JNA Nov/ Dec 2021

MARKET INTELLIGENCE 50 | JNA Nov/Dec 2021 Vithal Trading prepared the collection of D-colour bracelets especially for JGW 2021, Lau explained, adding that the company’s B2B customers do not normally require high-colour diamonds. B2C buyers however would request diamonds with good colour as well as a certificate. Price is a huge factor when purchasing jewellery at the fair, according to Sophia Man of LD Diamond and Jewellery Ltd. Buyers would scour for best prices and huge discounts but the jewellery must be of decent quality and have attractive designs. Local customers favoured diamond-embellished rings, bracelets and earrings that were priced below HK$10,000 (around US$1,286). By comparison, the company’s overseas B2B buyers would normally order coloured gemstones. Its biggest market is Southeast Asia, revealed Man. Diamond wholesaler Beauty Gems also counted finished jewellery among its bestsellers at JGW 2021. The company’s Anirudha Khatod said buyers at his booth spent around HK$10,000 (around US$1,286) for trendy pieces such as diamond necklaces with alphabet or crucifix pendants. “If they see a jewellery design that they like and in that price point (HK$10,000), they do not have to think too much. For this show, buyers would look for an attractive design and price point,” noted Khatod. “It is different when it is a B2B show where a lot more negotiations take place.” Seiichiro Mihara of Imakei Pearl (Hong Kong) Ltd disclosed that his company sold mostly 7.5mm to 9mm Japanese Akoya pearl strands while Jackie Leung of J Ocean Pearl Jewellery Ltd said both South Sea pearls and Japanese Akoya pearls in smaller sizes moved well during the show. J Ocean started offering Japanese Akoya pearls in smaller sizes of 6mm to 7mm to meet market demand for earrings. “These pearls are lighter and are pinkish in colour. Very feminine,” continued Leung, adding that domestic buyers are showing increased interest in Japanese Akoya pearls. Coloured gemstones, while not too popular at the fair, are generally enjoying solid demand in the trade, according to Irfan Takat, director of emerald dealer Takat Gems (HK) Co. Emeralds, in particular, are commanding attention and good prices despite a more challenging business environment. Prices have in fact gone up by as much as 50 per cent in the past year and people are still buying, owing to the emerald’s vivid green hue, which could symbolise hope during uncertain times, continued the company official. Irfan added that other coloured gems such as rubies, sapphires and tanzanite stones are also enjoying stable demand and prices. “We did not really expect to sell here at the fair, but we are on the lookout for customers whom we can liaise with after the show,” shared Irfan. “We hope to meet them here so they can see our goods, and hopefully we can do business after. It is important to network and touch base with potential and existing customers.”