Hong Kong's LJ International (LJI) has confirmed predictions that second quarter earnings will be up by seven to ten per cent compared to last year.

The company, one of the fastest-growing jewellery firms in the world, believes that sales of its platinum jewellery will help boost results.

LJI introduced the platinum line around 18 months ago and it has proved popular with customers.

In addition the firm's orders from this year's JCK show will not show up until its second quarter results are revealed.

LJI chairman and CEO, Yu Chuan Yih, commented: "The second quarter so far has been very solid thus far in revenue but also a great deal of foundation-building for future sales expansion."

According to the firm, the results covering the quarter ending June 30th 2005 will see sales of between $17.5 and $18 million.

LJI expects earnings and sales to remain high in the second half of this year, with increased orders being placed by existing customers.