as virtual bidding systems for pearl auctions. Pearl renaissance Pearl jewellery designers are at the forefront of a pearl revolution, bolstered in part by the fashion industry’s relentless representation of pearls as the gem of the new generation. According to Peggy Grosz, senior vice president at Assael, demand for pearls persisted despite Covid-related upheavals. She said retailers are eager to buy and replenish stocks, based on observations during two US shows that Assael attended in 2021 and 2022, respectively. Buyers were partial to pearl strands of all types as well as uniquely designed pearl jewellery. Assael’s trendy and one-of-a-kind designs that combine pearls with coloured gemstones were highly favoured alongside its Bubble Collection by Sean Gilson for Assael, which featured South Sea and Tahitian pearls. “Rare, exceptional gem-quality pieces are in demand, but I am delighted to say that the high-end consumer has also transitioned to innovative designs,” revealed Grosz. “They also support non-traditional combinations of materials like pearls with petrified wood.” The challenge, she said, is continuously expanding these collections while maintaining perceived value. With increased emphasis on the pearl’s sustainability, enduring beauty and versatility, the price becomes less relevant, the company official said. Assael is working on fresh initiatives to boost market demand, including bringing back and giving a new twist to classic Assael pearl and diamond jewellery pieces. “Pearls with ethically sourced diamonds are always a magical combination. And we are contemporising this illustrious pairing. An example would be our Bubble Diamond necklace by Sean Gilson for Assael. That is just the beginning of this journey,” shared Grosz. The company also started using lesser-known natural saltwater pearls in its latest collections, which garnered positive reviews from the market. Sustainability Cartier of SSEF said sustainability will play an even greater role in the future of the pearl sector, considering the worsening impact of climate change on many sectors. Pearl farmers, as frontliners, need to adapt and innovate. Consumers and brands meanwhile are increasingly sourcing responsible and sustainable materials. “Cultured pearls can meet many of these emerging consumer needs if they are farmed responsibly,” added Cartier. Pearl farm at Halong Bay, Vietnam; Pearl ring by Assael 越南下龙湾的珍珠养殖场; Assael的珍珠戒指
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