VicenzaOro Report: Black and Symbolism Dominate
January 17, 05
The VicenzaOro Fair opened Sunday in Italy and with it came the start of the 2005 trade show season.
As with previous years, buyers from around the globe said a final farewell to their winter vacations, packed their carry-ons, gathered in orders and made the trek to
This year there are some 1,266 Italian jewelry exhibitors and an additional 364 international exhibitors from 25 countries to choose from. Styles, while as varied as ever, are already showing that 2005 is going to be a year of distinction for jewelry designers.
Colorwise it's cliche time. Black is back. Black is the new black. Onyx is appearing in force, especially when teemed with white gold or with diamond accents. The pairing of black and white, while not replacing the burst of color we've seen over the past couple of years, is the not-so-new color combination for coming seasons.
What is new is the choice of materials and stones featuring black and white. Leather, oxidized metals, mother of pearl and black stones are mixed with higher priced materials such as platinum, diamonds, and white gold producing fashion pieces at a variety of price points.
Stylewise, it's symbolism for a new millennium. Crosses are featuring strongly in many collections, with most manufacturers adding unique twists to this time-honored symbol. Plain crosses with serpent ends, ethnic motifs and three-dimensional construction are particular popular with buyers from the U.S.
Dog-tags are the product for the younger market. From traditional pendants to charm bracelets and earrings featuring the military-inspired items - army identification tags are the 'must-have' charm for the under 40s.