Show dazzles exhibitors and visitors

Visitors view the items on display at the exhibition

The ongoing Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) is continuing to grow in terms of size, quality and number of products, exhibitors said yesterday.
One of the largest exhibitions of its kind, the event at Doha Exhibition Center was officially opened on Monday evening, followed by the public hours starting yesterday.
"It is an immense experience to be here every year. This time around, we have a new stand and are offering more products,” Geneva-based company Adler’s CEO C Adler said.
"We have increased the number of pieces by 10%, while the value has jumped up to 25%. This comes on the back of increased expectation we have of the event here in Doha,” Adler added.
More than 50,000 local and international visitors are expected to visit the six-day exhibition which runs until February 20.
"The DJWE has also been good to us. But what is interesting to observe is the continued rise in quality of exhibitors and products year after year,” jewellery-maker Graff’s senior executive Clive Golanski said.
Graff is now showcasing its products for the seventh straight year, at an event which is celebrating its 8th edition in 2011.
"All the jewellers have upped the game. The stands are more lavish, the products more stunning,” Golanski added.
A total of 300 exhibitors from Qatar and around the globe, including 37 first timers, are participating in the show this year, compared to 250 last year.
For Geneva-based Chatila, it is a matter of pride to be a participant for five years now, official Joseph Khalil said.
"While the number of visitors is doubtlessly increasing, it is their passion for jewellery which has also risen. They want to know the story behind jewels,” Khalil said.
And visitors, a diverse mix reflecting the currently homogenous Qatari society, agree.
"I came to learn about the beauty of jewels, the crafting behind a watch, and about accessories,” first time visitor Jeff, a year-and-half-long resident of Qatar from Kenya said.
For some it is about the new fashion and trends drawing them to the exhibition centre.
"I wanted to know the latest fashion trend in jewellery. I familiarised myself with various brands exhibiting here for future reference. Next time, I buy a watch I will be a more educated customer,” Nigerian national Judith said.
For others, the exhibition is simply a peek into the sheer luxury jewellery pieces offer.
"This is my second year coming back to DJWE and I was here to simply soak in the experience of looking at some of the world’s most brilliant gems,” Filipina Jesusa, another four-year-long Qatar resident, said.
"The standard is no different compared to the high-profile events in Europe. I absolutely loved the local pearls,” Bruno, a visiting French national, said.