18 - 22 / 9 / 2023 AWE
20 - 24 / 9 / 2023 HKCEC

15 - 19 / 9 / 2025 AWE
17 - 21 / 9 / 2025 HKCEC

Panel Sessions & Seminars

2025

More events will be added in the coming weeks. Please visit this page regularly for the latest information.

15 / 9 / 2025 (Mon)
2:30pm – 3:30pm
The Stage, Hall 2, AWE

Sustainability that Pays:
Inspiring Stories from the Jewellery Sector

Language: English with AI-powered Mandarin captions

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.

This panel brings together jewellery industry leaders who have transformed sustainability challenges into business opportunities. Speakers will share their journeys implementing holistic practices that benefit both financial performance and brand reputation while creating positive environmental and social impact.

Panellists will explore how comprehensive approaches to responsible sourcing, ethical production and community engagement have created measurable business value. The discussion will highlight real-world examples of companies using innovative materials, transparent supply chains and regenerative practices to meet growing consumer demand for responsibly-produced jewellery.

This session will answer the following questions:

  • How can jewellery businesses adapt their marketing strategies to connect sustainability stories with the values of next-generation consumers who view their purchases as expressions of personal ethics?
  • How are companies navigating the cost challenges of responsible material sourcing while maintaining price points that customers will accept?

18 / 9 / 2025 (Thu)
10:30am – 1:00pm
The Stage, Grand Foyer, HKCEC

ASEAN Gems and Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) Conference

Language: English with Mandarin translation

Co-organisers:

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.

The ASEAN Gems and Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) Conference – a first in Hong Kong, represents a collaborative partnership between two of Asia’s most influential industry organisations: the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA), celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, and AGJA, a trade group established by ASEAN’s jewellery community.

Some of the discussion topics are:

  • Driving Regional Growth: Harnessing Technology and Craftsmanship in ASEAN-Hong Kong Jewellery Trade
  • Breaking Barriers: Creating a Unified ASEAN Jewellery Network with Hong Kong Expertise in Design and Trade
  • Sustainability and Innovation in ASEAN Jewellery: Leveraging Hong Kong and China’s Smart Solutions

18 / 9 / 2025 (Thu)
2:30pm – 3:30pm
The Stage, Grand Foyer, HKCEC

Luxury Meets Responsibility: Evolving Consumer Values in Fine Jewellery

Language: English with AI-powered Mandarin captions

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.

This panel explores the rapidly evolving landscape of consumer expectations around sustainability in the jewellery sector, with a specific focus on anticipating demands that will shape the market. Drawing on emerging consumer research, demographic shifts and technological innovations, our panellists will examine how values-driven purchasing is transforming from niche to mainstream.

By identifying early signals of change in consumer behaviour today, this session will provide jewellery businesses with strategic foresight to not only respond to future sustainability demands but to proactively shape them, creating competitive advantage while driving positive impact. Attendees will gain practical perspectives on how to future-proof their businesses through anticipatory sustainability innovation rather than reactive compliance.

This session will answer the following questions:

  • How will definitions of “sustainable luxury” evolve and what new credentials or proof points will consumers demand from jewellery brands beyond current sustainability certifications?
  • What role will technology play in enabling consumers to verify sustainability claims and how can jewellery companies prepare for unprecedented levels of supply chain transparency?
  • What strategies should jewellery brands implement today to authentically connect with next-generation consumers who prioritise environmental and social impact alongside product quality and design?

 

19 / 9 / 2025 (Fri)
10:30am – 1:00pm
Meeting room S225, HKCEC

Natural Diamond Industry Forum:

Championing Natural Diamond Value, Driving Industry Sustainability

Language: English

Organiser

The Diamond Federation of Hong Kong, China

 

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.

Is metal jewellery having its Gen Z moment? Our expert panel examines how digital natives perceive metal jewellery through their unique definitions of luxury and value. Beyond wealth symbolism, younger consumers are drawn to gold, platinum, silver and other metal accessories for self-expression and aesthetic versatility.

Our panellists will investigate whether this appeal transcends demographics or remains strongest in cultures where precious metals represent generational wealth and heritage. The discussion will address design innovation, personalisation opportunities and how Gen Z’s quest for uniqueness intersects with their responsiveness to trends and pop culture influences.

This session will answer the following questions:

  • What role does design and personalisation play in attracting Gen Z consumers to metal jewellery across different price points?
  • Which entry-level products are most effective in introducing Gen Z consumers to the broader precious metal jewellery category?
  • How do cultural differences impact Gen Z’s perception and consumption patterns across the spectrum of metal jewellery – from precious to affordable – in global markets?

19 / 9 / 2025 (Fri)
2:30pm – 3:30pm
The Stage, Grand Foyer, HKCEC

New Metal Age: Expanding Markets Through Gen Z Engagement

Language: English with AI-powered Mandarin captions

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.

Is metal jewellery having its Gen Z moment? Our expert panel examines how digital natives perceive metal jewellery through their unique definitions of luxury and value. Beyond wealth symbolism, younger consumers are drawn to gold, platinum, silver and other metal accessories for self-expression and aesthetic versatility.

Our panellists will investigate whether this appeal transcends demographics or remains strongest in cultures where precious metals represent generational wealth and heritage. The discussion will address design innovation, personalisation opportunities and how Gen Z’s quest for uniqueness intersects with their responsiveness to trends and pop culture influences.

This session will answer the following questions:

  • What role does design and personalisation play in attracting Gen Z consumers to metal jewellery across different price points?
  • Which entry-level products are most effective in introducing Gen Z consumers to the broader precious metal jewellery category?
  • How do cultural differences impact Gen Z’s perception and consumption patterns across the spectrum of metal jewellery – from precious to affordable – in global markets?

