If Pinterest is correct, it’s a good idea to pop over to the visiting exhibitors from Greece at the JCK show in Las Vegas this year.
A “Hellenistic revival,” as it’s labeled in the 2022 Pinterest Predicts Report, means taking inspiration from ancient Greece in everything from fashion and jewelry to home decor. In fact, the search term “ancient Greek jewelry” is reportedly up 120% from last year, the most sought-after category in a range of searches for Greek-related wallpaper, art, and more.
The 75-year-old brand Kouzoupis, hailing from Athens, is a must-see for show attendees seeking such an aesthetic (for those who are not, the exhibitor still offers a range of pieces that meets a number of current on-trend demands).
Below, we had a few moments with founder Antonios Kouzoupis on the company’s long-standing relationship with the JCK show, what’s in store for 2022, and how the pandemic impacted the company.
You’ve been exhibiting with the show since 1990. How have you seen it change through the years?
The show has shown an exponential improvement throughout these 30 years. When we started to exhibit in 1990, everything was so much different. The show has managed to bring more people in and create new opportunities while also utilize the latest technological tools in order to help us exhibitors improve our trading relationships with our clients. JCK has managed to increase greatly in popularity and I believe has become one of the most important jewelry exhibitions.
What are you most looking forward to at the JCK show this year?
We are looking forward to meeting people. To be honest, the last two years with the pandemic have secluded all of us and have distanced us. We are really excited to be reunited with the exhibition and the jewelry market, show our newest unique jewelry, and once again get the chance to meet new people.
Can you share with us a preview of what you’ll be bringing to the show this year?
Despite the pandemic, we did not remain idle. The last two years we worked hard and managed to design and create new unique collections. These new products shall accompany us to this exhibition and include at least four new unique collections with many designs that are sure to stun anyone with their craftsmanship and beauty. For 75 years now, all our jewelry has been inspired by Greek elements and bridge classic designs with modern aesthetics. From Greek Key designs to enameled modern motifs and unique cocktail rings, we are sure that this year we shall make a statement.
What do you expect customers to be searching for this year?
We believe that this year is the year of chains and links. Apart from that, I believe that once again customers will be on the lookout for new, unique designs that bring a fresh style, something new in the market. Greek jewelry has always managed to fit that description.
What has your experience of the pandemic been like (as a business and an individual) in Athens?
It was a really difficult experience in both personal and business sectors because everything slowed down. Our country heavily depends on tourism, and COVID, unfortunately, had a negative impact on the tourists’ inflow. Nonetheless, that did not hinder our company’s progression and our creativity. We managed to design new collections with unique character that got very positive feedback, impressed our clients, and were openheartedly accepted by the market. Since we are one of the biggest manufacturers in Greece in the sector of 18k gold jewelry, we managed not only to get through the pandemic, but we also saw this period as a chance to improve ourselves, rekindle our creativity, and grasp any upcoming opportunity.
Visit Kouzoupis at JCK Las Vegas, booth #14037A.
Top: Classic geometric necklace in 18k yellow gold with 0.38 ct. t.w. diamonds, price on request; Kouzoupis
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