SPOTLIGHT 市场聚焦 22 | JNA March 2026 Next-gen gems of design and industry 新一代设计人才与产业瑰宝 Coloured gemstones are at the heart of key initiatives by Informa Markets Jewellery this year, with significant highlights taking place at its gem and jewellery trade fairs in Hong Kong. Apart from the ICA Plus intensive multi-day programme, Informa’s 2026 activity calendar includes the Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge and the NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards by JWA (Jewellery World Awards). Launched in February, the design challenge champions the next wave of design talent, unlocks the market potential of gender-fluid jewellery and amplifies the storytelling power of coloured gemstones. The NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards by JWA, meanwhile, recognises promising entrepreneurs and professionals aged 45 and under who are energising the coloured gemstone sector. “These initiatives reflect our commitment to fostering creativity, innovation and growth in the coloured gemstone industry,” said Celine Lau, director of Jewellery Fairs at Informa Markets Jewellery. “By nurturing emerging talent and recognising the future leaders of the trade, we are ensuring the sustainable development of the coloured gemstone sector for generations to come.” Inclusive statements The Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge seeks to inspire excitement, drive fresh demand and foster a love for jewellery − especially among younger consumers − while empowering the next generation of artists to embrace bold, inclusive perspectives beyond traditional gender norms. Open to Asia-based students enrolled in recognised jewellery design or jewellery-making programmes, the international competition has three categories: Earrings, Rings and Brooches. Earrings that defy convention − ear cuffs, climbers, studs and stacks − are the focus of the first category. Designers are encouraged to submit bold designs that go beyond traditional lobe piercings, experimenting with mixed metals, unique shapes and innovative gemstone combinations. They may incorporate materials like wood, shells and metals to produce wearable art that redefines ear adornments. The Rings category dares participants to create androgynous pieces that celebrate individuality and style over tradition, from multi-finger styles and cocktail rings to entirely new concepts. Alongside precious stones and metals, non-traditional materials such as wood, rough stones, mother-of-pearl shells and other elements may be used, offering endless possibilities for bold and gender-fluid designs. Once considered outdated, brooches have made a striking resurgence as bold, statement accessories that transcend traditional fashion norms. This category challenges designers to reimagine brooches beyond the classic lapel pin, encompassing multiuse pieces that can double as pendants, belt buckles and stylish accents for bags, hats and scarves, as well as decorative charms with tech features. Gem focus Coloured gemstones must make up at least 60 per cent of the total materials used in the design. Moreover, the retail price of the finished product must not exceed US$1,000. Participants, who must not be professional designers, can submit a maximum of two entries. The Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge is accepting entries – 3D renderings or handInforma Markets Jewellery’s design competition and awards programme foster business succession by encouraging the next generation’s active participation in both the supply and demand sides of the coloured gemstone trade. Informa Markets Jewellery珠宝设计比赛及奖项计划，锐意鼓励新一代积极参与 彩色宝石贸易的供需双方，以促进企业传承与发展。
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