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Editorial by Cynthia Unninayar

Another year has gone by, and from our travels around the world, checking out jewellery from the Americas to Europe to Asia, we again bring you the most prevalent trends for jewellery for 2013. Since jewellery and fashion are linked, and since colour is the major trend in both jewellery and fashion, we also feature Pantone’s top ten colour directions for Spring/ Summer 2013.

The runways for S/S 2013 fashion were again awash in colour, with bold and sometimes contrasting tones. It is not just one colour anymore, but combinations of two or more colours. The bold orangey shade of last year seems to have given way to the blues and greens, as couturiers move towards the cooler shades, while the warmer tones add punch to any outfit. Many collections were full of jewellike embellishments, along with many metallics. The runway was also full of jewellery, with large cuffs, stackable bangles, long layered chains, large gemstone-centre rings, and statement- making necklaces.

The major directions for jewellery design for 2013 are mostly a continuation and evolution of past trends. The most important direction remains the use of Colour, in all tones and hues, represented generally by gemstones. Now, however, it is mostly about a Mix & Mingle of colours. Flora & Fauna continue to be muses for a variety of Nature-inspired themes, with flowers and butterflies leading the trend, while the marine environment and snakes are popular. Since 2013 is the Year of the Snake, we feature a varietyof jewels evoking these interesting serpents. The last few years have seen an increase in openwork pieces and these Lacy Looks are often a result of high metals prices. Edgy designs have moved mainstream as more consumers are Going Gothic. The perennial hoop earring is a fashion must-have, and these Happy Hoops are no longer simply round or in plain metal, but come in a multitude of shapes, sometimes studded with gems. Tempting Tassels continuetheir popularity in a variety of materials. Creative Cuffs come in all shapes and are worn on the wrist or upper arm. As people look more towards organic and natural looks, the Au Naturel trend is reflected in the use of rough gemstones, drusies, or other “earthy” materials. New to the top trend list this year are bracelets that are Hanging by a Thread, with gems or metals attached to cords of varying thicknesses and materials. The last of the top ten trends are pieces that go A Step Beyond, with innovative designs that are technically sophisticated and sometimes quite surprising.

Other articles in this issue include an interview with the director of the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand, who discusses buying gemstones and jewellery with confidence. And, because social marketing has become so important in business today, you won’t want to miss the article on tips, tricks, and trends in this type of promotion. Our usual designer profiles and Trends & Colours double page spreads are also on the menu, as is a look at jewellery featured at the world’s trade fairs over the last few months.

The entire team at CIJ Trends & Colours wishes you a wonderful and prosperous year.