3 Eye-Opening Classes from JCK Las Vegas

Highlighting the teachings realized

1. Diamonds are an enormous deal within the US jewellery market.
2. Showmanship, Individuals know tips on how to interact throughout a jewellery present.
3. American jewellery manufacturers and professionals LOVE bloggers and influencers and KNOW tips on how to speak with them. 

Upon arriving in Las Vegas, the colourful metropolis instantly overwhelmed me, its towering buildings and dazzling lights creating an awe-inspiring environment. Nonetheless, navigating this sprawling metropolis quickly revealed the problem of gauging distances and the quantity of strolling required. Fortunately, I had the pleasure of staying on the Palazzo, conveniently positioned in the identical constructing because the JCK present, the Venetian. The spaciousness of my resort room left an enduring impression, regardless of the less-than-ideal view of a tower bearing the title of a former US president. However, its architectural magnificence could not be denied.

Stepping out of my resort room on June 1 with my damaged foot supported by a walker (as a result of why not stand out?), I descended within the elevator, a rush of adrenaline and a contact of queasiness accompanying the speedy descent of 38 flooring. Moving into the bustling world of sensory overload, I handed by slot machines, full of life music, and people making an attempt their luck on the playing tables. Venturing additional, I caught glimpses of engaging eating places, juice bars, and even an vintage Venetian gondola. After which, on my left, the Venetian Expo got here into view, a beacon of pleasure.

Discovering my solution to the Press Room, my place to begin for any present, I collected my badge and greeted my friends and the PR workforce of Jen Cullen Williams. Little did I do know what to anticipate, because it was my first time in Vegas and at this present. My preliminary day was devoted to exploring LUXURY, the premier vacation spot providing a extra opulent expertise.

Moving into the realm of the American high-end jewellery world, the primary lesson unfolded earlier than my eyes: diamonds. Numerous cubicles dazzled with diamond jewellery, showcasing huge collections adorned with an abundance of those valuable stones. As a European, I could not assist however really feel overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of diamond-based jewellery. Nonetheless, this was my first impression, and I knew my notion would evolve.

The second lesson rapidly adopted as I approached a sales space. Even earlier than reaching it, the attentive people manning the sales space would already discover me, prepared to interact within the dialog after I drew close to. Their open friendliness, real curiosity, and heat smiles made me really feel welcomed and excited. “Let the present start!” I assumed, introducing myself as a jewellery blogger and author.

To my shock, slightly than displaying disappointment at my non-buyer standing, they expressed enthusiasm {that a} blogger/author was all for their jewellery. It was a pleasant revelation highlighting the American method to engagement and advertising. In Europe, we might be taught a terrific deal from this showmanship, the place each passerby is a chance for connection and potential word-of-mouth advertising. I thought of this my third lesson 🙂

I used to be honored to attend the night Diamonds Do Good award celebrations, courtesy of LeVian. This occasion showcased the pure diamond trade’s commendable efforts in positively impacting individuals and the planet.

Notably, De Beers acquired THE GOOD AWARD, recognizing their dedication to creating lasting optimistic change within the communities the place pure diamonds are discovered. Different notable recipients included Rosy Blue, awarded the VISIONARY AWARD for incorporating social, environmental, financial, and moral components into their strategic decision-making. Messika acquired the NEXT GEN AWARD, and Lorraine West was honored with the INSPIRATION AWARD for her outstanding expertise, perseverance, and achievements within the diamond and jewellery trade.

Witnessing these inspiring endeavors reaffirmed my perception within the jewellery world’s capability to make a distinction.
Whereas appreciating the awards, my thoughts could not assist however wander, craving to witness firsthand the initiatives supported by De Beers. I used to be intrigued by their collaboration with Nationwide Geographic to guard the Okavango Delta and their contribution of two million {dollars} to the Kelp Blue group. It sparked a want to go to these initiatives with my veterinarian husband and expertise the optimistic influence on the pure atmosphere and its inhabitants. It additionally sparked reflection on the function of corporations in effecting change whereas sustaining profitability, as the road between real dedication and greenwashing can generally blur. Curiosity drove me to method the De Beers sales space, inviting them to contact me and additional talk about their initiatives.

