NYC Spring Jewelry and Object Show Celebrated Vintage and Antique Pieces

(Photos downloaded “jewelry seen at NYCJAOS” and “Shoppers visiting Jewels by Grace”. Image credit: Julz Brianso)

In the heart of New York City is where you’ll often see great fashion and superb accessories. It was an especially exciting time during the recent NYC Spring Jewelry and Object Show (NYCJAOS). The attendees got to see and purchase fabulous antique and vintage jewelry, as well as other timeless pieces. Each one had a wonderful story to tell about how it was made and offered a snapshot into history.

Celebrating Vintage and Antique Treasures

The event took place at the Metropolitan Pavilion from April 18th to April 21st, 2024. The NYCJAOS was founded by Konstantinos I. Leoussis, a renowned antique and vintage dealer, and bench jeweler.

Leoussis said, “I founded the show with a vision to reignite the passion for vintage and antique jewelry while fostering a welcoming environment for both budding collectors and seasoned enthusiasts.” Specifically, Leoussis envisioned a space where individuals could experience the magic of vintage pieces firsthand, without intimidation.

The inaugural autumn show hosted 31 exhibitors, while the recent spring edition expanded significantly to feature 71 exhibitors, highlighting the growing interest in vintage, antique, and contemporary jewelry. Exhibitors from the West Coast and abroad joined the showcase, offering a diverse curation of jewelry and objects.

A Shift Towards Timeless Treasures

Attendees, including a large number of younger women in their 20s-30s, showed great interest in antique jewels. That showed a shift towards timeless treasures. Maybe the next generation of collectors was among them!

Renowned jewelry author, journalist, collector, and dealer Beth Bernstein explained that there were a lot of dealers, consumers, and retailers interested in learning about antique pieces, as per a post-show press release. Yet when it came to what they were buying, “it was based on trends that are running concurrently in the antique/vintage and contemporary markets: gold chains in necklaces and bracelets, old cut diamond earrings and charms and pendants…”

Alyce Ketcher, Head of Fine Jewelry, Courtville Antiques & Jewellery, added, “The NYC Spring Jewelry and Object show created a fresh space for collectors, connoisseurs, and admirers to have access to some of the most diverse, unique, and rare jewelry collections available.

Indeed, our collection of exclusively antique jewelry traveled all the way from Ireland and was received with anticipation from our American clients. Most sought after was our Victorian yellow gold jewels ranging from carved half hoop rings, serpent bracelets, and quirky oddities.”

Over 4,800 Attendees

That April weekend, the NYCJAOS brought the energy with over 4,800 visitors. They had a lot to take in as there were many exquisite pieces from both contemporary designers and world-leading antique, vintage, watch, and estate dealers. The show’s commitment to encouraging new talent was evident at the VIP Early Viewing Party, where $3,200 was raised in scholarship funds for local jewelry designers.

Looking ahead, KIL Promotions, the organizer of NYCJAOS, is set to debut the Tokyo Jewelry and Object Show in Japan. That will be yet another opportunity to provide exceptional experiences for vendors and visitors.

The NYC Spring Jewelry and Object Show was not just a showcase of jewelry; it was a celebration of craftsmanship, history, and community. As the jewelry industry continues to evolve, events like NYCJAOS are vital platforms for education, exploration, and appreciation of timeless treasures.

“The NYC Spring Jewelry and Object Show brought together an incredible group of exhibitors, as well as a diverse range of attendees, from serious collectors and dealers to the more casual jewelry lover,” said Stephane Lee, owner of Alpha & Omega Jewelry, in a recent press release. “The team at KIL worked hard at making us as exhibitors feel valued and like part of a big family. We also loved seeing the younger generation of buyers appreciating vintage and antique jewelry at this show!”

More on the Host, KIL Promotions

KIL Promotions began in 2023 and has offices in Brooklyn and Manhatten. It evolved to meet the need for diverse direct-to-consumer, jewelry-related events in New York City.

The company provides a range of vendors from around the globe with accessible opportunities, and curates various events, from antique and vintage jewelry and watches to art objects and contemporary jewelry design. Contact KIL Promotions at hello(at)kilpromotions(dot)com for more info.

What jewelry do you like, modern or vintage (or both)? And why?