(IDEX Online) - More than 2,400 industry professionals attended the first day of CARAT+ on Sunday, far surpassing expectations, according to the organizers.
The highlight of the opening day on Sunday was model and actress Elizabeth Hurley and a surprise collection of vintage cars. Hurley, who wore Cascade collection jewels by CARAT+ exhibitor Roberto Coin, formally opened the show by cutting a ceremonial ribbon. She was then led on a guided tour of the show floor, visiting leading exhibitors and discovering some of the most exceptional diamonds, fancy color diamonds and colored gemstones on display. During a brief press conference, Hurley shared how her career as an actress and model has presented unique opportunities to wear exceptional high jewelry. She also highlighted a fascination, nurtured over her years in showbusiness, with vintage and one-of-a-kind diamond pieces. Hurley was also joined by Easyfairs CEO and Founder, Eric Everard, to reveal a very special show surprise - a procession of vintage and classic cars driven through the CARAT+ show floor. This unique sight - believed to be a trade show first for the sector. CARAT+ Event Director Filip Van Laere said: "The second edition of CARAT+ has so far been a phenomenal success and I look forward to seeing how the rest of our show progresses. I would like to thank the wonderful Elizabeth Hurley, all our exhibitors, visitors, special guests and team members who made CARAT+ Night the talk of Antwerp and the entire diamond sector." The inaugural day of CARAT+ 2018 saw a keynote speech from Holition CEO Jonathan Chippindale, followed by the results of a three-day Hack4Diamonds event, hosted by CARAT+ Main Partner Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) and Junction.