www.blajournal.com
VicenzaOro Expands with New Hall 2, Boosting Jewelry Manufacturing and Sustainability
The Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) is poised to open its new 23,000-square-meter Hall 2 at the Vicenza Expo Centre this September, ready for the upcoming Vicenzaoro and T.Gold events from September 4-8, 2026. This strategic expansion is designed to enhance the international jewelry manufacturing presence at Vicenzaoro and provide a more integrated experience for attendees. The architecturally significant building, conceptualized by Hamburg-based Studio GMP under the direction of architect Vokwin Marg, is expected to elevate the overall quality and allure of the entire exhibition center, fostering positive impacts for IEG's various events in Vicenza, the VICC's conference activities, and the surrounding region.
This new facility promises a significantly improved visitor experience, with enhanced internal circulation and seamless transitions between different exhibition zones. Directly linking Halls 1, 4, and 6, the two-level structure, complete with escalators and lifts, also features a mezzanine offering a restaurant and three additional bars, complementing the eleven existing dining options. The expanded space in Hall 2 will now accommodate the jewelry goods community, previously located in Hall 4. Consequently, T.Gold, the jewelry industry technologies show, will relocate to Hall 4 within the main Expo Centre, uniting the entire jewelry supply chain under one cohesive roof for the first time, a move anticipated to strengthen Vicenzaoro's growth and international leadership. Furthermore, IEG is reinforcing its commitment to environmental responsibility by installing solar panels on Hall 2's roof, doubling its photovoltaic capacity and aiming for full energy self-sufficiency when events are not in progress.
IEG President Maurizio Ermeti emphasized that the new Hall 2 will solidify Vicenzaoro's position as a global leader in the jewelry sector, offering a contemporary hub for the world's finest goldsmithing, semi-finished products, and technological innovators. Mario Vescovo, director of IEG's Vicenza venue, highlighted the successful navigation of complex construction challenges without disrupting ongoing events, underscoring this achievement as a testament to their dedication to both exhibitors and the local community. This transformative project not only ensures an elevated visitor experience for Vicenzaoro but also, with the new hall's nine-meter ceiling height, opens doors for diverse future events across various product categories, promising sustained development and opportunities for the region and future generations.
JUST FOR YOU
Informa Markets and MCH Group Unveil Basilia Jewelry & Watch Fair for April 2027
Uneek Jewelry Marks 30 Years with Ethical Certifications
Roberto Coin Celebrates Three Decades with Grand High Jewelry Showcase in Venice
Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry Celebrates Three Decades with Grand Reopening in Ridgeland
AGTA Spectrum and Cutting Edge Awards 2026: Call for Entries
latest news

Jewelers of America Opens Nominations for 25th Annual GEM Awards
Jewelers of America has initiated the nomination period for its 25th annual GEM Awards, scheduled for March 12, 2027, in New York. Self-nominations are accepted across categories like Jewelry Design, Media Excellence, and Retail Innovation until July 31, 2026. This prestigious event celebrates outstanding contributions in the jewelry and watch industry, highlighting creativity, leadership, and dedication.

Jaipur Gem & Jewellery Bourse to Revolutionize Global Colored Gemstone Trade
The Jaipur Gem & Jewellery Bourse (JGJB) is poised to transform the international trade of colored gemstones. With strong support from the Rajasthan government and key industry players, the JGJB aims to establish a transparent, organized, and globally connected marketplace in Jaipur. This initiative is expected to enhance efficiency, foster innovation, and create significant employment opportunities, solidifying Jaipur's status as the world's leading hub for colored gemstones.

A Vintage Rolex GMT-Master 'Pepsi' with a Heroic Tale Acquired by Bob's Watches
Bob's Watches has obtained a remarkable vintage Rolex GMT-Master 'Pepsi' with a rich history. This 1977 timepiece belonged to a U.S. Air Force pilot who was wearing it during a mid-air ejection from his F-105 fighter jet. The watch comes with extensive documentation, including its original box, purchase receipt, newspaper clippings, and personal accounts, making it a unique collector's item that intertwines luxury with an extraordinary life story.

NAJ Celebrates Excellence at JET Graduates Awards
The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) recently hosted its annual JET Graduation Awards at Goldsmiths' Hall, honoring students who successfully completed their professional development programs. The event recognized outstanding achievements in jewellery education, including the presentation of the prestigious Greenough Trophy and the Roy Huddlestone Trophy to top-performing graduates. Industry leaders and educators gathered to commend the dedication and academic excellence of the cohort, underscoring the importance of continuous learning in the jewellery sector.

Silvia Furmanovich's Art Deco Collection: A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
Silvia Furmanovich's latest collection, "Art Deco," set to debut at Couture Las Vegas in May 2026, explores the transformative artistic movement of the 20th century. By intertwining masterful craftsmanship with a diverse range of materials, Furmanovich breathes new life into the Art Deco aesthetic. Her work transcends mere nostalgia, emphasizing modernity, global influences, and the seamless integration of traditional techniques with contemporary design.

CHP Caliber Facilitates Marathon Watches' Entry into the Pentagon's Exclusive Retail Market
CHP Caliber, a watch sales and market strategy firm, has successfully introduced Marathon Watch Company to Lumos Jewelers' Pentagon location, a significant achievement for a brand renowned for its military-grade watches. This move opens an exclusive retail channel to Pentagon employees, underscoring the strong demand for specialized independent watch brands within a highly discerning environment. The launch was accompanied by a comprehensive training session featuring other independent brands like Tsar Bomba and Hampden, highlighting the strategic approach to market penetration and brand advocacy.