MARKET INTELLIGENCE 市场情报 JNA July/August 2025 | 57 Jadeite necklace by On Tung Jewellery Co Ltd 安东珠宝有限公司翡翠项链 “Buyers prefer a piece of jewellery that will either retain or increase its value over the years, or even decades,” explained Sjuman. Exceptionally high-quality jadeite such as “imperial jade,” continues to fetch impressive prices at auctions and retail markets. Chu remarked, “Cabochon jadeite in particular is gaining traction.” In terms of jewellery designs, the trend is shifting towards a more refined look, he continued, adding that collectors prefer minimalist, sleeker designs. The highlight of the piece should be the jadeite’s distinct qualities. “While diamond halos remain a popular design in jadeite jewellery, there have been some changes in the details,” stated Chu. “For instance, we are seeing more fancy cuts as opposed to round diamonds, which were prevalent in the past. Also, 18-karat yellow gold is in the spotlight now, replacing 18-karat white gold.” Younger consumers According to the 2024 China Jadeite Industry Development White Paper, jadeite jewellery consumption by more mature consumer segments showed an upward trajectory in 2024 compared to 2023, particularly in the jadeite ring, necklace and bracelet categories. Interestingly, younger consumers aged between 31 and 40 accounted for nearly 50 per cent of overall consumers. Chu of On Tung revealed that his company’s primary clientele falls within the 35- to 50-year-old range. Currently, majority of On Tung’s clients are from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Southeast Asia. “A great deal of buyers showed more interest in contemporary jadeite jewellery designs tailored to a younger demographic,” said Sjuman of Unique Brilliant, noting that she receives a high number of requests for designs focusing on jadeite’s natural beauty. The white paper also revealed that high-end jadeite remains a favourite among affluent buyers while trendier options that appeal to younger, fashion-forward consumers are also on the rise. This dual demand ensures that jadeite will continue to thrive as a modern jewellery piece. “To win over the younger generation of consumers, it is crucial for the jadeite industry to embrace elements associated with modern cultural trends and create jewellery designs that resonate with their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences,” the white paper stated. Challenges and opportunities The jadeite sector faces its share of challenges, particularly in sourcing rare and highquality raw materials, Sjuman of Unique Brilliant and Chu of On Tung noted. Chu explained that Myanmar, the world’s main source of high-quality jadeite, continues to grapple with political instability, which has disrupted supply chains and driven costs up. This resulted in a scarcity of premium jadeite, pushing prices higher and constraining the gems' availability in the market. “Ongoing economic uncertainties also inevitably affected buyers’ luxury spending. However, we are firm about the price of premium-quality jadeite. Collectors know the value of these gemstones and are willing to invest,” he said. Chu is optimistic about prospects in the jadeite trade, adding that there is progress in developing an international standard for jadeite. The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) has been actively working on a Fei Cui Guide, with the aim of establishing clear nomenclature, trading standards and full disclosure requirements for Fei Cui materials – addressing the complexity of jade’s mineral components such as jadeite, omphacite and kosmochlor. “The Fei Cui Guide is expected to be ready by the end of 2025. This initiative will help further promote trade and business in the jadeite sector,” Chu said. Jadeite ring by Unique Brilliant Ltd 创一珠宝有限公司的翡翠戒指
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