Having started with our re-introduced Trends & Colours format last winter—our annual trends tracker guide—we continued with the Spring/Summer colour and trends story in our Spring issue. Now, in our Summer issue, we look at the colours for Fall/Winter 2010, as predicted by Pantone and used by a number of fashion designers, as well as examples of fine jewellery that complement these colours. In terms of trends, a more detailed look at some of the top twelve trends listed in our our annual trends tracker guide is also presented here, namely floral designs, organic creativity, the allure of pink gold, and jewellery that sends a message.

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Clearly, colour is not just for fashion and jewellery. It is an important component of nearly everything in our lives. A powerful form of communication, colour can influence emotions, provoke the senses, and even affect our health. It is also the driving force in most consumer decisions. According to marketing psychologists, colour accounts for 60 percent of the acceptance or rejection of an object within only a few seconds. In another domain, colour on the walls can make a person comfortable and relaxed or look for the nearest exit. In this regard, how important is it to paint the walls of your store with warm colours that are inviting and relaxing, while offering a certain level of vibrancy and interest? Probably, very important.

Keeping our pulse on the marketplace is essential for reporting on the trends and colours of fine jewellery. In this regard, see our report from BaselWorld, one of the essential gathering places for designers from around the world. In a dramatic reversal from last year, the ambiance at this international show was generally upbeat. Yet it was clear that the industry has undergone some tranformations over the year. Today’s markets have clearly been affected by the recession—no surprise there—and research indicates that consumers are more price-conscious than ever before, something that many jewellery designers have not failed to notice. Consumers are also more careful with what they purchase, preferring to forgo fleeting fads in favour of more classic items that represent real value. Value is also seen in going green in more than just a colour sense. The movement towards products made with eco-friendly metals and gemstones, coming from ethical and sustainable mining practices, is alive and well and growing. This important topic is also the subject of several conferences at the summer shows in Las Vegas. And, speaking of Las Vegas, we look forward to seeing many of you there at the summer jewellery shows.

Cynthia Unninayar