The {{GJIIE}} is the only international B2B jewellery exhibition in the Southern part of India. To be held between January 23rd and 25th 2010, the show is a platform for an exchange of opinions and business building relationships between exhibitors and traders from remote areas of South India.%% Since its initiation in 2005, {{the Gem and Jewellery India International Exhibition (GJIIE)}} has today become the largest platform for the gems and jewellery trade in the South Indian region. The B2B trade fair is jointly organised by the Madras Jewellers and Diamond Merchants Association and UBM India Pvt. Ltd. Through the show, the association endeavours to educate people on gold jewellery and gems being a wealth for people from every social and economic stratum and the value of antique jewellery. %% {{Boosting up trade in South India}}%% Around 45 percent of the gold jewellery business in India comes from the South Indian states comprising Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh (as well as Telengana), Kerala and the Union territory of Pondicherry. While sources say that Kerala tops the list for gold jewellery business as a state, as a city Chennai has the major chunk of the jewellery business thereby making it the jewellery-trading hub in the region and the perfect place to hold an international B2B exhibition. Jewellery traders from even remote areas of South India throng the GJIIE, as Chennai is a convenient and cost effective destination for jewellers from South India. Says {{Babu Emmanuel}}, {{|*President, MJDMA,*|}} |*“GJIIE is very important to jewellers from remote areas. They feel comfortable in Chennai due to language, food habits and hospitality. Besides they can see and collect good designs for the mofussil to match with the city.”*|%% While it is difficult to personally take their merchandise along and visit each jeweller in remote areas, the show provides a platform for the exhibitors to do business in these places. According to {{Chirag Batavia }}of |*Krizz,*| whose company has been participating since last two years, |*“People from small villages and towns visit the GJIIE every year. This gives us a big exposure to reach those particular areas or for them to come, see and buy our products.” *|%% While laying emphasis on the importance of fair buying, {{Vinod Hayagriv,}} |*Chairman of the All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation (GJF)*| feels that the trade fair is very vital for the gem and jewellery industry in Southern India. |*“It is one big show of South India. Together with Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh (and surely Telengana) south will be the sourcing hub for all of India.”*|

{{GJIIE 2010}}%% Themed as {{VIBRANT GJIIE }}– a one-stop shop for the jewellery trade, the sixth edition of GJIIE will be held between 23rd and 25th January 2010 at the Chennai Trade Centre. The exhibition has more than 150 companies participating from different parts of the globe and is spread over 250 booths in a total exhibition area of 30000 sq. ft. While most of the exhibitors are from India, there are few participants from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Italy, Dubai and Hong Kong.$$ The response for the show has been growing tremendously over the last few years. %% While {{Jayantilal J Challani,}} |*Vice-president, MJDMA*| accredits visitors for the success of the last five exhibitions, he welcomes them to visit the 2010 show. |*“Exhibitions bring the world at our door step and educate us regarding the market scenario. For any exhibition to succeed, visitors are must. The last five exhibitions were very much successful only because of the visitors who have made it to the show. I look forward to seeing visitors at GJIIE 2010”*| He says. As with the last five shows, the organisers are confident of a good footfall at the 2010 show. Around 8000 trade visitors are expected at the show. Already visitor registrations have crossed 3000 as early as 1st November 2009 signifying the positive response of the traders for the show, according to the organisers.%% There has been an equivalent response from the exhibitors too. In fact, during the 2009 show there was a 70 percent advance booking of stalls for the GJIIE 2010. {{Yogesh Shah,}}|* Chairman of GJIIE and Vice-president of MJDMA*| attributes the early booking success to the foundation laid back in 2005. He further adds that with more than a month to go for the event, all the stalls have been sold out.$$ Topics like identification of synthetics from real diamonds, grading of mounted gemstones jewellery, BIS Hallmarking & Insurance policy for jewellers are focused upon at the various seminars to be held at the fair. %% {{Market trends }}%% The south Indian region is predominantly a yellow gold market. As 916 hallmarked yellow gold ornaments sell fast in the region, there is a growing demand for other colour variants of gold such as white among the younger generation, according to {{Inder Jain}} of |*Kesar Golds,*| which is making its debut at the GJIIE 2010. {{Piyush Patel}} of |*Dharmanandan Diamonds*|, which is participating for the second time at the show, feels that as new generation have a liking for jewellery with Italian designs, most of the jewellery at the show will be inspired from both Indian and Italian styles. %% Nevertheless, in recent times there has been a steadily growing preference for stone studded jewellery, thereby opening new markets to the diamond industry. {{Piyush Patel}} says, |*“The market in South India for diamond jewellery is good. Previously people used to prefer only gold jewellery. However now they are buying diamond jewellery as well. It is a good opportunity for the diamond industry.”*| Reiterating this point is {{Priyanshu Shah,}} who says, |*“In recent times we have seen diamonds creeping up in the popularity charts in South India. Diamond jewellery is expected to grow at 13 to 15 percent year on year in this market. However, the consumer here is known for a fastidious interest in quality and will reject diamonds, which are less than VVS in clarity and E, F or G, H in colour. In terms of styling preference, traditional and classic designs are more popular.”*|

