The American Gem Trade Association has some good news for
jewelers: Buyer attendance at the annual AGTA GemFair Tucson was up 5 percent
over 2010, building on a 7 percent increase from the previous year, suggesting
that the year ahead could be a positive one for sales industry-wide.
Sugalite strand; $34,362 triple key. Robert Bentley
Reports of increased buying activity were strong for both
loose and finished goods across all price points. “We had a steady flow of
enthusiastic buyers at our booth throughout the show, even with the weather
issues,” Niveet Nagpal of Omi Gems told the AGTA. In the Spectrum of Design
Pavilion, designer exhibitor Paula Crevoshay told JCK that she and other
vendors were having a “great show.”
(Clockwise from top left) Jewels in 18k yellow gold with fire
opals include a bracelet for $47,900, a pansy pin for $29,900, and a
pin/pendant
combination for $33,330. Paula
Crevoshay
“The Chinese, Japanese, and wonderful American collectors
are back and are spending money like it was in the old days,” she said. “Our
retailers had a great December, and at this show we are selling pieces in the
$15,000 to $25,000 range.”
Jewels in 18k white gold with diamonds and baroque South Sea
pearls include a golf club pin for $7,600 retail, a snake pendant for
$10,000,
and a longhorn bolo tie for $18,000. Emiko Pearls
To that end, Crevoshay brought several new high-end styles,
including a pansy pin in 18k yellow gold with fire opals for $29,900.
According to Crevoshay’s business partner, Martin Bell,
their firm’s 2010 fiscal year was up 39 percent. “Gold is up, real estate is
down,” he explained. “The auction houses are selling pieces at record prices.
People want tangible assets.”
Aquamarine strand; $12,156 triple key. Robert Bentley
Dates for the 2012 AGTA GemFair Tucson are Jan. 31–Feb. 5.
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