PGI Conference at Jewellery and Gem WORLD Hong Kong To Illuminate Platinum’s Role in Shaping the Future of the Industry

Platinum Guild International (PGI) spotlights platinum’s prime role in the future of jewellery at the influential trade show Jewellery and Gem WORLD Hong Kong, which returns to the city from 18-24 September 2023 after a three-year absence. Commanding attention on the Fair programme, PGI will host a conference to discuss platinum’s potential as the precious white metal of choice and a significant value creator for future consumers.

To be held on 21 September 2023 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the PGI Conference will share expert analyses and insights from key industry players, based on the theme of “Trends Shaping the Future of Jewellery and the Role of Platinum”. An illuminating line-up of seven speakers invited from across the jewellery value chain will explore platinum’s importance to the industry, as evidenced by the opportunities it affords jewellers and retailers entering the market and the investments in innovation it brings to designers and manufacturers.

Innovation through advances in platinum alloy and technology further builds confidence for the industry that platinum is a premium value creator in a jeweller’s business portfolio. Given its innate strength and resilience, platinum is also the preferred setting for diamonds and coloured gems. As the majority of the platinum used to make jewellery is produced according to robust sustainability standards, its close partnership with diamonds and gemstones will revitalise the trade with new excitement and business opportunities.

The increasing importance of sustainability, responsibility and transparency in the jewellery industry is pinpointed by Gaetano Cavalieri, President of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO), in the conference’s opening address. Mr Cavalieri will present an overview of the trends that are changing the mindset and habits of jewellers and customers alike. He also outlines how innovation is driving the future of the industry.

Wesley Tucker, CEO of De Beers’ blockchain-based diamond-tracing platform Tracr, will elaborate on the themes of transparency and sustainability, how they are shaping the consumer experience, and the advantages of the diamond and gem sector aligning with platinum to complete the narrative of responsibly sourced jewellery.

Tongwoon Sim, General Manager of China at International Gemological Institute (IGI) China, will weigh in on the symbiotic relationship between platinum and diamonds, and their significance in unlocking future potential in the growing China market. Turning attention to the American market, Tiffany Stevens, CEO and General Counsel of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) will analyse the strides being made in ESG and responsibility in the world’s leading jewellery market by value, and platinum’s pivotal role in this regard.

In another perceptive speech, Tony Chen, Anglo American’s Head of PGM (Platinum Group Metals) Market Development for Asia-Pacific, will discuss the multiple applications of platinum in growth areas like the hydrogen economy, reflecting continued industry confidence in platinum as the metal of the future, especially in China. 

The potential of platinum to shape jewellery trends and build a better, brighter future is underscored by two other key speakers. Platinum expert Josh Helmich, CEO of Helmich Luxury Group, highlights the metal’s superior performance compared to other precious metals – attributes and advances that often stem from scientific research into the enormous promise of platinum in jewellery applications. Likewise, Chloe Cunningham, Program Manager – Precious Metals of next-generation alloy and process design technologies firm Alloyed, focuses on the bigger picture, looking beyond the benefits of smarter, greener AM platinum technology in jewellery to innovation in general as the champion of consumer imagination and market value.

“PGI is proud to give voice to renowned figures in the jewellery and diamond industries for an exploration of trends that will enable the jewellery industry to win the consumers of the future,”

says Pui P. Poon, Managing Director of PGI China. “

Thanks to its significant advancements in technology and production, platinum has a pre-eminent role to play in shaping the industry. Against the influential backdrop of Jewellery and Gem WORLD Hong Kong, attendees at the PGI Conference will gain fresh, valuable insight into why platinum is the best choice for precious white metal and why now is the perfect time for designers, retailers and manufacturers, in China and around the world, to invest in platinum.

“The future of jewellery will be determined by innovation, new younger consumers and responsible sourcing. As consumer priorities shift towards responsible jewellery as one facet of a more responsible world, and platinum gains further momentum as a precious metal that builds a better future, platinum will become a strategic priority for PGI partners’ businesses.”