The Epicenter of Jewelry: Why VicenzaOro is the Show to Watch

Record-breaking international Attendance & Business Growth
Vicenzaoro January 2025 once again set the benchmark for the global jewelry industry, welcoming buyers from 145 countries and solidifying its reputation as the year’s most influential trade show. 1,300 brands from over 30 nations showcased excellence, with a robust presence from Turkey, the U.S., Germany, Spain, and Greece. Notably, the number of German exhibitors grew significantly, and emerging markets such as Australia and even North Korea saw increased participation.

Vicenzaoro as a Business & Trendsetting Hub

• 19% growth in e-commerce sales within the jewelry industry, highlighting the increasing role of digital platforms.
• Jewelry industry revenue up 5.8% in the first 10 months of 2024, with exports (+7.2%) outperforming the domestic market (+3.0%).
• A sold-out edition, reinforcing Vicenzaoro’s leadership as the event that opens the global jewelry calendar.

A Complete Supply Chain Showcase

From haute joaillerie to cutting-edge technologies, Vicenzaoro presented the entire jewelry supply chain. The new delivery area, featuring 80+ exhibitors thanks to IEG’s acquisition of Palakiss, boosted immediate orders and business growth opportunities. Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting once again provided invaluable insights into the future of luxury, while organizations like CIBJO, GJEPC India, HKJJA, and Francéclat added depth to the conversation.

T.Gold & The Future of Jewelry Technology

Running alongside Vicenzaoro, T.Gold 2025 showcased 170 exhibitors from 16 countries, underlining sustainability, customization, and technical innovation in jewelry manufacturing. This sector is growing rapidly, and from 2026, T.Gold will expand within Vicenzaoro’s main exhibition areas.

A Commitment to Education & the Next Generation

• 650 young students participated in Vicenzaoro’s opening day, highlighting the industry’s focus on generational renewal.
• Discussions with top trade associations reinforced the importance of training and technological evolution.

A Year-Round Industry Connection

Vicenzaoro isn’t just a once-a-year event. Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) maintains a continuous global presence with a packed 2025 agenda:
📍 OROAREZZO (May)
📍 SIJE Singapore (July)
📍 Vicenzaoro September (September) + VO'Clock Privé
📍 Vicenza Symposium (September – a major new scientific event)
📍 Valenza Jem Forum (October)
📍 JGTD Dubai (November)
📍 Italian Jewellery Summit in Arezzo (December)

With industry support from partners such as the Ministry of Enterprise and Made in Italy, ITA, Confindustria Federorafi, and Confcommercio Federpreziosi, Vicenzaoro remains the beating heart of the global jewelry and goldsmithing sector.

The Grand Opening Ceremony: A Celebration of Heritage and Innovation

The opening ceremony of VicenzaOro 2025 set the tone for the entire event, emphasizing the dual pillars of tradition and innovation that define the jewelry sector. President Maurizio Ermetti reflected on the emotional significance of the event, recalling the historic moment in December when the foundation stone was laid for Vicenza’s new international jewelry hub. The expansion, set to be completed by September 2026, will provide even more space for exhibitors and reinforce Vicenza’s status as the world’s premier goldsmithing district.

Notably, the President of the Veneto Region, Luca Zaia, highlighted the deep-rooted connection between Vicenza and the gold industry. The city, home to over 500 goldsmith companies, has long been at the forefront of jewelry craftsmanship and export, with a remarkable €2.4 billion in jewelry exports annually.

The ceremony also underscored the growing role of young professionals in shaping the future of jewelry. With over 650 students attending the Golden Talk session, the industry actively engages the next generation of artisans, designers, and innovators.

Five Key Takeaways for Jewelry Professionals in 2025

Beyond just a trade show, VicenzaOro offers vital insights that shape the industry’s future. Here are five major takeaways for jewelers, designers, and retailers looking to thrive in 2025 and beyond:

1. The Industry is Cautiously Optimistic

Despite economic and geopolitical uncertainties, including fluctuating gold prices and challenges in the diamond market, the mood at VicenzaOro was surprisingly positive. Retailers reported strong holiday sales and arrived at the show ready to restock their inventories. The jewelry industry, often the first to feel economic downturns and the last to recover, shows remarkable resilience. If there’s one lesson here, agility and smart purchasing will be key strategies.

2. Design Over Metal Weight: The Shift in Consumer Preferences

With gold prices reaching new highs, many designers and brands prioritize creativity over sheer metal weight. This means a rise in innovative, design-focused jewelry where craftsmanship, aesthetic appeal, and storytelling precede traditional value metrics. Brands that can balance bold design with cost-effectiveness will win in this evolving market.

3. Men’s Jewelry is Not Just a Trend—It’s a Movement

From the Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting presentations to the latest red-carpet events, one thing is clear: men’s jewelry is here to stay. What started as a niche category—think pearl necklaces and minimal signet rings—has now expanded to bold statement pieces. From ear parties to brooches, men’s jewelry reclaims its place in fashion, echoing centuries-old traditions when jewelry was an essential part of male attire. This is not just an emerging trend; it represents a market expansion that could potentially double opportunities for designers and retailers alike.

