For all of us in the jewelry industry, January starts off with a bang. Tradeshow season commences with back-to-back shows and before we know it, we’re well into February. With preparations for Las Vegas Jewelry Week not far away, we decided to poll our members who exhibited at some of the early shows for an inside glimpse at what brands were showing (and what retailers were looking for). We’ll also spotlight their new product debuts in the top trending categories.

VincenzaOro Winter 2012

We spoke with Dimple Shah of Bapalal Keshavlal who attended the show and reported very good brand exposure and average business. Being the first show of the season, retailers were looking for new and interesting pieces. Year of the Dragon themes were noticeable as was anything unique and ornate. Bapalal Keshavlal presented the new Auratam collection, a fashion suite featuring sheets of gold, laser cut and accented with white gold and diamonds.

Bapalal Keshavlal’s New Auratam Collection

Centurion

We connected with Myriam Gumuchian of Gumuchian after the show. Myriam explained that although they were fully booked and there was a great buzz at the show, retailers were holding back spending on bigger ticket items. The focus was on buying only what they felt they absolutely needed in their stores, re-ordering basic items and buying some less expensive items for the spring. Gumuchian added new pieces to their Gallop collection, a price point-oriented line with diamond rings and bands starting at $1,600 MSRP.

Gumuchian ‘Gallop’ Band

Tom Heyman, of Oscar Heyman, reported that retailers were more positive about 2012, making for a nice overall vibe at the show. He found a strong demand for classics of very fine quality, and anything unusual and “luscious” also attracted interest. Oscar Heyman introduced an assortment of classics as well as artistic and deco inspired pieces.

Oscar Heyman platinum emerald and diamond earrings

JA New York

Nikki Bruce of Deakin & Francis shared that the JANY show had a positive atmosphere, where great feedback was given all around. It seemed that retailers were excited by uniqueness, individuality and personal touches of the Deakin & Francis line. The brand showcased its Autumn/Winter 2012 collection, chock full of whimsical designs including cupcakes and sweets.

Deakin & Francis Confectionary Cufflinks