Having adjusted to the economic unknowns, consumers are lifting the gem market to heights not seen for yearsColored stone dealers are expressing increasing optimism about current conditions in the North American market. On the tail of a stronger-than-expected Tucson gem show season, initial reports are that the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show in March saw steady business. This has elevated expectations for JCK Las Vegas, widely regarded as North America’s premier buying event.We are now seeing a broader range of colored stone varieties selling. Sapphire continues to enjoy substantial name recognition and, as a result, leads the colored stone market. This is not unusual. During the past few years, however, sales activity has been limited to important sapphires at the high end and inexpensive commercial-quality stones at the low end. This spring, dealers have noted a significant u