Our sales team traveled to Hong Kong to attend the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show from March 4 through March 8, 2026 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This show continues to be one of the most important global gatherings for the fine jewelry industry, bringing together jewelry manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers from around the world.
For us, attending is about far more than walking the show floor. It is about listening, learning, strengthening relationships, and staying closely connected to what our customers are experiencing in real time.
Compared to previous years, this show felt especially shaped by the realities of today’s metal markets. High gold prices were a constant undercurrent in conversations across the floor, and the general sentiment could best be described as acceptance rather than panic. The prevailing attitude was simply, “It is what it is,” followed by thoughtful discussions on how to adapt.
One clear theme was the growing tension between quality and gram weight. Many conversations pointed toward what several jewelry suppliers described as an emerging quality versus weight challenge. Buyers are looking for ways to preserve the look and feel of their jewelry while reducing metal weight wherever possible.
-Valerie Kunkel, International Account Manager
Gold continues to take center stage over silver and platinum as companies reassess how to address high metal markets. There is strong interest in lower weight gold items that maintain the same visual presence, whether through design changes, chain styles, or construction techniques.
Permanent jewelry remains very popular, but affordability has become a growing concern. While demand is still there, matching previous chain intricacies and thickness levels at today’s prices is proving more difficult for many companies. This has pushed suppliers and customers alike to rethink designs and explore alternatives that balance aesthetics with cost.
Pearls also stood out as a strong category. Their ability to anchor a jewelry piece without relying heavily on metal makes them an attractive option in today’s environment, and interest remains high across multiple regions.
At the same time, new product development appears slower across the industry. Despite that, requests for new products and expanded product lines came up frequently in customer conversations. There is clear demand for innovation, even as companies proceed cautiously.
“New product development feels a bit slower across the industry, but the interest is still there. Customers are actively asking what is coming next,” Valerie noted.
One of the most valuable aspects of attending a global show like this is seeing how priorities differ by region.
Interest in 9K gold was particularly strong among buyers from the UK and Australia, where balancing price and durability remains a key focus. Meanwhile, customers from India, Bangladesh, and China showed high interest in Intercept Anti Tarnish protection, driven largely by higher pollution levels and the need to protect jewelry over time.
These regional differences reinforce why global shows matter. They allow us to better understand not just what customers want, but why they want it.
Across the board, many companies are holding less inventory and purchasing in smaller quantities. This cautious approach reflects ongoing uncertainty in the market and a desire to remain flexible as prices fluctuate.
Price sensitivity was evident in many discussions, and in some cases, price appeared to outweigh quality considerations. This reinforces the importance of education, transparency, and helping customers understand long-term value rather than short-term savings alone.
- Dan Pabrinkis, Sales Director
Being present at the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show allows us to do what emails and calls simply cannot. Face-to-face conversations create space for deeper discussions, real-time problem solving, and honest feedback. They allow customers to see our products in person, ask questions, and share what is happening in their own businesses.
Just as importantly, these trips allow us to stay closely connected as a team. Spending time with our sales team in Hong Kong gives us the opportunity to align internally, share insights, and bring a unified perspective back to our customers.
We value staying in touch with our customers and encouraging open communication that feels like a partnership. Our goal is always to understand how we can support one another and grow together!
Beyond the show floor, it is often the smaller moments that make these trips memorable. Riding the Star Ferry across Hong Kong Harbor offered a brief pause in an otherwise busy schedule and a chance to take in the city from a different perspective.
Another highlight was a seven-course dinner shared with a long-time customer, featuring steak, lamb chops, soup, and more, all finished with pistachio ice cream!
Attending the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show continues to be an essential part of how we stay informed, engaged, and connected. The insights we gain help shape our approach, guide product discussions, and ensure we, as a top US jewelry manufacturer, remain responsive to the evolving needs of our customers.
We will be back in Hong Kong in September for Jewellery & Gem World HK! Stay tuned for more information.