Day 2, June 2, marked the opening of JCK and Gem, propelling me right into a world of grandeur and awe. Coming from a small nation just like the Netherlands, I could not assist however be mesmerized by the sheer measurement of the American market. The colourful music on the entrance set the stage for a joyous environment as workers members danced, fueling the guests’ pleasure.

As I entered the showgrounds, I used to be greeted by smiles, bustling cubicles showcasing their merchandise, and an total environment of enthusiasm. My day was full of productive conferences facilitated by the ability of LinkedIn, enabling me to attach with trade professionals and discover potential collaborations.

I additionally had the pleasure of attending talks by esteemed consultants, witnessing firsthand the real curiosity and enthusiasm of each guests and exhibitors. These participating discussions have been a testomony to the worth of knowledge-sharing and the eagerness of members to develop their understanding of the trade.
A pleasant press dinner awaited within the night, hosted at Villa Azur throughout the similar resort. Indulging in delectable delicacies, I savored the chance to attach with fellow professionals and deepen the bonds solid throughout this outstanding occasion.

On Day 3, I made a decision to discover the competing present, COUTURE, held on the Wynn Resort. Though the rationale behind internet hosting two simultaneous exhibits remained unknown to me, the twenty-minute stroll within the scorching Vegas warmth posed challenges for consumers and journalists alike.

Nonetheless, I remained dedicated to completely immersing myself within the JCK and Luxurious expertise, dedicating one other day to discovery, remark, and fruitful conferences. Within the night, a small group of great ladies and I launched into a fascinating journey to Treasure Island’s Cirque de Soleil present. The magical efficiency left me in awe, with goosebumps and a renewed appreciation for the ability of leisure.

Day 4 of the JCK jewellery present introduced me to the extremely anticipated Rapaport breakfast. As I acquired the invitation, I could not assist however recall the latest Netflix present NOTHING LASTS FOREVER that includes this famend occasion.

Anticipating a dialogue centered on lab-grown diamonds versus pure diamonds, I used to be pleasantly shocked by Mr. Rapaport’s opening remarks. He expressed his disagreement with lab-grown diamonds whereas respecting the individuals behind them, emphasizing that it is a matter of enterprise and never private.

The breakfast itself was a charming expertise. The room was filled with absolutely engaged attendees in Mr. Rapaport’s presentation. As somebody who views the jewellery trade as an entire, and not using a particular choice for diamonds, it struck me as peculiar to listen to individuals equate diamonds with jewellery. Whereas diamonds are beloved gems, there’s equal magnificence in numerous different gems on the market. Mr. Rapaport’s thought-provoking query fashioned the crux of the dialogue: How can diamonds assist unbiased jewellery retailers?

Aleah Arundale from Jewelers Serving to Jewelers, David Kelly from the Pure Diamond Council, and Sam Indelicato from RDI Diamonds shared their views on stage. Aleah passionately asserted that buyers depend on jewelers to information them towards the suitable piece of knickknack, ideally one with a pure diamond. Nonetheless, Sam Indelicato disagreed, reasoning that shoppers at the moment are extra knowledgeable than ever earlier than. They conduct in depth on-line analysis, learn peer critiques, and arrive on the retailer well-prepared, having made their selections.

Among the many panelists, I discovered Mr. Kelly to own a relaxed and complete understanding of the trade and buyer preferences. Dismissing lab-grown diamond jewellery or consistently fixating on the pure diamond trade’s emotions appeared futile. Lab-grown diamonds are right here to remain, and shifting ahead and thriving independently is essential. Whereas listening to the panel, these have been my private reflections.
Whereas Aleah staunchly opposed lab-grown diamonds, there was a noticeable technology hole in her views in comparison with these of the youthful Sam Indelicato.

The diamond trade acknowledges the challenges confronted by smaller jewellery retailers. Nonetheless, the options to help them remained unclear to me. Small companies type the spine of societies and the trade. They typically carry forth modern concepts and play integral roles of their native communities. Massive corporations, with their very own distinctive strengths, can’t fulfill that function. Nonetheless, it isn’t the diamond trade’s accountability, nor do they possess the answer, to save lots of or assist small retailers, jewellery designers, or producers. However I applaud the angle and Rapaport for addressing the problem.

