- 16 / 9 / 2024 (Mon)
- 17 / 9 / 2024 (Tue)
- 18 / 9 / 2024 (Wed)
- 19 / 9 / 2024 (Thu)
- 20 / 9 / 2024 (Fri)
- 21 / 9 / 2024 (Sat)
16 / 9 / 2024 (Mon)
2:30pm – 3:30pm
The Stage, Hall 9 AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE)
Jade:
China’s Gift To The World
The Speaker
Richard W. Hughes
Co-Founder
Lotus Gemology Co Ltd
Richard is one of the world’s foremost experts on ruby and sapphire. The author of several books and over 170 articles, his writings and photographs have appeared in a diverse range of publications, and he has received numerous industry awards. Co-winner of the 2004 Edward J. Gübelin Most Valuable Article Award from Gems & Gemology magazine, he was awarded a Richard T. Liddicoat Journalism Award from the American Gem Society the following year. In 2010, he received the Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology from the Accredited Gemologists Association. The Association Française de Gemmologie (AFG) in 2013 named Richard as one of the 50 most important figures that have shaped the history of gems since antiquity. In 2016, Richard was awarded a visiting professorship at Shanghai’s Tongji University. 2017 saw the publication of Richard and his wife and daughter’s Ruby & Sapphire • A Gemologist’s Guide, arguably the most complete book ever published on a single gem species and the culmination of nearly four decades of work in gemmology. In 2018, Richard was named Photographer of the Year by the Gem-A, recognising his photo of a jade-trading market in China, while from 2020 – 2023, he served on the board of directors of the Accredited Gemologists Association. Currently he sits on the editorial review boards of Gems & Gemology and The Australian Gemmologist magazines. Richard’s latest book, Jade • A Gemologist’s Guide, was published in 2022. In 2023, Richard was recognised as one of the Extraordinary 40 Awardees of the Jewellery World Awards (JWA) – a prestigious accolade honouring pioneers, visionaries, educators and innovators in the jewellery and gemstone sector.
Jade has been treasured by the Chinese for some 10,000 years. Yù (玉), the Chinese word for jade, is one of the oldest in the Chinese language; its pictograph is distinguished from that for “ruler” only by one dot. Outside of China, people generally think of jade as fei cui from Burma, where the finest quality is a vivid green. Within China, however, jade is a stone of an entirely different character, with the finest quality being white. Lotus Gemology offers a brief survey of the places fei cui and nephrite come from and then delve into the real Chinese jade, the true “Stone of Heaven.”
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Language
English
16 / 9 / 2024 (Mon)
3:40pm – 4:10pm
The Stage, Hall 9 AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE)
Gems With A Star – A Fascinating And Colourful World
The Speaker
Martin P. Steinbach
Author – ‘Asterism – Gems with a Star’ and
‘Star Gems – A Fascinating World’
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Language
English
16 / 9 / 2024 (Mon)
4:20pm – 4:50pm
The Stage, Hall 9 AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE)
Inside Out: Journey
Into The Centre Of A Gem
The Speaker
E. Billie Hughes
Co-Founder
Lotus Gemology Co Ltd
Precious gemstones are celebrated for the outward beauty, particularly for shining colours that capture our attention. Beyond their fascinating beauty, each of Mother Nature’s gems encapsulates part of Earth’s history, a story millions of years in the making. Join us on a journey into this hidden space inside of a gemstone. Together we will explore the microscopic depths of rubies and sapphires, seeing a world that most have never glimpsed.
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Language
English
17 / 9 / 2024 (Tue)
2:00pm – 3:15pm
The Stage, Hall 9 AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE)
SUSTAINABILITY HEROES PANEL SERIES
Jewels Of A Sustainable Future
The Panellists
Shreyans Dholakia
Director and Brand Custodian
Shree Ramkrishna Exports Pvt Ltd (SRK)
Jacques Christophe Branellec is the CEO and Executive Vice President of Jewelmer. He aims to deepen the Philippine South Sea pearl’s roots through Jewelmer’s presence in over 15 countries, and by establishing the brand as a revered name in pearl jewellery worldwide. Recognised for his work in environmental conservation, Branellec holds the rank of Captain in the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Director of Save Palawan Seas Foundation. He also serves as the Vice President on the Pearl Commission of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) and is currently the President of the French Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.
