CARAT+, The World’s Premier Diamond Event, wowed audiences at its highly-anticipated CARAT+ Night evening event on Sunday, May 6, welcoming model and actress Elizabeth Hurley and a surprise cache of vintage cars driven through the show floor – believed to be a trade show first for the sector.
Hurley, who dazzled in a gold sequinned dress and Cascade collection jewels by CARAT+ exhibitor, Roberto Coin, formally opened the show by cutting a ceremonial ribbon. She was then led on a guided tour of the show floor, visiting leading exhibitors and discovering some of the most exceptional diamonds, fancy colour diamonds and coloured gemstones on display.
During a brief press conference, Hurley shared how her career as an actress and model has presented unique opportunities to wear exceptional high jewellery. She also highlighted a fascination with vintage and one-of-a-kind diamond pieces nurtured over her years in showbusiness.
Hurley was also joined by Easyfairs CEO and Founder, Eric Everard, to reveal a very special show surprise – a procession of vintage and classic cars driven through the CARAT+ show floor. This unique sight – believed to be a trade show first for the sector – created a buzz of excitement supported by flowing champagne, ample food and a DJ.
With a huge number of guests arriving for the occasion, CARAT+ Night has cemented itself as a must attend event for Antwerp’s diamond sector and professionals from the international diamond and diamond jewellery markets. During the evening, CARAT+ Event Director Filip Van Laere and Commercial Director, Dirk Blommaert, announced that more than 2,400 professionals attended the first day of CARAT+ 2018 – far surpassing expectations and highlighting the success of the second edition.
Filip Van Laere said: “The second edition of CARAT+ has so far been a phenomenal success and I look forward to seeing how the rest of our show progresses. I would like to thank the wonderful Elizabeth Hurley, all our exhibitors, visitors, special guests and team members who made CARAT+ Night the talk of Antwerp and the entire diamond sector.” The inaugural day of CARAT+ 2018 saw a keynote speech from Holition CEO Jonathan Chippindale, followed by the results of a three- day Hack4Diamonds event, hosted by CARAT+ Main Partner Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) and Junction.
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