DJWE set to be world's biggest: Hussain Alfardan

The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) is on the right path to become the biggest jewellery and watches show in the world, Alfardan Group chairman Hussain Ibrahim Alfardan has said."That is our direction and it is within reach,” he told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the 19th DJWE Wednesday.Alfardan underscored the growing popularity of the annual luxury event, which brings together more than 500 brands from around the world at the Doha Exhibition and Conbrowsevention Centre’s 33,000 sqm area.He cited DJWE’s increasing number of participants annually, featuring the biggest names and most prominent jewellers who showcase rare and exquisite pieces. The event, he pointed out, has been attracting many of the most affluent visitors from the region and internationally."We are here since 50 years or more, established the exhibition and we grew up with it and the number of exhibitors increases every year. We expect it will grow much bigger in the future,” he said.Renowned brands from Qatar and around the world set up large showcases at DJWE. Many have introduced new brands, limited edition collections, and exceptional showpieces.This year’s big nine at DJWE are Alfardan Jewellery, Ali Bin Ali Luxury, Al Majed Jewellery, Al Muftah Jewellery, Amiri Gems, Bulgari, Blue Salon, Fifty One East, and Louis Vuitton.The DJWE is also presenting pieces that reflect Qatar’s rich culture and heritage, especially natural pearls, which are displayed at Al Tawash, located in the heart of the Alfardan pavilion.The Alfardan Group chairman said the demand for natural pearls in Qatar and globally has remained robust despite the increasing popularity of other precious stones such as ruby, emerald, and sapphire, among others."This (natural pearl) is a precious stone, it has value and the value remains, always there is a big demand for it, and the market is very strong now, moving to the highest value in the market,” said Alfardan, who is considered a leading expert and authority on the natural pearl not only in the Gulf but in the world."Everybody recognise that the natural pearl will exist forever, last forever... it is natural, there is a market for it,” he noted, adding that Alfardan Jewellery is the best and biggest supplier of natural pearls in the global market.The company, he noted, has started a partnership with Tiffany & Co in the pearl jewellery business. The Tiffany & Co booth is located at the Alfardan pavilion, featuring an array of exquisite unique pieces.The annual DJWE, Alfardan said, puts a spotlight on Arab-inspired jewellery and timepieces – produced and designed by local, regional, and international brands. Their unique designs have become appealing to many, prompting designers to create more."We are (continuously) improving the designs and adding beauty to it," he said, noting that they created a special section for such pieces.