On May 20th, the Shanxiahu region of Zhuji welcomed a grand international event—the 2024 World Pearl Conference, which lasted for three days. The conference meticulously organized eight major thematic activities, including the Zhuji International Gem and Pearl Exhibition, the World Pearl Industry High-Quality Development Roundtable, and the launch of the "Future Factory" pilot program for the pearl industry. The event aimed to provide attendees with an in-depth understanding of the pearl industry's development history and the unique charm of the Zhuji pearl industry.
The World Pearl Conference is not only a visual feast for jewelry enthusiasts but also marks a significant new step for the Zhuji pearl industry in a globalized context. As a service provider for colored gemstone and pearl grading and certification, GUILD Gem Laboratories participated in the event, actively integrating into the gemstone industry development process and working with industry professionals to promote the prosperity and growth of the pearl sector.
2024 World Pearl Conference Roundtable Discussion
Andrew Lucas, President of GUILD Institute of Gemology, Delivers Keynote Speech
On the afternoon of May 20th, the highly anticipated Roundtable Discussion of the 2024 World Pearl Conference was held in Shanxiahu. The conference, with the theme "New Productive Forces Leading the High-Quality Development of the Global Pearl Industry," gathered a distinguished group of speakers, including Liu Lihong, President of GUILD Gem Laboratories; Andrew Lucas, President of the GUILD Institute of Gemology; Bryan Moss, Hollywood's celebrity jeweler and Van Cleef & Arpels Master Model Maker; and Justin Albert Hunter, a pioneer in the Fijian pearl industry. They were joined by experts, guests, and corporate representatives to engage in in-depth discussions on various aspects of the pearl industry, including industry development, talent cultivation, innovative farming techniques, derivative product research and development, and livestream e-commerce.
During the roundtable session, Mr. Andrew Lucas delivered a detailed and forward-looking keynote speech titled "Global Pearl Market and Supply Chain Trends." He presented a comprehensive analysis based on the latest data and field research, addressing the current production situation of the pearl industry, demand trends from both Chinese and international consumers, and shifts in the market power dynamics of pearls.
Andrew Lucas highlighted: "Pearl sales have skyrocketed at an unprecedented rate. Today, we see pearls everywhere—on social media, worn by celebrities, and even by everyday people. As a pearl seller, now is an excellent time to sell. However, when stock runs out, replenishing inventory at current prices will pose a significant challenge."
Zhuji International Gem & Pearl Exhibition
Lin MoqingHead of the Pearl Department at GUILD Gem Laboratories, Shares Pearl Grading Standards
On the morning of May 20th, the Zhuji International Gem & Pearl Exhibition grandly opened at the Zhuji International Trade City. As one of the eight major theme events of the 2024 World Pearl Conference, the exhibition attracted numerous industry professionals from both domestic and international markets. Spanning 10,000 square meters and featuring 13 exhibition zones, the exhibition covered the entire pearl industry chain, including pearl farming, processing, design, exhibition, sales, and auctions. High-quality pearl resources from Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Tahiti, Hong Kong, Zhuji in Zhejiang, Shenzhen in Guangdong, Beihai in Guangxi, and other domestic and international sources gathered together, showcasing the prosperity and vitality of the pearl industry.
GUILD Gem Laboratories participated in the event, presenting various pearl reports and grading standards. Currently, GUILD offers testing services for all types of pearls and provides grading services for high-quality pearls.
During the exhibition, Lin Moqing, Head of GUILD’s Pearl Department, delivered a presentation on “GUILD Gem Laboratories' Pearl Grading Standards and Commercial Naming.” She explained the different categories of pearls, GUILD report types, the GUILD pearl grading standards, and the sample collection ratios for different colored pearls at the laboratory to the audience attending the lecture.
Lin Moqing pointed out that, at present, the most frequently tested sample category at the laboratory is white freshwater pearls of Aurora-grade quality, followed by Australian White South Sea pearls with a Venus rating. White South Sea pearls, known for their purity, flawless nature, and bright luster, are highly favored in the market, making them the most frequently tested category. Additionally, Tahitian pearls, with their rich colors and unique fashion appeal, ranked third in terms of testing volume, after white freshwater pearls and Australian White South Sea pearls. This also reflects the growing market preference for colored pearls.
The atmosphere at the lecture was lively, and attendees expressed that they gained a lot from the session. The Zhuji International Gem & Pearl Exhibition not only brought high-quality pearl products to consumers but also provided a platform for domestic and international pearl industries to exchange and collaborate.
GUILD Notes
In recent years, the rapid development of China's pearl industry has been evident to all. GUILD has always worked hand in hand with many "partners" in the industry, seizing opportunities for growth while facing challenges head-on.
As the domestic pearl industry continues to optimize and upgrade its structure, the popularity of the pearl market continues to rise. Jewelry professionals are rethinking and exploring the future development path of China’s pearl industry. This trip to Zhuji has deepened our understanding that, in today’s fast-paced development of China’s pearl industry, we need to further broaden our vision, integrate into the global market, and actively participate in global competition in order to carve out a broader path forward.
