GemGenève 2022: Unveiling the Future of Luxury Jewelry and Precious Stones in Geneva
The official opening of GemGenève’s highly anticipated 2022 edition will be heralded by an exclusive press conference, followed by an insightful guided tour and opportunities for personalized interviews on May 4th. This special preview day sets the stage for a truly immersive experience.
LET’S BUILD THE FUTURE OF THE
WORLD OF JEWELLERY AND PRECIOUS STONES TOGETHER
JOIN US FROM 5–8 MAY 2022
GENEVA, 28 FEBRUARY 2022 – From Thursday, May 5th, to Sunday, May 8th, GemGenève proudly opens the doors to its fourth edition at Palexpo, Geneva. This premier international exhibition continues to be a crucial meeting point for gemmology and jewelry professionals, enthusiasts, and collectors worldwide. Remaining faithful to its unique ethos – created by exhibitors for exhibitors, and welcoming the general public – GemGenève offers an unparalleled platform for expression dedicated to the captivating world of colored stones, exceptional diamonds, lustrous pearls, exquisite antique and contemporary jewelry, prestigious designers, and burgeoning new talents. The promise of GemGenève is clear: a vibrant laboratory of creativity, an immersive journey into the diverse realms of jewelry craftsmanship, a high-level educational program, and, crucially, the invaluable human interactions fostered by a live, in-person event of this caliber.
GemGenève stands as a truly unique global hub where master jewelry designers, esteemed exhibitors, leading dealers in precious stones, discerning retailers, passionate collectors, seasoned connoisseurs, and both professional and private buyers can gather under one roof. It is a place designed for sharing passions, fostering collaborations, and celebrating the intricate artistry that defines the luxury jewelry sector. This intimate yet expansive setting encourages dialogue, discovery, and direct engagement with the most exquisite pieces and the brilliant minds behind them.
The 2022 program is meticulously curated to offer a rich tapestry of experiences, including engaging lectures, dynamic round tables, insightful seminars, and a range of innovative ideas and captivating displays. The exclusive Preview event, attended by local authorities, esteemed VIPs, and international media, is scheduled for Wednesday, May 4th, 2022, offering a first look at the splendors awaiting visitors.
A Vision Forged in Passion and Expertise
Founded in 2018 by Geneva-based visionary dealers Thomas Faerber and Ronny Totah, GemGenève emerged from a shared desire to create an exhibition that truly serves the industry while inspiring a broader audience. It represents an unparalleled opportunity for four days of profound inspiration, bringing together a vibrant community of professionals, innovative designers, dedicated collectors, and fervent aficionados of gemmology and jewelry. Each edition reinforces this founding vision, building a legacy of excellence and community.
Passion, unparalleled expertise, and a strong commitment to education will once more be at the very heart of the 2022 show. An ambitious program, carefully assembled by a small, dedicated team, is designed to offer both visitors and exhibitors an exceptionally pleasant, enriching, and memorable experience. Every detail, from the selection of exhibitors to the layout of the venue and the content of the educational sessions, reflects this unwavering commitment to quality and engagement.
‘We attach the same importance to precious stones, to jewelry and its design as we do to creating a real sense of togetherness that brings together the international community of gemstone and antique jewelry dealers, designers and jewelry fans.’
Thomas Faerber, co-founder of GemGenève
The 2022 Programme: A Showcase of Distinction and Innovation
The 2022 event is poised to be an extraordinary showcase for a distinguished array of international exhibitors. In 2021, the exhibition proudly featured 120 exhibitors hailing from over 15 countries, each bringing a unique personality and an astonishing diversity of pieces. These exhibitors are not merely participants; they are full partners and key players in this show, which was conceived and designed with their needs and aspirations at its core. Together, they present an impressive variety of pieces awaiting discovery and acquisition: from elegant, affordable jewelry for everyday wear to rare and exceptional investment-grade pieces, alongside timeless antique and historic items, and cutting-edge contemporary creations that push the boundaries of design.
GemGenève is perpetually driven by an unwavering desire to champion the interests of its global exhibitors. The organizers have gone to great lengths to ensure their participation is as seamless and rewarding as possible, offering comprehensive turnkey services for their booths and providing an unparalleled welcoming experience. This includes prioritizing their comfort and hospitality, ensuring that every exhibitor feels valued and supported in this vibrant marketplace.
Inspired by creative exchange and dynamic artistic partnerships, GemGenève actively contributes to the growth and evolution of the industry. Its central aim is to promote the sustainable future of jewelry and the captivating world of precious stones, not only within Switzerland but across the entire globe. It serves as a catalyst for innovation, encouraging new ideas and collaborations that shape the industry’s trajectory.
