Competition and certificates

When Zhang Zhufu obtained the national certificate for jewelry appraisers in 1997, he felt proud of becoming a member of China's first group of professionals in the luxury-goods industry.

"At the time, jewelry appraisal was widely deemed a high-end profession. Although most people knew little about it, they respected it," said Zhang, who holds a doctorate in gemology.

"Now, appraisal has become a low-end segment of the jewelry trade that only plays a supporting role, similar to packaging. Some people even call us 'the ones who make certificates'. That is really disappointing."