HONG KONG, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- The fifth Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show opened here Tuesday, gathering a record number of 1,970 exhibitors from across the globe to showcase an assortment of jewellery raw materials.

Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the show will run for five days at the AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong. Exhibitors of this year's show are from 40 countries and regions, including new participants from Belize and Turkey, showcasing exquisite diamonds, precious and semi-precious stones as well as pearls to international buyers.

"This year's Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show continues to attract jewellers, trade associations and organizations from around the world. The participation of exhibitors is the highest on record. It is a testament to Hong Kong's standing as a key sourcing platform for the global jewellery industry," said Benjamin Chau, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC.

To facilitate buyers to source jewellery raw materials, thematic zones have been set up for different product categories. The Hall of Fine Diamonds showcases quality diamonds in a variety of sizes, grades and colours; the Treasures of Nature is devoted to precious and semi-precious colored gems of different origins.

With Hong Kong becoming a major trading and distribution center for pearls, the Treasures of Ocean zone is set up to showcase quality pearls from different pearl-producing regions. Another highlight zone Rough Stones & Minerals presents unpolished and uncut precious stones.

To allow industry practitioners capture the latest trends, the HKTDC organizes a series of seminars and buyer forums, topics include "125 Years since the Invention of Cultured Pearl" and "The Latest Development and Opportunities in the Belt and Road Markets".

The HKTDC will also arrange business matching sessions on-site to create more business opportunities for visitors.