The Hong Kong Jewellery and Watch Fair 2008, has kicked off, at the Asia World Expo, although with a bleak response to diamond buying. Diamonds seems to be ousted in the price run this time. Buyers are shying from purchase, as the economic backdrop seems unfavourable with crude dipping, banks falling in bankruptcy, Bank of America taking over Merilynchh and the USD strengthening against INR, as it now values at Rs. 46.93. %% The first two days of the show have not shown much enthusiasm, even as sellers have lowered diamond prices by 5-7 percent. Indian buyers are skeptical to purchase as payments for Indian buyers will be tough, owing to the dollar rising almost to Rs.47 and expecting to touch Rs.48. %% However, the show will also be taken to Wanchai at CEC, from 17 to 21, and hopes are afloat to see better trade.