Qatar continues to be one of the best markets for high-end jewellery and diamonds, said Bijan Elihu, a jeweller from New York who has been a regular at the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) for the last six years.
“The country’s residents are receptive to new trends and innovations happening in the jewellery business,” he explained. Bijan & Co Inc, which Elihu set up more than 30 years ago, has been a major player in the global diamond industry. Elihu, who has his boutique at Alfardan Jewellery pavilion at the expo, pointed out that his company has earned a number of Qataris’ patronage as their regular clients.
“People across the Middle East show more interest in emerald-studded ornaments. Rarely do we find elsewhere such loyal customers as one sees here in Doha,” he said. Whether it is ruby, sapphire, emerald or any other precious stone for that matter, the affluent Qatari buyers have strong preferences and they never compromise on quality.
Elihu, who has his son Elisha with him in Doha, has no doubt that Doha jewellery show is bound to grow in coming years as the country is blessed with a young generation of connoisseurs as well as jewellery designers. “This would encourage more jewellers to explore the local markets further with more high-end jewellery,” hoped Elihu.
Some of the necklaces at Bijan & Company’s boutique: PICTURE: Shemeer Rasheed
