The city of Shanwei, Guangdong, long known as a global hub for gem processing, has launched its first International Jewelry Exhibition, drawing more than 3,000 exhibitors.
Opened on November 1 in Haifeng County, the event blends traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation. Exhibitors from Sri Lanka, Poland, South Korea, and across China displayed gems, pearls, and gold-silver jewelry across eight themed zones, while live e-commerce booths and craft workshops showcased the industry's modern shift.
The event launched the Gemports Trading Index (GPI), a benchmark for the international colored gemstone market jointly developed by authoritative institutions such as the Gem & Jewelry Trade Association of China and the National Gem & Jewelry Testing Co Ltd. The index will provide reliable data to support strategic planning, asset allocation, and investment decisions for participants in the global colored gemstone industry.
A new technology innovation center aimed at advancing smart design and digital marketing was also launched at the event.
Shanwei's gemstone journey began in the 1980s when local entrepreneurs started with small workshops. Today, the city processes 70% of the world's crystal products, with an annual output worth over 35 billion yuan. E-commerce has accelerated growth; cross-border jewelry sales surged to 1.87 billion yuan in 2024, while local live-streaming platforms now dispatch up to 20,000 orders daily.
