My First JCK Las Vegas Jewelry Show: Insights from a Private Jeweler and Certified Appraiser
In June 2025, I attended the JCK Las Vegas Jewelry Show for the very first time. As a Certified Master Appraiser, GIA Graduate Gemologist, and independent private jeweler based in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, I’ve spent the past 22 years working behind the scenes with clients—appraising fine jewelry, sourcing custom bridal pieces, and helping families navigate inherited estates.
But this was my first time stepping into the center of the global jewelry trade, surrounded by thousands of vendors, designers, and retailers. Attending alone gave me a fresh perspective on how our industry moves, connects, and innovates.
In this blog post, I’ll share my first-timer take on JCK, what worked, what didn’t, and who I’d recommend you see if you attend next year. I’ll also share honest tips for other appraisers, gemologists, or private jewelers who may be considering attending. Spoiler: bring comfortable shoes.
What Is the JCK Las Vegas Show?
If you're unfamiliar, JCK Las Vegas is the largest jewelry trade show in North America, drawing professionals from across the globe. Held at the Venetian Resort and Sands Expo Center, it features everything from fine jewelry and diamonds to lab-grown stones, tools, packaging, and technology.
This event is a cornerstone for anyone involved in the jewelry industry—retailers, designers, appraisers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and even influencers in the fine jewelry space. In short, it’s where trends are set, relationships are formed, and deals are made.
As a solo independent jeweler, I attended to:
- See the newest tools in gemological tech
- Meet vendors I’ve sourced from remotely
- Stay informed on diamond and colored stone pricing
- Connect with estate and antique jewelry dealers
- Get a feel for trends in bridal jewelry, lab-grown diamonds, and retail pricing shifts
Getting Around Las Vegas for JCK
I booked a room at Harrah’s Hotel, thinking it was conveniently located next to the Venetian. While technically true on the map, in practice it was a bit of a trek. Las Vegas hotels are massive, and navigating between properties without signage or wayfinding apps can be disorienting, especially on Day 1.
I highly recommend using the JCK Las Vegas mobile app, which helped me track vendor booths, mark favorites, and find where I was supposed to be. The staff with "Ask Me About JCK" signs throughout the show floor were also incredibly helpful.
Attending JCK as a Solo Appraiser & Private Jeweler
Walking into JCK as a solo appraiser—without a team, without a booth, and without a big buying badge—can be a humbling experience. While I’ve been in the jewelry industry for over two decades, I’m used to working closely and privately with clients. This was my first time in a space so large, commercial, and fast-paced.
Some booths welcomed me warmly, others seemed less engaged if I didn’t fit the “bulk buyer” mold. I came with questions about price per carat, market trends, and gemstone sourcing—but a few conversations quickly pivoted away once I clarified that I wasn't there to place an order.
That said, I also had some incredibly kind, helpful interactions that made me feel seen and respected as a professional—even without a retail storefront or social media clout.
Vendors That Made a Lasting Impression
🔧 SEP Jewelry Tools of Chicago
Let’s talk tools. My favorite booth of the show was easily SEP Tools, where I met Gabriel, an expert in gemological and jewelry bench tools. From microscopes to diamond testers, every product was explained with precision and patience.
🧰 Kassoy
I've worked with Kassoy before, but seeing their setup in person reinforced my trust in their products and service. Their team helped me resolve a warranty issue on-site and showed me their latest digital scales and gem instruments.
💎 Misfit Diamonds
Misfit Diamonds blew me away. Their online platform already offers high-resolution videos and pricing transparency, but seeing their inventory live was even better. It’s a game-changer for private jewelers and appraisers.
🕰️ Estate & Antique Vendors
I made time to visit the Antique Jewelry & Watch Show. Two of my favorites stood out:
🌈 ColorSource Gems
I met Jeremy Chalchinsky, founder of ColorSource Gems. His booth had a stunning range of ethically sourced colored stones and his transparency stood out.
Social Events & Networking: My Honest Take
I signed up for several events, including JAM Pack mixers. While some were intimate and productive, others were disorganized or difficult to navigate. One nightclub event felt more like a general Vegas party than a trade networking opportunity.
For me, personal relationships flourish through text, email, and WhatsApp, where thoughtful follow-up matters more than fast introductions.
👋 A Shoutout to Thomas Kneifel
In the midst of the crowd, one person stood out: Thomas Kneifel. A kind, genuine interaction can go a long way—especially in a massive industry event.
Tariffs and Market Shifts in the Jewelry Industry
Many vendors mentioned that larger exhibitors skipped JCK 2025 due to tariffs, shipping delays, and material costs. This created noticeable gaps on the show floor but allowed smaller and independent vendors to shine.
As a certified appraiser, these global changes impact how I calculate retail replacement value, wholesale diamond costs, and market resale value for clients and insurers alike.
Practical Tips for Attending JCK
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Trust me, your feet will thank you.
- Use the JCK App: Navigate smart and avoid wasting time.
- Stay 2–3 Days: That’s all most solo professionals need.
- Focus on 1-on-1 Connections: Mass networking isn’t for everyone.
- Follow Up Post-Show: That’s where true relationships grow.
Would I Go Again?
Yes—though not annually. As a private appraiser and bridal consultant who doesn’t carry inventory, I attend to:
- Stay current on pricing
- Source tools and vendors
- Deepen trusted relationships
Final Thoughts
JCK is a whirlwind of beauty, innovation, and connection. As a solo professional, it challenged me, inspired me, and reminded me of the value of genuine human interaction in a fast-paced industry.
If you’re a GIA Gemologist, estate appraiser, or independent jeweler, you may not always feel like the “target attendee.” But you belong there. And you’ll come home better for it.