Jewelry Show Information
Trade shows are one of the best ways to find new wholesale jewelry sources. Information about trade shows can often be found online, from current suppliers, and in trade magazines. Once you attend a show, you have access to show calendars and show catalogs which can alert you to other wholesale jewelry shows at other times and locations throughout the year.
Look for jewelry shows that are open to the trade only. You have a better chance of finding true wholesalers if you avoid the shows that are not open to the public. At such shows, it is common for buyers to show proof of business ownership or employment for admittance. Also, there are usually age requirements; children are not admitted at most shows.
Strict attendance policies are enforced at all of the best trade shows for the jewelry industry. It is a good indication that you are attending a true wholesale trade show. At such shows, suppliers are geared towards selling to resellers and not the retail customer.
At trade shows, in most cases, wholesale orders are written at the show for a later shipment date; merchandise is typically not sold on a “cash and carry” basis. Also, most vendors will usually have a minimum order policy based on per item quantity or order total.
Before you make travel arrangements or arrive at the show, it’s important to find out the admittance requirements so that you can bring the appropriate papers with you to the show. If you do not bring the required proof with you, it’s likely you will be turned away at the door.
When possible, it is a good idea to preregister for the show. Even with pre-registration, however, you may still need to show documentation to prove your identity and be issued a show badge for admittance.
Acceptable documentation at wholesale trade shows often includes items such as a resale permit, business license, business card, and matching photo identification.
In the US, one of the largest wholesale fine jewelry show is the JCK Show held every June in Las Vegas, Nevada. It held at the Sands Convention Center and takes at least two days to view. Every major retailer of jewelry attends this show. The show is very strict on admission and a retailer must have proof of a commercial location to attend. I have personally seen them turn away buyers who flew in from Europe without the proper paperwork.
The Winter and Summer JA New York Shows are also important events for jewelry professionals.
There are many trade publications for fine jewelry. Some of the top magazines are:
Modern Jeweler
JQ
IFJAG - International Fashion jewelry & Accessory Show
Accessories