The 59th edition of the Istanbul Jewelry Show, held from April 1-4, 2026, was an invigorating experience that delivered more than it promised. With over 1300 brands from 15 countries and 3000 industry professionals from across the globe, it was a premier fair with jewelry owners, media, buyers, and designers all under one roof. It was the perfect opportunity to work with wholesalers, manufacturers, suppliers and retailers.
Held at the Istanbul Expo Centre, the IJS was a stunning exhibition with a breathtaking display of beautiful and rare gems as well as designer jewelry that left me wanting more. The show was about insider knowledge, worldwide growth and cultivating the perfect connections.
The thematic collections across the show kept me mesmerised. These presentations included Animal & Nature Motifs, Antique Vibes, Diverse Chains, Colorful Stones, Diamond Dreams, and Geometric Designs. They sure made it extremely hard to choose a favorite.
The IJS Academy was an unforgettable experience. I had the rare opportunity to not just witness master craftsmen demonstrating traditional Turkish techniques, but also try my hand at them. Some of these included Kazaziye, the weaving and wrapping of precious metal wires, Ajour, the intricate metal sawing technique and Telkari, fine metal delicate filigree work.
Being a spotlighted speaker at the IJS is always an honour and this time I had the opportunity to be a part of the “Communication and Marketing Trends: Essential Tips” panel. It was a great platform to speak about my passion and present opinions based on my years of expereines.
An exquisitely designed and perfectly crafted mounting is essential to craft an awe inspiring jewellery piece and Sade iş Mounting Jewellery ensures that one gets the perfect mount. Handcrafted with age old techniques, each piece is a marvel in design and provides a sturdy base for intricate gems. It was an impossible task to pick my next.
There were many fascinating aspects at the IJS, and one such was the exclusive chance to witness gold refining machine, at Kayali Makine. The entire process was a revelation. The journey as an ore from the bowels of the earth to refined gold bars ready to be crafted is truly fascinating.
The IJS brought forth exclusive jewelry and it is a veritable feast for the eyes of connoisseurs like me. One such delectable dish was the diamond and emerald suite from Kocak. Designed and crafted with precision, each piece there was a sight to behold.
At the IJS exhibition one not only witnessed gems and jewelry but also cutting edge technology like the portable Reveal 2S from Jewellery Technology Research. A device that helps reveal the authenticity of gems and their inclusions, it is constantly updated to provide precise information.
My four days at the IJS were full of so many exquisite experiences that it is impossible to choose one among them or sum up the show with one experience. Some interesting things that stood out for me included the themes of Heritage Revival, Natural Diamonds, Voluminous Jewelry, Animal Kingdom, Cultural fusion, Whimsical wonders, Gold chains, Gold Mountain, use of Istanbul landmarks, and last but not the least The Wonder box.
Despite the unstable times, the IJS 2026 was the personification of luxury and handcrafted beauties. The show was a huge global platform that attracted jewellers, industry leaders and connoisseurs from across the world. I had a brilliant time admiring the luxurious display of inspiring designs, handcrafted perfection, rare gems, and elegant beauty all around. I am already wondering how the next one will be?