The year 2026 is set to be a defining chapter for the coloured gemstone industry, with two of the world’s top B2B jewellery sourcing destinations − Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong (JGA) in June and Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW) in September − placing coloured gemstones at the centre of their showcases, event organiser Informa Markets Jewellery announced today.
In the months leading up to JGA and JGW, three exciting programmes are kicking off, accentuating the diversity, vibrancy and community spirit of the coloured gemstone industry. These are ICA Plus − a three-day conference jointly powered by the International Colored Gemstone Association and Informa Markets Jewellery, the NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards and the Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge. All three attractions will come together in a grand presentation at JGW.
“These events are shining a spotlight on coloured gemstones by addressing three key dimensions of the industry: Unlocking demand opportunities in markets such as China, Southeast Asia and beyond, while exploring how buyers are engaging in innovative and dynamic ways; celebrating design as a powerful medium that underscores the versatility and creative potential of coloured gemstones, and championing the next generation of leaders poised to drive the industry forward. These initiatives serve as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue, stimulating innovation and collaboration,” said Celine Lau, Director of Jewellery Fairs.
This pivotal moment for coloured gemstones is marked by the debut of ICA Plus in Hong Kong, positioning Asia as a powerhouse of opportunity. While the ICA’s biennial Congress serves as a prestigious forum for the coloured gemstone industry, ICA Plus offers a more regionally focused platform, zeroing in on Asia-specific dynamics − from market demand outlook and live-selling channels to the shifting preferences of a new generation of consumers, whose attitudes towards gemstone purchases and ownership diverge from those of previous generations, Lau continued.
She noted, “The NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards, in a complementary vein, represents the industry’s vision for the future, highlighting the next wave of gemstone professionals as they step into leadership roles. As an integral part of the Jewellery World Awards (JWA), this programme carries deep symbolic importance. Its primary aim is to ensure the long-term growth of the industry by fostering a seamless transition of leadership, preserving valuable knowledge and engaging the next generation of consumers. With the luxury market undergoing significant transformation, the focus is on adapting to modern trends while securing sustainable growth for the next 10, 20 years and beyond.”
Meanwhile, the Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge is a two-pronged initiative. First, it expands the market for jewellery as universal and inclusive, breaking free from traditional stereotypes to appeal to a broader audience. Second, it celebrates coloured gemstones as a spectacular medium for self-expression, pushing boundaries and inspiring creativity, Lau added.
“With new initiatives and ideas emerging, the coming months are anticipated to bring interesting opportunities for the coloured gemstone industry,” she said.
Making its debut in Hong Kong, ICA Plus is set to be the ultimate networking event in 2026 for the coloured gemstone industry. Jointly powered by Informa Markets Jewellery and ICA, this event will run from 19 – 21 September during JGW and bring together ICA members from nearly 50 countries, alongside JGW buyers and exhibitors and industry stakeholders. Unlike other ICA gatherings, ICA Plus will explore how the coloured gemstone trade can adapt to evolving business landscapes and seize new growth opportunities, with a special focus on Asia. The event kicks off with a Welcome Reception, followed by a conference, creating a dynamic platform for exhibitors, trade buyers, gemstone entrepreneurs and jewellery design talents to connect, collaborate and gain practical insights.
NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards by JWA
The NextGen Coloured Gem Excellence Awards by JWA will honour the rising stars of the coloured gemstone trade. Recognising entrepreneurs and professionals aged 45 and under, the programme shines a light on those who bring fresh ideas, bold energy and a future-focused mindset to an industry that is constantly evolving.
Awardees will be celebrated on 17 September at the JGW Fair Reception at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The Awards programme aims to:
Recognise leaders modernising traditional practices and solving industry challenges
Celebrate champions of sustainability, responsible sourcing and transparency
Support businesses expanding markets and attracting new customers
In addition to the Awards ceremony, a panel discussion will examine the role of the younger generation in shaping the future of the coloured gemstone industry.
Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge
The Gender-Fluid Coloured Gem Jewellery Design Challenge aims to celebrate the new voices of design, unlock the market potential of gender-neutral jewellery and promote the storytelling power of coloured gemstones. Designs that make it to the finals will be unveiled at JGA, where they will be assessed using a dual scoring system that includes Judging Panel Scoring and Public Voting. Winning designs will be brought to life in partnership with industry sponsors and presented at JGW in September, offering participants an opportunity to shine on a global scale.
Prizes include:
A sponsored trip to JGW 2026
Ownership of the finished piece
Editorial coverage and more
Submission Categories: Earrings, Rings and Brooches (maximum of two entries per candidate)
Deadline: 30 April 2026, 6pm (Hong Kong Time)
The Design Challenge’s goals include:
Champion the next wave of design talent: Inspire promising designers to push their creative boundaries and create jewellery that connects with younger consumers
Create new market demand: Tap into the gender-fluid jewellery market with innovative designs featuring coloured gemstones
Highlight the diversity of coloured gemstones: Showcase the vibrant spectrum of coloured gems and their creative possibilities in jewellery design
Prepare tomorrow’s leaders: Encourage the next generation’s active participation in both the supply and demand sides of the jewellery industry
With these three standout events, 2026 is gearing up to be a dynamic year for the coloured gemstone industry. From building bridges at ICA Plus to spotlighting innovators with the NextGen Awards and breaking creative moulds with the Gender-Fluid Design Challenge, Hong Kong’s jewellery fairs are driving the coloured gemstone industry into an exciting new era.