Record exhibitor turnout for jewelry fair in HK

More than 3,300 exhibitors from 49 countries and regions, a new exhibitor record, are taking part in the 30th Hong Kong International Jewelry Show, which opened on Tuesday and continues through March 9 in Hong Kong.

The show, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and five jewelry associations, has become the largest Spring Jewelry Fair in Asia after decades of development.

Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of Hong Kong Ceajer Chan Ka-keung said that Hong Kong is the world's fifth- largest exporter of precious jewelry, the value of its fine jewelry totaled 53 billion HK dollars (about 6.9 billion U.S dollars) in 2012, up 14 percent from the previous year. He said HK jewelry companies are expected to do well again in 2013.

Chairman of HKTDC Jewelry Organizing Committee Lawrence Ma also saw a bright future for Hong Kong's jewelry industry this year. According to him, sales to traditional markets will concentrate on high-end pieces, and the focus of less-expensive ones will be on lightweight and affordable design distinguished by good quality and craftsmanship.

The fair hosts exhibitors from Cyprus, Lebanon and Peru for the first time, alongside 17 group pavilions. In addition, seven international trade organization pavilions and 10 featured product zones are also on hand.

The new Small-Order Zone is another fair feature. It offers jewelry that can be purchased in small quantities, between five and 500 pieces, and at prices below 1,000 U.S dollars per piece.

More than 20 special events are taking place over the fair's five days, including a wide variety of seminars, networking receptions and jewelry parades.

According to HKTDC, more than 90 buying missions of over 6,500 buyers from 80 countries and regions are taking part in the show.

Jewelry design at its finest is central to the fair. Throughout the show, visitors can view the finalists and winners of three major design competitions, including the 2013 International Jewelry Design Excellence Award, the ninth International South Sea Pearl Jewelry Design Competition and the 14th Hong Kong Jewelry Design Competition.