Plan a jewelry booth for three tasks: seeing the collection from the aisle, inspecting individual pieces through glass, and comparing pieces at the counter. Test representative clear and coloured stones, pearls and metal finishes with the final trays, case glass and hall lighting. A dramatic reflection is not evidence of a better gemstone.
Separate presentation from grading
A diamond's appearance changes with its surroundings, light direction and viewing position. GIA describes controlled lighting and backgrounds for colour grading. Exhibition lighting, a daylight-labelled lamp or a high CRI number does not recreate that grading environment. Use the relevant laboratory report for grading claims; do not infer a grade from a bright booth photograph.
Use CRI as one comparison
General CRI (Ra) averages eight test colours against a reference of similar CCT; it is not a score for diamond sparkle or every gemstone colour. Request additional colour data, such as R9 or a TM-30 report, when available, and compare actual pieces. A stated CRI90+ is a specification to evaluate, not a universal jewelry requirement or proof that all colours are reproduced accurately.
Compare CCT without a metal-by-Kelvin rule
Compare the same pieces under the available warm, neutral and cool settings without changing their position or background. Decide whether engraving, pearl surfaces and the colours of stones remain easy to inspect. There is no universally best 3000K setting for gold or 6000K setting for clear stones. Two sources with the same nominal CCT can still differ; check adjacent case and overhead lights together.
Balance sparkle, coverage and glare
Directional light can create facet highlights, while broader illumination helps reveal trays and labels. Trial both effects rather than selecting a narrow beam by default. Walk along the case and check standing and seated viewing positions for reflections that obscure pieces or text. Re-aim one source at a time, then repeat with a staff member handling a piece: hands and bodies can cast shadows. Check the entire case, not only its centre.
Two current fixtures to trial
The 21W linkable arm light currently specifies 2100lm, CRI90+ and 120°, with one fixed CCT selected from 3000K, 4500K or 6000K. The 25W Tri-CCT arm light specifies 2500lm, CRI90+ and 120°, with button-selected 3000K, 4500K and 6000K. Its three settings are not continuous tuning, and brightness dimming is not stated. Their broad-display specifications do not establish grading suitability or make them automatic replacements for case-integrated lighting.
Record the complete installation
Confirm clamp fit, structural support, ventilation and safe cable routes. Use complete-system input ratings for the electrical schedule; do not add a driver rating again when already included, or treat its maximum capacity as actual consumption. Both named listings state a maximum of ten compatible fixtures per run, subject to lower cable, connector, circuit or venue limits. Confirm the exact configuration and current exhibitor requirements.
Keep a setup record with fixture model, CCT, case materials, position and aim. Photographs can document the arrangement, but white balance and exposure can change apparent colour and sparkle. Make the final choice by inspecting the actual pieces and readable labels under show conditions, with staff able to demonstrate them safely.