(ATLANTA) – Learn everything you can… Buy everything you need… Earn everything you want… Returning to the Cobb Galleria Centre February 25-27, 2012, the Atlanta Jewelry Show brings together everything retailers need to maximize annual sales. With a new, modern look for the show floor, second annual Torch Awards Competition, special hands-on Gemworld International Workshop, GIA Pearl Grading Lab class, Jewelry Fashion Show and other new initiatives joining the show’s expanding line-up, retailers will have more to explore than ever before.

“Retailers really can find everything at the Atlanta Jewelry Show,” explains Carol Young, executive director, Southern Jewelry Travelers Association (SJTA). “We’ve worked to create a welcoming environment for our attendees and exhibitors and based on the feedback we continue to receive, our efforts are paying off. The Atlanta Jewelry Show has always had a reputation for its Southern hospitality and we’ve stepped that up over the past year with an expanded selection, sleek new floor layout, an exceptional educational series and numerous programs and events – all designed to create an environment that is conducive to doing business – while mixing in some fun personal and business growth opportunities along the way.”
Spring 2012 highlights:
New look for Show floor
The Atlanta Jewelry Show brings together a wide range of companies showcasing top name brands and up-and-coming companies representing virtually every product category. To better showcase the versatile selection, SJTA has redesigned the show floor to create a sleek, modern ambiance for optimum shopping appeal. Buyers can explore the contemporary Promenade booths showcasing products in a whole new light; discover cutting edge styles in the Point of View: Designer Gallery; and, after they’ve reviewed the stunning selection, they are invited to stop by Market Place, the new buyers lounge, to take notes, check e-mail, meet with friends and enjoy light refreshments.
2nd annual Torch Awards Design Competition
To showcase the design talents of bench jewelers/designers across the nation, the Atlanta Jewelry Show will host the second annual Torch Awards Design Competition during the February Show. All state jewelry associations have been invited to participate by submitting the winners of their own 2011 state-wide design competitions. Entries will be featured at the front of the show and attending buyers will have the chance to vote for the Best of Show winner.
GIA’s Pearl Grading Lab
Building upon the success of the August 2011 program, SJTA has announced plans to once again offer the GIA Pearl Grading Lab class during the Atlanta Jewelry Show. Providing a mix of lecture and hands-on training, the GIA Pearl Grading Lab class on February 26 will be available to show attendees interested in completing or pursuing a GIA Graduate Pearls Diploma or in fine-tuning their product knowledge and pearl grading skills. Class size is limited to 15 students, so contact Judy Lince at 800-241-0399 or jlince@atlantajewelryshow.com to register today. Price-$300.
Gemworld International hands-on workshop: Corundum Treatments & Pricing
Heating and other methods used to enhance corundum are having a profound effect on the market. The sale of treated corundum has increased the supply of products sold as ruby and sapphire. Gemworld International brings this important workshop to the Atlanta Jewelry Show on February 27. Gemworld International has designed this special workshop to reconcile the pricing of rubies and sapphires by specific treatment type. Participants will examine natural and treated rubies and sapphires followed by a presentation concerning pricing considerations led by Dr. Cigdem Lule, FGA, GG, and Richard Drucker, GG, President, Gemworld International. Price – $395. Space is limited. To register, contact Judy Lince at 800-241-0399 or jlince@atlantajewelryshow.com.
Jewelry on the Catwalk: Saturday, February 25, 9:30 a.m.
See all the latest jewelry trends that have been making their way down runways around the world….and will be making a statement at the show! Mia Katrin, Jewelry Designer and President of Jewel Couture, LLC and Southern Jewelry News columnist, will combine the fabulous designs from the Atlanta Jewelry Show exhibitors with stunning models to give you a first-hand look at the latest “it” pieces and designs before you hit the show floor.
Complimentary Buyer Breakfast each morning
A light continental breakfast is served in the registration concourse area daily.
New Exhibitor Meet & Greet – Sunday, February 26, 9:30 a.m.
Jewelers are invited to meet the Atlanta Jewelry Show’s newest members and learn about their products at the New Exhibitor Meet & Greet during Sunday’s complimentary Buyer Breakfast.
SJTA Rewards
Buyers can earn valuable SJTA Reward points for simply placing orders during the Atlanta Show, and then redeem them for hotel and travel packages, electronics, personal accessories, home goods and more.
Atlanta’s Elite Buyers Club
Retailers who have earned 15,000 SJTA Reward points or more at any one of the past three shows are automatically enrolled in the Elite Buyers Club – the exclusive club of Atlanta VIP buyers. As a member, they receive special badges signifying VIP Status; access to an exclusive registration counter; and entry into the exclusive, member-only Club Elite lounge.
Travel Discounts
SJTA has arranged for deep discounts at area hotels. A complete list of hotels, including information on direct and online access, as well as group discount codes for the special rates, can be found on the Atlanta Jewelry show website –www.atlantajewelryshow.com/travel.
Wizard of Ahhs Gala
Jewels, Dancing & Friends, oh my! Slip on your ruby slippers and attend a wicked evening of fun, food and OZmopolitans in SJTA’s Emerald City on Sunday, February 26th from 6-8 pm. Remember, there’s no place like the Atlanta Jewelry Show.
For more information call 800-241-0399 or 404-634-3434, e-mail: info@atlantajewelryshow.com or visit www.atlantajewelryshow.com.