July 2007 Archives
Diamond Accesories: What Will They Think of Next?
The celebrities and the rich love their gadgets covered in diamonds, which we have chronicled on this Blog with photos showing diamond covered cellphones, cars, watches and laptops, bras, and headgear.
What's next you may ask?
Here it is!
Diamonds for your Sneakers that fit on via a jewel-encrusted shoelace clip.
The Kickbar shines with diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds that are set in white gold. If you’re loaded and want something special for your pricey sneakers then these $7500 Kickbars are the right accessory for you.
54 G color, VS1 diamonds pave set into the rectangular bar (a total weight of 2 carats).
Pretty sure you'll be seeing your favorite Rap Stars wearing these very soon.
Now, THAT's What I'M Talkin' ABOUT!
Diamond Engagement Ring Appraisals Now Live!
Richard Drucker one of this country's foremost expert Independent Appraisers of Diamonds and Fine Jewelry Richard Drucker
has now developed "Live" Interactive appraisal software for the Internet.
Jewelers and appraisers interested in seeing how his Gemworld International's GemGuide Appraisal Software works, can now do so through live, interactive demonstrations on the Internet.
"This new technology is exciting for us to have since, after all, we are selling a technology product," Gemworld President Richard Drucker said in a statement. In the past, we would send interested people a demonstration CD, and we also had a training CD. Now we are live. What could be better?"
Prospective users and current users can visit Gemguide.com to sign up for a demonstration or training session on the software. Upcoming demonstration dates are July 2, July 9, July 16 and July 25, all at 3:00 p.m. CST. Each session is approximately 15 minutes, and attendees are invited to participate in a live question-and-answer session at the end.
Since 2002, Gemworld International has developed and owned the GemGuide Appraisal Software, which is fully integrated with diamond and gem pricing. The software has an initial setup fee of $295, which includes training and the first 100 uses of the software. Users pay only a small fee (less than $1) for each appraisal item that they do. All upgrades and technical support are free.
Cool! Congrats Richard!
End of An Era: Bulova Chairman Henshel Dies.
Harry B. Henshel, former chairman and chief executive officer of Bulova Corp., died at his home in Scarsdale, N.Y., last Friday following a long illness. He was 88.
Henshel was the grandson of Joseph Bulova, who was a 23-year-old immigrant from Bohemia when he founded the company in New York City in 1875. He was also the last member of the family to head the timekeeping company. Though still American owned and operated, Bulova is now a subsidiary of Loews Corp.
Although the family no longer had active control of the company in the late-1970s, Henshel kept an office at the company's Woodside, N.Y., headquarters until the time of his death.
Henshel, who was born in New York, graduated from Brown University in 1940, and received a master's degree from Harvard University's business school in 1951. After serving in World War II, during which time he rose to the rank of captain, Henshel joined the family business, which was at that time led by his uncle Ardé Bulova. His uncle taught Henshel the business from the bottom up, and Hensel worked in a variety of capacities, including doing a stint as a traveling sales representative.
After his uncle's death in 1958, Henshel succeeded him as president, adding the title of chairman of the board in 1974, after longtime company chairman General Omar Bradley retired.
During Henshel's tenure, the company, which had manufacturing facilities in the United States and Switzerland, was at the forefront of the American timekeeping industry. The watch company's Bulova brand was leading all watch brands in dollar sales volume, while its entry-level Caravelle held the top spot in terms of unit sales. Bulova Corp.'s proudest moment came in 1960, when Bulova revolutionized the industry with the production of the world's first fully electronic watch, the Accutron.
Enjoying The Diamond Industry Vacation & Preparing To Return!
Hi Everyone!
I hope you are all well and that you had an enjoyable July 4, weekend vacation.
You may have realized that things have been slow these past few days (week) on the blog here at Diamond Vues.
We have been closed and away on a much needed vacation.
We are slated to return and re-open our offices and factory on Monday, July 16.
Until then, we will be posting here a bit sporadically as we try to get every ounce out of our vacation..;-)
There is a full schedule of stuff to be addressed upon our return.
We will be showcasing many new features on our e-commerce website at www.exceldiamonds.com
We are launching a brand new line of bridal jewelry and unique engagement ring settings at incredibly low prices that will amaze and astound you!
We are also going to feature jewelry in precious Palladium, which has taken the market by storm.
Our engagement ring thumbnails will also be updated (by popular request of our customers) to showcase the individual diamond shapes that are suitable for each setting on our website. This feature, in addition to a drop down menu with choices for all loose diamond shapes, will hopefully eliminate some confusion with regards to the compatibility of our engagement ring settings to the various diamond shapes.
The thumbnail will look something like this:
We are also going to launch a brand new jewelry line in the styling, quality and pedigree of Roberto Coin, as well as a range of pre-set diamond studs for round and princess cut diamonds in all choices of precious metals.
Diamond Industry News
Although this time of year is usually quite slow in our industry, with many companies away on vacation, there are still many exciting developments to discuss upon our return.
Here are a few quick and notable happenings:
1. GIA & AGS, the two most respected names in Gemology and diamond grading, have both undertaken new and bold initiatives which we will discuss.
2. Pearl and colored stone jewelry are HOTTER than ever!
3. Recent jewelry show in Las Vegas a bust? We'll talk about that..
4. Cartier will soon be advertising on ...your cell phones!!
5. What are the celebrities wearing for the summer?
Stay tuned for all of these topics in depth!
