The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) will mark its 100th anniversary with the unveiling of two custom artworks by Canadian artist Reena Ahluwalia at the opening of the 2026 CIBJO Congress in Vicenza, Italy. Set for September 4 alongside Vicenzaoro, these pieces will celebrate the milestone before joining the permanent collection at the Museo del Gioiello, located in Vicenza’s Basilica Palladiana.
The Diamond Eye and the Centenary Medal
The first artwork, “The CIBJO Centenary Icon”, is a circular Renaissance-style painting featuring a marquise-cut diamond at its center, encased within a molten gold background. Ahluwalia refers to the gem as the “Diamond Eye”, representing CIBJO’s position as a guiding influence for the jewelry industry—much like a compass in uncertain times.
The second piece, “The CIBJO Centenary Medal”, is a numismatic design displaying the congress logo above a faceted diamond on one side and a compass symbol on the reverse. This motif emphasizes CIBJO’s dedication to ethical standards and industry leadership. A limited-edition solid-gold version of the medal, crafted by Italpreziosi, will be awarded during the congress.
Ahluwalia’s Influence in Jewelry and Art
Based in Toronto, Ahluwalia is recognized for merging diamonds and gemstones with modern artistic techniques. She holds the distinction of being the first visual artist to have a work included in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s permanent collection. Her body of work also includes a diamond setting for Ontario’s Legislative Mace, a Belgian postage stamp, and a timepiece that set a Guinness World Record. Additionally, she pioneered the use of blockchain in diamond art to verify authenticity and origin.
CIBJO President Gaetano Cavalieri emphasized that the partnership reflects the strong bond between jewelry and artistic creation, both built on innovation and the use of precious materials. For Ahluwalia, the artworks capture the industry’s core values and ensure the centenary celebration remains visible through the Museo del Gioiello’s permanent exhibition.
The inclusion of these pieces in the museum’s collection will reinforce CIBJO’s place in the history of jewelry craftsmanship and technological advancement. Beyond honoring the organization’s first century, the artworks will connect its legacy with the industry’s ongoing transformation.
