Jewelry Forum in Valenza

Fourth edition of the Valenza Gem Forum, promoted by the Fondazione Mani Intelligenti in collaboration with the Italian Exhibition Group.

This forum is dedicated to jewelry, gemstones, high-end craftsmanship, the luxury market, and the challenges facing the gold and jewelry supply chain. These are the core themes of the fourth edition of the Valenza Gem Forum, promoted by the Fondazione Mani Intelligenti in collaboration with the Italian Exhibition Group—organizers of Vicenzaoro—and CIBJO (The World Jewellery Confederation). The event will take place on October 22, 2026 (at 2:30 PM, at Spazio 750, Valenza). The forum will also cover topics such as the productivity of the local district, consumer and distribution trends in high jewelry, creativity and innovation, and the traceability and sourcing of the precious stones and diamonds that have been set here for over two centuries.

The Valenza Gem Forum was created with the goal of highlighting the value of our district, the people who bring it to life, and the expertise that has built its global reputation. It is therefore essential to foster opportunities for dialogue that engage the entire high-jewelry supply chain, with the aim of making this event increasingly global by bringing the forum to major international jewelry gatherings. As the Fondazione Mani Intelligenti, we continue to invest in training, ensuring that young people can see this sector as an opportunity for professional and personal growth—empowering them to help shape the future of Valenza and the industry as a whole. Alessia Crivelli, President of the Fondazione Mani Intelligenti

The future of jewelry is also being viewed in relation to consumer habits, with a particular focus on new generations—specifically Gen Z (those born roughly between 1997 and 2012), who are arguably the most interested in purchasing jewelry. The forum will also explore artificial intelligence and new technologies applied to jewelry design, the role of precious stones in creative and design processes, the relationship between supply and demand, and the evolving needs of manufacturers.
Other key topics include a comparison between natural and lab-grown diamonds, as well as new perspectives on the international market and the transformations affecting the entire supply chain.

The Valenza Gem Forum program is structured around two main segments, designed to foster a dialogue between different areas of expertise, visions, and perspectives. The “University & Innovation” session will focus on the contribution of the academic world and the opportunities presented by technological innovation—ranging from AI and digital applications to new possibilities for jewelry design and development. Speakers will include Paolo Minzioni, Pro-Rector for Innovation and Artificial Intelligence at the University of Pavia, and Matteo Alvaro, Pro-Rector for International Affairs and President of the CRISTAL research center.

The “Business & Market” session will provide a space for manufacturers, industry professionals, and experts to discuss shifts in demand, evolving consumer behavior, and the future outlook for the supply chain. The goal is to analyze market dynamics, identify new opportunities, and reflect on the strategies required to navigate future challenges. Featured speakers will include Francesca Manfredi, Head of Sustainable Innovation, Watches & Jewellery at Kering; Hasu Dholakiya, CEO of Dholakia Lab Grown Diamond; and Emma Wade-Smith, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs at the De Beers Group.

An event like the Valenza Gem Forum represents an opportunity to consolidate the international standing of the Valenza district—recognized as the global capital of high jewelry and a symbol of Italian excellence in the field. The value of this gathering stems from a collective effort and a shared vision and set of goals, reflected in the high caliber of the guests involved and the prestige of the partners—to whom we extend our heartfelt thanks. The quality of the discussions fosters new opportunities for networking and development across the entire supply chain. By supporting forums such as this, Vicenzaoro and IEG aim to boost the sector’s competitiveness, facilitate innovation, and strengthen the dialogue between Italy’s manufacturing hubs and international markets.
Matteo Farsura, Global Exhibition Manager for Jewellery & Fashion at IEG

In an ever-evolving market, it is essential to foster dialogue among all stakeholders in the supply chain and to cultivate a shared culture of transparency, traceability, and responsibility. Initiatives like this help build a sector that is increasingly informed and prepared to face future challenges, while simultaneously preserving the value and authenticity of its finest achievements.
Gaetano Cavalieri, President of CIBJO