TheAmerican Gem Trade Association GemFair show is considered a reliable barometer for the hottest gemstone trends. According to an AGTA press release, several types of gems have proven themselves buyers' favorites this year, including tourmaline, spinel, quartz and garnet; as well as several lesser-known gems, some of which were previously considered collector's gemstones.
Richard Drucker of GemWorld International, cited red-to-pink tourmalines as his top picks on the show floor, in terms of popular colors and best value. Drucker also rated spinel a show favorite, attributing nice sources and great prices the leading reasons why.
The American Gem Trade Association noted that gem trends, cycle according to supply and demand. Todd Wolleman of the NY gem house Leo Wolleman said he expects under-appreciated gems like red garnet to regain market strength. He also attributed the success of garnet to the variety of colors and types it comes in, as well as attractive prices.
Wolleman also cited quartz and topaz as very popular in this years GemFair. Nevertheless, he noted that despite the lower prices of these gem, buyers are only interested in fine quality goods, like better amethyst and citrine.
Other show favorites were the more unusual cherry topaz and Paraiba tourmaline, as well as combinations of unusual cuts and shapes in all gem type.
Drucker further said buyer were particularly interested in lesser-known gems, such as scapolite, danburite and benitoite: "The trend for lesser-known gems has been gaining momentum during the past few years. It became more noticeable in late 2008 and continued to grow through 2009.”
