5 most expensive gems at this week’s Hong Kong jewellery shows

This week Hong Kong sees the opening of two sparkling annual jewellery events. 

The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show opened at AsiaWorld-Expo for a five-day run from February 27, with the focus on loose stones and raw materials for jewellery. 

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show, at the Convention and Exhibition Centre, which began on March 1 and ends on March 5, showcases finished jewellery products, and related services and technology. 

These two events – featuring a record number of more than 4,550 exhibitors from 52 countries and regions – form the world’s largest jewellery marketplace and are always well anticipated because they set the tone for the industry for the year. 

One of the exhibitors at the Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show, Gaston D’Aquino, marketing director of diamond specialist M.I.D. (HK), said there was growing demand for diamonds of five carats and up, in all colours, cuts and clarities.

“Equities and the property market have provided handsome profits for investors, so some of them are looking for a safe haven to park these profits,” D’Aquino said. 

“Pink and blue diamonds continue to fetch record prices at auctions, especially in larger sizes. Fancy colours are a rarity and are sought after by collectors and investors.