More than just a trade fair, GemGenève aims to be an inspirational event, inviting its visitors to delve into emerging trends and discover groundbreaking ideas and methodologies. This is made possible by the collective expertise of its esteemed guests, who will host a diverse array of workshops and conferences throughout the duration of the show. By thoughtfully combining insights from the past with present innovations and future possibilities, unlocking creativity in all its myriad forms, and offering a high-quality educational program, these elements stand as core priorities of the event.
Spotlight on Key Initiatives and Features:
Designer Vivarium
Under the discerning curatorship of Vivienne Becker, a distinguished jewelry historian and prolific author, the Designer Vivarium is a vibrant showcase presenting the latest creations by a select group of independent jewelry designers from across the globe. Over the course of its previous three shows in 2018, 2019, and 2021, GemGenève has proudly served as a launchpad for the careers of many now well-established young designers. The exhibition is thrilled to present the 2022 edition of the Designer Vivarium, promising fresh perspectives and groundbreaking designs that will undoubtedly inspire.
Projet FLAIR with Katerina Perez
Renowned jewelry influencer and specialist Katerina Perez returns to GemGenève for the second time to present her innovative FLAIR project. Find her creations at @flairproject_official. FLAIR is an inspiring online gallery and an independent community of multi-media artists who create unique objects and works profoundly inspired by jewelry and precious stones. Spanning various artistic disciplines such as painting, sculpture, photography, and even digital art, the unique creations of these talented artists will be available for purchase directly at the show, as well as via their Instagram platform. This initiative beautifully bridges the gap between traditional jewelry and contemporary art.
Emerging Talents
GemGenève consistently acts as a powerful launchpad for the new generation of creators and jewelry makers, actively encouraging aspiring designers to pursue their craft. The dedicated area, ‘Emerging Talents’, is specifically designed for rising stars in the field, offering the younger generation an invaluable space to exhibit their innovative works and gain unprecedented exposure to a global audience. This commitment underscores GemGenève’s dedication to nurturing the future of the industry.
Intensified Collaboration with Schools
GemGenève’s robust partnerships with various schools of art, jewelry, and other educational institutions linked to this professional sector stand as a testament to the event’s fundamental desire to ensure that passion, knowledge, and craftsmanship are successfully passed on from one generation to the next. These collaborations foster a fertile ground for learning and practical experience, shaping the industry’s future leaders.
Conferences and Seminars: Gaining Unprecedented Insights
The comprehensive series of GemGenève conferences will offer its visitors an unprecedented vision of the intricate worlds of gemmology and jewelry. These sessions provide invaluable opportunities to meet renowned experts in their respective fields and gain exclusive access to insider knowledge. In 2021, GemGenève powerfully underlined its pioneering spirit and its vital role as a custodian of jewelry history by organizing a series of insightful round-table discussions on the source, identification, and traceability of precious stones, in partnership with the Gemmologie et Francophonie association. Further enriching the program were conferences dedicated to the iconic Art Deco Jewellery with the prestigious École des Arts Joailliers (School of Jewellery Arts), and compelling presentations celebrating emblematic figures like Aldo Cipullo and Marina B, featuring the participation of recognized specialists and historians. GemGenève truly serves as a genuine center for all in the sector to meet, exchange ideas, and learn. This year, it will continue its mission, aspiring to provide an even bigger and more impactful platform for all players in the world of jewelry in 2022.
The Eye of Jewelry: Curating Trends and Luxury
The influential digital magazine and luxury online shop, The Eye of Jewelry (@theeyeofjewelry), established by Eleonor Picotto, is dedicated to showcasing all the latest trends and developments in the dynamic jewelry industry. Its editorial line offers a comprehensive overview, from new collection launches to detailed explanations of techniques and tools utilized in the prestige and fine jewelry sectors. The platform also boasts a curated selection of around a hundred luxury products for sale from over 400 brands. Eleonor Picciotto will be present at GemGenève, sharing her recent and most captivating favorites, offering visitors expert insights into current market directions.
Estelle Lagarde: The Art of Gouache in Jewelry Drawing
The incredibly talented Estelle Lagarde (@lagardejewelrydrawing) makes her debut at the GemGenève fair this year, bringing her exquisite artistry to the forefront. At this edition, she will present her most beautiful gouache illustrations of Prestige Jewellery during an engaging live demonstration. The esteemed French designer masterfully brings to life intricate jewelry and watch designs from the most prestigious companies using gouache – an art form that demands exceptional precision and immense patience, skills which she has truly perfected. Estelle Lagarde co-founded LAGARDE JEWELRY in 2020, where she also offers professional online training to transmit her invaluable expertise through her platform, www.lagardejewelrydrawing.fr. Her presence offers a rare glimpse into the foundational art of jewelry design.