The current market scenario shows high volatility in the gold prices. While south Indians are known to be very particular in their tastes, the trends for jewellery – be it pure gold or stone studded – are definitely shifting towards lightweight and in certain designs bigger jewellery. While {{Inder Jain}} says, |*“Market for jewellery in the South is always good. However, as the gold rate is high, we have to concentrate on light weight jewellery,”*| {{Chirag }}offers more insights for this new trend. |*“Previously people would purchase heavy jewellery. As the prevailing high rates, demand for heavy and chunky jewellery has now dwindled. Many people today cannot afford to buy a 100 or 200 grams necklace in the current situation. Therefore, they are going for lightweight but heavy looking jewellery. Today gold jewellery is still in demand, it is only the weight that has come down,”*| he says. {{Mahendra Choradia}} of |*Swarn Sarita Jewellers Pvt. Ltd.*| who are participating for the first time says , |*“Market in the south has always been bullish. There is always the demand from the customers as well as jewellers throughout the year. Although they might have to purchase according to their budget, people still have confidence in gold jewellery. This is due to the fact that now besides a good resale value gold jewellery is now hallmarked.”*|

{{Innovative launches and new extensions}}%% Loose diamonds, gemstones, jewellery and equipment manufacturers will make their presence marked at the show. VVS quality of diamonds from melee to two carats, and VVS certified diamond jewellery sets comprise the major highlights at the Dharmanandan Diamonds booth. {{Piyush Patel}} says, |*“Till now we were making small earrings, pendants and rings. Now we are bringing out high-end sets, which comprise necklace, earrings and rings. We are also highlighting heart and arrows.” *|%% While their focus is on everyday wear, lightweight jewellery and bridal wear, A' Star is launching new designs in lightweight sets at GJIIE 2010. The designs are classic and suitable for formal as well as semi formal occasions. Chennai based company Krizz is launching a range of new products in casting jewellery. Kesar Golds are highlighting lightweight jewellery as well contemporary jewellery at the show. %% Swarn Sarita are exhibiting mostly antique look jewellery, kundan jewellery and diamond jewellery. {{Choradia}} says,|* “We are also bringing lightweight contemporary jewellery as gold prices are high. We are endeavouring to bring the jewellery that customers prefer. Also as the wedding season resumes after 15 January, bridal jewellery will also be highlighted at the show.” *|%% Specialists in lightweight pendant sets, bangles and chains in 22k yellow gold, R M Jewellery are launching a new product at the show. |*“We are going to launch a new product called the Butterfly collection at GJIIE 2010. The collection is a new product for India itself and has about 25 designs. The jewels are set with lot of very fine filigree work, interesting motifs in enamelling and semi-precious stones. Our existing customers will feel new designs and concepts coming in the Chennai show,” *|says {{Gyan Prakash Arya }}of |*RM Jewellery*|.%% As the market trends are forever changing, innovation is the key mantra for most of the exhibitors. {{K Srinivasan}} of |*Emerald Jewel Industry India Limited*| quotes, |*“Our product range includes Casting, Hand made jewellery, Fusion, Electroforming, Hollow jewellery, Stamping, CNC, etc. Our Unique Selling Point is to mix them to get a perfect blend of designs.” *|%% But how innovative should jewellery be? {{Dipti Jhaveri}} of |*Dipti Amisha*| designer duo, who is bringing a indo-western fusion jewellery collection with an ethnic look in a modern way at the show, says, |*“Innovation does not mean that you can design anything and people will accept it as unique jewellery. The design needs to have a balance and a purpose. Besides, the design should attract the customer and then only will the person purchase the jewellery.” *|

{{Great expectations}}$$ Despite the slow revival of the gem and jewellery industry post recession, exhibitors and visitors are optimistic of creating good business relationships at the show. As there is a steadily growing demand for diamond jewellery in the region, {{Priyanshu Shah }}of |*A'Star Jewellery *|says, |*“We are positive that the show will bring in good business. We are expecting the demand for diamond jewellery to override the demand for gold jewellery due to the all-time high price of gold. But over and above the immediate business angle, our long-term objective is to build strong relations with the trade in the South market.”*|%% Some companies like |*Emerald Jewel Industry India Limited*| are launching new products or extending their existing line of products through introduction of new designs. {{Srinivasan}} says, |*“We are showcasing a lot of our new designs at the 2010 show. We are hopeful of attracting new customers as also increased awareness among existing customers about our range of products. Subsequently, we anticipate a surge in sales for our products.” *|%% While the consumer's confidence in the gem and jewellery sector is growing, {{Vinod Hayagriv}} feels that much more can be done.|* “If we can make a transparent industry, make easily shoppable rates for gold with uniformity across the country, we will be able to grow really well. We need to be opening our minds to cooperative competition,”*| he says.

