With a robust 18-member delegation, Iran continues to assert its presence at IIJS 2025. Representing both gemstone buyers and machinery manufacturers, Hossein Tohidipour, of New Horizons, shares his thoughts on how the show has evolved, what it means for the Iranian jewellery trade, and how Iranian businesses are leveraging IIJS to source gemstones, machinery, and forge global connections.
How many years have you been attending IIJS?
This is my fifth year at IIJS. We’ve been consistent participants, and each year we bring more people. This year, our delegation is 18 strong members, mostly family members involved in different aspects of our business.
How has IIJS changed over the years?
It’s changed a lot—in the best way. It’s bigger now, more competitive, and attracts some of the best companies from around the world. You can feel the pressure, but also the quality and seriousness of the show. Everything is more professional.
Is there anything you feel could be improved?
No, everything is well coordinated. The organisers are doing an excellent job.
What jewellery trends are currently popular in Iran?
In Iran right now, 18-karat gold is very popular, but what’s really growing is gem-set jewellery. There’s increasing demand for both diamonds and coloured gemstones. Iran is one of the biggest consumers of these materials in the region.
Is Iran also involved in manufacturing?
Absolutely. We have some very strong manufacturers of jewellery-making machinery. It’s a segment that’s growing fast in Iran, and we’re here to connect with companies that can support that growth.
What are you sourcing at IIJS this year?
Each of us is here for different things—some are looking at diamonds, others at gemstones or machinery. The diversity of offerings at IIJS makes it a perfect fit for all our business needs.”
Any final thoughts you’d like to share?
First of all, thank you to the IIJS coordinators and organisers—they’ve done an amazing job. In my opinion, in the near future, IIJS will become the second-largest jewellery exhibition in the world. Right now, Las Vegas is the biggest, followed by Vicenza in Italy. But with the way IIJS is expanding—across two venues and with global participation—I truly believe India will take the second spot very soon.