#TucsonGemShow JCK Heats Up Under the Tucson Sun

from Press Release

JCK Heats Up Under the Tucson Sun

Tucson, AZ (February 4, 2016) — JCK Tucson welcomed jewelry and gem lovers en masse to its oasis-like enclave at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa yesterday. In its third year, the show is boasting major improvements including a new look with new booth structures, lounges, and a signature coffee shop creating an environment that is both upscale and casual. The designer ballroom features inspired collections by brand names including: Todd Reed, Alishan, Kurtulan Designs, Boaz Kashi, Aaron Henry, Dorian & Rose, and Nina Nguyen to name a few. "I was excited to see the new look and feel of JCK Tucson. It combines the right mix of what you hope to find in Tucson and the quality you expect to find from JCK," stated Lisa Bridge, Ben Bridge.

Lord Jewelry at JCK

JCK's renewed focus on design is supported by inspiring events happening throughout the week. The event schedule kicked off Wednesday with "Inside the Designers Studio" fireside chat featuring famed designers Sarah Graham and Todd Reed, moderated by JCK Magazine's Editor-In-Chief , Victoria Gomelsky. The adoring standing-room only crowd listened intently as the master talents shared their business acumen. "The setting is incredible, it's a fantastic mix of artists and we love the educational element that JCK added to the show. When I think of the roster of talent I've worked with over the years, Todd Reed and Sarah Graham immediately come to mind when I think of comradery and sharing information. They are both such smart business people and it was a great decision to have them lead us in a fireside chat that created warmth and collaboration," commented Patti Cogswell, Squash Blossom.

"I thought the show was very clean, put together and that the designers exhibiting were very talented," said Todd Reed. "JCK pulled together a really awesome group of jewelers. It was good to see everyone," added Sarah Graham.

Sarah Graham at Fireside Chat

With the theme of design at the forefront of JCK Tucson's showing, a new hosted retailer program helped to bring in some of the most design-savvy stores in the country, including Squash Blossom, Aaron Faber Gallery, Broadmoor Jewelry Company, Patina Gallery, and I. Gorman. The trip is undoubtedly attractive with multiple jewelry events taking place in the area. JCK, understanding the amount of business there is to do during Tucson Gem Week, has made spa-like features and conveniences—not least of which include transportation between shows, morning hikes and meditation, and s'mores by the fire pit– a large component of its show experience.

Fireside Chat with Todd Reed & Sarah Graham moderated by Victoria Gomelsky

JCK Tucson exhibits continue through the weekend (closing Sunday, February 7 at 4:00 pm) with a roster of synergistic events. Today will feature the UncommonGoods Design Challenge where the three finalists: Ayesha Mayadas, Kurtulan Designs and Majestic Art Jewelry will present to a panel of judges competing for a contract with the design-centric e-tailer. Friday night will include a special screening of the documentary Sharing the Rough, which follows the life of a gemstone, promising a truly unique viewing experience set under the starlit desert sky with a & Q&A with the film's director following the premiere.

From German Artist Dunne

"In planning for our third edition of JCK Tucson, we formed a Design Advisory Board who could speak to the unique needs of a show in Tucson. Listening to industry icons, we built this special event specifically with the discerning designer in mind," said Katie Dominesey, Industry Vice President of JCK Events. "We are ecstatic to be able to offer an oasis in Tucson at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa where retailers and designers can connect in a fun, relaxed way".