What is the most critical issue facing the jewelry industry in the next couple of years, and how can we deal with it?

That’s the question JCK posed for its 2007 State of the Industry report. To answer it, we went to experts and leaders, including retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, consultants, educators, and association executives, all seasoned observers of the jewelry business. The resulting opinions offer acute insights and practical solutions.

Most intriguing are the common themes that run through their responses. Though each offers his or her own perspective, they repeatedly touch on some of the same issues—integrity and trust, competing in a rapidly changing market, commoditization of diamonds, the Internet’s impact, and attracting and holding customers. You’ll find eight of 16 responses here and eight additional ones next month. You can also read all 16 on our Web site (www.jckonline.com).

JCK would like readers’ responses to what these experts say, or what you see as the most critical issue facing the jewelry industry in the next few years. Tell us your opinion (in 300 words or less) by letter, fax, or e-mail, and we’ll print your views in a future issue and on our Web site.