Happy Memorial Day weekend! Most retail jewelers in the United States know that the holiday, in addition to marking the unofficial start of summer, is the precursor to Las Vegas Jewelry Week. As we look ahead to the Luxury and JCK shows, which open at the Venetian on May 29 and May 31, respectively, we’re highlighting the events you won’t want to miss there. But please keep in mind that our list hits only the top notes. For a full rundown of what’s going on at JCK, check out the 2024 schedule of events. All events are in-person, and times are local for Vegas.
ATTEND
Gems and Hong Kong Pavilions Open May 30
The Hong Kong pavilion, newly relocated to rooms on Level 1, opens on Thursday, a day before the main show floor. The Gems pavilion, which includes AGTA, also opens on Thursday.
Luxury Keynote Featuring Henry Winkler: May 30, 8 a.m.
In the San Polo ballroom on Level 3, come to hear Al Cook, CEO of the De Beers Group, provide opening remarks and stay for keynote speaker Henry Winkler, the award-winning actor, author, director, and producer.
Jewelry 101 Educational Sessions: May 30, starting at 10 a.m.
A series of back-to-the-basics JCK Talks geared to jewelry newcomers or people in the industry who’d like to learn about a new topic kick off on Thursday in the Level 1 meeting rooms. Sample topics include consumer education, sales, sustainability, and colored stones.
Sustainability Summit: May 30, 11 a.m.
Marie-Claire Daveu, chief sustainability officer at Kering—the Paris-based luxury group that owns Gucci, Boucheron, and Pomellato, among other brands—will kick off the Sustainability Summit in the San Polo ballroom on Level 3. Her talk will be followed by a panel, led by Harvard professor Dennis W. Campbell, featuring professionals from the jewelry industry and environmental organizations. The event is scheduled to run till 1 p.m.
Spotlight on De Beers Breakfast, May 31 at 8 a.m.
If you sell diamonds, don’t miss this presentation on the global diamond market and De Beers’ strategy for the future, in the San Polo ballroom on Level 3 from 8 to 10:30 a.m. RSVP at link above.
Fireside Chat With Botswana President Masisi: May 31, 4:30 p.m.
On Friday at 4:30 p.m., Botswana president Mokgweetsi Masisi will engage in an hourlong fireside chat with JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky in Murano rooms 3201A, 3201B, and 3202 on Level 3. The wide-ranging conversation will cover topics important to diamond sellers and emphasize the importance of natural diamonds to the industry’s future.
JCK Keynote by Sugar Ray Leonard: June 1, 8 a.m.
Boxing legend and Olympic gold medalist Sugar Ray Leonard tells stories and shares life lessons in a compelling keynote—in the San Polo ballroom on Level 3—themed around “the power to win.” Don’t miss this opportunity to hear a true icon tell it like it is.
JCK Rocks at Tao Beach With Flo Rida: June 2, 9 p.m.
Get ready to rock Tao Beach this year with headlining entertainment by Grammy-nominated rapper Flo Rida, known for his chart-topping hits including “Low (Apple Bottom Jeans),” “My House,” and “Club Can’t Handle Me.” JCK Rocks will directly follow Facets, a gala benefiting Jewelers for Children, which takes place in the San Polo ballroom on Level 3 starting at 6:30 p.m. Those in attendance at Facets can join a special procession from the ballroom to Tao Beach in time for JCK Rocks!
Top: Opening day of JCK 2023 (photo: Camilla Sjodin)
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