The Southern Jewelry Travelers Association (SJTA) and the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) are in final negotiations to co-host the Atlanta Jewelry Show and the new AGTA GemFairSouth annually at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, Ga., beginning in August 3-5, 2002.

SJTA, based in Atlanta, currently manages and produces the semi-annual Atlanta Jewelry Show in February/March and August of each year. AGTA, Dallas, hosts the Tucson GemFair in Tucson, Ariz., and the AGTA Pavilion in Las Vegas. As the first Southeastern event for the AGTA, this annual joint venture will bring new cross-market opportunities to buyers and suppliers of both exhibitions.

“We’re looking forward to the possibility of teaming up with such an important and respected organization as AGTA to expand the product and service offerings at our August event,” said Carol Young, Executive Director, SJTA. “By adding this loose, colored stone product dimension to the August edition of our semi-annual show, the AGTA event will further strengthen our position as one of the most comprehensive jewelry events in the industry.”

“We’ve been looking for the opportunity to create a Southeastern event and this proposed partnership with SJTA offers the ideal solution,” adds Douglas K. Hucker, G.G., Executive Director, AGTA. “Hosting these complimentary shows in the same exhibition hall, at the same time, offers tremendous business-building opportunities for attendees and exhibitors of both shows.”

The Atlanta Jewelry Show features leading manufacturers and Southeastern manufacturer’s representatives presenting a complete selection of fine jewelry and retailer services.

AGTA GemFairSouth will showcase an extensive selection of natural colored gemstones, cultured pearls and an array of gem materials.

Running concurrently, the two events will present 950 exhibitors and will attract more than 3500 southeastern retailers. The Cobb Galleria Centre is currently undergoing an expansion scheduled for completion in March of 2002, which will provide the additional space required for this expanded exhibition. In addition, the two shows will produce a combined series of educational programs and networking events.

For exhibitor or attendee information for the Atlanta Jewelry Show, contact Carol Young at 800.241.0399 or 404.634.3434. E-mail: sjta@mindspring.com. For information on the AGTA contact Mary Lou Keen at 800.972.1162 or 214.742.4367. E-mail info@agta.org.

JCK