In Japan, the jewellery market is currently transitioning into the high-demand Spring season. Late February 2026 is a significant window as retailers prepare for "Graduation Season" (early March) and the world-renowned Sakura (Cherry Blossom) festivities.
Major Brand & Seasonal Offers
Star Jewelry
This iconic Japanese brand is currently the center of attention with its Sakura 2026 launch.
* Sakura Special Event: Running through February 23, 2026, specifically at the Ginza flagship store. These events often include exclusive limited-edition designs and gift-with-purchase offers.
* Special Sets: They are currently offering SAKURA 2026 Special Sets which include a piece of jewellery and a commemorative towel handkerchief from the famous Chikazawa Lace Store, priced between ¥27,500 and ¥31,900.
* Birthstone Focus: March's birthstones (Aquamarine & Iolite) have just been released in-store, with special displays and styling consultations.
TASAKI
A leader in modern pearl and diamond design.
* New Collection Launch: On February 5, 2026, TASAKI launched its first-ever all-metal jewellery collection, moving away from its traditional focus on pearls.
* Bridal Fairs: Selected boutiques are running early-spring Bridal Fairs. While they rarely offer flat discounts, purchasing an engagement ring or wedding band set often comes with a complimentary gift (such as a professional photoshoot or a porcelain ring dish).
Mikimoto
The world-famous originator of cultured pearls.
* 30th Anniversary Pearl Wedding: Mikimoto is currently highlighting a special collection for those celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary in 2026 (the "Pearl Wedding").
* M Signature Collection: They are showcasing their 2026 M Signature pieces, including 18K yellow gold rings and pendants ranging from ¥935,000 to ¥1,430,000.
PRMAL (Lab-Grown Diamonds)
* Price Revision Notice: Due to rising gold costs, PRMAL revised their prices on February 16, 2026. However, they frequently offer membership points where 1 point = 1 JPY, which can be applied to your first purchase if you register an account.
Gold & Market Rates (February 23, 2026)
Gold in Japan has seen a major surge this month. As of today, retail rates are approximately:
* 24K Gold: ~¥25,463 per gram
* 22K Gold: ~¥23,341 per gram
* 18K Gold: ~¥19,097 per gram
> Note: Many brands, including PRMAL, are citing these high gold costs as the reason for recent price hikes, so buying "old stock" at current boutique prices might be more cost-effective than waiting for new collections.
>
Important: Tax-Free Shopping Changes
If you are a tourist in Japan, pay close attention to the timing:
* Current System: You still enjoy instant 10% tax exemption at the point of sale in most department stores (like Mitsukoshi or Isetan) upon presenting your passport.
* Upcoming Change: Be aware that starting November 1, 2026, Japan will move to a refund-based system (you pay the tax first and claim it back at the airport). For your current February 2026 trip, the old "tax-off" system is still in place.
Shopping Tips for Japan
* Outlet Savings: Visit Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu. They are currently running a "Foreign Traveler Special" (through February 26, 2026) where tourists can get additional coupon booklets for brands like Gap, Michael Kors, and Coach.
* The "IJT" Effect: The International Jewellery Tokyo (IJT) trade show concluded in January. Many independent shops in the Okachimachi (Jewelry District) in Tokyo are still running post-show clearance sales on loose stones and mounts.
* Hallmarking: Japanese gold is famously high-quality. Look for the "Mint Mark" (an image of the Japanese flag next to the fineness number) for government-guaranteed purity.
Major Brand & Seasonal Offers
Star Jewelry
This iconic Japanese brand is currently the center of attention with its Sakura 2026 launch.
* Sakura Special Event: Running through February 23, 2026, specifically at the Ginza flagship store. These events often include exclusive limited-edition designs and gift-with-purchase offers.
* Special Sets: They are currently offering SAKURA 2026 Special Sets which include a piece of jewellery and a commemorative towel handkerchief from the famous Chikazawa Lace Store, priced between ¥27,500 and ¥31,900.
* Birthstone Focus: March's birthstones (Aquamarine & Iolite) have just been released in-store, with special displays and styling consultations.
TASAKI
A leader in modern pearl and diamond design.
* New Collection Launch: On February 5, 2026, TASAKI launched its first-ever all-metal jewellery collection, moving away from its traditional focus on pearls.
* Bridal Fairs: Selected boutiques are running early-spring Bridal Fairs. While they rarely offer flat discounts, purchasing an engagement ring or wedding band set often comes with a complimentary gift (such as a professional photoshoot or a porcelain ring dish).
Mikimoto
The world-famous originator of cultured pearls.
* 30th Anniversary Pearl Wedding: Mikimoto is currently highlighting a special collection for those celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary in 2026 (the "Pearl Wedding").
* M Signature Collection: They are showcasing their 2026 M Signature pieces, including 18K yellow gold rings and pendants ranging from ¥935,000 to ¥1,430,000.
PRMAL (Lab-Grown Diamonds)
* Price Revision Notice: Due to rising gold costs, PRMAL revised their prices on February 16, 2026. However, they frequently offer membership points where 1 point = 1 JPY, which can be applied to your first purchase if you register an account.
Gold & Market Rates (February 23, 2026)
Gold in Japan has seen a major surge this month. As of today, retail rates are approximately:
* 24K Gold: ~¥25,463 per gram
* 22K Gold: ~¥23,341 per gram
* 18K Gold: ~¥19,097 per gram
> Note: Many brands, including PRMAL, are citing these high gold costs as the reason for recent price hikes, so buying "old stock" at current boutique prices might be more cost-effective than waiting for new collections.
>
Important: Tax-Free Shopping Changes
If you are a tourist in Japan, pay close attention to the timing:
* Current System: You still enjoy instant 10% tax exemption at the point of sale in most department stores (like Mitsukoshi or Isetan) upon presenting your passport.
* Upcoming Change: Be aware that starting November 1, 2026, Japan will move to a refund-based system (you pay the tax first and claim it back at the airport). For your current February 2026 trip, the old "tax-off" system is still in place.
Shopping Tips for Japan
* Outlet Savings: Visit Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu. They are currently running a "Foreign Traveler Special" (through February 26, 2026) where tourists can get additional coupon booklets for brands like Gap, Michael Kors, and Coach.
* The "IJT" Effect: The International Jewellery Tokyo (IJT) trade show concluded in January. Many independent shops in the Okachimachi (Jewelry District) in Tokyo are still running post-show clearance sales on loose stones and mounts.
* Hallmarking: Japanese gold is famously high-quality. Look for the "Mint Mark" (an image of the Japanese flag next to the fineness number) for government-guaranteed purity.
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