Yash Kothari
Founder
Vector
Brijesh Dholakia
CEO
Hari Krishna Exports Pvt Ltd
Join us as we bring together the distinguished Award Recipients and Finalists of the Sustainability Awards 2024 by JWA! This panel discussion offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from these sustainability leaders, and gain invaluable knowledge and practical wisdom that can help drive change within and beyond the jewellery and gemstone industry. Discover the innovative strategies they have employed, the challenges they have overcome and the collaborations they have forged.
- • What measures have the panellists implemented to guarantee transparency and ethical standards across their supply chains?
• In terms of market awareness and education, what strategies have they found effective in promoting sustainable jewellery choices? How do they communicate the importance of responsible sourcing and manufacturing to their customers?
• Looking ahead, which actions and collaborations will play a pivotal role in further advancing sustainable business practices?
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Moderator
Marie Feliciano
Marketing & Communications Manager of Informa Markets Jewellery -
Language
English and Putonghua (with simultaneous interpretation)
17 / 9 / 2024 (Tue)
3:15pm – 4:15pm
The Stage, Hall 9 AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE)
Beyond Precious:
Pearl Farming And Environmental Stewardship
The Panellists
Hiroki Goto
General Manager
Kobe Branch, K Mikimoto & Co Ltd
Director
Japan Pearl Exporters’ Association
Jens Knauer PhD
Aquaculture and Marine Conservation Consultant
The AUTORE Group
National Aquaculture Research Director
Australian Sustainable Seaweed Alliance
Jacques Christophe Branellec
CEO
Jewelmer
Jacques Christophe Branellec is the CEO and Executive Vice President of Jewelmer. He aims to deepen the Philippine South Sea pearl’s roots through Jewelmer’s presence in over 15 countries, and by establishing the brand as a revered name in pearl jewellery worldwide. Recognised for his work in environmental conservation, Branellec holds the rank of Captain in the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Director of Save Palawan Seas Foundation. He also serves as the Vice President on the Pearl Commission of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) and is currently the President of the French Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.
Dr. Rebecca Koss
Sustainability Manager
Paspaley Pearling Company Pty Ltd
Pearl farmers are recognised as guardians of the sea, working in harmony with nature to produce the “Queen of Gems.” This session will explore the inherent sustainability of pearl farming and address the environmental challenges faced by pearl producers today. Additionally, the discussion will highlight the importance of pearl oysters as indicators of ocean health, underscoring their role in assessing and enhancing our understanding of the well-being of marine ecosystems.
• How does sustainable pearl farming contribute to marine biodiversity protection, and how can this knowledge be used to drive conservation efforts?
• What are the potential economic and social benefits for pearl farming communities when sustainable practices are implemented?
• Can the success stories and best practices from sustainable pearl farming be replicated or adapted to other industries within the gem and jewellery sector?
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Moderator
Olivia Quiniquini
Associate Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, JNA -
Language
English and Putonghua (with simultaneous interpretation)
17 / 9 / 2024 (Tue)
6:00pm – 8:00 pm
Arena Kitchen, AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE)
Tahitian Pearl Reunion Night
& MOU Signing Ceremony
on Tahitian Pearl Cooperation
By Invitation Only
18 / 9 / 2024 (Wed)
2:00pm – 3:15pm
Grand Foyer, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
SUSTAINABILITY HEROES PANEL SERIES
From Source To Showcase: Inspiring Change In The Jewellery Industry
The Panellists
May Lau
Director of Social Impact
Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group
Jacques Christophe Branellec is the CEO and Executive Vice President of Jewelmer. He aims to deepen the Philippine South Sea pearl’s roots through Jewelmer’s presence in over 15 countries, and by establishing the brand as a revered name in pearl jewellery worldwide. Recognised for his work in environmental conservation, Branellec holds the rank of Captain in the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Director of Save Palawan Seas Foundation. He also serves as the Vice President on the Pearl Commission of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) and is currently the President of the French Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.
