Industry Observation: Post-Pandemic Resurgence: How 2023 International Jewelry Exhibitions Are Reshaping the Jade Market Landscape?


In 2023, the global jewelry industry, after two years of pandemic challenges, finally witnessed a comprehensive recovery. As an editor specializing in jade industry news, I've observed that major international jewelry exhibitions have become a pivotal force in driving market rebound and reshaping the industry landscape. From Hong Kong to Las Vegas, and then to Shanghai, these exhibitions are not just platforms for new product launches, but also crucial arenas for industry exchange, trend insights, and business cooperation.

Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair: A Barometer for the Asian Market


Known as the “Oscars of Asian Jewelry,” the Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair successfully concluded in September 2023, attracting over 3,700 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and regions. According to Informa Markets, the organizer, the exhibition welcomed over 60,000 professional buyers, with transaction volume increasing by nearly 40% compared to 2022. High-end jade products, such as jadeite and Hetian jade, performed particularly well. For instance, “Royal Jade” from Myanmar showcased several top-tier jadeite jewelry pieces valued at over tens of millions of Hong Kong dollars, attracting numerous collectors and investors. During the fair, the “Asian Jade Culture Forum,” organized by the Hong Kong Jade & Stone Manufacturers Association, successfully hosted Ms. Zhang Lihua, a researcher from the Palace Museum, who shared insights on “The Aesthetics and Heritage of Qing Dynasty Court Jade,” further enhancing the international influence of jade culture.

JCK Las Vegas: Diverse Demands in the North American Market


In contrast to the traditional preferences of the Asian market, the JCK Las Vegas Jewelry Show held in June 2023 showcased the diverse demands for jade in the North American market. While diamonds and gold remain mainstream, an increasing number of designer brands are incorporating jade into modern designs. For example, the independent designer brand “Jade Bloom,” based in Los Angeles, launched a series of works combining Alashan jade and Mexican silver jewelry. Its unique cross-cultural design concept was favored by young consumers. JCK exhibition data showed a 15% increase in the number of jade exhibitors compared to 2022, with particular attention to jades with unique origins and stories, such as Canadian nephrite and New Zealand Maori jade, which saw a continuous rise in market interest. According to the official exhibition report, approximately 25% of exhibitors reported preliminary cooperation intentions related to jade during the show, indicating a gradual increase in North American market acceptance of jade.

China International Jewellery Fair: The Thriving Domestic Market


As the world’s largest jade consumer market, the China International Jewellery Fair successfully took place in Shanghai and Beijing in November 2023, once again confirming the immense potential of the domestic market. According to statistics from the Gems & Jewelry Trade Association of China (GAC), the Shanghai exhibition attracted over 800 domestic and international exhibitors, with visitor numbers exceeding 100,000. Domestic famous jades such as Xinjiang Hetian jade, Liaoning Xiuyan jade, and Guangdong Dushan jade remained the protagonists of the exhibition. Notably, as consumers' awareness of jade culture and quality continues to grow, jade products with traceability certification and master craftsmanship are more favored. For example, a “Prosperous Peony” Hetian jade carving by Chinese Arts and Crafts Master Li Chunyi was acquired by a private collector at the exhibition for RMB 12 million. In addition, the exhibition featured a “Jade Live Streaming Zone,” inviting well-known streamers to conduct online sales, effectively expanding sales channels. According to incomplete statistics, live streaming sales during the exhibition exceeded RMB 50 million.

Trend Analysis and Future Outlook


Overall, the international jewelry exhibitions of 2023 revealed several significant trends:



    • Digitalization and Online-Offline Integration: Online live streaming, VR/AR viewing, and other technological means were widely applied, broadening the reach and sales channels of the exhibitions.

    • Cultural and Design Empowerment: Consumers demand higher cultural connotations and design aesthetics for jade, and the integration of traditional jade with modern design has become a new trend.

    • Sustainability and Traceability: Consumers are increasingly concerned about the origin, mining methods, and social responsibility of jade. Traceability-certified jade products are more competitive in the market.

    • Diversified Market Demand: Market preferences for jade vary across different regions, and personalized, customized services have become new growth points.


Looking ahead, with the continuous recovery of the global economy and strengthening consumer confidence, jewelry exhibitions will continue to play a vital role in driving industry development. For the jade industry, seizing the opportunity for digital transformation, delving into cultural connotations, embracing innovative designs, and actively responding to sustainable development concepts will be key to winning future markets. We look forward to more surprises at the 2024 exhibitions and collectively witnessing the glorious chapter of the jade industry.