Jewelry Exhibition Opens in Manama

MANAMA, 24 November 2005 — Rich and poor were dazzled by shining gold and diamonds yesterday when jewelry estimated at a value of $1 billion went on sale following the opening of the Middle East’s biggest jewelry and watch exhibition in Manama. Vendors held back nothing as models and stands alike were decorated with some of the most expensive jewelry in the world. Over 500 exhibitors from 28 countries displayed diamond, gold, and silver jewelry and watches, with many of them reporting sales even before the week long exhibition was officially opened, as collectors swamped the floors to buy hard-to-find exotic items.