Time to report on the Tucson Gem Show! We walked seven different show venues last week to see what trends are gaining traction in the jewelry world. This year there is nothing completely new to report, but several jewelry trends are indeed strengthening. Here are the highlights:
Turquoise
There is no doubt that the opaque blue stone is a hot seller right now. Contemporary turquoise jewelry designs include many bib statement necklaces, simple pendants on chain and interesting mixed media pieces. My favorite turquoise booth this week featured large blue stones interspersed with ebony wood, a striking contrast. Even Swarovski is launching a new Turquoise gem color pearl crystal bead this quarter.
Cabochons
Cabs are the cut of choice these days. All varieties and sizes of stones were available in calibrated and custom cab sizes. Opaque stones such as jaspers, lapis and malachite are particularly strong. The cabochon trend began several years ago and I believe it has not yet peaked. This is a long term industry trend that is moving in lockstep with the metalsmithing craze. Watch for facet stone setting to start picking up among artisan jewelers in the next phase.
Opera Length
Belly button grazing single strand jewelry chains with fancy stations are still popular this year. Lengths varied between 28 and 36 inches. Favorite embellishments included crystal rhinestone studded beads and bezel set gem links. Symmetrical styles were most prevalent but there were also some eye-catching asymmetrical designs that were widely available.
Pearls are Back
Pearls took a bit of a breather for the last few years but they appear to be picking up steam once again. The full range of freshwater pearl styles were available at the show and booths seemed very busy. Tiny seed pearls and large coin pearls alike were moving off the shelves.
Bangles
It seemed like every booth had at least one rack of bangles on the corner. Simple stacking wire bangles with spaced out bezeled stones were the most popular variation. Wider cuffs in sterling, leather and mixed media were everywhere too.
Overall, the Tucson venues seem to be consolidating a bit as some of the smaller shows lose exhibitors to more established promoters. Shows also must have had space to spare judging from the odd mix of products for sale at even some of the best events. However, foot traffic seemed a bit better this year and people were doing as much buying as browsing. The weather was gorgeous this year so maybe that helped!
Thanks for sharing about the show! it sounds wonderful. I would go nuts for that kind of selection in calibrated cabs!