Vicenza, March 17th, 2022
Vicenzaoro 2022: Igniting Global Jewellery Trade Amidst Resurgent Market Growth
- From March 17th to 21st, 2022, the Vicenza Expo Centre hosts over 1,000 exhibiting brands and welcomes 300 international buyers from 50 countries.
- The Italian jewellery sector demonstrates remarkable resilience, with exports surpassing 8 billion euros in 2021, marking an impressive +15% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Significant double-digit growth observed in key markets like the USA and United Arab Emirates.
www.vicenzaoro.com
Vicenzaoro 2022 – The Jewellery Boutique Show, the flagship international exhibition for the gold and jewellery sector organised by IEG – Italian Exhibition Group, commenced today with a poignant tribute to Ukraine, setting a tone of solidarity and global community. This edition of Vicenzaoro stands as a vibrant mirror reflecting a sector that has not only recovered but is thriving, demonstrating exceptional results compared to the pre-pandemic era. With a spectacular gathering of more than 1,000 exhibiting brands and an esteemed contingent of 300 hosted buyers from 50 countries worldwide, the event reaffirms its unparalleled position as a global hub for the jewellery industry.
Italian Jewellery Exports: A Beacon of Strength and Growth
The resilience and dynamism of the Italian jewellery industry are undeniable. According to comprehensive estimates processed for FEDERORAFI by Confindustria Moda’s Study Centre, Italian exports in 2021 soared to over 8 billion euros. This figure represents an outstanding increase of more than +15% compared to 2019, underscoring a powerful rebound that has positioned the sector for sustained success. Notably, key markets such as the United States and the United Arab Emirates have experienced double-digit growth when compared to their 2019 performance, highlighting the effectiveness of strategic market penetration and the enduring appeal of Italian craftsmanship. Furthermore, non-EU exports account for a substantial 75% of the total, indicating a diversified global reach. While acknowledging the evolving international context due to geopolitical developments, the Study Centre highlights the limited direct impact of Russia and Ukraine on the Italian market, with a total export figure of only 1% to these regions. This data provides a clear picture of a robust industry, well-diversified and capable of navigating global challenges.
Vicenzaoro serves as a proven and invaluable networking platform for sector operators, offering a unique environment where business relationships are forged, new trends are discovered, and innovative ideas take shape. The event is more than just a trade show; it is a catalyst for economic growth and creative expression, allowing participants to embark on a new season filled with promising opportunities and continuous innovation, all rooted in the timeless allure of beauty.
A Prestigious Opening and Distinguished Guests
The inauguration ceremony, held this morning in Vicenza, brought together a distinguished array of leaders and visionaries from the industry and political spheres. Among the notable attendees were Lorenzo Cagnoni, President of Italian Exhibition Group, who emphasized the strategic importance of Vicenzaoro; Francesco Rucco, Mayor of Vicenza, reinforcing the city’s heritage as a jewellery capital; and Maria Cristina Franco, Vice President of the Province of Vicenza. The event also welcomed renowned artist and sculptor Lorenzo Quinn, adding a touch of artistic grandeur. Industry leadership was strongly represented by Claudia Piaserico, President of Federorafi, speaking on behalf of all national associations within the jewellery sector, underscoring collaborative efforts and shared visions. Further support came from Roberto Marcato, Veneto Regional Councillor for Economic Development, and Carlo Maria Ferro, President of ITA – Italian Trade Agency, both vital figures in promoting Italian excellence globally. Their collective presence highlighted the strong institutional and industry backing that underpins Vicenzaoro’s success.
Showcasing Unrivalled Craftsmanship and Avant-Garde Design
The exhibition halls of Vicenzaoro are a dazzling spectacle, hosting an impressive roster of iconic jewellery brands that continually redefine luxury and artistry. Esteemed names such as Roberto Coin, celebrated for his exquisite craftsmanship and signature ruby; the illustrious Damiani Group, synonymous with timeless elegance; Fope, known for its innovative flexible gold chains; Annamaria Cammilli, praised for organic designs inspired by nature; Crivelli, famed for its opulent and sophisticated pieces; and Leo Pizzo, embodying classic Italian jewellery artistry, are all present. Further adding to the prestige are international luminaries like Fabergé, with its storied heritage; Alessio Boschi, renowned for his imaginative and intricate creations; Schreiner, a master of high jewellery; Yoko London, specializing in exceptional pearls; and Akillis, bringing a contemporary edge to luxury jewellery. These world-class exhibitors unveil true masterpieces, captivating visitors with the unparalleled preciousness of meticulously selected metals and stones, resulting in incredible pieces of unimaginable sparkle and purity that reflect the pinnacle of global jewellery manufacturing.
Emerging Jewellery Trends: A Glimpse into Tomorrow’s Luxury
Beyond the established classics, Vicenzaoro is an unparalleled platform for discovering the very latest trends shaping the future of luxury jewellery. This edition reveals a captivating blend of playful expression and sophisticated innovation. Visitors can explore a vibrant resurgence of bright and fluorescent colors, symbolizing a desire for joy, lightness, and a readiness to “be part of the game” in a post-pandemic world. Asymmetry continues its strong affirmation, particularly evident in daring mono earrings that make a bold, individual statement.
