IJL 2011 Opens

(IDEX Online News) – International Jewellery London, the leading UK jewelry event, has opened today (Sunday). More than 500 exhibitors are taking part in the four-day event that places a large emphasis on education.

Among IJL's participants are diamond, gold and silver jewelry companies, mainly British firms.

"We have the largest and most impressive group of UK and international jewelry suppliers than any other event in the UK," says Event Co- Director Syreeta Tranfield. “Retailers and buyers are ready to re-stock and place orders for the all important autumn period in the lead up to Christmas."

Watches are also a prominent feature at this year’s show. “The increasing number of quality watch exhibitors year on year at IJL demonstrates that the show can provide not only a cutting-edge platform for the sector but also attract the all important retailers and buyers,” says Co-Event Director Sam Willoughby.

On a new catwalk, two shows are scheduled for each day of the event. The Runway themes range from All that Glitters is Gold to The Bridal Collection.

Two new product areas are being unveiled at IJL this year – Designer Brands and Loose Diamonds & Precious Gems.

The Loose Diamonds & Precious Gems zone puts the spotlight on gem companies that only provide high quality loose diamonds and precious stones including Radiant Diamonds, Kristal Diamonds, AS Diamonds and Apsara.

This year’s seminar program is the largest ever with over 50 sessions and is designed to inform IJL visitors on every aspect of the industry. This includes the latest trends with top forecasting agency, Stylesight, Elizabeth Galton speaking about redefining luxury in the digital ages, Insight with Passion on the art of Retail Theatre and The Mary Portas Guide to Successful Retailing. On Sunday, IDEX Online's Editor in Chief Edahn Golan will speak about diamond prices and the forces that shape them.

The highlight of the program is the Great Debate, co-hosted by the Birmingham Assay Office, which this year features jewelry designer Stephen Webster speaking about Fairtrade Fairmined Gold. This will be followed by a groundbreaking Q&A session with the rest of the Great Debate panel.

IJL runs September 4-7.