The {{GJIIE}} is the only international B2B jewellery exhibition in the Southern part of India. To be held between January 23rd and 25th 2010, the show is a platform for an exchange of opinions and business building relationships between exhibitors and traders from remote areas of South India.%% Since its initiation in 2005, {{the Gem and Jewellery India International Exhibition (GJIIE)}} has today become the largest platform for the gems and jewellery trade in the South Indian region. The B2B trade fair is jointly organised by the Madras Jewellers and Diamond Merchants Association and UBM India Pvt. Ltd. Through the show, the association endeavours to educate people on gold jewellery and gems being a wealth for people from every social and economic stratum and the value of antique jewellery. %% {{Boosting up trade in South India}}%% Around 45 percent of the gold jewellery business in India comes from the South Indian states comprising Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh (as well as Telengana), Kerala and the Union territory of Pondicherry. While sources say that Kerala tops the list for gold jewellery business as a state, as a city Chennai has the major chunk of the jewellery business thereby making it the jewellery-trading hub in the region and the perfect place to hold an international B2B exhibition. Jewellery traders from even remote areas of South India throng the GJIIE, as Chennai is a convenient and cost effective destination for jewellers from South India. Says {{Babu Emmanuel}}, {{|*President, MJDMA,*|}} |*“GJIIE is very important to jewellers from remote areas. They feel comfortable in Chennai due to language, food habits and hospitality. Besides they can see and collect good designs for the mofussil to match with the city.”*|%% While it is difficult to personally take their merchandise along and visit each jeweller in remote areas, the show provides a platform for the exhibitors to do business in these places. According to {{Chirag Batavia }}of |*Krizz,*| whose company has been participating since last two years, |*“People from small villages and towns visit the GJIIE every year. This gives us a big exposure to reach those particular areas or for them to come, see and buy our products.” *|%% While laying emphasis on the importance of fair buying, {{Vinod Hayagriv,}} |*Chairman of the All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation (GJF)*| feels that the trade fair is very vital for the gem and jewellery industry in Southern India. |*“It is one big show of South India. Together with Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh (and surely Telengana) south will be the sourcing hub for all of India.”*|

{{GJIIE 2010}}%% Themed as {{VIBRANT GJIIE }}– a one-stop shop for the jewellery trade, the sixth edition of GJIIE will be held between 23rd and 25th January 2010 at the Chennai Trade Centre. The exhibition has more than 150 companies participating from different parts of the globe and is spread over 250 booths in a total exhibition area of 30000 sq. ft. While most of the exhibitors are from India, there are few participants from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Italy, Dubai and Hong Kong.$$ The response for the show has been growing tremendously over the last few years. %% While {{Jayantilal J Challani,}} |*Vice-president, MJDMA*| accredits visitors for the success of the last five exhibitions, he welcomes them to visit the 2010 show. |*“Exhibitions bring the world at our door step and educate us regarding the market scenario. For any exhibition to succeed, visitors are must. The last five exhibitions were very much successful only because of the visitors who have made it to the show. I look forward to seeing visitors at GJIIE 2010”*| He says. As with the last five shows, the organisers are confident of a good footfall at the 2010 show. Around 8000 trade visitors are expected at the show. Already visitor registrations have crossed 3000 as early as 1st November 2009 signifying the positive response of the traders for the show, according to the organisers.%% There has been an equivalent response from the exhibitors too. In fact, during the 2009 show there was a 70 percent advance booking of stalls for the GJIIE 2010. {{Yogesh Shah,}}|* Chairman of GJIIE and Vice-president of MJDMA*| attributes the early booking success to the foundation laid back in 2005. He further adds that with more than a month to go for the event, all the stalls have been sold out.$$ Topics like identification of synthetics from real diamonds, grading of mounted gemstones jewellery, BIS Hallmarking & Insurance policy for jewellers are focused upon at the various seminars to be held at the fair. %% {{Market trends }}%% The south Indian region is predominantly a yellow gold market. As 916 hallmarked yellow gold ornaments sell fast in the region, there is a growing demand for other colour variants of gold such as white among the younger generation, according to {{Inder Jain}} of |*Kesar Golds,*| which is making its debut at the GJIIE 2010. {{Piyush Patel}} of |*Dharmanandan Diamonds*|, which is participating for the second time at the show, feels that as new generation have a liking for jewellery with Italian designs, most of the jewellery at the show will be inspired from both Indian and Italian styles. %% Nevertheless, in recent times there has been a steadily growing preference for stone studded jewellery, thereby opening new markets to the diamond industry. {{Piyush Patel}} says, |*“The market in South India for diamond jewellery is good. Previously people used to prefer only gold jewellery. However now they are buying diamond jewellery as well. It is a good opportunity for the diamond industry.”*| Reiterating this point is {{Priyanshu Shah,}} who says, |*“In recent times we have seen diamonds creeping up in the popularity charts in South India. Diamond jewellery is expected to grow at 13 to 15 percent year on year in this market. However, the consumer here is known for a fastidious interest in quality and will reject diamonds, which are less than VVS in clarity and E, F or G, H in colour. In terms of styling preference, traditional and classic designs are more popular.”*|

