MARIO ASSUERO BARBAGLI, an Italian jewelry trader who has been in the business for 26 years, says the jewelry trade is the most important part of his life.

Barbagli was born in Arezzo, an Italian city famous for its jewelry. He learnt jewelry design when he was very young.

Now he has a jewelry showroom in a Luohu trade center. "My wish is to see more and more Chinese people appreciate fashionable Italian design jewelry and wear the jewelry," said Barbagli.

The city's fast economic growth has provided the incentive for Bargagli to expand his business here. "I came to Shenzhen 10 years ago, but at that time Shenzhen people's jewelry concept is only gold, no design nor fashion. But today they realize fashionable is important for jewelry and they like to buy fashion items," said Barbagli.

Barbagli goes to jewelry exhibitions in Qingdao and Guangzhou to see new jewelry designs.

He finds silver is popular among the Cantonese.

Although the business has its ups and downs, Barbagli never thought of quitting from the jewelry industry. "I don't only work for money, I also work for heart and my interest," said Barbagli.

Barbagli will stay in Shenzhen to further expand his business. He said Chinese workers are highly skilled, and can make quality products better than the Italians.

Editor: Wing