Digital Updates ‘Live from the Show’: Expanding Global Reach
Recognizing the importance of broader accessibility, partnerships with influential figures in the digital space will be significantly strengthened in 2022. The aim is to offer an even wider global audience a unique, real-time experience of GemGenève through daily mini-broadcasts streamed ‘live from the show’. This innovative approach allows enthusiasts worldwide to feel connected to the vibrant energy and discoveries happening in Geneva.
FEEL & FIND: The Essence of Connection at GemGenève
With its deeply resonating campaign, Feel & Find – positioned at the very core of its values and activities – GemGenève extends a heartfelt invitation to all visitors: embark on a profound journey into a universe brimming with passionate communication and meaningful exchange. This show, unprecedented in its commitment to direct engagement, offers visitors the unparalleled opportunity to discover truly exceptional jewels. Beyond mere viewing, it encourages a multi-sensory experience – to touch them, to feel their exquisite craftsmanship, and to be utterly dazzled by the inherent beauty and perfection radiating from every single piece.
Furthermore, Feel & Find empowers visitors with the chance to compare notes, to glean invaluable knowledge from highly qualified professionals and leading experts, and to receive personally tailored advice that enhances their understanding and appreciation. It even provides the unique context to make a fully informed, spontaneous purchase on the spot, should the perfect piece align with the moment. Now more than ever, in an increasingly digital world, there is a fundamental need to reconnect with essential, tangible values. GemGenève meticulously restores the richness of human interaction to its rightful place, allowing it to be experienced fully, authentically, and without compromise. It’s an invitation to connect, explore, and be inspired.
About GemGenève: A Hub of Excellence and Innovation
Established in 2018 by two prominent Geneva dealers in jewels and precious stones, Ronny Totah and Thomas Faerber, GemGenève was ingeniously conceived and devised by exhibitors, for exhibitors. This groundbreaking show, unprecedented in the sector for its unique philosophy, is open to the public and brings together a remarkable and diverse community. This encompasses influential dealers in precious stones, diamonds, pearls, and jewelry, alongside leading gemmological laboratories, skilled manufacturers, specialist bookshops, renowned experts, and esteemed historians. Hosting a global contingent of professional buyers, dedicated collectors, passionate jewelry-lovers, and international media, GemGenève’s third show in 2021 recorded more than 2,757 visits, demonstrating its growing appeal. In 2022, its carefully chosen calendar conveniently coincides with Geneva’s prestigious spring auctions, further enhancing its strategic importance. Far more than just a traditional trade fair for industry professionals, GemGenève is proudly recognized as a creative laboratory without borders, fostering innovation and collaboration across the entire spectrum of the jewelry world.
“Our efforts have been overwhelmingly rewarded by the positive resonance and reception of the show. GemGenève was born out of a clear market need, a hitherto unexploited opportunity, which has profoundly contributed to its success,” underlines Ronny Totah. The fair’s ability to fill this void and provide a platform for genuine connection and commerce has cemented its status as a cornerstone event in the luxury calendar.
‘With GemGenève, we are sharing and communicating our knowledge. We’re committed to spreading the word and heightening awareness in the public – informed or otherwise –, to encouraging new generations to learn and discover new things. We’re simply spreading our passion for the world of jewelry and precious stones.’
Ida Faerber and Nadège Totah, of GemGenève
A Look Back at GemGenève 2021: Building on Success
The success of GemGenève 2021 serves as a strong foundation and a testament to the event’s growing influence and importance within the global jewelry and gemstone industry. Despite the challenging global landscape, the previous edition demonstrated remarkable resilience and a continued commitment to its mission. Key highlights from 2021 include:
- 120 exhibitors from 15 diverse countries participated, demonstrating the fair’s international appeal and curated selection, compared to 210 in the pre-pandemic 2019 edition.
- A total of 2,757 visitors from all over the world graced the event, reflecting strong interest and engagement, compared to 3,474 in 2019. This corresponded to over 3,800 entries in 2021, compared to 4,800 in 2019, indicating sustained attendee interest.
- GemGenève’s Instagram account significantly expanded its reach, growing to 14,700 followers, up from 12,200 followers in 2019, showcasing a thriving digital community.
- 8 leading jewelry designers were prominently presented at GemGenève as part of Vivienne Becker’s acclaimed Designer Vivarium. This illustrious group included Aline Debusigne (CH), Regina Gambatesa (IT), Studio Renn (IN), Atelier Allure (AT), G SUEN (GB), Alexandra Jefford (GB), Cora Sheibani (GB), and Alexander Tenzo (RU), representing a diverse spectrum of talent.
