(IDEX Online) - VOD Dubai International Jewellery Show (VOD DIJS), organized by DV Global Link, a joint-venture company between Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), hosted local, regional and international exhibitors from 21 countries, showcasing over 25,000 jewelry pieces and holding valuable trade and consumer lifestyle events.
VOD DIJS said next year's show will take place from November 13 to 16.
The hosted buyers program saw international retailers and wholesalers being paired with exhibitors to ensure access to unique collections and build new relationships in the industry. The 2018 visitor figures showed they came from 80 countries, with the UAE, India, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Russia, Kuwait and China leading the way.
Show Director Luca Veronesi said of the November 15-18 event, "The consolidation of the new format, which started last year, confirms it is the most strategic, optimum and suitable considering the market dynamics. The impact of such a beneficial B2B and B2C showcase will provide a boost for Dubai's jewelry industry, and that of the entire MENA [Middle East and North Africa] region, going forward into 2019."
Industry experts provided insights into trending topics, the show organizers said. Paola de Luca, the co-founder of TRENDVISION Jewellery + Forecasting, gave an overview of TrendBook 2020, unveiling an extract of the latest forecast for the upcoming seasons, consumers insights, and product directions in diamonds, gemstones and gold jewelry. The International Gemological Institute (IGI) led a seminar on "Emeralds: A Royal Gem" with the aim of uncovering the mystery and history behind the stone and why women, from Cleopatra to Kate Middleton, will continue to be fascinated by it.
In addition, The New Jeweller hosted the Middle East Jewellery Designer's Forum 2018 which explored the "Era of Design", with leading industry figures discussing dynamic design trends, the value of design in the market and how it will continue to shape the future of the Middle Eastern gem and jewelry sector in particular. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) also gave an important talk on identifying synthetic diamonds.
The promotion of local designers also played an integral role in the show as VOD DIJS, in collaboration with Dubai-based diamond studio 55FIFTY7, hosted an Independent Designer's Space and Children's Competition - two initiatives primarily focused on nurturing, enlightening, and inspiring local jewelry talent. Organizers also welcomed participants from Qelada, a government program that provides an empowering platform for people to employ their creative talents to design beautiful jewelry pieces, which proved popular and sought-after throughout the four days. Overall, visitors were treated to a unique selection of jewelry pieces, special offers and 19 jewelry fashion shows.