China's Rich and Famous Can't Get Enough of Laopu Gold, Here Is Why

LONDON — China ‘s middle class has been deep in the Labubu game this year, while those with much larger disposable incomes are embracing an education in Chinese arts and crafts in the form of collecting every single piece from Laopu Gold.

A breakout star in the Chinese jewelry market since its Hong Kong initial public offering in June 2024, the Beijing-based retailer was founded in 2009 by Xu Gaoming with a mission to revive the use of heritage craftsmanship across its offering in gold accessories and ornaments.

The brand’s range features cultural designs made using a mix of traditional Chinese techniques, including hammering, carving, hollowing, filigree, embedding, and heat treatment of enamels. Production is usually more expensive and time-consuming than it is for regular optio