The current market scenario shows high volatility in the gold prices. While south Indians are known to be very particular in their tastes, the trends for jewellery – be it pure gold or stone studded – are definitely shifting towards lightweight and in certain designs bigger jewellery. While {{Inder Jain}} says, |*“Market for jewellery in the South is always good. However, as the gold rate is high, we have to concentrate on light weight jewellery,”*| {{Chirag }}offers more insights for this new trend. |*“Previously people would purchase heavy jewellery. As the prevailing high rates, demand for heavy and chunky jewellery has now dwindled. Many people today cannot afford to buy a 100 or 200 grams necklace in the current situation. Therefore, they are going for lightweight but heavy looking jewellery. Today gold jewellery is still in demand, it is only the weight that has come down,”*| he says. {{Mahendra Choradia}} of |*Swarn Sarita Jewellers Pvt. Ltd.*| who are participating for the first time says , |*“Market in the south has always been bullish. There is always the demand from the customers as well as jewellers throughout the year. Although they might have to purchase according to their budget, people still have confidence in gold jewellery. This is due to the fact that now besides a good resale value gold jewellery is now hallmarked.”*|

{{Innovative launches and new extensions}}%% Loose diamonds, gemstones, jewellery and equipment manufacturers will make their presence marked at the show. VVS quality of diamonds from melee to two carats, and VVS certified diamond jewellery sets comprise the major highlights at the Dharmanandan Diamonds booth. {{Piyush Patel}} says, |*“Till now we were making small earrings, pendants and rings. Now we are bringing out high-end sets, which comprise necklace, earrings and rings. We are also highlighting heart and arrows.” *|%% While their focus is on everyday wear, lightweight jewellery and bridal wear, A' Star is launching new designs in lightweight sets at GJIIE 2010. The designs are classic and suitable for formal as well as semi formal occasions. Chennai based company Krizz is launching a range of new products in casting jewellery. Kesar Golds are highlighting lightweight jewellery as well contemporary jewellery at the show. %% Swarn Sarita are exhibiting mostly antique look jewellery, kundan jewellery and diamond jewellery. {{Choradia}} says,|* “We are also bringing lightweight contemporary jewellery as gold prices are high. We are endeavouring to bring the jewellery that customers prefer. Also as the wedding season resumes after 15 January, bridal jewellery will also be highlighted at the show.” *|%% Specialists in lightweight pendant sets, bangles and chains in 22k yellow gold, R M Jewellery are launching a new product at the show. |*“We are going to launch a new product called the Butterfly collection at GJIIE 2010. The collection is a new product for India itself and has about 25 designs. The jewels are set with lot of very fine filigree work, interesting motifs in enamelling and semi-precious stones. Our existing customers will feel new designs and concepts coming in the Chennai show,” *|says {{Gyan Prakash Arya }}of |*RM Jewellery*|.%% As the market trends are forever changing, innovation is the key mantra for most of the exhibitors. {{K Srinivasan}} of |*Emerald Jewel Industry India Limited*| quotes, |*“Our product range includes Casting, Hand made jewellery, Fusion, Electroforming, Hollow jewellery, Stamping, CNC, etc. Our Unique Selling Point is to mix them to get a perfect blend of designs.” *|%% But how innovative should jewellery be? {{Dipti Jhaveri}} of |*Dipti Amisha*| designer duo, who is bringing a indo-western fusion jewellery collection with an ethnic look in a modern way at the show, says, |*“Innovation does not mean that you can design anything and people will accept it as unique jewellery. The design needs to have a balance and a purpose. Besides, the design should attract the customer and then only will the person purchase the jewellery.” *|

{{Great expectations}}$$ Despite the slow revival of the gem and jewellery industry post recession, exhibitors and visitors are optimistic of creating good business relationships at the show. As there is a steadily growing demand for diamond jewellery in the region, {{Priyanshu Shah }}of |*A'Star Jewellery *|says, |*“We are positive that the show will bring in good business. We are expecting the demand for diamond jewellery to override the demand for gold jewellery due to the all-time high price of gold. But over and above the immediate business angle, our long-term objective is to build strong relations with the trade in the South market.”*|%% Some companies like |*Emerald Jewel Industry India Limited*| are launching new products or extending their existing line of products through introduction of new designs. {{Srinivasan}} says, |*“We are showcasing a lot of our new designs at the 2010 show. We are hopeful of attracting new customers as also increased awareness among existing customers about our range of products. Subsequently, we anticipate a surge in sales for our products.” *|%% While the consumer's confidence in the gem and jewellery sector is growing, {{Vinod Hayagriv}} feels that much more can be done.|* “If we can make a transparent industry, make easily shoppable rates for gold with uniformity across the country, we will be able to grow really well. We need to be opening our minds to cooperative competition,”*| he says.

