Transitions and how to handle them will be top of mind for organizers and attendees of this week’s international jewelry show VicenzaOro in Italy—in both the macro sense, with the ever-changing world economy, and the micro, with ongoing renovations at the Vicenza Expo Centre.
Running Sept. 6-10, VicenzaOro will touch on such industry issues as the use of artificial intelligence in jewelry design, challenges and opportunities in the current geopolitical moment, the evolution of the luxury sector, and jewelry trends for the next 18 months, says Matteo Farsura, global manager, jewelry and fashion, of Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), which organizes the boutique show.
“VicenzaOro September 2024 is set to be a dynamic and innovative event, reflecting a strong sense of optimism among the organizers and participants,” Farsura says. “The event will continue to serve as a global hub for jewelry professionals, featuring new product launches and discussions on industry trends.”
This year, IEG will welcome more than 1,200 exhibiting companies, including numerous first-timers, for the September VicenzaOro. Made-in-Italy brands represent around 60% of exhibitors. International exhibitors come from 35 countries, including the United States, Germany, France, Spain, Turkey, Belgium, Hong Kong, and Thailand.
“We define VicenzaOro as a 360-degree experience because it’s not just about business—it’s also an opportunity to attend insightful seminars and trend presentations that offer a glimpse into the future of the industry,” says Farsura.
He says IEG has been working to ensure the high standards of the event in the midst of venue renovations. As part of an expansion project that began in February, the old pyramid-shaped area that was the original heart of the expo center is being replaced with a new Hall 2.
Approximately 300 exhibitors have been relocated from demolished areas in Halls 2 and 5 to three temporary halls (7A, 4A, 10), designed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable exhibition experience aligned with their product positioning, Farsura says.
In addition, IEG has implemented comprehensive services to help visitors navigate the venue: detailed maps, signage, an additional entrance, and a dedicated app. It also is adding a help desk on-site.
“Everything has been designed to guarantee the best purchasing experience for buyers along the entire supply chain,” Farsura says. “In the year of the 70th anniversary of Vicenza’s jewelry fairs, Italian Exhibition Group is laying the foundation for the development of the next 70 years.”
One regular highlight of VicenzaOro September, its jewelry trend preview (organized by Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting), will be split into two events this year: a Sept. 7 panel on the future of luxury and jewelry, and a presentation on Sept. 8 of Trendvision’s new Trendbook 2026+, which forecasts consumer and luxury behaviors for the next year and a half.
Due to rising gold prices. there is an increasing trend among Italian and international jewelers of combining gold with silver or other materials to create affordable pieces that still offer the luxurious associated with gold, Farsura notes.
“Recycled gold is gaining popularity, especially in price-sensitive markets, as it offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative,” he says. “Designers in traditional markets, such as Italy, have introduced 9- to 14-karat gold alloys to make jewelry more affordable, particularly for fashion pieces.”
Top: The September edition of VicenzaOro takes place while the Vicenza Expo Centre is undergoing renovations. (Photos courtesy of IEG)
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