Author: Steven Joseph

Jewellex Africa 2023 is set to take place in Johannesburg, hosted by the Jewellery Council of South Africa. The event is scheduled for 3rd and 4th of September 2023 at the Wanderers Club, Illovo, Johannesburg.This year’s show will be held on a smaller scale compared to previous years, with a focus on trade-only attendees. This setup will allow suppliers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and service providers to sell to trade professionals.Organizers & ExhibitorsThe event is again organised by the Jewellery Council of South Africa, demonstrating its commitment to the objective of Jewellex becoming the jewellery trading hub of Africa and offering international…

Entering the jewellery industry presents a range of career paths, each requiring a unique set of skills and aptitudes. From designing and crafting to operations and marketing, the trade offers diverse opportunities that cater to a huge variety of interests and skills.By outlining the fundamental aspects of these career paths, the article intends to offer guidance to those considering stepping into the jewellery trade. It provides foundational knowledge and insights, preparing aspiring professionals for the various opportunities and underscoring the diverse skills needed to succeed in each area.For anyone at the start of their career journey or contemplating a shift…

The South African retail sector, inclusive of the jewellery industry, is grappling with severe economic headwinds characterised by soaring inflation, aggressive interest rate hikes, and the constant menace of load-shedding. The Bureau of Economic Research (BER) highlights a grim picture, with retailer confidence plummeting from 34% to 20% between the first and second quarters of 2023. This steep decline, reminiscent of the lows seen during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdowns, stems from escalating operational costs and a significant reduction in consumer expenditure.Impact of Load-Shedding and Economic FactorsThe detrimental impact of load-shedding is particularly pronounced, necessitating retailers to allocate substantial investments in…