The {{GJIIE}} is the only international B2B jewellery exhibition in the Southern part of India. To be held between January 23rd and 25th 2010, the show is a platform for an exchange of opinions and business building relationships between exhibitors and traders from remote areas of South India.%% Since its initiation in 2005, {{the Gem and Jewellery India International Exhibition (GJIIE)}} has today become the largest platform for the gems and jewellery trade in the South Indian region. The B2B trade fair is jointly organised by the Madras Jewellers and Diamond Merchants Association and UBM India Pvt. Ltd. Through the show, the association endeavours to educate people on gold jewellery and gems being a wealth for people from every social and economic stratum and the value of antique jewellery. %% {{Boosting up trade in South India}}%% Around 45 percent of the gold jewellery business in India comes from the South Indian states comprising Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh (as well as Telengana), Kerala and the Union territory of Pondicherry. While sources say that Kerala tops the list for gold jewellery business as a state, as a city Chennai has the major chunk of the jewellery business thereby making it the jewellery-trading hub in the region and the perfect place to hold an international B2B exhibition. Jewellery traders from even remote areas of South India throng the GJIIE, as Chennai is a convenient and cost effective destination for jewellers from South India. Says {{Babu Emmanuel}}, {{|*President, MJDMA,*|}} |*“GJIIE is very important to jewellers from remote areas. They feel comfortable in Chennai due to language, food habits and hospitality. Besides they can see and collect good designs for the mofussil to match with the city.”*|%% While it is difficult to personally take their merchandise along and visit each jeweller in remote areas, the show provides a platform for the exhibitors to do business in these places. According to {{Chirag Batavia }}of |*Krizz,*| whose company has been participating since last two years, |*“People from small villages and towns visit the GJIIE every year. This gives us a big exposure to reach those particular areas or for them to come, see and buy our products.” *|%% While laying emphasis on the importance of fair buying, {{Vinod Hayagriv,}} |*Chairman of the All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation (GJF)*| feels that the trade fair is very vital for the gem and jewellery industry in Southern India. |*“It is one big show of South India. Together with Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh (and surely Telengana) south will be the sourcing hub for all of India.”*|

{{GJIIE 2010}}%% Themed as {{VIBRANT GJIIE }}– a one-stop shop for the jewellery trade, the sixth edition of GJIIE will be held between 23rd and 25th January 2010 at the Chennai Trade Centre. The exhibition has more than 150 companies participating from different parts of the globe and is spread over 250 booths in a total exhibition area of 30000 sq. ft. While most of the exhibitors are from India, there are few participants from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Italy, Dubai and Hong Kong.$$ The response for the show has been growing tremendously over the last few years. %% While {{Jayantilal J Challani,}} |*Vice-president, MJDMA*| accredits visitors for the success of the last five exhibitions, he welcomes them to visit the 2010 show. |*“Exhibitions bring the world at our door step and educate us regarding the market scenario. For any exhibition to succeed, visitors are must. The last five exhibitions were very much successful only because of the visitors who have made it to the show. I look forward to seeing visitors at GJIIE 2010”*| He says. As with the last five shows, the organisers are confident of a good footfall at the 2010 show. Around 8000 trade visitors are expected at the show. Already visitor registrations have crossed 3000 as early as 1st November 2009 signifying the positive response of the traders for the show, according to the organisers.%% There has been an equivalent response from the exhibitors too. In fact, during the 2009 show there was a 70 percent advance booking of stalls for the GJIIE 2010. {{Yogesh Shah,}}|* Chairman of GJIIE and Vice-president of MJDMA*| attributes the early booking success to the foundation laid back in 2005. He further adds that with more than a month to go for the event, all the stalls have been sold out.$$ Topics like identification of synthetics from real diamonds, grading of mounted gemstones jewellery, BIS Hallmarking & Insurance policy for jewellers are focused upon at the various seminars to be held at the fair. %% {{Market trends }}%% The south Indian region is predominantly a yellow gold market. As 916 hallmarked yellow gold ornaments sell fast in the region, there is a growing demand for other colour variants of gold such as white among the younger generation, according to {{Inder Jain}} of |*Kesar Golds,*| which is making its debut at the GJIIE 2010. {{Piyush Patel}} of |*Dharmanandan Diamonds*|, which is participating for the second time at the show, feels that as new generation have a liking for jewellery with Italian designs, most of the jewellery at the show will be inspired from both Indian and Italian styles. %% Nevertheless, in recent times there has been a steadily growing preference for stone studded jewellery, thereby opening new markets to the diamond industry. {{Piyush Patel}} says, |*“The market in South India for diamond jewellery is good. Previously people used to prefer only gold jewellery. However now they are buying diamond jewellery as well. It is a good opportunity for the diamond industry.”*| Reiterating this point is {{Priyanshu Shah,}} who says, |*“In recent times we have seen diamonds creeping up in the popularity charts in South India. Diamond jewellery is expected to grow at 13 to 15 percent year on year in this market. However, the consumer here is known for a fastidious interest in quality and will reject diamonds, which are less than VVS in clarity and E, F or G, H in colour. In terms of styling preference, traditional and classic designs are more popular.”*|

