The platinum jewellery market in Italy had been "mixed" during 2006, although the demand for platinum items in the bridal jewellery sector had been strong according to Francoise Izaute, managing director of Platinum Guild International (PGI) Italy.

Speaking to Reuters, Ms Izaute commented that "In 2006 I think we can see an increase of platinum retail sales in the bridal segment over the year and something is happening over Christmas."

At the start of 2007, however, rising metal prices combined with a weak dollar will dent demand for platinum jewellery in Italy it was claimed. She expected these factors to result in increased platinum jewellery prices as costs are passed on by suppliers to consumers.

However, platinum's cheaper sister metal, palladium, has yet to break into the Italian market, according to Ms Izaute.
She explained that the Italian market is currently saturated with four different white metals, but added there may be room for palladium "if some very strong brand starts communication in a very aggressive way".


Ÿ Adfero Ltd