Tanzanites in the spotlight
Tanzanite, known for its rich blue colour and exquisite luster, was the star attraction at IIJS. The gemstone’s versatility and allure captivated jewellery enthusiasts, leading to an increase in demand for bridal jewellery. As gemstones such as sapphires become rare and expensive, consumers are embracing tanzanite as an appealing alternative due to its vibrant and vivid hues. The preference for luxurious tanzanite jewellery is on the rise, especially in ready-made layouts such as 11-piece necklace sets with dangling earrings, making it a standout choice for special occasions,” says Rohan Daga of Fine Color Gems.
Zambian emeralds: a fiery green craze
Zambian emeralds, on fire at IIJS, are experiencing unprecedented demand. The allure of emeralds, coupled with a surge in celebrity endorsements featuring emerald jewellery, propelled their status to new heights. “After the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the prices of Zambian emeralds skyrocketed, increasing by more than 40% due to a surge in demand,” observes Daga. The gemstone’s enigmatic green hue and rarity have captivated jewellery enthusiasts, leading to a shift in consumer preferences. No longer confined to diamond and gold jewellery, consumers now prefer coloured stones, with emeralds becoming a prominent highlight in their jewellery choices. Larger gemstones, in the 50-100 carat range, are gaining popularity as jewellery pieces, further accentuating the trend of using vibrant coloured stones in statement pieces.
Passion for pink morganites
Pink fluorescent morganites from Nigeria emerged as a notable trend at IIJS. “Their alluring charm and vibrant pink hues resonated with buyers, resulting in significant sales. In addition, the resemblance of pink morganites to pink diamonds adds to their popularity among consumers seeking exquisite alternatives. Large Tourmalines also saw strong demand, attracting attention with their captivating colours and unique appeal,” said Nirmal Bardiya of RMC Gems.
Cutting-edge cuts: Octagons, pears and cushion cuts
In terms of cuts, gemstones with octagons, pears and cushion cuts attracted considerable attention and appreciation. “These cuts bring a fresh perspective to traditional gemstones, adding modernity and sophistication to designs. Buyers are drawn to the striking beauty of these cuts, making them a prominent choice for contemporary and stylish jewellery pieces,” added Bardiya.
IIJS proved to be a testament to the growing appeal of coloured gemstones in the Indian market. The rise of tanzanite as a popular choice for bridal and luxury jewellery, the robust demand for Zambian emeralds, morganites and large tourmalines demonstrate the evolving preferences of consumers. With a vibrant array of coloured gemstones and cutting-edge designs on display, IIJS reaffirms its position as the driving force behind the growth and innovation of the coloured gemstone industry in India.
