Friday, 25th June 2004 (4960 views)

Japan has reported an 11 per cent rise in jewellery imports for the first quarter of 2004, according to figures from the country's Jewellery Trade Centre.

The continued strength of the Japanese yen against the US dollar, as well as the improving economy, has encouraged companies to import large quantities of products.

In addition, the report revealed that, according to Asian jewellery manufacturers, designs made from 18-carat white-gold set with diamonds are proving to be bestsellers, with designs using coloured gemstones growing in popularity.

The Beauty Gems Group reported a strong demand for 18-carat white-gold items that incorporated rubies and sapphires, selling for between $500 and $1,900 at wholesale.

Director and general manager of Beauty Gems, Suriyon Sriorathaikul said: "The series of marketing campaigns carried out by Japan Jewellery Association to promote coloured gemstones has attracted more consumers to buy coloured gemstone jewellery."

Jewellery designers also noticed that more customers are willing to accept European designs. For example JB Jewellery's best selling pieces included an 18-carat white gold enhanced with rose gold and set with coloured diamonds selling from $500 to $5,000 at wholesale.

 

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