Vicenzaoro Highlights, September 2026: CIBJO Chooses Vicenzaoro to Celebrate Its First 100 Years

President Cavalieri, CIBJO is celebrating its centenary at Vicenzaoro. Why did you choose this venue?

The choice reflects our international vision. Today, we represent more than 50 countries and millions of people working across the entire jewellery supply chain. Vicenzaoro is a recognized global platform, and Italy continues to be one of the leading countries in terms of design and manufacturing. For this reason, it was a natural choice to bring nearly 400 delegates from around the world here. It will be a historic occasion, not only because of the personalities involved, but also because of the issues that will mark the beginning of CIBJO's second century.

Let's go back to the beginning. Why was CIBJO founded in 1926?

CIBJO was born out of the need to bring together different interests, expertise and cultures through common standards that would allow industry professionals to understand one another and assign the same meaning to concepts expressed in different countries. In a Europe that had just emerged from the First World War, it was essential to create a shared language to foster dialogue, trust and the development of international trade.

The industry has changed dramatically over the past century. What have been the most significant transformations?

Technological evolution has been extraordinary. Gem-cutting techniques, metalworking processes and production tools have all improved significantly. At the same time, however, we have managed to preserve the craftsmanship and wealth of knowledge of master goldsmiths, who continue to pass on their expertise to new generations. It is this balance between innovation and tradition that has enabled the industry to evolve without losing its identity.

Yet jewellery remains a product deeply connected to human creativity.

Absolutely. The creation of a piece of jewellery always begins with a dream. It may be a designer's intuition, the beauty of a gemstone, or an idea that emerges almost by chance and takes shape through human talent. Technology supports the process, but creativity and artisanal sensitivity remain at its core.

One of CIBJO's most important contributions has been the Blue Books. What role have they played?

The Blue Books are one of the pillars of our work. The first draft was presented in 1927, and since then these documents have helped harmonize terminology, practices and international standards. They cover areas ranging from diamonds and coloured gemstones to pearls, precious metals and sustainability. Even today, they represent a constantly updated body of knowledge and, in several countries, have become a regulatory reference and a tool for resolving disputes.

CIBJO has also played an important role in promoting a culture of sustainability.

Yes. Over the years, we have promoted values such as ethics, transparency and sustainability, accompanying the industry's evolution. Consumers have changed as well. Today, they are no longer interested solely in the beauty of a piece of jewellery; they want to know where the materials come from, understand the production processes and receive assurances about the ethical practices behind the product. This is why issues such as traceability and responsibility have become central across the entire supply chain.

Looking ahead, what will CIBJO's mission be?

We will continue to foster international dialogue, update industry standards and support the global jewellery sector in addressing the major challenges of our time. The centenary is not only a celebration of our history, but also the starting point for building the future of international jewellery.