MARKET INTELLIGENCE 市场情报 JNA July/August 2024 | 55 Ruby education According to a consumer trends report published in January this year by coloured gemstone miner Gemfields, the Chinese market demonstrated a high level of interest in rubies but there is a knowledge gap, with demand for transparent information on prices, certification, origin and processing from reputable sources on the rise. The report, “Ruby: Breaking Out of Collectors’ Cabinets, Becoming Part of China’s Middle Class Lifestyle,” was conducted between September and October 2023. Data was collected via a combination of online surveys and in-person interviews of 1,000 respondents aged 25 to 60 across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities in mainland China. Gemfields said heightened professional education on rubies could further drive consumption. “Of course, there are a few sophisticated buyers who have a certain level of knowledge about gemstones. For instance, they know that different laboratories have different criteria for certifications. They have specific requirements about which laboratory issues the certificates,” Tang of PN Gems said. He continued, “However, given the vast size of the China market, majority of consumers are at a beginner level in terms of gemstone know-how. There is a need to strengthen their knowledge and recognition of rubies and develop a more rational view of flaws in natural gemstones.” He further noted that China's growing middle- and upper-class segments are increasingly becoming interested in learning more about the gems that they purchase, specifically origin, colour, clarity and treatment processes. They are eager to acquire information through various online and offline channels and are even willing to pay for courses. “The jewellery market in China is thriving and the jewellery education sector is booming as well. Various laboratories and organisations have introduced jewellery training courses in China for gem and jewellery enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Such trainings can shape and nurture potential high-quality consumers,” Tang said. Rosy outlook China’s ruby market has enormous growth potential, owing to untapped segments, noted Tang. “In the past, rubies were only favoured in first-tier cities, and this demand was confined to fine-quality gems. Over the years, customers in other cities have become interested in medium- to low-quality stones for daily use. These buyers are more price-oriented and are not so critical about quality,” he explained. Pattaratara of World Corundum also saw increasing demand for smaller-sized rubies as well as high-quality calibrated rubies from jewellery manufacturers who want to produce sizeable jewellery collections. The market, however, faces significant supply challenges due to lower production of premium-quality gems, which also leads to higher ruby prices. According to ruby suppliers, prices will continue to rise or remain at a high level. Andy Chan, chairman of Hong Kong Hopewell International Supply Chain Co Ltd, commented, “The ruby market in China was relatively slower last year, mainly due to global economic uncertainties, which adversely affected the retail business. Jewellery retailers were unable to accept high ruby prices and were reluctant to replenish products in their inventories.” As a Gemfields’ authorised auction partner, Hopewell International supplies rubies to chain jewellers in mainland China and Hong Kong. Chan added, “I remain optimistic about prospects in China’s ruby market as demand for rubies remains strong. An industry-wide effort to enhance marketing and educational initiatives, however, is necessary.” PN Gems’ Tang, meanwhile, said the high prices of finequality rubies foster confidence among consumers and encourage them to invest in rubies. Calibrated Mozambique rubies from World Corundum Co Ltd World Corundum Co Ltd的标准尺寸莫桑比克红宝石
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