- 5 talented new designers – three from Switzerland and two from Russia – were discovered and championed by GemGenève, presented in the vital Emerging Talents section. These rising stars were Pierre d’Alexis (CH), Horowicz Fine Jewelry (CH), Enairo Sarl (CH), and Elena Okutova Jewellery (RU), highlighting the fair’s role in fostering new voices.
- The engaging presentation of the FLAIR PROJECT @flairproject_official by Katerina Perez showcased the innovative works of selected artists. Featured talents included Anna Petrich (hand-painted bags), Artashes Sardaryan, Celia Mastorchio-Fabbri (digital art), Hossein Borojeni (watercolor paintings), Julia Flit (photography), Ksenia Usacheva (oil painting), Larissa Panok (watercolor), SKROTZKY (watercolor), and Yeeler (oil painting), illustrating the convergence of art and jewelry inspiration.
- The Eye of Jewelry’s selection (www.theeyeofjewelry.com) featured Eleonor Picciotto’s top favorites: Alexandra Abramczyk, Selim Mouzannar, Hélène Prime, Ralph Lauren, Loyal.e, Maria João Bahia, Flav Paris, and Maison Romae, offering a curated perspective on contemporary luxury.
- Intensified collaboration with schools was a major highlight. In 2021, for the first time, other esteemed institutions such as ISG Luxury Geneva, schools providing courses leading to the Federal Certificate of Proficiency (École Technique de la Vallée de Joux, École d’Arts Appliqués de La Chaux-de-Fonds, and CFP Arts Genève), and CREA, had their own dedicated stands. Alongside HEAD, they presented their various educational programs and courses designed for those aspiring to a career in the dynamic world of jewelry.
- A significant collaboration with HEAD (Haute École d’Art et de Design de Genève) and the Grand Théâtre de Genève resulted in the creation of a stunning necklace inspired by the theme of Anna Bolena, blending haute couture with historical artistry.
- Further collaboration with Federal VET Diploma training schools involved creating a piece of jewelry based on the 2020 theme, generously sponsored by exhibitor Paul Wild, fostering practical skills and industry integration.
- The official launch of Fondation Eric Horovitz took place at the press conference on November 3rd, 2021, marking a new chapter in industry support.
- A special partnership with CREA Genève focused on creating digital content in a “millennial” mode, leading to the successful development of the engaging CREAEYES Instagram account, expanding the fair’s digital footprint and appeal to younger audiences.
- 3 prestigious prizes were awarded at GemGenève, celebrating excellence and emerging talent: the HEAD People’s Choice Award went to Pauline Hepner (student at HEAD), the CFC People’s Choice Award to Sulaiman Al Haidar (apprentice at CFP Arts Genève), and the Fondation Eric Horovitz Award to Hugo Massy (student at École Technique de la Vallée de Joux (ETVJ)).
- A rich and varied educational program provided invaluable learning opportunities, including presentations on current trends, conferences delving into the fascinating history of jewelry, discovery sessions on Art Deco jewelry with the École des Arts Joailliers, in-depth teaching sessions, round tables addressing contemporary challenges in gemmology (societal, environmental, and scientific), and engaging “Touch & Feel” workshops that allowed for direct interaction with precious materials. All conferences are conveniently available for replay on the digital.gemgeneve.com platform, ensuring wider accessibility to knowledge.
- Innovative digital capsules “live from the show” enhanced attendee engagement. Partnerships with influencers were significantly strengthened in 2021 to offer a wider audience a dynamic live experience through daily digital capsules. These included virtual visits to exhibitors’ stands, insightful interviews with historians, stimulating talks, and captivating presentations of exquisite jewelry pieces, bringing the fair directly to global screens.
Essential Information for Visitors:
Address: Palexpo Hall 7 – Entrance from the covered walkway (on the side of Hall 5)
Route François-Peyrot 30
1218 – Le Grand-Saconney GE
Conveniently located just 10 minutes’ walk from Geneva Airport.
Dates: 5th to 8th May 2022
Opening Times: 10 am – 6 pm daily
Price: CHF 50, valid for the entire duration of the show; entry is free for students upon presentation of a valid student card, encouraging the next generation of enthusiasts.
Press Conference / Preview:
- 4th of May 2022, 11 am, Palexpo. This exclusive event provides early access and key insights.
Media Accreditation:
The media accreditation link will be made available soon on the official GemGenève website, ensuring journalists can easily register to cover this prestigious event.