4. Sustainability and Traceability Are No Longer Optional

Sustainability has officially moved from a nice-to-have to an absolute necessity. Talks by CIBJO, The Responsible Jewellery Council, and The Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 emphasized that governments and consumers demand greater transparency. Regulations are tightening, and companies that fail to implement responsible sourcing and environmental policies risk being left behind. If you’re in the jewelry business, now is the time to align with industry standards before they become legal mandates.

5. VicenzaOro Sets the Gold Standard for Trade Shows

It’s no exaggeration to say that VicenzaOro is Europe's best-organized jewelry trade show. From the seamless integration of T.Gold, the premier event for jewelry machinery, to the beautifully curated Design Room, which featured some of the most exciting up-and-coming designers, this show is a must-attend for anyone in the industry. And let’s not forget the invaluable networking opportunities—meeting buyers, press, and fellow professionals is just as important as discovering new collections.

 

Trends on the show floor: 

It’s fascinating to see how gemstones continue to dominate the jewelry landscape—no longer just accents but true statement-makers. From precious to semi-precious, the industry is embracing color and storytelling through stones more than ever. Pearls remain strong, proving their versatility across classic and contemporary designs.

Another standout? Volume! Whether it’s electroformed oversized pieces, bold blown-up chains and bracelets, or floral motifs, the trend is all about making an impact. Even ear candy is getting more playful, with daring shapes and vibrant hues.

And let’s not forget the colored metals—with brands like Pesavento embracing blue, pink, and green tones in silver, proving that metals can be just as expressive as the gems they hold. 2025 is shaping up to be a year of fearless, statement-driven jewelry! 💎✨

 

Highlights from VicenzaOro 2025

The latest research from Federpreziosi Confcommercio, presented at Vicenzaoro 2025, confirms a significant shift in consumer behavior: online shopping in the jewelry sector is growing rapidly while traditional retail remains resilient. Format Research's study reveals that 2024 e-commerce sales from jewelry store websites reached 1.08 billion euros, marking a 19% increase from 2023. Despite this surge, 72.3% of consumers still prefer in-store purchases, valuing the trusted relationship with jewelers. However, 18.35% now opt exclusively for online shopping, highlighting the sector’s ongoing digital transformation. With 88.2% of Italian jewelry stores maintaining an online presence and 62% integrating social media, the industry embraces a hybrid model where digital and physical experiences coexist. The research, presented by Pierluigi Ascani of Format Research and discussed by industry experts, underscores that while change is inevitable, growth remains a strategic choice for retailers navigating the evolving landscape.

ASSOGEMME – Andrea Raselli: The Italian Touch of an International Entrepreneur

One of the most insightful talks at VicenzaOro was led by Andrea Raselli, an international entrepreneur who has successfully blended Italian craftsmanship with global market strategies. Introduced by Paolo Cesari, President of Assogemme and Futurgem, and Matteo Farsura, Global Exhibition Manager of Jewellery & Fashion at IEG, this session emphasized the importance of community, collaboration, and cultural authenticity in business success.

Key insights from Raselli’s journey include:

• The evolution of Raselli Franco Spa, founded in 1969, from a local subcontractor in Valenza to an internationally recognized jewelry producer.

• How his family heritage and early exposure to global sourcing shaped his entrepreneurial vision.

• The 'Made in Italy' brand's critical role is maintaining authenticity and leadership in the global jewelry market.

• The challenges of expanding into the US and Taiwan include integrating Italian craftsmanship with cutting-edge manufacturing technologies.

• His company's resilience despite COVID-19 challenges underscored strategic expansion and a strong company culture.

  

CIBJO: Shaping Responsible Value Chains Through Supplier Engagement

The jewelry and watch industry increasingly prioritizes sustainability through initiatives like the Watch and Jewelry Initiative 2030. This program emphasizes collaboration, education, and transparency to mitigate environmental and social impacts within supply chains.

A key takeaway from the CIBJO panel discussion was that businesses must integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles to remain competitive. Stakeholder engagement, data-driven sustainability, and innovative environmental policies are essential for the industry’s resilience. Companies like Al Prosi, an Italian precious metal refinery, shared insights on adopting a holistic approach to responsible value chains.

Key points discussed included:

• The impact of ESG regulations on the industry and the necessity of sustainable practices.

• The critical role of biodiversity and climate resilience in shaping the future of jewelry production.

• How data-driven sustainability models and reporting tools help businesses align with new regulations.

• The role of education and proactive engagement in mitigating environmental risks across supply chains.

Companies that embrace these principles will safeguard their reputation and unlock new opportunities for growth and market leadership.

See you in September again! 

As I look back on VicenzaOro January 2025, I feel incredibly grateful for the experience. The organizers once again outdid themselves, creating an event that not only set the tone for the year ahead but also made those of us in the press and influencer community feel like family. Their warmth, professionalism, and hospitality made it a pleasure to be part of this vibrant gathering.

The energy, the insights, and the shared passion for jewelry left me inspired, and I’m excited to see how the trends and conversations from the show will shape the industry in the months to come. And perhaps, dear readers, we will meet again at VicenzaOro September 5-9? Let me know—will I see you there?