On the floor at the Jewelers of America summer show

New York City literally sizzled in July, with temperatures hitting all-time highs, according to the National Weather Service. The atmosphere at the Jewelers of America Summer show, July 25–28 at the Javits Center, however, was considerably cooler. The show saw a 10 percent increase in exhibitors (totaling 900)—including 10 jewelers who debuted their work in the New Designer Gallery—but anecdotal reports suggest that sales were slow.

Even so, retailers hit the floor in search of newcomers with fresh designs and ideas. “I always look for new talent in every price point,” Grace Dugan, owner of Dugan Custom Jewelers in East Greenwich, R.I., told JCK on a morning shuttle ride to the show. This year, JA featured a revamped educational program, plus specialty pavilions for suppliers, antique and estate dealers, and more—not to mention on-site networking opportunities like wireless Internet access and an opening-day “Twestival” keynote session that challenged attendees to plug into the social media revolution.

An 18k gold and green tourmaline necklace with a sapphire drop and diamond accents; $5,200; Margery Hirschey, Boulder, Colo.; 303-818-6357; margeryhirschey.com