Closing argument

Mr. Rapaport’s closing argument was considerably uncomfortable as he steered that jewelers mustn’t take themselves critically in the event that they promote “bling,” implying that they may as properly promote Swarovski if they provide lab-grown diamonds. The continued debate between lab-grown and pure diamonds is rising tiresome. The essential focus needs to be on offering complete info to shoppers. Let’s keep away from greenwashing or fraud, guaranteeing transparency about sourcing, origin, and moral practices of each varieties of diamonds in jewellery. Whereas this will likely appear simplistic, the dialogue has change into repetitive, so let’s transfer on.

However, it is essential to emphasise that respect, lively listening, and understanding totally different views are paramount. Dismissing others solely as a result of differing opinions serves no objective. Personally, I discover immense worth in studying from people with various factors of view. So, regardless of labeling the dialogue as “outdated,” I method it with an open thoughts, desperate to hear, achieve insights, and broaden my understanding.

Oh, what a day this fourth day has been at JCK Las Vegas! I have been roaming the flooring, immersing myself in a sea of gorgeous gems, exploring vibrant manufacturers, and fascinating in pleasant conversations with the unimaginable individuals who grace this present. From the present ground to my lunch with Instagram celebrity Tracey Ellison (+million followers), each second has been full of inspiration and gratitude.
One factor that has struck me is the rising variety of gifted ladies in our trade. I’ve had the pleasure of talking with brave feminine entrepreneurs who’re simply beginning their journeys, and let me let you know, their vitality and imaginative and prescient are merely awe-inspiring. These conversations have left me feeling impressed, as have the interactions with my fellow feminine friends, just like the implausible jewellery photographer from Poland, Katarzyna, and her sister Agata, an influential voice within the trade often called “Blingsis.” Their distinctive visions, goals, and achievements have carved out outstanding niches, and their genuine kindness shines by means of each encounter. And who might neglect the clever and business-savvy Tracey, also called “The Diamondsgirl”? Conversations along with her are all the time joyful, full of laughter and memorable insights. And to all my friends, thanks in your friendship, steady inspiration, and limitless enjoyable!

Some of the heartwarming experiences I’ve had at this present is the real recognition and appreciation from exhibitors and guests alike. So many individuals approached me, expressing their compliments and even eager to take photos collectively. It is an unimaginable feeling to know that my weblog and presence on LinkedIn have reached and resonated with so many. I used to be even acknowledged by a fellow passenger on the aircraft again residence!

After which there was the unforgettable LeVian catwalk present, hosted by Avril Graham, the esteemed editor of Harper’s Bazaar. The occasion exuded grace and class with a contact of magic. However what actually stood out was how LeVian celebrated its shoppers. Sure, they showcased their magnificent jewellery and model, however they went above and past to rejoice their shoppers. Because the fashions gracefully strutted down the catwalk, the primary shopper adorned with their gorgeous jewellery made her look. At that second, the environment shifted, and the gang erupted into cheers and applause. And it did not cease there. As every shopper took the highlight, the vitality within the room escalated, with everybody on their toes, clapping, cheering, and genuinely celebrating. I could not assist however be part of within the exhilaration, feeling the contagious pleasure sweep by means of the viewers. LeVian reminded us of our trade’s essence – celebrating and making our shoppers really feel actually particular. It is a lesson we should always always remember.

As my final day at JCK Las Vegas approached, I ventured out with Katarzyna, Agata, and Pablo Perez to discover the enchantment of outdated Vegas. Reflecting on all the expertise, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude, brimming with new concepts and inspiration, and cherishing a treasure trove of reminiscences with the wonderful individuals of the jewellery trade. For those who ever have the chance, please attend JCK Las Vegas. Belief me; it will likely be an awe-inspiring journey you’ll always remember.

A really huge because of JCK for inviting me to their lovely occasion. Because of all those that have helped my journey to this present potential and great. 

JCK LAS VEGAS 

JCK LAS VEGAS IS BACK in 2024!

 Could 31 – June 3, 2024

 The Venetian | Las Vegas, NV- USA