More than 700 exhibitors from 27 countries are showcasing their finest creations during the 32nd edition of Jewellery Arabia and Scent Arabia, taking place at Exhibition World Bahrain, until November 30.
Visitors can tour six halls showing a wide range of jewellery designs, luxurious timepieces, gemstones, perfumes and aromatic oils, and more.
The jewellery designs on display are diverse, from classic traditional creations to contemporary styles.
There is an extensive collection of pearl jewellery, honouring the rich pearling heritage of the kingdom.
Those interested in learning more about Bahrain’s pearling history can take a digital course with Danat, the official institute for the study and authentication of pearls, at the end of which learners will receive a certificate. They have a booth and lab at the exhibition premises and, like the previous years, are offering purchase authentication services for buyers.
“We authenticate pearls and diamonds, and buyers can get an authentication certificate in less than one hour. We are the only authorised institution to offer these services for these categories,” a Danat representative told the GDN.
Those looking to authenticate gold purchases can visit the Industry and Commerce Ministry booth.
Danat is also offering a fun oyster shucking activity at their booth where visitors can gain a first-hand experience of the process.
The modern jewellery on display is extensive, offering visitors an unlimited choice. Patterns with trending motifs like butterflies, bows and bands can be seen, signalling a high demand for contemporary styles.
“Globally, we have noticed a trend in design jewellery among the younger population. Design jewellery is an iconic product from a brand that will be recognised by others. This segment of buyers is a major revenue generator for brands who are using the trend as an opportunity to build on their brand identity and popularity,” an exhibitor and jewellery expert at the expo said.
Buyers are seeking more wearable, functional designs as opposed to pieces that can be worn occasionally, according to jewellery curator Abdulrahman Alzayani, who is also exhibiting at the showcase.
“A global trend that’s been popular since the Covid-19 pandemic is that people want jewellery to live with and not more things to put in their safe,” the London and Bahrain-based jewellery and art advisory A2Z owner noted.
Jewellery and Scent Arabia 2024 has art popups that complement the vibe of the event like Art Concept gallery, which is showcasing ‘Jewels of the Middle East’ – artworks by a curated selection of 12 Arab artists, and +973 Artisanat, which has a collection of dresses blending the best of traditional and modern fashion.
Meanwhile, the Scent Arabia exhibition features extensive participation from leading perfume brands, offering visitors a diverse selection of luxurious perfumes and aromatic oils. Fragrances from as far as the Far East – Japan – are available. Regional options also feature.
A common trend among buyers, according to exhibitors and fragrance experts at the expo, is blending arabesque scents like oud and amber with international notes.
“While the younger generation prefers something sweet, our mature audience, say those above 40 years prefer, Oud combined with other fragrances like Rose,” Asgharali spokesperson Yasmine Mohammed said.
UAE-based Sol de Scent owner Ali Abdelamir has also observed a similar trend of layering perfumes.
“Scents are a personal freedom but buyers these days prefer to have traditional scents mixed with global notes, and many prefer to layer both types to create a unique scent,” he added.
For more details, visit jewelleryarabia.com or download the ‘Jewellery Arabia’ mobile app.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
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