Sharjah: The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), represented by the Emirati Goldsmiths Platform, organized a visit to China to delve into the latest technologies and practices in the gold and jewellery sector, aiming to bolster the skills and creativity of Emirati designers.
According to Emirates News Agency, the visit also sought to explore opportunities for cooperation and knowledge exchange with specialized entities, manufacturers, and industry professionals. The delegation was led by Mona Al Suwaidi, Director of the Executive Office of the SCCI Chairman and head of the Emirati Goldsmiths Platform, and included a group of Emirati designers and artisans.
During the visit, the delegation examined jewellery manufacturing methods and production stages, along with the tools and equipment used in design, goldsmithing, shaping, gemstone setting, finishing, and inspection. They also visited a gold museum and a specialized gold and jewellery manufacturing and trading hub, gaining insights into the history and development of China's gold industry and observing both traditional and contemporary jewellery designs.
The delegation's itinerary included an in-depth look at the production process, from concept and design through shaping, goldsmithing, and assembly to polishing, inspection, and final packaging. They also explored product presentation and the connections between designers, artisans, manufacturers, and suppliers. In Shenzhen, the delegation attended a specialized gold and jewellery exhibition featuring manufacturers, designers, and suppliers of equipment, gemstones, and production materials.
The delegation reviewed various technologies such as 3D design and printing, laser cutting and engraving, precision casting and forming, advanced polishing and finishing equipment, gold and gemstone testing systems, gemstone-setting technologies, and specialized digital design software. Al Suwaidi emphasized that the visit underscores SCCI's commitment to supporting the gold and jewellery sector and exposing Emirati designers and artisans to advanced international practices.
Al Suwaidi noted that the delegation explored ways to integrate traditional craftsmanship with modern technologies and digital solutions to enhance design, manufacturing precision, and productivity while minimizing waste. She stated that the outcomes of the visit will bolster the Emirati Goldsmiths Platform's efforts to develop designers' and artisans' capabilities, adopt advanced technologies, and pursue cooperation, knowledge exchange, and joint training workshops with specialists in China.
As part of the itinerary, the delegation also visited a fragrance museum in Guangzhou, where they explored the history of China's perfume industry, production processes, fragrance and essential oil extraction methods, and the traditional and modern technologies used in blending and packaging.