Singapore International Jewelry Expo 2025 Marks 20th Edition

The Singapore International Jewelry Expo (SIJE) returned for its 20th edition from 10 to 13 July 2025, showcasing more than US$250 million in fine jewellery and gemstones at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands. Organised by IEG Asia, a subsidiary of the Italian Exhibition Group, this year’s edition featured 414 exhibitors from 26 countries and occupied more exhibition space than previous years.

Natural Diamonds Remain Core Focus Amid Market Pressures

SIJE 2025 maintained its commitment to natural diamonds, despite downward pressure on the natural diamond market, as lab-grown alternatives gain market share and major producers, including De Beers, scale back production in response to unsold inventory.

The exhibition’s most prominent piece was a 100-carat fancy yellow diamond necklace, valued at US$2.5 million (S$3.2 million), presented by Singapore-based jeweller Ivy Masterpiece. Founder Ivy Choa acknowledged that overall sales had declined by approximately 20% since January 2025, citing broader market conditions. She noted that sales activity may resume as clients return following a period of reduced spending.

“The demand never left, it was only suppressed. The Singapore dollar is strong and if [clients] are starved for a few months of shopping, then sales will naturally pick up again.”

Visitor Numbers and Regional Engagement

IEG Asia projected 15,000 visitors to SIJE 2025, up from 14,000 the previous year. This follows strong attendance in 2024 that exceeded initial estimates.

The show also recorded an increase in participation from both local and overseas brands. The number of Singapore-based exhibitors grew from 57 in 2024 to 90 in 2025, while Italian representation nearly doubled, from 14 brands last year to almost 30.

Giorgio Calveri, Italian Trade Commissioner to Singapore and the Philippines, noted Singapore’s increasing relevance as both a direct market and regional access point.

“The interest in Singapore is growing as a market in itself but also as a gateway to the South-east Asia region.”He added that the local market’s preferences for “tailor-made products and a traditional sensibility within an innovative society is similar to Italy.”

IEG Asia has also expanded outreach to international trade buyers, particularly from countries such as India, Indonesia and Vietnam, contributing to the show’s broader regional positioning.

Product Highlights and Integration of Technology

Exhibitors presented a diverse selection of pieces ranging from collector-grade gemstones to design-led works. Notable items included:

Ivy Masterpiece’s 100-carat natural diamond necklace – S$3.2 million
Caratell’s Green Grandeur necklace – Featuring a 2.21-carat Afghan emerald, priced at S$108,000
Caratell’s Pink Destiny ring – A 0.44-carat purplish-pink diamond ring embedded with a microchip, priced at S$57,800
Simone Jewels’ Hokusai-inspired necklace – Centred on a 158.87-carat unheated topaz, priced at S$59,990
Infiniti Jewels’ Burmese pigeon blood ruby ring – Featuring a 3.11-carat ruby, priced at S$200,000

Calla Lily Fine Jewellers’ balloon-inspired tourmaline ring – Incorporating Namibian tourmalines, priced at S$12,000

Infiniti Jewels’ Frosted Vine Earrings (S$75,000)

This pair features two Colombian emeralds with a combined weight of 2.69 carats. The design, influenced by natural forms, includes detachable diamond elements for versatility.

Walasons’ Wings of Hope Earrings (S$3,000)

Presented by Hong Kong-based Walasons, these earrings contain 1.30 carats of diamonds set in 9.2 grams of 18K gold.

Gemayel Jewellery’s Rose Gold Bracelet (S$42,370)

This 18K rose gold bracelet from Lebanese jeweller Gemayel includes 4.49 carats of GIA-certified fancy coloured diamonds and a 1.8-carat F VVS round brilliant diamond.

The microchip integration in Caratell’s Pink Destiny ring reflects a development in integrating digital elements into jewellery. The chips can store data such as certifications or messages, providing additional utility that may appeal to clients seeking both design and function.

Market Observations and Consumer Behaviour

Designers reported varying levels of resilience depending on their market segment. Simone Ng, founder of Simone Jewels, which specialises in coloured gemstones and high jewellery, noted steady sales despite recent macroeconomic shifts.

“Customers in this tier are not really affected by what is going on [in the market]. At most, they may be a little slower in repeat purchases.”

Ng’s Hokusai-inspired collection sold approximately 70% of its inventory during a preview event, supported by a base of committed local buyers. Her collections are also available through international retail partnerships.

The purchasing behaviour of high-net-worth clients remained a recurring theme. Exhibitors noted that this customer group continues to prioritise rarity and craftsmanship, with limited impact from broader market volatility.

“Jewellery has survived in history. Whenever there is a war or conflict, people always turn to things that are liquid,” said Ng. “They know that if they hold the correct things, the price will always appreciate.”

Future Developments and Industry Outlook

IEG Asia CEO Dr Ilaria Cicero announced during the opening day that Singapore will host the 2026 World Diamond Congress. The biennial gathering of all 27 diamond bourses is expected to address key industry issues and reflects Singapore’s current positioning within the global diamond and jewellery sector.

According to a Statista report cited by SIJE organisers, revenue in Southeast Asia’s jewellery market is projected to exceed US$9.4 billion in 2025, with a forecasted annual growth rate of 4.6% through 2029.

This year’s exhibition featured seven dedicated zones across three halls, including areas for high jewellery, loose gemstones, craftsmanship, creative works, trade engagement, watches and emerging designers.

Key Considerations for Jewellers

SIJE 2025 indicates sustained activity in the high-value jewellery segment, even amid broader market uncertainties. For jewellers, the event highlights several areas of relevance:

Continued trade in natural diamonds and high-quality coloured gemstones
Opportunities to engage regional buyers through Singapore as a hub
Interest in bespoke, design-led jewellery with narrative or artistic themes
Emerging applications of technology in jewellery for added value

For industry professionals, events such as SIJE offer visibility into market developments, evolving client preferences, and opportunities for regional business engagement.