Viral Kothari
Managing Director
Fine Jewellery Manufacturing Ltd
Viral Kothari is a GIA graduate and a supply chain management graduate from Michigan University. This exposure has enabled him to bring a fresh perspective to the table and is looking to broaden the horizons for the FINE Group. He has 18 years of experience in the Diamond and Jewellery Industry. He is one of the driving forces of sustainable business initiatives and ingraining the ethos of making jewellery with love for the planet, within the group. He is responsible for delivering the overall Marketing and Sales strategies and driving creativity for the group while building strong long-lasting relationships with clients and partners.
Zulu Ghevriya
CEO & Co-Founder
Smiling Rocks
Wang Wei
Operations Director of Smart Gold Stores
KINGHOOD Group
Jacques Christophe Branellec is the CEO and Executive Vice President of Jewelmer. He aims to deepen the Philippine South Sea pearl’s roots through Jewelmer’s presence in over 15 countries, and by establishing the brand as a revered name in pearl jewellery worldwide. Recognised for his work in environmental conservation, Branellec holds the rank of Captain in the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Director of Save Palawan Seas Foundation. He also serves as the Vice President on the Pearl Commission of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) and is currently the President of the French Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.
Join us as we bring together the Award Recipients and Finalists of the Sustainability Awards 2024 by JWA! In this discussion, these sustainability champions will share valuable insights from their responsible business commitments, highlighting collaborations and initiatives that have made a positive impact on their operations, local communities and the planet. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical insights and inspiration to fuel your own initiatives, as we collectively work towards a brighter, more sustainable future!
• What key sustainability initiatives have the panellists implemented that have made a positive difference on their organisations, communities and the environment?
• How do they approach responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices in the jewellery industry and what challenges have they encountered along the way?
• What are some of the most pressing sustainability challenges facing the jewellery sector today and what steps can be taken to address them effectively?
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Moderator
Marie Feliciano
Marketing & Communications Manager of Informa Markets Jewellery -
Language
English and Putonghua (with simultaneous interpretation)
18 / 9 / 2024 (Wed)
3:15pm – 4:15pm
Grand Foyer, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
The Power Of Pearls:
Sustainable Gems For A New Generation
The Panellists
Jacques Christophe Branellec
CEO
Jewelmer
Jacques Christophe Branellec is the CEO and Executive Vice President of Jewelmer. He aims to deepen the Philippine South Sea pearl’s roots through Jewelmer’s presence in over 15 countries, and by establishing the brand as a revered name in pearl jewellery worldwide. Recognised for his work in environmental conservation, Branellec holds the rank of Captain in the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Director of Save Palawan Seas Foundation. He also serves as the Vice President on the Pearl Commission of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) and is currently the President of the French Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.
Dr. Rebecca Koss
Sustainability Manager
Paspaley Pearling Company Pty Ltd
Rosario Autore
Founder & CEO
The AUTORE Group
Zhan Weijian
Chairman & General Manager
Hong Kong Edison Pearl Co Ltd
This panel session aims to explore innovative strategies to attract a broader demographic and redefine pearl jewellery for the influential millennial consumer segment. Experts from pearl producers, top dealers and brands will come together to discuss the unique appeal of pearls to the younger generation of buyers, highlighting their extraordinary status as the only renewable gems in the world.
• How can the industry leverage the sustainability factor of pearls to differentiate them from other gemstones and attract environmentally conscious millennial consumers?
• What role does storytelling and education play in increasing the appreciation for and understanding of pearls among younger consumers?
• What strategies can be employed to make pearl jewellery more accessible to the millennial consumer segment without compromising on quality or sustainability?
