New July show adds a high-end spark to New York market week
If the shows that converge in Las Vegas every June are the equivalent of a grand performance for the jewelry trade, the encore takes place in late July, when buyers and sellers reunite in New York City for a second market week, highlighted by two renowned events that coincide with the Jewelers of America Show at the Javits Convention Center.
“The Women’s Jewelry Association Awards at Chelsea Piers and the American Gem Society Circle of Distinction dinner at the Plaza Hotel always attract the who’s who of the industry,” says JCK Events group vice president Dave Bonaparte, referring to back-to-back gala dinners held at the end of July.
Come July 25–27, a new high-end show, LUXURY Prive? New York, will add even more sparkle to market week when it debuts at the Pierre Hotel overlooking Central Park.
 Taj Hotels |  Taj Hotels |
| New York City’s Pierre Hotel overlooks Central Park. Come July, its ballroom will be teeming with luxury jewelers. | |
Touted as an exclusive, invitation-only gathering for a hand-picked group of participants, LUXURY Prive? kicks off with a Sunday evening cocktail event July 24, followed by daily networking breakfasts and evening gatherings. It will feature 50 exhibitors representing the crème de la crème of their respective categories, Bonaparte says. The show will be open to 150 retailers, many of whom will be hosted at the Pierre.
“We’re targeting three kinds of retailers,” Bonaparte says. “Those who don’t attend Vegas; those who didn’t have a chance to see their vendors in Vegas; and those who may not have gotten enough done in Vegas.”
From high-end designers like Arunashi to well-regarded jewelry manufacturers such as A. Link, the exhibitors will target upscale buyers. “The introduction of LUXURY Prive? is an indication that the economy and jewelry market are on the rise and there is a focus on luxury again,” says Moise Cohen, president of Marco Bicego, an exhibitor. “We love the energy and spirit in New York and are looking forward to showing our new collections this summer.”