20 / 9 / 2025 (Sat)
2:30pm – 3:30pm
The Stage, Grand Foyer, HKCEC

Art Deco and Contemporary Revival

Language: English

Organiser

L’ÉCOLE Asia Pacific, School of Jewelry Arts

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.

Is metal jewellery having its Gen Z moment? Our expert panel examines how digital natives perceive metal jewellery through their unique definitions of luxury and value. Beyond wealth symbolism, younger consumers are drawn to gold, platinum, silver and other metal accessories for self-expression and aesthetic versatility.

Our panellists will investigate whether this appeal transcends demographics or remains strongest in cultures where precious metals represent generational wealth and heritage. The discussion will address design innovation, personalisation opportunities and how Gen Z’s quest for uniqueness intersects with their responsiveness to trends and pop culture influences.

This session will answer the following questions:

  • What role does design and personalisation play in attracting Gen Z consumers to metal jewellery across different price points?
  • Which entry-level products are most effective in introducing Gen Z consumers to the broader precious metal jewellery category?
  • How do cultural differences impact Gen Z’s perception and consumption patterns across the spectrum of metal jewellery – from precious to affordable – in global markets?

15 / 9 / 2025 (Mon)
2:30pm – 3:30pm
The Stage, Hall 2, AWE

Sustainability that Pays:
Inspiring Stories from the Jewellery Sector

Language: English with AI-powered Mandarin captions

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.

This panel brings together jewellery industry leaders who have transformed sustainability challenges into business opportunities. Speakers will share their journeys implementing holistic practices that benefit both financial performance and brand reputation while creating positive environmental and social impact.

Panellists will explore how comprehensive approaches to responsible sourcing, ethical production and community engagement have created measurable business value. The discussion will highlight real-world examples of companies using innovative materials, transparent supply chains and regenerative practices to meet growing consumer demand for responsibly-produced jewellery.

This session will answer the following questions:

  • How can jewellery businesses adapt their marketing strategies to connect sustainability stories with the values of next-generation consumers who view their purchases as expressions of personal ethics?
  • How are companies navigating the cost challenges of responsible material sourcing while maintaining price points that customers will accept?

18 / 9 / 2025 (Thu)
10:30am – 1:00pm
The Stage, Grand Foyer, HKCEC

ASEAN Gems and Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) Conference

Language: English with Mandarin translation

Co-organisers:

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.

The ASEAN Gems and Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) Conference – a first in Hong Kong, represents a collaborative partnership between two of Asia’s most influential industry organisations: the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA), celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, and AGJA, a trade group established by ASEAN’s jewellery community.

Some of the discussion topics are:

  • Driving Regional Growth: Harnessing Technology and Craftsmanship in ASEAN-Hong Kong Jewellery Trade
  • Breaking Barriers: Creating a Unified ASEAN Jewellery Network with Hong Kong Expertise in Design and Trade
  • Sustainability and Innovation in ASEAN Jewellery: Leveraging Hong Kong and China’s Smart Solutions

18 / 9 / 2025 (Thu)
2:30pm – 3:30pm
The Stage, Grand Foyer, HKCEC

Luxury Meets Responsibility: Evolving Consumer Values in Fine Jewellery

Language: English with AI-powered Mandarin captions

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.

This panel explores the rapidly evolving landscape of consumer expectations around sustainability in the jewellery sector, with a specific focus on anticipating demands that will shape the market. Drawing on emerging consumer research, demographic shifts and technological innovations, our panellists will examine how values-driven purchasing is transforming from niche to mainstream.

By identifying early signals of change in consumer behaviour today, this session will provide jewellery businesses with strategic foresight to not only respond to future sustainability demands but to proactively shape them, creating competitive advantage while driving positive impact. Attendees will gain practical perspectives on how to future-proof their businesses through anticipatory sustainability innovation rather than reactive compliance.

This session will answer the following questions:

  • How will definitions of “sustainable luxury” evolve and what new credentials or proof points will consumers demand from jewellery brands beyond current sustainability certifications?
  • What role will technology play in enabling consumers to verify sustainability claims and how can jewellery companies prepare for unprecedented levels of supply chain transparency?
  • What strategies should jewellery brands implement today to authentically connect with next-generation consumers who prioritise environmental and social impact alongside product quality and design?

 

19 / 9 / 2025 (Fri)
2:30pm – 3:30pm
The Stage, Grand Foyer, HKCEC

New Metal Age: Expanding Markets Through Gen Z Engagement

Language: English with AI-powered Mandarin captions

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.

Is metal jewellery having its Gen Z moment? Our expert panel examines how digital natives perceive metal jewellery through their unique definitions of luxury and value. Beyond wealth symbolism, younger consumers are drawn to gold, platinum, silver and other metal accessories for self-expression and aesthetic versatility.

Our panellists will investigate whether this appeal transcends demographics or remains strongest in cultures where precious metals represent generational wealth and heritage. The discussion will address design innovation, personalisation opportunities and how Gen Z’s quest for uniqueness intersects with their responsiveness to trends and pop culture influences.

This session will answer the following questions:

  • What role does design and personalisation play in attracting Gen Z consumers to metal jewellery across different price points?
  • Which entry-level products are most effective in introducing Gen Z consumers to the broader precious metal jewellery category?
  • How do cultural differences impact Gen Z’s perception and consumption patterns across the spectrum of metal jewellery – from precious to affordable – in global markets?

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寰亚盛会 | 六月香港珠宝首饰展览会
环球盛事 | 九月香港珠宝首饰展览会