JA NY Summer Show Sizzles

With the mercury hovering near 100 degrees Fahrenheit and the price of gasoline in America now averaging well over $3 per gallon, only the bravest odds-makers in Vegas might have placed bets on an impressive turnout at this week's JA NY Summer Show. Despite the potential obstacles, however, opening day seemed to be a resounding success.

Less than an hour into the show, the aisles of the Hong Kong and Italian pavilions were clogged with buyers. While traditionally the JA Summer Show is not considered a big order taking show - certainly not like Vegas – retailers at these pavilions seemed to be bucking that trend and doing just that – placing orders.

By about midday, there seemed to be quite a lot of foot traffic in the loose stone and diamond dealers' areas as well.  

Retailers, continuing to respond to consumer demands, are big on color; both in diamonds and gemstones. Though exhibitors are not without some innovative and cutting-edge styles, it seems that the traditional and more conservative items remain most popular with buyers, as tried-and-true wins out over inventive. Retailers seem to be sticking with, and stocking up on, the items they know are guaranteed sellers rather than gambling on the new and the innovative.

All in all, opening day at JA sizzled. Many exhibitors expressed happiness at what seemed a larger than usual turnout for opening day. All expressed hopes that the next three days of the show will prove equally popular with buyers.