The current market scenario shows high volatility in the gold prices. While south Indians are known to be very particular in their tastes, the trends for jewellery – be it pure gold or stone studded – are definitely shifting towards lightweight and in certain designs bigger jewellery. While {{Inder Jain}} says, |*“Market for jewellery in the South is always good. However, as the gold rate is high, we have to concentrate on light weight jewellery,”*| {{Chirag }}offers more insights for this new trend. |*“Previously people would purchase heavy jewellery. As the prevailing high rates, demand for heavy and chunky jewellery has now dwindled. Many people today cannot afford to buy a 100 or 200 grams necklace in the current situation. Therefore, they are going for lightweight but heavy looking jewellery. Today gold jewellery is still in demand, it is only the weight that has come down,”*| he says. {{Mahendra Choradia}} of |*Swarn Sarita Jewellers Pvt. Ltd.*| who are participating for the first time says , |*“Market in the south has always been bullish. There is always the demand from the customers as well as jewellers throughout the year. Although they might have to purchase according to their budget, people still have confidence in gold jewellery. This is due to the fact that now besides a good resale value gold jewellery is now hallmarked.”*|

{{Innovative launches and new extensions}}%% Loose diamonds, gemstones, jewellery and equipment manufacturers will make their presence marked at the show. VVS quality of diamonds from melee to two carats, and VVS certified diamond jewellery sets comprise the major highlights at the Dharmanandan Diamonds booth. {{Piyush Patel}} says, |*“Till now we were making small earrings, pendants and rings. Now we are bringing out high-end sets, which comprise necklace, earrings and rings. We are also highlighting heart and arrows.” *|%% While their focus is on everyday wear, lightweight jewellery and bridal wear, A' Star is launching new designs in lightweight sets at GJIIE 2010. The designs are classic and suitable for formal as well as semi formal occasions. Chennai based company Krizz is launching a range of new products in casting jewellery. Kesar Golds are highlighting lightweight jewellery as well contemporary jewellery at the show. %% Swarn Sarita are exhibiting mostly antique look jewellery, kundan jewellery and diamond jewellery. {{Choradia}} says,|* “We are also bringing lightweight contemporary jewellery as gold prices are high. We are endeavouring to bring the jewellery that customers prefer. Also as the wedding season resumes after 15 January, bridal jewellery will also be highlighted at the show.” *|%% Specialists in lightweight pendant sets, bangles and chains in 22k yellow gold, R M Jewellery are launching a new product at the show. |*“We are going to launch a new product called the Butterfly collection at GJIIE 2010. The collection is a new product for India itself and has about 25 designs. The jewels are set with lot of very fine filigree work, interesting motifs in enamelling and semi-precious stones. Our existing customers will feel new designs and concepts coming in the Chennai show,” *|says {{Gyan Prakash Arya }}of |*RM Jewellery*|.%% As the market trends are forever changing, innovation is the key mantra for most of the exhibitors. {{K Srinivasan}} of |*Emerald Jewel Industry India Limited*| quotes, |*“Our product range includes Casting, Hand made jewellery, Fusion, Electroforming, Hollow jewellery, Stamping, CNC, etc. Our Unique Selling Point is to mix them to get a perfect blend of designs.” *|%% But how innovative should jewellery be? {{Dipti Jhaveri}} of |*Dipti Amisha*| designer duo, who is bringing a indo-western fusion jewellery collection with an ethnic look in a modern way at the show, says, |*“Innovation does not mean that you can design anything and people will accept it as unique jewellery. The design needs to have a balance and a purpose. Besides, the design should attract the customer and then only will the person purchase the jewellery.” *|

{{Great expectations}}$$ Despite the slow revival of the gem and jewellery industry post recession, exhibitors and visitors are optimistic of creating good business relationships at the show. As there is a steadily growing demand for diamond jewellery in the region, {{Priyanshu Shah }}of |*A'Star Jewellery *|says, |*“We are positive that the show will bring in good business. We are expecting the demand for diamond jewellery to override the demand for gold jewellery due to the all-time high price of gold. But over and above the immediate business angle, our long-term objective is to build strong relations with the trade in the South market.”*|%% Some companies like |*Emerald Jewel Industry India Limited*| are launching new products or extending their existing line of products through introduction of new designs. {{Srinivasan}} says, |*“We are showcasing a lot of our new designs at the 2010 show. We are hopeful of attracting new customers as also increased awareness among existing customers about our range of products. Subsequently, we anticipate a surge in sales for our products.” *|%% While the consumer's confidence in the gem and jewellery sector is growing, {{Vinod Hayagriv}} feels that much more can be done.|* “If we can make a transparent industry, make easily shoppable rates for gold with uniformity across the country, we will be able to grow really well. We need to be opening our minds to cooperative competition,”*| he says.

