The September 2024 edition of the Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair will showcase extraordinary Thai craftsmanship and present a vast array of jewellery and accessories to buyers from around the world. In an interview with Jewellery Outlook Editor David Brough, Mr. Sumed Prasongpongchai, Director-General of the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT) and Mr. Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), discuss the outstanding features of the upcoming edition of the show, which will run from September 9 to 13, 2024.
What will be the main products offered at the September edition of Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair?
Mr. Phusit: The 70th Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair will be a showcase of Thailand’s unparalleled craftsmanship and creative spirit, embodied in the theme “The Spirit of Jewelry Making”.
Visitors can expect a dazzling array of jewelry pieces that reflect the rich heritage and innovation of Thai artisans. From exquisite fine jewelry adorned with precious gemstones to contemporary designs incorporating unique materials and cutting-edge techniques, the fair will offer a diverse selection to cater to every taste and preference.
In essence, the September edition of Bangkok Gems will be a celebration of Thailand’s jewelry industry, demonstrating its ability to blend tradition with modernity, and showcasing the nation’s position as a global hub for exquisite and innovative jewelry designs.
Beyond the emphasis on craftsmanship, visitors can anticipate a rich tapestry of product offerings. From fine jewellery adorned with precious gems like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds to gemstones and loose stones of exceptional quality, the fair will cater to the discerning tastes of both trade buyers and consumers.
It also highlights Thailand’s role as a global manufacturing hub. To cater to the growing demand for sustainable and ethical practices, the fair will also feature a dedicated zone for responsible jewellery, showcasing pieces made with recycled materials, conflict-free gemstones, and fair trade practices.
What are the strengths of the Thai gems and jewellery industry? Are silver jewellery and coloured gemstone manufacturing among the export-leading segments?
Mr. Phusit: Thailand has been globally renowned for its gemstone enhancement. Rough gemstones have traveled from every corner of the world to be cut and heated in Thailand, primarily in Chanthaburi province which is the capital of gemstones.
Many exhibitors have decades of experience in heating many types of gemstones, and their know-how has been passed down from generation to generation. Each type of gem has a different firing method, depending on the unique characteristics of each type, and the Thai gemstone cutting skills are highly accepted at the global level.
Also, Thailand is the world’s major exporter of silver jewellery, with main markets include the United States, Germany, India, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates and Australia. Thai silver jewelry offers a wide range of styles, from traditional handcrafted pieces to modern designs that meet international tastes.
Our industry serves as a one-stop service for silver jewelry because of its versatility and value. Buyers can choose from ready-made stocks for immediate needs or collaborate with our skilled artisans to create custom designs, making it ideal for both large retailers and individual small brands. This flexibility, combined with direct purchasing from manufacturers, ensures that customers receive the best value and a truly personalized service. Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair will feature a comprehensive collection of silver jewellery in different themes, as well as gold jewellery crafted in traditional and modern ways.
What are the latest trends in the total value of Thai gem and jewellery exports year-on-year? What key factors explain this trend? What are the main geographical growth markets for Thai gem and jewellery exports?
Mr. Phusit: We cannot deny that one of the key factors that has a big impact on exports is economic instability. Due to the inflation, the prices of silver jewellery have gone up. As a result, many consumers have returned to gold jewellery. Natural colored stones, particularly blue sapphires, are also trendy, as well as pearls. For Thailand’s gems and jewellery exports, several markets continue to flourish, including the United States, Hong Kong, and ASEAN countries like Cambodia.
How are Thai industry strengths showcased at the fair?
Mr. Sumed: Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair has been strongly supported by leading gems and jewelry associations in Thailand.
Our partner organizations include Gold Traders Association, Thai Goldsmith Association, Chanthaburi Gem And Jewelry Traders Association, Thai Silver Exporters Association, Thai Jeweller Association, Chanthaburi Gem And Jewelry Traders Association, Thai Gem And Jewelry Manufacturers Association, Thai Niello & Silver Wares Association Under Royal Patronage, Organization Indian-Thai Diamond And Colorstone Association, and Organization Gold Business Association.
The support from these associations reflects the united efforts to strengthen Thailand’s gems and jewellery industry. We also have Thailand’s prestige jewellery brands which are globally known showcasing their new and iconic products in the fair.
Mr. Sumed Prasongpongchai, Director-General of the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT)
Why is this trade show a “must-attend” event for visiting trade buyers from around the world? What types of industry buyers should consider making the trip to the show?
Mr. Sumed: We can say that Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair is an excellent trade and networking opportunity for global gems and jewellery professionals.
One of our highlights is the Networking Reception where business opportunities are unlimited. If you are looking for high-quality products and fine craftsmanship by Thai craftspeople, this is the place for you. It is where you can meet local producers and distributors in person and experience the products first-hand.
Will the fair show off Thai craftsmanship and jewellery design skills and talent? What special events within the show will do this?
Mr. Phusit: In every edition, we have a special zone called ‘the New Faces’ that aims to support small independent jewellery producers so that they have a chance to showcase their products in international trade fairs.
Another regular exhibition is The Jewellers exhibition that highlights the creative designs of Thai designers from DITP’s Talent Thai and Designer Rooms project.
And to correspond with the government’s soft power initiatives, we also have special showcases dedicated to present Thai craftsmanship, including the gold jewellery making demonstrations by master artisans and the Heritage Showcase featuring selected jewelry masterpieces from Thai Goldsmith Association and our exhibitors.
Mr. Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP)
Will the fair present a seminar programme? Can you please give some examples of the discussion panel topics that will likely feature?
Mr. Sumed: Of course, we will host a series of interesting Thai and English seminars tailored for both gems and jewellery professionals, as well as students and gems and jewelry lovers. The topics will range from technical aspects of the industry to art, design and marketing perspectives. This edition will also focus on the Middle Eastern market, which is an emerging market for Thailand.
Most seminars will be offered free of charge but with limited seats available, so please stay tuned for more details. Apart from the seminars, we also have other highlighted activities, including the International Gems Testing Laboratory conference as a collateral event to calibrate the testing standards, the special consultation session for entrepreneurs who plan to be active in the Middle Eastern market, especially in Dubai, and the MOU signing ceremony with key raw material providers.
