The 18th edition of IIJS Bharat – Signature 2026, organised by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), concluded in Mumbai on January 15, marking the first major B2B jewellery trade event of the year. The show is estimated to generate ?75,000 crore in business over the next three months.

The exhibition attracted over 25,000 domestic trade buyers from more than 800 Indian cities, reflecting steady demand across retail and manufacturing segments. International participation included 1,400 buyers from 40 countries and 12 overseas delegations, underlining continued export interest in Indian gold, diamond, silver, coloured gemstone and lab-grown jewellery.

The inauguration was held across two venues. On January 8, the Jio World Convention Centre hosted the opening ceremony with Chief Guest Sandrine Conseiller, CEO, De Beers Brands and Chair, Natural Diamond Council, alongside EXIM Bank Managing Director Harsha Bangari and CaratLane Managing Director Saumen Bhaumik. The Bombay Exhibition Centre ceremony on January 9 was attended by Neeraj Agarwal, Ambassador-Designate of India to Mauritania, and Arun Narayan, CEO – Jewellery Division, Tanishq.

Commenting on the outcome, GJEPC's Kirit Bhansali said, “The estimated Rs 75,000 crore in business expected from this edition reflects the scale and momentum of India’s gem and jewellery industry and reinforces IIJS’s role in setting the global trade calendar.”

A key development at the show was the launch of JewelStart, a GJEPC initiative to mentor startups and emerging entrepreneurs. Buyer interest was also visible at the Crafts Pavilion, while IGJME Bharat – Signature 2026 ran concurrently, showcasing jewellery manufacturing technology and equipment.

Product trends highlighted demand for jewellery priced below Rs 5 lakh, increased adoption of 18-karat gold, wider use of 3D manufacturing in bridal jewellery, and growing interest in fancy-cut diamonds, pearls and coloured gemstones, particularly tanzanite.