By Jayakumar

Chennai, Feb.18 : Jewellery lovers in Chennai had a visual delight on the weekend. Over 150 jewellery manufacturers from India and abroad showcased their designs during the Gem and Jewellery India International Exhibition (GJIIE) here.

The two-day event, which began on Saturday (February 16) at the Chennai Trade Centre, displayed latest designs and trends of jewellery in platinum, gold, diamonds and precious stones.

"The significance of keeping the exhibition in Chennai was that retailers throughout south can have a look at the designs and they can keep them, in their retail showrooms. We are getting very good response from the retailers also," said Vinod Tejwani, one of the jewellers from Mumbai at the exhibition.

Visiting fashion aficionados were delighted to watch exquisite and trendy designs in platinum, gold, diamond and semi precious stones. The exhibition also attracted many household women.

"I've found many varieties here. Everything is so fashionable and nice. Rates are also reasonable. Diamond jewellery is very exclusive here," said Sapna, one of the visitors.

South India has a major market for gold and gold jewellery.

The gems and jewellery sector is amongst the fastest growing industries in the country while occupying an important position in the Indian economy and accounting for nearly 13.05 per cent of the country's total exports.

ANI