JCK Show ~ Las Vegas 2007—the biggest and most important jewelry and watch show in the Western Hemisphere—opened Friday with the largest list of exhibitors in its history, high expectations by vendors and retailers, and situated, also for the first time, in two convention centers. The show has become a major international event for the jewelry and its center for the show’s duration.

The show this year has more than 3,400 exhibitors from more than 70 countries around the world. There are also 22 national pavilions of various countries (including the large Hong Kong delegations). In addition, the VicenzaOro Pavilion will feature over 170 Italian manufacturers and designers.

Most exhibitors are in the Sands Expo & Convention Center, the show’s long time home. However, more than 400 (including five new national pavilions for Argentina, Malaysia, Peru, Singapore, and Taiwan) are located in the Las Vegas Convention center, a quick mono-rail ride away and the site for show’s opening day keynote speaker, TV star, author, and entrepreneur Suzanne Sommers.

This year, the JCK Show is expecting more than 20,000 attendees (and some 300 journalists from 20 countries). “The JCK Las Vegas show is an exciting opportunity to review our fall strategy and ensure we have the best the market offers,” said Beryl Raff, executive vice president and general merchandise manager, Fine Jewelry Division, JCPenney.

Also expected or already seen at the show as visitors themselves, appearing at various JCK events or on hand for specific exhibitors are a number of fashion, entertainment, sports and music celebrities including movie legend Elizabeth Taylor, Kathy Ireland, Rachel Hunter, R&B Recording Artist Leah DeVon; Suzanne Somers, and Howie Mandel.

For many attendees, the show is also an education—literally—offering the most comprehensive educational event in the industry, with over 40 sessions as well as exclusive events from the Diamond Promotion Service, Rappaport and the Gemological Institute of America.

An exclusive feature of JCK-Las Vegas is Swiss Watch by JCK, held in the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino adjoining the Sands Exposition and Convention Center. The appointment-only event features a selection of prestigious Swiss watch brands showcasing their newest lines).

Other special section and pavilions at the show at the Sands Convention Center include The AGTA GemFair Cultured Pearl & Jewelry Pavilion; Antiques & Estate Pavilion; ETS – Equipment, Technology, Services and Supplies (Including Packaging) Pavilion; Diamond Plaza; Galleria Pavilion; Hall of Time; Luxury Collection; Platinum Pavilion; Plumb Club; Prestige Promenade; Stylemakers; and the World’s Fair (international pavilions). 

The Las Vegas Convention Center section of the show presents the Cadeaux Pavilion (a new high-end giftware, from tableware to men’s gift), a new Timepieces Pavilion focusing on accessories, and international jewelry manufacturers. the Artisans Pavilion (highlighting new creative talent and an array of jewelry designs). “By taking space at the LVCC, we are able to bring in new features that will benefit the manufacturers and the retailers,” said Dave Bonaparte, vice president, JCK Events.

There will be free lunch provided to the buyers at the LVCC each day, along with wine and cheese receptions on the show floor in the afternoons as well with a car giveaway and door prizes.

The JCK Show – Las Vegas 2007 is also offering a number of important networking events, including the Jewelers for Children charity’s annual fundraising gala, and The JCK Welcome reception.

The 10 days of  JCK Las Vegas events kicked off on May 28 with the annual LUXURY by JCK/PREMIERE an invitation–only event featuring jewelry and watches from high-end designers and manufacturers held at The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino. A selection of elite retail jewelers are invited to attend those shows.

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