The global jewelry trade descends on the Veneto region of Italy for VicenzaOro

For many people in the jewelry trade, a new calendar year means it’s time to dust off the passport: A trip to Vicenza, Italy, for the VicenzaOro show is in order. Taking place Jan. 22–27, the fair provides a first look at jewelry novelties for the year ahead as well as an indication of how sales might trend. 

Many exhibitors believe that this year, lower-priced inventory will be key to attracting buyers. Jesper Nielsen, founder of the Danish bead brand Endless Jewelry, with U.S. headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., tells JCK that his brand, which now has 3,500 retailers across the globe, will be showing new necklaces and charms, and a silver bracelet that retails for $95.

Meanwhile, on the higher end, Lorenzo will bring a new Flamingo collection of morganite and 18k gold jewels. Chief operating officer Alfonsa Au is hoping that ladylike styles in shades of pink that retail between $299 and $599 will be a hit among buyers.

“The business so far is going a bit sluggish compared to the previous year,” Au says. “The major reason is the prolonged global economic slowdown, which will affect the U.S. economic recovery and impede China’s growth.”

Au says she’s keen to establish new accounts in Europe to counteract the slowdown. “The U.S. is still the major market for us, though we also hope to develop more business with other European countries,” she says.

Nurielle Tugendhaft has a similar plan. The sales director of New York City–based Meira T. has been promoting her firm’s international presence at the fair over the last several years. “It’s prestigious to exhibit there,” she says. 

This year, Tugendhaft will showcase textured and yellow gold styles, among other looks, to appeal to non-U.S. buyers, though there is always some overlap in preferences. “Pavé is in pretty much everywhere,” she notes. 

(Top: Double-wrap leather bracelet in Green Bayou with silver and 18k gold vermeil charms set with crystal and CZ; $525; Endless Jewelry, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; 855-665-8555; endlessjewelry.us)