Italy makes impressive debut at jewellery show

Under the umbrella of ARTEX, nine companies from Italy are exhibiting in Sharjah for the first time offering new designs and brands not available in the local market.

"The response from visitors on day one of the jewellery show was tremendous. We sold several pieces of jewellery, received lots of inquiries and even orders for customised jewellery," said Sauro Servadei, promotion and communication, ARTEX.

"Our participation in the show is just a first step. We consider the UAE as an important and interesting market because people here can understand and appreciate the quality of true Italian jewellery," he added.

"Our presence will help both trade and general visitors to get acquainted with companies that are new to the region and products that are not available in the local market."

The Italian participation comes at a time when demand for gold and diamond jewellery is rising at a steady pace in the region, particularly in the UAE.

"For us this is the right time to be seen in the local market," observed Sauro Servadei.

The Italian exhibitors come from Torino, Florence, Valenza, Siena and Arezzo which are internationally known for quality jewellery products.

"The companies are not big in size. But I can assure you that they represent the best of the Italian jewellery."

"All the products displayed here are unique because they are handmade. There are no machineries in their workshops. Artisans pay a lot of attention in choosing each stone and every piece of jewellery is carefully handcrafted."

Most of the jewellery works are inspired from the bygone era - the Renaissance period. The artisans have been highly successful in incorporating the enigma of the past and the innovations of the present in their works.

"The artisans present a work of art that is completely handmade and unique in the true sense of the word. And that is the main difference between our product and others available in the market," he said. "They are also capable of producing special models and designs on request," he added.

The Italian companies participating under the Umbrella of ARTEX include Fabio Fanfani and Meli Gioielli from Florence; Marega Gioielli and Ponticello Antonio SNC from Valenza; Marchisio Giovanni E.C. SNC and Pieffe S.R.L from Torino; Orogenesi SRL and Oro Rosa SNC from Siena; and Ok Preziosi SRL from Arezzo.

The 18th MidEast Watch and Jewellery Show, which was inaugurated on April 11, will run till April 15. The show, besides having a display of loose pearls, diamonds, precious stones, gold jewellery, diamond and pearl sets, crystals, watches, timepieces, jewellery displays, is also showcasing different kinds of tools and equipment used in the trade.

While the general visiting hours are from 4pm to 10pm from April 11 to 15, only ladies will be allowed on April 13 and 14 from 10am to 4pm.