Last week, from October 2nd to 5th, I had the privilege of attending the Istanbul Jewelry Show (IJS) as a guest. This event, hosted by Informa Markets, took place at the Istanbul Expo Center and welcomed over 26,000 professionals from all over the world. With its rich history as a crossroads of trade and culture, Istanbul always provides the perfect backdrop for this gathering of creative minds. And while the show is undoubtedly impressive in scope, for me, it’s not just about numbers or business opportunities—it’s about the connections and insights that make it all worthwhile.

The Istanbul Jewelry Show has been on my calendar for years, not just because it’s one of the major global jewelry events but because of its unique blend of business and artistry. It’s always a pleasure to witness firsthand how trends evolve, how the industry adapts to market pressures, and how jewelry professionals continue to innovate despite the challenges they face. This year’s show didn’t disappoint.

The Art of Innovation in Challenging Times

One of the themes that stood out this year was how Turkish manufacturers are responding to the rising cost of gold. It’s no secret that gold prices have been soaring, and Turkish jewelry companies have been hit hard by government measures to reduce gold imports. But as always, the industry finds a way to adapt. I was particularly impressed with brands like Murad Jewellery and Mioro, who presented lightweight gold designs that retain their luxury appeal while managing to cut down on the weight (and therefore the cost).

This shift toward hollow and lighter gold chains wasn’t just a reaction to the market—it felt like an intelligent, thoughtful approach that showed just how resilient the jewelry industry can be. These pieces still carry the boldness and richness that gold lovers seek but without the heavier price tag. It’s innovations like these that keep the industry moving forward, even when external factors aren’t entirely in our favor.

Silver also had its moment, often paired with gold, to create hybrid designs that helped manage costs while still delivering on aesthetics. It’s always interesting to see how designers find ways to balance the need for luxury with the practicalities of the market. And this year, the creativity on display was particularly inspiring.

Navigating Gold’s Impact on the Market

Naturally, the conversation at the show circled around the rising gold prices and how they’re affecting manufacturers. Many Turkish companies are now opening operations in Dubai to help mitigate the cost challenges, a move that reflects the shifting dynamics of global trade. The higher domestic gold prices have made it more difficult for Turkish jewelry to remain competitive with other markets, particularly Italy and Dubai, where gold remains more accessible.

That said, the show was far from a place of doom and gloom. Despite the challenges, the creativity and optimism of the exhibitors were evident. Lightweight designs and silver-gold combinations were common themes, offering buyers appealing alternatives to the heavier, more costly pieces. And while certain regions like the Middle East continue to demand high-purity gold, many buyers are starting to lean towards lighter options to balance cost and visual impact.

A Diverse Mix of Visitors and the Pulse of Trade

One of the things that makes IJS so special is its ability to attract such a diverse range of visitors. This year, the show saw attendees from 134 countries, and despite some geopolitical challenges (which did affect participation from regions like Lebanon and Iran), the overall turnout remained strong.

However, there was a noticeable rhythm to the show, particularly on Friday when prayers caused a temporary lull in foot traffic. By mid-afternoon, though, the halls were bustling again. It’s in these moments that you truly see how the event weaves together global cultures and business practices. There’s a certain flow to these international gatherings that I’ve come to appreciate over the years.

The Growing Debate: Diamonds vs. Lab-Grown

Another topic that generated a lot of discussion at the show was the diamond market—particularly the ongoing debate between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds (LGDs). While demand for diamond jewelry remains solid in many markets, there’s no denying that lab-grown diamonds are starting to gain traction, even if Turkey hasn’t fully embraced them yet.

Several exhibitors shared their belief that lab-grown diamonds have the potential to take off in Turkey in the near future. However, there’s still plenty of debate on how to promote the value of natural diamonds in a world where consumers are increasingly open to alternatives. It’s a delicate balance and one that the industry continues to navigate.

Sharing Insights at the Art for Jewelry Panel

One of my personal highlights this year was participating in the Art for Jewelry panel discussions. Organized by the Jewelry Exporters’ Association, the panels explored a range of topics, from influencer marketing to social media strategies. I enjoyed sharing my insights on how jewelers can effectively use platforms like LinkedIn to build authority and trust.

What struck me most was the level of engagement from the audience. There’s a genuine hunger for practical advice on managing a digital presence, and it’s something I’m always happy to provide. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the world of social media, but with the right strategy, even the busiest business owner can make it work.

An Enchanting Evening at the Şerefiye Cistern

Of course, no jewelry show would be complete without a touch of glamour, and this year’s magical evening at the Şerefiye Cistern didn’t disappoint. The ancient cistern, stunning architecture, and serene atmosphere provided the perfect setting for an evening of culture and celebration. The Art for Jewelry team treated us to an immersive experience that took us on a visual journey through Turkey’s rich jewelry history. It was a beautiful way to reflect on the artistry and craftsmanship that have long defined this industry.

Looking Forward to the Next Chapter

As I left Istanbul, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by what I had seen and experienced. The Istanbul Jewelry Show continues to be one of the premier events on the global jewelry calendar, offering a unique blend of business opportunities, trend insights, and cultural connections.

The next edition of the Istanbul Jewelry Show is scheduled for April 16-19, 2025, and I’m already looking forward to seeing how the industry will continue to evolve. For anyone in the jewelry business—whether based in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, or beyond—IJS is an event you won’t want to miss.

Until next time, Istanbul!

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