The {{GJIIE}} is the only international B2B jewellery exhibition in the Southern part of India. To be held between January 23rd and 25th 2010, the show is a platform for an exchange of opinions and business building relationships between exhibitors and traders from remote areas of South India.%% Since its initiation in 2005, {{the Gem and Jewellery India International Exhibition (GJIIE)}} has today become the largest platform for the gems and jewellery trade in the South Indian region. The B2B trade fair is jointly organised by the Madras Jewellers and Diamond Merchants Association and UBM India Pvt. Ltd. Through the show, the association endeavours to educate people on gold jewellery and gems being a wealth for people from every social and economic stratum and the value of antique jewellery. %% {{Boosting up trade in South India}}%% Around 45 percent of the gold jewellery business in India comes from the South Indian states comprising Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh (as well as Telengana), Kerala and the Union territory of Pondicherry. While sources say that Kerala tops the list for gold jewellery business as a state, as a city Chennai has the major chunk of the jewellery business thereby making it the jewellery-trading hub in the region and the perfect place to hold an international B2B exhibition. Jewellery traders from even remote areas of South India throng the GJIIE, as Chennai is a convenient and cost effective destination for jewellers from South India. Says {{Babu Emmanuel}}, {{|*President, MJDMA,*|}} |*“GJIIE is very important to jewellers from remote areas. They feel comfortable in Chennai due to language, food habits and hospitality. Besides they can see and collect good designs for the mofussil to match with the city.”*|%% While it is difficult to personally take their merchandise along and visit each jeweller in remote areas, the show provides a platform for the exhibitors to do business in these places. According to {{Chirag Batavia }}of |*Krizz,*| whose company has been participating since last two years, |*“People from small villages and towns visit the GJIIE every year. This gives us a big exposure to reach those particular areas or for them to come, see and buy our products.” *|%% While laying emphasis on the importance of fair buying, {{Vinod Hayagriv,}} |*Chairman of the All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation (GJF)*| feels that the trade fair is very vital for the gem and jewellery industry in Southern India. |*“It is one big show of South India. Together with Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh (and surely Telengana) south will be the sourcing hub for all of India.”*|

{{GJIIE 2010}}%% Themed as {{VIBRANT GJIIE }}– a one-stop shop for the jewellery trade, the sixth edition of GJIIE will be held between 23rd and 25th January 2010 at the Chennai Trade Centre. The exhibition has more than 150 companies participating from different parts of the globe and is spread over 250 booths in a total exhibition area of 30000 sq. ft. While most of the exhibitors are from India, there are few participants from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Italy, Dubai and Hong Kong.$$ The response for the show has been growing tremendously over the last few years. %% While {{Jayantilal J Challani,}} |*Vice-president, MJDMA*| accredits visitors for the success of the last five exhibitions, he welcomes them to visit the 2010 show. |*“Exhibitions bring the world at our door step and educate us regarding the market scenario. For any exhibition to succeed, visitors are must. The last five exhibitions were very much successful only because of the visitors who have made it to the show. I look forward to seeing visitors at GJIIE 2010”*| He says. As with the last five shows, the organisers are confident of a good footfall at the 2010 show. Around 8000 trade visitors are expected at the show. Already visitor registrations have crossed 3000 as early as 1st November 2009 signifying the positive response of the traders for the show, according to the organisers.%% There has been an equivalent response from the exhibitors too. In fact, during the 2009 show there was a 70 percent advance booking of stalls for the GJIIE 2010. {{Yogesh Shah,}}|* Chairman of GJIIE and Vice-president of MJDMA*| attributes the early booking success to the foundation laid back in 2005. He further adds that with more than a month to go for the event, all the stalls have been sold out.$$ Topics like identification of synthetics from real diamonds, grading of mounted gemstones jewellery, BIS Hallmarking & Insurance policy for jewellers are focused upon at the various seminars to be held at the fair. %% {{Market trends }}%% The south Indian region is predominantly a yellow gold market. As 916 hallmarked yellow gold ornaments sell fast in the region, there is a growing demand for other colour variants of gold such as white among the younger generation, according to {{Inder Jain}} of |*Kesar Golds,*| which is making its debut at the GJIIE 2010. {{Piyush Patel}} of |*Dharmanandan Diamonds*|, which is participating for the second time at the show, feels that as new generation have a liking for jewellery with Italian designs, most of the jewellery at the show will be inspired from both Indian and Italian styles. %% Nevertheless, in recent times there has been a steadily growing preference for stone studded jewellery, thereby opening new markets to the diamond industry. {{Piyush Patel}} says, |*“The market in South India for diamond jewellery is good. Previously people used to prefer only gold jewellery. However now they are buying diamond jewellery as well. It is a good opportunity for the diamond industry.”*| Reiterating this point is {{Priyanshu Shah,}} who says, |*“In recent times we have seen diamonds creeping up in the popularity charts in South India. Diamond jewellery is expected to grow at 13 to 15 percent year on year in this market. However, the consumer here is known for a fastidious interest in quality and will reject diamonds, which are less than VVS in clarity and E, F or G, H in colour. In terms of styling preference, traditional and classic designs are more popular.”*|

