Thailand Shines: The 62nd Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair Unveils “Heritage & Craftsmanship”
BANGKOK, SEPTEMBER, 2018 – The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), under the esteemed Ministry of Commerce of Thailand, proudly launched the 62nd edition of the Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (BGJF). Held from September 7 to 11, 2018, at Challenger Hall 1-3, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, this prestigious event captivated the global jewelry community. The fair was inaugurated with a grand opening ceremony presided over by Mr. Sontirat Sontijirawong, the then Minister of Commerce of Thailand, alongside Mrs. Nuntawan Sakuntanaga, Permanent Secretary, and Mrs. Chantira Jimreivat Vivatrat, Director General of the DITP. Under the evocative theme of “Heritage & Craftsmanship,” the 62nd BGJF was a vibrant celebration of Thailand’s profound cultural legacy and the unparalleled artistry of its internationally celebrated artisans.
This landmark fair served as a crucial platform to elevate Thailand’s position on the global stage, aiming to draw over 20,000 discerning buyers and enthusiastic visitors from more than 130 countries worldwide. Beyond fostering international trade, a core objective of the BGJF was to significantly boost the nation’s gems and jewelry exports, reaffirming Thailand’s role as a powerhouse in the global jewelry market. The DITP’s commitment to nurturing local talent was evident through its strong promotion of over 150 new brands and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) hailing from 18 different provinces, showcasing their innovative creations in the dedicated “New Faces” zone and facilitating their entry into new international markets.
The Economic Heartbeat: Thailand’s Gems and Jewelry Industry
Mr. Sontirat Sontijirawong, during his address, underscored the pivotal role of Thailand’s gems and jewelry industry in driving the nation’s economic development. This sector is a multifaceted engine, contributing significantly across various domains, from enriching the tourism experience and generating widespread employment opportunities to enhancing the value of products and services, and actively fostering a dynamic creative economy. The intricate beauty and craftsmanship of Thai jewelry attract tourists globally, who seek out authentic, high-quality pieces, thereby injecting substantial revenue into the tourism sector. Furthermore, the industry is a major job creator, providing livelihoods for hundreds of thousands of individuals, including skilled artisans, designers, gemologists, sales professionals, and logistical experts, sustaining communities across the country.
Moreover, the industry excels in value-adding, transforming raw materials into exquisite, high-value finished products that command premium prices on the international market. This process not only showcases Thai ingenuity but also stimulates innovation and design excellence. The concept of a “creative economy” is vividly brought to life within this sector, where traditional techniques merge with contemporary aesthetics, and artistic expression fuels economic growth. Recognizing these immense contributions, the Thai government has implemented strategic measures designed to propel the nation towards its ambitious goal: becoming the “World’s Jewelry Trading Hub.” The Ministry of Commerce, in particular, has meticulously formulated comprehensive strategies and actionable plans to ensure the resounding success of this critical national mission, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the industry’s future.
BGJF: A Catalyst for Global Trade and Innovation
As Mr. Sontirat eloquently stated, “The 62nd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair is an important marketing tool to promote the industry’s capabilities and support Thai manufacturers including SMEs to expand their businesses abroad while networking and trading with partners from Thailand and other countries.” Indeed, the BGJF stands as a vital conduit, connecting local Thai talent with international markets. For burgeoning Thai SMEs, often limited by resources, the fair offers an unparalleled platform to showcase their unique creations, forge invaluable business relationships, and gain direct access to a global clientele, thereby facilitating their expansion beyond national borders.
The fair also serves as a vibrant crucible for innovation, providing new brands and emerging designers with an exceptional opportunity to present their avant-garde designs and distinctive collections to a highly targeted audience of international buyers and industry influencers. The continuous rise in the number of exhibitors, alongside a growing interest from potential participants each year, serves as a testament to the BGJF’s burgeoning reputation and its critical role in the global jewelry calendar. This year’s overarching theme, “Heritage & Craftsmanship,” was particularly significant. It brilliantly spotlighted Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing how beautiful Thai designs seamlessly integrate with international trends, solidifying Thailand’s burgeoning reputation as a global trendsetter and an influential force in the dynamic world of gems and jewelry.
“Queen of Jewelry”: A Tribute to Royal Legacy and Artistic Excellence
A particular highlight of the 62nd Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair was the magnificent fashion show, grandly titled “Queen of Jewelry.” This spectacular event was conceived as a profound tribute to the enduring legacy and royal projects initiated by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. Throughout her remarkable life, Her Majesty dedicated herself tirelessly to the preservation and promotion of Thai arts and culture, while simultaneously empowering countless subjects to generate sustainable income through traditional crafts. Her vision transformed local artistry into internationally recognized masterpieces, significantly impacting the livelihoods of artisans across Thailand.
The “Queen of Jewelry” fashion show brilliantly showcased the pinnacle of Thai jewelry manufacturing, presenting collections deemed among the most exquisite in high fashion. Audiences were treated to a breathtaking array of pieces, ranging from intricate gold jewelry crafted by master artisans who meticulously uphold ancient, time-honored techniques passed down through generations, to stunning contemporary gold and silver designs that blend tradition with modern aesthetics. The show also featured spectacular jewelry adorned with valuable gemstones, each piece exhibiting exceptionally intricate designs and superior craftsmanship. This fashion spectacle not only celebrated artistic excellence but also underscored the historical and cultural depth embedded within every facet of Thai jewelry, paying homage to a heritage championed by royalty.
