Philippine jewelers join
Jewelry Tokyo 2010
HAVING carved its own niche in the global market in industries such as furniture and food, the Philippines is taking strides to leave its own mark in the world of fine jewelry. The country’s natural bounty along with world-renowned Filipino artistry makes for fine jewelry products that have classic and timeless appeal which are a cut above the rest.
For raw materials, not only does the Philippines produce an abundant supply of silver, but it is also Asia’s third largest supplier of gold. Gemstones such as opal, jasper, quartz, and jade among others also abound in the land whose colors and shapes lend a charming and elegant look to every wearable piece. The Philippine seas likewise bring forth the country’s national gem, the much sought-after Philippine South Sea pearls. Produced by the Pinctada Maxima, the biggest pearl-bearing oyster, these pearls are valued for their captivating colors and exceptional luster.
In the hands of gifted artisans and highly skilled labor force which the industry boasts of, these raw materials are masterfully transformed into wearable works of art. Filipino designers’ creative hands are what sets them apart from others in the industry. They continuously innovate, working to find a balanced fusion of traditional, indigenous, and unconventional materials that result in pieces that define luxury and style while remaining modern and fresh. As a result, local designers have won international recognition such as the Diamond International Awards in France, Pearls Jewelry Design Competitions and Tahitian Pearl Trophy in Hong Kong.
On January 27-30, 2009 at the Tokyo Big Sight, the Philippines will participate in the International Jewellery Tokyo for the second time. Five companies will represent the Philippines with the objective to present exceptionally made jewelry pieces that fit the discerning Japanese market. Led by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry, the Philippine participation to the International Jewellery Tokyo is done in promotion of Manila F.A.M.E. International, a bi-annual tradeshow for home and lifestyle products scheduled on April 22-25, 2010 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center in Pasay City.
"We hope to gain experience and appreciation of the [fine jewelry] market [in Japan]" said Allan Suarez of A. Suarez Sterling Corporation. A. Suarez Sterling Corporation is a company that has weathered many industry storms yet remains enduring which is proven by its twenty-seven years of operation. The company prides itself creating finely made silver jewelry that puts a premium on quality.
When asked what the Philippines’ edge is over other countries, Avatar Accessories, Inc. Managing Director and Chief Creative Officer Butch Carungay said, "In addition to our excellent designs and commitment to quality, we are also very innovative when it comes to materials and have very versatile production lines which allow us to offer a wide variety with low minimum requirements." Avatar has established itself as one of the leading manufacturers of innovative, meticulously crafted costume jewelry in the Philippines. It is the first Asian-based firm to win the prestigious Etoile de Mode des Ecoles in Paris in 2003 which later led to more awards from various shows.
Joining A. Suarez Sterling Corp. and Avatar Accessories, Inc. are:
• Indian Summer Gifts and Accessories. Over the years the company has been successfully crafting accessories that display interesting use of natural materials and unique color play which has earned it a loyal following of wholesalers and department stores in Europe, United States, and Australia.
• Saikou Jewelry. This jewelry manufacturer has successfully penetrated the Japanese market with its exquisitely made silver products that range from those that are painstakingly handmade to jewelry that use cutting-edge technology.