The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) is set to host its Centenary Congress in Vicenza, Italy, from September 4 to 7, 2026. This landmark event commemorates a century since CIBJO's establishment and will be held in conjunction with the prestigious VICENZAORO jewellery exhibition. Organized by the Italian Exhibition Group, the congress will gather CIBJO's Assembly of Delegates and sectoral commissions to review and update international industry standards documented in the Blue Books. Discussions will encompass a broad spectrum of topics relevant to the global jewellery trade, including diamonds, colored gemstones, pearls, precious metals, and responsible sourcing. Furthermore, updates on educational initiatives by the World Jewellery Confederation Education Foundation (WJCEF) and collaborative efforts with the United Nations will be shared.

This congress provides a vital forum for stakeholders across the entire jewellery supply chain, from mining to retail, to engage in crucial dialogue and decision-making. CIBJO President Gaetano Cavalieri emphasized the congress's role in celebrating not only the organization's legacy but also the collective spirit and innovation of the entire jewellery community. Holding the event in Vicenza, a city renowned as the heart of the Italian jewellery industry, underscores its significance as a hub for trendsetting and the preservation of industry excellence. The congress promises to reinforce CIBJO's commitment to promoting best practices, education, and ethical conduct within the global jewellery sector, shaping its future trajectory.

Centenary Celebration and Industry Standards Forum

The upcoming World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) Centenary Congress, scheduled from September 4 to 7, 2026, in Vicenza, Italy, represents a pivotal moment for the global jewellery industry. This event marks the 100th anniversary of CIBJO's founding, initially established in Paris in 1926 as BIBOA before being restructured in 1961 with a global focus. Hosted by the Italian Exhibition Group at the Fiera di Vicenza alongside the VICENZAORO jewellery show, the congress will serve as the official gathering for CIBJO’s Assembly of Delegates. It is during these meetings that CIBJO's sectoral commissions convene to propose and approve amendments to the organization's definitive international industry standards, widely recognized as the Blue Books. These standards cover a comprehensive range of products and practices, including diamonds, colored gemstones, pearls, gem laboratories, precious metals, coral, and responsible sourcing, ensuring consistency and integrity across the industry.

The congress provides a critical platform for addressing evolving industry challenges and opportunities, fostering collaboration among diverse participants. By bringing together representatives from various segments of the jewellery supply chain—from initial mining operations to retail distribution—CIBJO facilitates a holistic approach to standard-setting and industry development. The Centenary Congress is not merely a commemorative event; it is a forward-looking forum where the foundations for the next century of ethical and sustainable practices will be laid. Discussions will also highlight the achievements and ongoing initiatives of the World Jewellery Confederation Education Foundation (WJCEF) and CIBJO's continuous engagement with the United Nations on relevant global issues. This emphasis on standards, education, and international cooperation reinforces CIBJO's enduring role as the preeminent international decision-making body for the jewellery sector.

Vicenza: A Hub for Global Jewellery Excellence

Vicenza, Italy, has been chosen as the esteemed location for the CIBJO Centenary Congress, a decision that significantly underscores the city’s profound influence and historical importance within the global jewellery landscape. Known as the vibrant heart of the Italian jewellery industry, Vicenza is an internationally recognized center for innovation, craftsmanship, and trendsetting in fine jewellery. The Italian Exhibition Group, a key player in organizing major industry events like VICENZAORO, T Gold, Oroarezzo, and JGTD | Jewellery Gem & Technology in Dubai, will host the congress. This strategic co-location with the VICENZAORO show maximizes attendance and engagement, providing delegates with unparalleled networking opportunities and access to the latest industry advancements and market insights. The backdrop of Vicenza, with its rich heritage in jewellery design and manufacturing, creates an ideal environment for celebrating CIBJO's centennial milestone and deliberating on the future of the industry.

President Gaetano Cavalieri highlighted the appropriateness of Vicenza as the venue, emphasizing its role in shaping industry trends and preserving the legacy of the jewellery sector. The city’s dynamic environment and strong connection to the trade make it a symbolic location for an event that aims to unite and advance the interests of the entire jewellery community. The congress will foster discussions on how the industry can continue to thrive through innovation, sustainable practices, and adherence to robust standards. Future participants will benefit from a dedicated website for registration, set to launch soon, ensuring streamlined access to this landmark gathering. By convening in Vicenza, CIBJO not only honors its past achievements but also reaffirms its commitment to guiding the global jewellery industry towards a prosperous and responsible future, leveraging the city's unique position as a beacon of excellence and tradition.