According to show organiser Expertise Events, the pavilions will feature collections from more than 60 companies selling loose gemstones, opals, pearls and diamonds.
Expertise Events managing director Gary Fitz-Roy explained that the new areas were developed after reviewing international jewellery events and product categories that appealed to the local market.
“A recent survey of our fair visitors from the last five years showed these product areas are definitely in demand, along with new exhibitors and new product launches,” he added.
Within the pavilions, daily live demonstrations on topics like cutting and polishing will take place and opal cutters will be on hand to reveal the often hidden beauty and colour of the nation’s official gemstone. Also, members of the GAA will instruct visitors how to recognise inclusions in gemstones and identify gems using tools such as a microscope, polariscope and UV light source.
In addition, GAA education officer Desiree Zincirkiran will speak about the courses and certifications available through the association.
Get ahead of the game with new technology
A host of new tools and technologies will also be on show.
M2 Lasers will be giving demonstrations using the new Fiberscan laser engravers from Germany. The machines are said to be capable of producing deep engraving while still maintaining precise detail.
Another engraving machine at the fair is the multifunctional Magic 5 ring and pendant engraver. The tool’s suppliers, Fennec Machinery, will be offering a 10 per cent discount for show visitors.
More new technology on display includes the Kevvox 3D printer, distributed by 3D Printing Systems and laser welding machines by Orotig.
It’s all in the packaging
Furthermore, packaging and display suppliers recently announced the launch of a range of options for jewellers at the fair.
Ayres Packaging & Display will have new display packages on show, including glossy and matt packaging, while Grant Austin Display Packaging will be offering the latest pricing system sets in black or white as well as “sold” plugs for ring displays that show a ring has been sold and not stolen from a display. In addition, Imajpak will be showcasing new window displays, jewellery boxes and packaging ranges. Logo printing on most products is also provided.
JAA On Show
As reported previously by Jeweller, the JAA will be running a new exhibition at the fair that celebrates emerging jewellery designers in Australia.
The On Show exhibition will feature 18 pieces designed by students currently enrolled in a jewellery-related TAFE or university course as well as designers under the age of 30.
Visitors are encouraged to nominate their favourite item in the People’s Choice Award, where designers will have the chance to win an Apple iPad Mini. Voters will also go in the running to win a $100 David Jones voucher.
The exhibition will officially launch at the On Show Cocktail Party on Sunday 1 September from 4pm-6pm.
The International Jewellery Fair will be held in Sydney from Sunday 1 September to Tuesday 3 September.
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