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GJIIF 2026 Akshaya Tritiya Edition concludes successfully, setting new standards for India’s B2B jewellery trade

8,000+ Buyers Storm Chennai Trade Centre as gold-rush season kicks into high gear

Published

53 minutes ago

March 13, 2026

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GJIIF 2026 Akshaya Tritiya Edition — Key Highlights at a Glance

250+ brands and 800+ stalls sprawled across a colossal 2,75,000 sq. ft of exhibition space
Strong participation from both established trade stalwarts and first-time exhibitors debuting bold new collections
Unprecedented buyer diversity spanning single-store independents and major retail chains from deep across South India
Remarkable surge in Tier II and Tier III city representation, reflecting GJIIF’s growing all-India gravitational pull
Thought-provoking parallel programme with expert seminars on consumer trust, compliance and AI-driven retail innovation
Flawless execution by United Exhibitions earns widespread acclaim for logistics, ambiance, and business-first atmosphere
Majority of exhibitors have already locked in spots for the next edition — many expanding their footprint

The Gem & Jewellery India International Fair (GJIIF) 2026 Akshaya Tritiya Edition delivered its most electrifying chapter yet, closing on an extraordinary high at the Chennai Trade Centre. Hailed as India’s undisputed B2B hub for South Indian jewellery, the three-day extravaganza drew praise from every corner of the trade, with exhibitors and buyers alike calling it an unmatched sourcing experience.

The curtain was raised by the Chief Guest Pramod Agarwal, Chairman – NGJCI, joined by AM Vikiramaraja, President, Tamil Nadu Traders Federation; Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta, CMD, Laxmi Diamonds – Bengaluru; and K Surendran, President – KGSMA, alongside a distinguished assembly of the committee members of the association and jewellery trade leaders from across the nation.

Buzzing with energy from dawn to dusk across all three days, the show recorded a total visitor count surpassing 8,000+ — a testament to GJIIF’s magnetic pull within the trade community. Whether it was boutique single-store retailers from small towns or large corporate jewellery chains, aisles were packed with intent buyers eager to stock up ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, one of the most auspicious — and busiest — purchasing occasions in the South Indian jewellery calendar.

Jayantilal Challani, Convener – GJIIF & President, MJDTA:Our aim is to deliver a better show each year, and I believe we achieved it once again. The GJIIF Akshaya Tritiya Edition 2026 saw exceptional participation from manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers, and we have received outstanding feedback from all segments. GJIIF stands out as the only show focusing on South Indian jewellery, and has once again proved itself as the WINNER amongst all.”

The March 2026 edition was a colossus by every measure — over 250+ exhibitors spread across 800+ stalls spanning a vast 2,75,000 sq. ft of curated trade space.

Stalwarts of the manufacturing and wholesale world rubbed shoulders with a wave of exciting new entrants, all showcasing innovations and freshly crafted designs tuned precisely to the Akshaya Tritiya buying mood.

Pramod Agarwal, Chairman, NGJCI (Chief Guest):I am very happy to be at GJIIF in Chennai, in the state of Tamil Nadu, which has made a significant contribution to India’s jewellery industry. There is a lot to learn from the TN trade and industry; understanding this market has helped me personally in my business

The geographical diversity of attendees underscored GJIIF’s expanding reach. A notable surge from Tier II and Tier III cities across South India highlighted how deeply the event has permeated into emerging retail markets, reinforcing its stature as the anchor sourcing event for the festive season.

B Sabarinath, President, TNJF:The feedback we have received indicates that GJIIF is invaluable because it offers a wide choice of new collections and different types of South Indian jewellery in styles that blend a contemporary and traditional look. It is a critical show, and many jewellers firm up their Akshaya Tritiya sourcing plans based entirely on what they see at this event

Participants were equally vocal in applauding the seamless event experience crafted by show managers United Exhibitions (UE). From targeted pre-show outreach to frictionless registration, and from an intuitive floor layout to premium hospitality — every touchpoint was noted as a cut above.

V.K. Manoj, Project Director, United Exhibitions:As Show Managers, the UE team has always aimed to make it easy for all participants to focus on business and networking. We have paid attention to every small detail. GJIIF is one of the largest and most important shows in India, and we ensure it is always one step ahead of all other shows taking place at the same time.”

Beyond the bustling trading floor, GJIIF delivered a richly curated programme of thought leadership sessions designed to spark ideas and deepen industry knowledge:

A commanding Knowledge Seminar by Kaushlendra Sinha, CEO, IAGES on “Building Consumer Trust Through Transparency and Compliance” — addressing one of the most pressing conversations in today’s jewellery trade.
A forward-looking Technical Seminar by Shaudhan Desai, Founder, DSoft Infotech (P) Ltd. on “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Jewellery Business”

— opening eyes to the transformative potential of AI for retailers and manufacturers alike.

GJIIF is proudly organised by the Jewellers and Diamond Traders Association, Madras (MJDTA) in association with the Tamil Nadu Jewellers Federation (TNJF), and professionally managed by United Exhibitions — India’s foremost B2B exhibition specialists. As the only dedicated B2B platform for South Indian jewellery in the country, GJIIF remains the singular destination where the heartbeat of the trade is felt most strongly.

What’s Next: GJIIF 2026 Festive Edition

The momentum doesn’t slow down. The next edition promises to be the grandest edition yet. With most exhibitors already confirmed — many opting to grow their space — the stage is being set for another landmark chapter in Indian jewellery trade.

Mark your calendars: the GJIIF 2026 Festive Edition returns to Chennai from 25th – 27th September 2026.

