Great interest amidst the glitter at a previous jewellery show held by Expo Cen

A double delight awaits buyers of gold and diamond jewellery this coming season – still low prices and some of the boldest and brightest designs from across the world, say organisers of an event that will showcase charming and exquisite ornamentation.

Expo Centre Sharjah assures lovers of jewellery they can see the best the world has to offer – grandly-crafted items inspired by celebrities, pop culture, customs, art and high fashion.

The 35th MidEast Watch & Jewellery Show, scheduled for Expo Centre Sharjah from October 1-5, brings together craftsmen and jewellers and is held under the patronage of HH Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

"With its finger on the pulse of fashion and fine jewellery, it promises to liven up the bulk-buying and gift-giving season of Eid Al Adha, the Indian festival of Diwali, the UAE National Day, Christmas and New Year," a statement from the organisers said.

Commented Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, director-general, Expo Centre Sharjah: "Our society is very fashion forward, partly due to the vast diversity of nationalities and cultures present and the multitude of social, cultural and religious activities of local and expat life in the country. And with the festive season round the corner, genuine lovers of gold and diamond jewellery will never have it so good.

"True lovers of precious metals and gems can expect enchanting embellishments, mesmerising collections, ancient influences, spurts of colours, chunky pieces, brooches and crystals and cocktail jewellery.

"Though the price of gold has risen about 18 per cent from its three-year low of around $1,180 in June this year, it is still an attractive proposition to buyers if you consider the price during the spring edition of the show which stood at $1,600 an ounce."

Expo Centre Sharjah pointed out that certified polished diamond prices in the world market fell more than 2 per cent recently, making them highly attractive for jewellery lovers.

Al Midfa said while common buyers view the treasure trove, the show will be an opportunity for traders to rub shoulders with top executives of leading jewellery houses, industry associations and designers.

Connoisseurs of the elegant Ploi Thai brand of high-quality gemstones produced in Thailand have enough reasons to rejoice this season. The Thailand pavilion, organised for the second consecutive time, features dazzling gold and diamond jewellery from leading Thai manufacturers under the brand ‘Ploi Thai’. Organised by Vega Intertrade & Exhibition in cooperation with the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA), the Thailand pavilion will be one of the largest showcases of its kind in the region, focusing on precious and semi-precious stones, intricate designs and embellishments, extravagant wedding jewellery sets, personalised creations and handmade products.

Doors open from 11 am to 10 pm daily, except Friday, October 4. Friday timings are 4 pm to 10 pm. A dedicated time for ladies has been set from 11 am to 4 pm on Wednesday, October 2. Admission is free for all.