The current market scenario shows high volatility in the gold prices. While south Indians are known to be very particular in their tastes, the trends for jewellery – be it pure gold or stone studded – are definitely shifting towards lightweight and in certain designs bigger jewellery. While {{Inder Jain}} says, |*“Market for jewellery in the South is always good. However, as the gold rate is high, we have to concentrate on light weight jewellery,”*| {{Chirag }}offers more insights for this new trend. |*“Previously people would purchase heavy jewellery. As the prevailing high rates, demand for heavy and chunky jewellery has now dwindled. Many people today cannot afford to buy a 100 or 200 grams necklace in the current situation. Therefore, they are going for lightweight but heavy looking jewellery. Today gold jewellery is still in demand, it is only the weight that has come down,”*| he says. {{Mahendra Choradia}} of |*Swarn Sarita Jewellers Pvt. Ltd.*| who are participating for the first time says , |*“Market in the south has always been bullish. There is always the demand from the customers as well as jewellers throughout the year. Although they might have to purchase according to their budget, people still have confidence in gold jewellery. This is due to the fact that now besides a good resale value gold jewellery is now hallmarked.”*|

{{Innovative launches and new extensions}}%% Loose diamonds, gemstones, jewellery and equipment manufacturers will make their presence marked at the show. VVS quality of diamonds from melee to two carats, and VVS certified diamond jewellery sets comprise the major highlights at the Dharmanandan Diamonds booth. {{Piyush Patel}} says, |*“Till now we were making small earrings, pendants and rings. Now we are bringing out high-end sets, which comprise necklace, earrings and rings. We are also highlighting heart and arrows.” *|%% While their focus is on everyday wear, lightweight jewellery and bridal wear, A' Star is launching new designs in lightweight sets at GJIIE 2010. The designs are classic and suitable for formal as well as semi formal occasions. Chennai based company Krizz is launching a range of new products in casting jewellery. Kesar Golds are highlighting lightweight jewellery as well contemporary jewellery at the show. %% Swarn Sarita are exhibiting mostly antique look jewellery, kundan jewellery and diamond jewellery. {{Choradia}} says,|* “We are also bringing lightweight contemporary jewellery as gold prices are high. We are endeavouring to bring the jewellery that customers prefer. Also as the wedding season resumes after 15 January, bridal jewellery will also be highlighted at the show.” *|%% Specialists in lightweight pendant sets, bangles and chains in 22k yellow gold, R M Jewellery are launching a new product at the show. |*“We are going to launch a new product called the Butterfly collection at GJIIE 2010. The collection is a new product for India itself and has about 25 designs. The jewels are set with lot of very fine filigree work, interesting motifs in enamelling and semi-precious stones. Our existing customers will feel new designs and concepts coming in the Chennai show,” *|says {{Gyan Prakash Arya }}of |*RM Jewellery*|.%% As the market trends are forever changing, innovation is the key mantra for most of the exhibitors. {{K Srinivasan}} of |*Emerald Jewel Industry India Limited*| quotes, |*“Our product range includes Casting, Hand made jewellery, Fusion, Electroforming, Hollow jewellery, Stamping, CNC, etc. Our Unique Selling Point is to mix them to get a perfect blend of designs.” *|%% But how innovative should jewellery be? {{Dipti Jhaveri}} of |*Dipti Amisha*| designer duo, who is bringing a indo-western fusion jewellery collection with an ethnic look in a modern way at the show, says, |*“Innovation does not mean that you can design anything and people will accept it as unique jewellery. The design needs to have a balance and a purpose. Besides, the design should attract the customer and then only will the person purchase the jewellery.” *|

{{Great expectations}}$$ Despite the slow revival of the gem and jewellery industry post recession, exhibitors and visitors are optimistic of creating good business relationships at the show. As there is a steadily growing demand for diamond jewellery in the region, {{Priyanshu Shah }}of |*A'Star Jewellery *|says, |*“We are positive that the show will bring in good business. We are expecting the demand for diamond jewellery to override the demand for gold jewellery due to the all-time high price of gold. But over and above the immediate business angle, our long-term objective is to build strong relations with the trade in the South market.”*|%% Some companies like |*Emerald Jewel Industry India Limited*| are launching new products or extending their existing line of products through introduction of new designs. {{Srinivasan}} says, |*“We are showcasing a lot of our new designs at the 2010 show. We are hopeful of attracting new customers as also increased awareness among existing customers about our range of products. Subsequently, we anticipate a surge in sales for our products.” *|%% While the consumer's confidence in the gem and jewellery sector is growing, {{Vinod Hayagriv}} feels that much more can be done.|* “If we can make a transparent industry, make easily shoppable rates for gold with uniformity across the country, we will be able to grow really well. We need to be opening our minds to cooperative competition,”*| he says.