Necklaces are reimagined with multi-strand designs, often adorned with highly dedicated customizations, including delicate amulets, personalized initials, and intricate geometric symbols, allowing wearers to express their unique stories. A significant and growing trend observed is jewellery that pays homage to green – not merely drawing inspiration from floral, animal, and natural themes, but critically, incorporating sustainable, recycled, and traceable materials. This commitment to ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility resonates deeply with conscious consumers and underscores the industry’s evolving values.
In terms of color palettes, azure blue emerges as a predominant hue, beautifully reflecting the Pantone 2022 Color of the Year, Very Peri, with its enchanting periwinkle blue undertones subtly infused with hints of red. This vibrant yet elegant shade is finding its way into exquisite stone choices and enamel work. Furthermore, the show highlights a renewed focus on seduction and elegance through designs such as long necklaces, whether crafted from intricate chains or featuring captivating sporting elements like unique pendants or large, enhancing stones that elegantly accentuate the wearer’s décolletage and body. Another charming innovation gaining traction is the concept of “kissing bracelets” – soft, thin chains that gracefully transform into rings, offering a delicate and intimate touch to personal adornment. These diverse trends collectively showcase the industry’s dynamic creativity and responsiveness to contemporary lifestyles.
Integrating Technology and Expanding Horizons: T.Gold and VO’ Clock Privè
Vicenzaoro’s commitment to innovation extends beyond finished jewellery. The show proudly welcomes back T.Gold, the international exhibition dedicated to advanced technologies for jewellery design and production processes. This co-located event brings together leaders in machinery and cutting-edge solutions, empowering manufacturers to enhance precision, efficiency, and creativity. T.Gold underscores the vital role of technology in shaping the future of the jewellery industry, from rapid prototyping to advanced manufacturing techniques.
Further enriching the Vicenzaoro experience is VO’ Clock Privè, a contemporary watchmaking event. Kicking off tomorrow, March 18th, and running until Sunday, March 20th, this exclusive segment brings together the most eminent representatives of the world of watchmaking, presenting their most exclusive pieces. Crucially, VO’ Clock Privè will be open to the public of enthusiasts over the weekend, offering a unique opportunity for watch aficionados to engage directly with master watchmakers and discover the latest horological marvels. This dual focus on both jewellery and watches solidifies Vicenzaoro’s position as a comprehensive luxury accessory platform.
Pioneering Traceability: The First Blockchain for Corals and Cameos
A groundbreaking innovation making its debut at this edition of Vicenzaoro is the announcement of the first blockchain for corals and cameos. This monumental achievement represents an important goal for the entire production chain of Torre del Greco, a region historically synonymous with exquisite coral and cameo craftsmanship. This new, unique, and globally significant guarantee certification leverages blockchain technology to identify and authenticate every jewel and/or semi-finished coral or cameo produced in Torre del Greco. The exciting news was officially announced in the afternoon by Assocoral and ITA, with key insights provided by Steven Tranquilli, Director of Federpreziosi Confcommercio Imprese per l’Italia.
This initiative is far more than just a distinctive mark; it is the culmination of a robust affirmation and positioning strategy that looks ambitiously to the future, underpinned by a commitment to integrity, professionalism, and authenticity. By employing highly technological structures such as blockchain, the system guarantees the integrity and persistence of data entered, providing an immutable record of origin, craftsmanship, and ethical sourcing. This years-long collaborative effort stems from a profound awareness of the rich tradition and bi-centennial history of coral and cameo processing in Torre del Greco, coupled with an enormous collective desire to elevate and protect this unique heritage with common, forward-thinking goals. It represents a significant step towards enhanced transparency and consumer trust in the luxury sector.
Safety and Accessibility: A Secure Business Environment
From today, Thursday, March 17th, until Monday, March 21st, Vicenzaoro is welcoming a large and enthusiastic public, all eager to engage in business and explore the latest offerings. Attendees can navigate the exhibition halls in complete safety and confidence, thanks to the meticulous application of the #SAFEBUSINESS by IEG protocol. This comprehensive safety framework, coupled with the Vicenza Expo Centre’s esteemed GBAC STAR™ accreditation, ensures a secure, hygienic, and well-managed environment for all participants. The strong attendance from early morning underscores the industry’s optimism and the critical role Vicenzaoro plays in its global recovery and growth.
About Italian Exhibition Group (IEG)
Italian Exhibition Group S.p.A., a joint stock company listed on Euronext Milan (a regulated market organised and managed by Borsa Italiana S.p.A.), has solidified its national leadership over the years in the organisation of trade shows and conferences through its state-of-the-art facilities in Rimini and Vicenza. The company’s strategic development of activities abroad, often through impactful joint ventures with global or local organisers in key markets such as the United States, United Arab Emirates, China, Mexico, Brazil, and India, has propelled IEG to be recognised among the top European operators in the sector. This extensive international footprint underscores IEG’s commitment to fostering global trade and cultural exchange, solidifying its reputation as a leading force in the international exhibition industry.