The Hong Kong Pavilion at IIJS Premiere 2025 stood out as a hub of innovation and craftsmanship, introducing Indian buyers to fresh materials and rare gemstones. Among the first-time exhibitors were Vitalit, a glass pearl specialist, and Lunawat Gems, a seasoned player in natural coloured stones. Both companies reported strong interest and encouraging business outcomes, underscoring India’s growing importance as a strategic market.
Vitalit: A New Lustre in Pearls
Debuting at IIJS, Vitalit presented its signature premium glass pearls, distinguished by their natural-grade lustre and in-house colour development. Executive Assistant Sasha Golokoz described glass pearls as synthetic yet remarkably close to genuine pearls thanks to advanced coating technology.
For the layman, would you please describe what glass pearls are?
Glass pearl are synthetic much like lab diamonds, but the coating technology replicates the appearance and feel of genuine pearls. All colour development and finishing is carried out in-house at our own facilities, giving us complete control over quality and innovation.What sets us apart is our premium coating, which gives each pearl a depth of colour and lustre almost indistinguishable from natural pearls.
Is this your first time presenting in the Indian market?
Yes, IIJS 2025 marks our first official introduction to India. We see this as a strategic move to expand across the country and build a Pan-India presence.
What collections are you showcasing at IIJS this year?
We’re presenting an extensive range of pearl strings for jewellery—especially necklaces and bracelets. We offer a variety of shapes and sizes, and can customise pieces to suit a designer’s creative vision.
What trends are you noticing in the Hong Kong jewellery market right now?
Pearls are very popular, particularly in the costume jewellery segment. There’s a strong demand for fresh and unusual colours, so we’ve been creating new shades to keep our collections vibrant and relevant.
How has the response been so far at IIJS 2025?
The response has been extremely positive. IIJS has given us a valuable platform to meet international buyers and showcase our capabilities. While it’s early to discuss sales figures, the feedback and interest we’ve received have been very encouraging.
Lunawat Gems: Bringing Rare Colour to India
Another highlight of the Hong Kong Pavilion was Lunawat Gems, known for its rare, natural coloured stones. Proprietor Neeraj Lunawat, who also serves as secretary of a leading trade association, brought his Hong Kong branch to IIJS for the first time.
Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your company’s presence at IIJS 2025?
My name is Neeraj Lunawat, and I am the proprietor of Lunawat Gems. We specialise in rare, natural coloured stones and I also serve as secretary of our trade association. Our Hong Kong branch is our international hub, and we are here as part of the Hong Kong Pavilion.
Is this your first time at IIJS?
Yes, this is my first time my company is participating in this trade event.
What made you decide to exhibit here this year?
The Indian jewellery market has grown enormously over the past five years. We’re seeing major designers and brands emerging in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. I’ve been exporting to major brands for years, but now I want to build direct relationships with these new players in India and supply them with our stones.
What does your Hong Kong branch focus on?
It’s the same as our core business—high-quality, natural coloured stones. The Hong Kong office allows us to connect with international buyers while expanding our reach into India.
What jewellery trends are you noticing from Hong Kong this year?
Hong Kong excels in very high-end, finely crafted jewellery. Globally, I see demand polarising—either top-tier luxury pieces or lower-end products, with the middle market shrinking. Hong Kong’s craftsmanship keeps it firmly in the luxury space, and that’s why everything sells well there.
How has business been for you at IIJS so far?
Exceptionally good. I actually achieved my sales target by the third day of the five day event. Profits went well beyond what I had planned.
Any closing thoughts?
I’m very happy with the response and will definitely consider expanding our presence here in future editions of IIJS.