A Kaleidoscope of Inspiration: Exhibitions and Innovative Activities
The 62nd BGJF was meticulously curated to offer an immersive and enriching experience for all buyers and visitors, presenting a diverse array of inspirational activities, cutting-edge exhibitions, and unparalleled new trading opportunities. Each zone was designed to highlight different facets of the vibrant Thai and global jewelry scene:
The Niche Showcase: Unveiling Future Trends
This captivating showcase meticulously exhibited five distinct niche jewelry trends that were projected to shape the future of the industry. It provided invaluable insights into emerging styles, materials, and consumer preferences, enabling buyers and designers to stay ahead of the curve. From sustainable luxury to personalized designs, the Niche Showcase offered a glimpse into tomorrow’s most coveted jewelry segments.
The New Faces: Empowering Thai SMEs
A cornerstone of the fair, The New Faces zone proudly featured 150 promising Thai SMEs from across all regions of the country. This initiative provided a critical launchpad for these businesses, giving them visibility and direct access to international buyers. It celebrated their innovation, diverse regional styles, and potential for global market penetration, fostering growth and economic empowerment at a grassroots level.
The Jewellers: Where Creativity Meets Craft
This dedicated area hosted a dynamic group of avant-garde designers known as “The Jewellers.” Their exhibitions and interactive workshops focused on pioneering creative and innovative jewelry-making techniques. This project was specifically designed to promote Thai designers, equipping them with the tools and exposure necessary to export their unique creations to discerning world markets, positioning them as global trendsetters.
Creative Jewelry Showcase: Stories in Every Piece
Featuring jewelry from 40 select brands, this showcase was the culmination of intensive product development workshops. Experts collaborated with these brands to help them infuse unique stories and innovative materials into their designs, resulting in collections that were not only aesthetically stunning but also deeply meaningful. Each piece told a tale, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Thailand.
Innovation and Design Zone: The Interactive “Closer” Experience
Pushing the boundaries of engagement, this zone featured a groundbreaking installation utilizing interactive projection technology, aptly named “Closer.” Visitors had the extraordinary opportunity to experience their own jewelry in a dynamic new light, gaining a comprehensive 360-degree view through immersive digital interaction. This innovative feature underscored the fair’s commitment to integrating technology with traditional artistry.
Master Artisans, Education, and Quality Assurance
Beyond the impressive exhibitions, the 62nd BGJF offered unique learning and networking opportunities. In a special collaboration, experienced artisans from the revered Thai Goldsmith Association demonstrated their exceptional skills. Visitors had the rare chance to witness intricate jewelry-making processes that are seldom seen elsewhere, including delicate jewelry molding, the precision of invisible setting, intricate jewelry carvings, and the meticulous art of stone polishing. These live demonstrations provided a fascinating insight into the painstaking dedication and generational expertise that defines Thai craftsmanship.
Furthermore, the fair was a hub for knowledge exchange, offering a series of insightful educational seminars led by industry luminaries. These sessions covered a wide array of topics, from market trends and design innovation to sustainable practices and ethical sourcing. Attendees also benefited from invaluable one-on-one consulting services provided by leading experts, offering tailored advice to navigate the complexities of the global jewelry market. Ensuring trust and authenticity, a state-of-the-art mobile gems analyzing unit from the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT), alongside other world-leading institutes, was on-site. This crucial service offered instant and reliable gem verification, providing buyers with confidence and upholding the highest standards of quality and integrity in trade.
Robust Growth and A Bright Future for Thai Jewelry Exports
Mr. Sontirat highlighted the impressive performance of the gems and jewelry industry, noting its significant contribution to the national economy. In 2017, the sector proudly ranked as the third-largest exporting industry in Thailand, trailing only the automotive and computer parts sectors – a testament to its formidable economic impact. The positive momentum continued into 2018; during the first seven months of the year (January to July), exports of gems and jewelry (excluding unwrought gold) witnessed a robust increase of 6.93% compared to the same period in 2017. This consistent growth underscores the resilience and burgeoning global demand for Thai craftsmanship and precious materials.
The DITP expressed unwavering confidence in the sustained upward trajectory of the gems and jewelry industry. This optimism is rooted in several factors: the continuous government support, the strategic success of events like the BGJF in fostering trade, the unparalleled quality and creativity of Thai designers and artisans, and the industry’s adaptability to evolving global trends. With proactive strategies and a strong commitment to innovation and market expansion, Thailand is well-positioned to achieve even greater heights in the international jewelry trade, further solidifying its reputation as a preferred source for exquisite gems and jewelry.
“Thailand’s Magic Hands”: A Global Campaign for Excellence
In a strategic move to further elevate Thailand’s global image in the gems and jewelry sector, the Ministry of Commerce spearheaded a brand new, impactful international campaign: “Thailand’s Magic Hands: The Spirit of Jewelry Making.” This compelling campaign was meticulously crafted to articulate and showcase the distinctive comparative advantages that set Thailand apart in the global arena. It vividly illustrates how Thailand serves as an unparalleled melting pot where craftspeople, possessing exceptionally high levels of expertise in jewelry-making, converge to create masterpieces that are truly unique.
“Thailand’s Magic Hands” goes beyond merely highlighting skill; it celebrates the spiritual connection between the artisan and their craft, emphasizing the passion, precision, and heritage embedded in every piece. The campaign also powerfully conveys Thailand’s identity as a fertile ground for cultivating extraordinary talent, nurturing both established and emerging Thai jewelry brands and designers. By focusing on the intrinsic value of human skill, artistic vision, and cultural depth, this initiative aims to forge a stronger emotional connection with international buyers and consumers, reinforcing Thailand’s standing as a world leader synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and the authentic spirit of jewelry making.