Editor’s Note
This article highlights the debut of an exceptionally rare 100-carat royal blue sapphire at a Singapore jewelry expo. Valued at US$3 million, the gem’s journey from a Sri Lankan mine to its polished form underscores the remarkable craftsmanship and enduring allure of natural treasures.
A top-grade natural royal blue sapphire weighing 100.02 carats made its public debut at the Singapore International Jewelry Expo.
This exceptionally rare and precious gem, exhibited by a local jeweler, originated from a 900-carat rough sapphire mined in Sri Lanka. After meticulous cutting and polishing, it was certified by a Swiss gemological research institute and is valued at US$3 million (approximately S$4.04 million).
The Singapore International Jewelry Expo 2024, the most authoritative and longest-running jewelry exhibition in the country, is now in its 19th edition. The expo commenced on Thursday (July 11) at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, featuring over 300 jewelry brands from around the world.
Minister of State for Trade and Industry, and Culture, Community and Youth, Mr. Low Yen Ling, officiated the opening ceremony. In her speech, she expressed support and affirmation for local jewelry brands, stating that the expo provides a platform for emerging local brands to showcase themselves internationally.
With the support of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Italian Trade Agency gathered 14 renowned Italian jewelers to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship and designs at the expo. This marks the first time Italy has set up a pavilion at the Singapore International Jewelry Expo, reflecting Italy’s commitment to fostering business relations with Singapore.
A joint statement from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Italian Trade Agency referenced a report by market research provider Euromonitor International. The report indicated that despite inflationary pressures and increased taxation, jewelry sales are unlikely to decline. Even with an expected economic slowdown due to various macroeconomic factors, retail volume and present value of jewelry are projected to continue growing.