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Moderator
Bernardette Sto. Domingo
Deputy Editor, JNA -
Language
English and Putonghua (with simultaneous interpretation)
19 / 9 / 2024 (Thu)
9:00 am – 11:00 am
Meeting Room N201, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
SPOTLIGHT ON DE BEERS BREAKFAST
A presentation on the global diamond markets and
De Beers strategy
The Speakers
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Language
English, with simultaneous interpretation in Putonghua
19 / 9 / 2024 (Thu)
11:30am – 1:30pm
Grand Foyer, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Practical Applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
in the Jewellery and Gemstone Industry
* All information is provided by the event organiser
The Panellists
David Block
CEO
Sarine Technologies
Daniel Nyfeler, PhD
Managing Director
Gübelin Gem Lab
Payal Shah
Founder
L’Dezen
Payal Shah is the founder of L’ Dezen, a luxury fine jewellery brand that seamlessly blends contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship. With roots in Hong Kong and a global presence, she has dedicated her career to creating exquisite pieces that celebrate individuality and elegance. In addition to her work in the jewellery industry, Payal is an entrepreneur passionate about integrating innovative technologies into various business sectors. Her latest venture features an AI text-to-design tool that allows users to transform their imagination into endless design possibilities, which can then be produced into unique jewellery pieces.
Technology is always at the forefront of Payal’s innovation, keeping its brand relevant and ahead of market trends. She is also a content creator for her brands, sharing insights into her entrepreneurial journey and providing valuable knowledge and inspiration to her audience. Payal actively engages with her community, showcasing the behind-the-scenes processes of her businesses and the creative work involved.
Rocky Yu
Sales Director & early founding member
Picup Media
Rocky is the Sales Director and one of the early founding members of Picup Media, where he played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s client base from 2,000 to over 20,000 globally. Born in Hong Kong and raised in Sydney, Australia, Rocky joined Picup Media during his final year of university. This early start allowed him to gain in-depth knowledge of the jewellery industry, enabling him to understand its challenges and contribute to developing innovative AI solutions that help jewellers succeed in online sales.
Richa Goyal Sikri
Journalist and Author
Richa Goyal Sikri is an accomplished journalist, author, and thought leader in the luxury industry, with a particular focus on gemstones, diamonds, and jewellery. With over ten years of experience, Richa has established herself as a trusted voice in the field, known for her insightful analysis, compelling storytelling, and deep understanding of the global luxury market.
As a seasoned moderator, Richa brings her wealth of knowledge and her sharp, inquisitive mind to the stage, guiding conversations that are both engaging and thought-provoking. Her ability to distil complex topics into accessible insights makes her a valued presence at industry events worldwide.
Richa’s work has been featured in prestigious publications and she is the author of No Stone Unturned, a critically acclaimed book that delves into the world of African gemstones. Her passion for craftsmanship, responsible sourcing, and the evolving dynamics of luxury consumption positions her as a key figure in driving forward-looking discussions on these subjects.
This panel session aims to explore innovative strategies to attract a broader demographic and redefine pearl jewellery for the influential millennial consumer segment. Experts from pearl producers, top dealers and brands will come together to discuss the unique appeal of pearls to the younger generation of buyers, highlighting their extraordinary status as the only renewable gems in the world.
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Organiser
Gübelin Gem Lab -
Language
English
20 / 9 / 2024 (Fri)
10:30 am – 1:00 pm
Meeting Rooms S226-S227, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
INDUSTRY TRADE FORUM
REAL. RARE. RESPONSIBLE
*Organised by the Diamond Federation of Hong Kong, China Ltd (DFHK) and the Natural Diamond Council (NDC)
Speakers & Panellists
Lawrence Ma
Founding President
DFHK
Lin Qiang
President
Shanghai Diamond Exchange
(Speaker)
Sean Lin
VP, Integrated Retail & Sales Operations
De Beers Group
David Kellie
Chief Executive Officer
NDC
Kent Wong
Chairman
Jewellers’ and Goldsmiths’ Association of Hong Kong (JGAHK)
Victor Yiu
Chairman
DFHK
(Moderator)
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Language
English with simultaneous interpretation in Putonghua
20 / 9 / 2024 (Fri)
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Meeting Rooms S226-S227, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Trade Standard of
Guatemalan Fei Cui
The Speakers
Prof. C.M. Ou Yang
IFCJA
Yang Yi
Yangtze River Delta Jewelry Technology Innovation Industry-University-Research Cluster Service Joint Conference
Prof. Qi Lijian
Tongji University
Prof. Shi Jian
Shanghai Jewelry Design Association
Prof. Wang Lisheng
Hebei University of Geology
Au Yan
Beijing Boguan International Auction Co., Ltd.
