Minister Temauri Foster Meets with World Jewelry Confederation Leader to Establish Industry Benchmarks
In a pivotal move for Polynesia’s pearl sector, Marine Resources Minister Temauri Foster held high-level talks with Gaetano Cavalieri, President of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO), during his private visit to French Polynesia. This meeting signals a major step toward securing international recognition for Tahitian pearls as the gold standard of cultured gems.
Why CIBJO Partnership Matters
🔹 UN-Recognized Authority: CIBJO sets global standards for gemstones through its Blue Books, the industry bible for diamonds, precious metals, and pearls.
🔹 Historical Ties: French Polynesia previously chaired CIBJO’s Pearl Commission through former Perles de Tahiti GIE leadership.
🔹 Market Influence: Controls 80% of global jewelry trade regulations, impacting pricing and authenticity certifications.
Key Initiatives Proposed
1️⃣ Tahitian Pearl Classification System
- Develop a geographically-specific grading standard (color, luster, nacre thickness)
- Combat counterfeit products flooding Asian markets
2️⃣ CIBJO Congress in Tahiti
- Showcase pearl farms to 500+ international jewelers and gemologists
- Position Polynesia as epicenter of pearl innovation
3️⃣ Global Professional Training
- CIBJO’s CSR network to host masterclasses on Tahitian pearl valuation
Minister Foster’s Vision
“This collaboration will cement our pearls as the champagne of the jewelry world—a product whose origin guarantees excellence.”
The Maison de la Perle aims to leverage CIBJO’s clout to:
✅ Boost export prices by 15-20% through certified premium positioning
✅ Streamline quality controls with AI-assisted nacre measurement
✅ Launch a “Tahitian Pearl Seal” for compliant international sellers
Sector-Wide Implications
- Farmers: Higher margins through direct access to CIBJO’s 45-country network
- Jewelers: Assured authenticity for high-end clients
- Polynesia: Strengthened “Blue Economy” with pearls as ecological ambassadors
Leave a Reply