Ashika Kabra, Co-Founder – Jewel Buzz was felicitated at GJIIF 2026 which was a recognition of JewelBuzz’ contribution to the success of GJIIF

Related Topics:2026 gjiif jewelbuzz Jewelbuzz Magazine nationalnews ourbuzz showbuzz

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Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fairs celebrate the power of colour

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International News

Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fairs celebrate the power of colour

New programmes spotlight coloured gemstones through industry dialogue, next-gen leadership recognition and inclusive jewellery design ahead of Hong Kong’s flagship jewellery fairs.

Published

2 days ago

March 11, 2026

JewelBuzz Spread The Buzz

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The year 2026 is set to be a defining chapter for the coloured gemstone industry, with two of the world’s top B2B jewellery sourcing destinations − Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong (JGA) in June and Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW) in September − placing coloured gemstones at the centre of their showcases, event organiser Informa Markets Jewellery announced today.

In the months leading up to JGA and JGW, three exciting programmes are kicking off, accentuating the diversity, vibrancy and community spirit of the coloured gemstone industry. These are ICA Plus − a three-day conference jointly powered by the International Colored Gemstone Association and Informa Markets Jewellery, the NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards and the Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge. All three attractions will come together in a grand presentation at JGW.

“These events are shining a spotlight on coloured gemstones by addressing three key dimensions of the industry: Unlocking demand opportunities in markets such as China, Southeast Asia and beyond, while exploring how buyers are engaging in innovative and dynamic ways.

These events are celebrating design as a powerful medium that underscores the versatility and creative potential of coloured gemstones, and championing the next generation of leaders poised to drive the industry forward. These initiatives serve as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue, stimulating innovation and collaboration,” said Celine Lau, Director of Jewellery Fairs.

This pivotal moment for coloured gemstones is marked by the debut of ICA Plus in Hong Kong, positioning Asia as a powerhouse of opportunity. While the ICA’s biennial Congress serves as a prestigious forum for the coloured gemstone industry, ICA Plus offers a more regionally focused platform, zeroing in on Asia-specific dynamics − from market demand outlook and live-selling channels to the shifting preferences of a new generation of consumers, whose attitudes towards gemstone purchases and ownership diverge from those of previous generations, Lau continued.

The NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards, in a complementary vein, represents the industry’s vision for the future, highlighting the next wave of gemstone professionals as they step into leadership roles. As an integral part of the Jewellery World Awards (JWA), this programme carries deep symbolic importance. Its primary aim is to ensure the long-term growth of the industry by fostering a seamless transition of leadership, preserving valuable knowledge and engaging the next generation of consumers. With the luxury market undergoing significant transformation, the focus is on adapting to modern trends while securing sustainable growth for the next 10, 20 years and beyond.

Meanwhile, the Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge is a two-pronged initiative. First, it expands the market for jewellery as universal and inclusive, breaking free from traditional stereotypes to appeal to a broader audience. Second, it celebrates coloured gemstones as a spectacular medium for self-expression, pushing boundaries and inspiring creativity, Lau added. “With new initiatives and ideas emerging, the coming months are anticipated to bring interesting opportunities for the coloured gemstone industry,” she said.

Section	Details
Awards Name	NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards by Jewellery World Awards
Purpose	To honour rising stars in the coloured gemstone trade who are bringing fresh ideas, bold energy, and a future-focused mindset to the industry.
Eligibility	Entrepreneurs and professionals aged 45 years and under working in the coloured gemstone sector.
Key Focus	Recognising individuals modernising traditional practices, solving industry challenges, and driving innovation in the trade.
Recognition Themes	• Leadership and innovation in traditional gemstone practices • Commitment to sustainability, responsible sourcing, and transparency • Business expansion and market development attracting new customers
Awards Ceremony	The awardees will be honoured on 17 September during the JGW Fair Reception.
Venue	Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Additional Programme	A panel discussion featuring industry voices will explore how the younger generation is shaping the future of the coloured gemstone industry.
Industry Impact	The programme aims to spotlight next-generation leaders and encourage progressive ideas that will influence the future of the coloured gemstone sector.

Making its debut in Hong Kong, ICA Plus is set to be the ultimate networking event in 2026 for the coloured gemstone industry. Jointly powered by Informa Markets Jewellery and ICA, this event will run from 19 – 21 September during JGW and bring together ICA members from nearly 50 countries, alongside JGW buyers and exhibitors and industry stakeholders. Unlike other ICA gatherings, ICA Plus will explore how the coloured gemstone trade can adapt to evolving business landscapes and seize new growth opportunities, with a special focus on Asia.

The event kicks off with a Welcome Reception, followed by a conference, creating a dynamic platform for exhibitors, trade buyers, gemstone entrepreneurs and jewellery design talents to connect, collaborate and gain practical insights.

Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge

Section	Details
Challenge Name	Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge
Objective	To celebrate emerging design voices, unlock the market potential of gender-neutral jewellery, and highlight the storytelling power of coloured gemstones.
Design Theme	Jewellery designs that reflect gender-fluid aesthetics, creativity, inclusivity, and innovative use of coloured gemstones.
Finalist Showcase	Finalist designs will be unveiled at Jewellery & Gem Asia.
Evaluation Process	Designs will be assessed through a dual scoring system consisting of: • Judging Panel Scoring • Public Voting
Winning Opportunity	Winning designs will be produced in collaboration with industry sponsors, bringing the concepts to life as finished jewellery pieces.
Global Presentation	The completed jewellery pieces will be showcased at Jewellery & Gem World Hong Kong in September, giving designers international exposure.
Key Prizes	• Sponsored trip to JGW 2026 • Ownership of the finished jewellery piece • Editorial coverage and additional recognition opportunities
Industry Impact	Encourages innovation in jewellery design while promoting inclusivity and expanding the market for gender-neutral coloured gemstone jewellery.