Li ZhiWei
Guangdong Gem & Jade Exchange
Au Yan
Beijing Boguan International Auction Co., Ltd.
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Moderator
Dr. Miro Ng of IFCJA -
Language
Mainly in Putonghua
20 / 9 / 2024 (Fri)
3:00pm – 4:00pm
Grand Foyer,
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Staying Ahead In The
Evolving World Of Jewellery Design
The Panellists
Austy Lee
Founder & Designer
Austy Lee Art Jewellery
Caroline Chartouni
Founder & Designer
Caroline C
Nisan Ongwuthitham
Founder & Designer
Nisan Ong / Ong Jewelry Design Co Ltd
Step into the world of jewellery design as established jewellery artists from around the globe share their exclusive insights at JGW! Learn from their experiences as they explore new materials, test design ideas and harness cutting-edge technologies to create unforgettable collections. Gain valuable insights from their triumphs and setbacks as they reveal how they transformed challenges into opportunities to find the perfect market for their creations. Prepare to be inspired as you discover the secrets behind their craft and uncover new possibilities for your own business.
• What were the setbacks that these jewellery artists faced when starting their own businesses and how did they transform those hurdles into valuable learning experiences?
• What role does branding play in the success of jewellery designers and what are the key steps that they can take to develop and promote their brand identity effectively?
• What practical strategies can designers employ to nurture strong relationships with suppliers, manufacturers and other industry stakeholders?
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Moderator
Bernardette Sto. Domingo
Deputy Editor, JNA -
Language
English
21 / 9 / 2024 (Sat)
11:30am-1:00pm
Grand Foyer, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Microscopy of Diamond -
Hidden Mysteries Inside Diamonds
* All information is provided by the event organiser
The Speaker
Chun Ming Lee
Director
The Gemmological Association of Hong Kong
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Organiser
The Gemmological Association of Hong Kong -
Language
Cantonese
21 / 9 / 2024 (Sat)
2:00pm – 3:00pm
Grand Foyer, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Pearls: Art & Science, from Paris to Hong Kong
* All information is provided by the event organiser
The Speakers
Mathilde Rondouin
Art Historian and Lecturer
L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts
Mathilde is an art historian specializing in the field of European Decorative Arts. Mathilde holds an MA in Philosophy from Karl Ruprecht Universität in Heidelberg – Germany, and another MA in History of Art Market and Collecting from The University of Warwick, Coventry – UK. Mathilde has been working in the fields of Limoges Tableware and French manufacture branding before coming to Hong Kong. She is a professor at L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts.
Olivier Segura
Gemologist & Managing Director
L’ÉCOLE Asia Pacific, School of Jewelry Arts
What is a pearl? What is it made of? Where can we find pearls around the world? During this talk, we will investigate the pearl through both a gemmologist and historian’s eyes.
Thanks to archaeologists, we now know humans started to use the pearl as an ornament since prehistoric times. From the West to the East, the pearl has embodied beauty, power and fashion or even spirituality.
High Jewellery Maisons have used pearls in their creations for over a hundred years, but jewellery designers all around the world, and in Hong Kong, are still fascinated by this material!
Join our two speakers for a journey into the world of pearls, a biogenic gem as famous as it is mysterious. This talk will be given on the occasion of Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong’s main theme, “Orient Odyssey.”
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Organiser
L’ÉCOLE Asia Pacific, School of Jewelry Arts -
Language
English