Talk to you in a bit..
We Are Back From Vacation!
Hi Folks!
We are officially back from our vacation and are back in full swing!
Of course this means we will shortly be back to posting consistently here on Diamond Vues, regarding the latest happenings, trends and hard hitting information related to the diamond and jewelry industry (online and offline!)
Stay tuned...and as always..THANKS FOR READING OUR BLOG!
Roger Dubuis Watches. Timeless Looks With Updated Twists!
Roger Dubuis' wristwatches are admired and cherished for their unique style and timeless appeal. Personally, this watch company has always been a favorite of mine, since their stuff is so incredibly different without sacrificing on complications. They are always pushing the envelope and their watches are total statements in class and good taste.
This particularly beautiful Easydiver Chronograph is stylish and substantive, with a large 46mm rose gold case and its automatic-winding caliber.
The chronograph function has a 45-minute counter. The Easydiver Chronograph is limited to 28 pieces.
Create A Diamond Logo For Your Business or Just For Fun!
I just stumbled upon a really cool tutorial for creating a perfect logo of a loose round diamond.
Description: This tutorial will show you how to create a realistic diamond using Adoble Illustrator.
In this tutorial you will need:
- Adobe Illustator CS or higher
- About 30 minutes
Kudos to Pairodime Design for putting this together!
To check out this really cool and easy project, visit their website by clicking on this link!
Enjoy!
Eva & Tony's Gorgeous Wedding Jewelry!
NBA superstar Tony Parker's recent marriage to his "desperate housewife" Eva Longoria, included some gorgeous diamond baubles from Piaget!
Eva’s diamond wedding band from Piaget, features two rows of round diamonds separated by a row of 27 Asscher cut diamonds down the center (total of 107 diamonds). Tony’s wedding band from Piaget is a timeless and elegant 18kt. white gold wedding band. Per the couple’s request, both wedding bands have a personalized French engraving on the inside of the shank.
Eva also gave her husband this completely custom made watch from Piaget which I absolutely love!!
This is a totally customized version of the Piaget Polo watch, the Piaget ‘Number 9′ features a 43mm white gold case, a slate grey 18K gold and titanium bezel and matching slate Grey dial.
There are 50 diamonds in the shape of his MVP number 9!
Exquisite diamond jewelry from for this new celebrity couple!
Will The Jeweler Switch or Steal My Loose Diamond??
One of the most common stresses and anxieties for consumers when bringing a piece of jewelry or diamond engagement ring to a jeweler for setting/polishing/sizing etc., is that he may swap the diamond for a fake cubic zirconium.
Indeed this very same anxiety and angst is also prevalent when buying diamonds and jewelry, regardless of whether or not the purchase is made in a jewelry store or on the Internet.
We get this question all of the time with consumers who call us looking for diamonds and jewelry. Sure, there is a ton of information, documentation and diamond grading reports that accompany each stone. Still, consumers are often nervous.....and wonder whether the "diamond they receive is going to be the same as the one they actually ordered".
"How do I know it's gonna be the same diamond", they ask?
Certainly, this is a reasonable, fair and legitimate question for any consumer when buying diamonds and jewelry locally or over the net.
These are high ticket and valuable items and consumers would like some assurance on their purchase.
The answer to these concerns which apply to all consumers and for all methods of diamond and jewelry shopping (Internet and locally) is as follows:
"Knowledge is Power"
There is nothing worse and more unfortunate than a diamond and jewelry shopper without a proper education, grasp and knowledge of what he/she is buying. These guys/gals are like "deer in the headlights" and are an open invitation to all manners of trickery and unscrupulous salespeople.
It always amazes me when I see people investing more effort and attention on educating themselves before buying a tux or gown for the wedding, than on a far more valuable diamond engagement ring.
Folks, diamonds are not all created equal!
Some look brilliant and are of excellent cut quality, specifications and documentation. Others, are of poor cut quality, dubious "grading" and minimal brilliancy.
When you empower yourself with the knowledge and education to be able to discern and appreciate the differences, you will be in a much better position to recognize and resist the charlatans and snake-oil salesmen.
Research, Research, Research
Do your homework on the jewelry store or Internet website you are thinking of spending money with. Find out what their previous customers have to say. If it's a local retail jewelry store, scour the papers, neighborhood, family, friends etc. Most likely, these stores will have an affiliation and alliance with some well known "confidence booster" entities, like the BBB, JVC and others.
This same method of research applies to Internet diamond stores as well.
In fact, the Internet is an excellent resource of education and information. Do a Google or Yahoo search on the local jewelry store or Internet diamond store you are contemplating. In all likelihood you will get scores (maybe even hundreds..etc.) of results from various places in cyberspace where consumers will have posted feedback and testimonials regarding these companies.
You will see the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Diamond Laser Inscription
A specific laser inscription with the diamond grading report number or logo, inscribed on the girdle of your diamond, goes a long way towards protecting yourself from a jeweler with "sticky fingers". The laser inscription which can be viewed under a high power magnifying glass, although not entirely foolproof (it can be removed and/or inscribed on a different stone), is nevertheless a very effective and inexpensive way of insuring that your diamond isn't swapped out for something else while it is in the temporary care of a local jeweler.
Diamond Gemprint Technology
The Gemprint technology is also a very effective way of protecting your valuable loose diamond against swapping or theft.
Proper Diamond Documentation
Make sure you get comprehensive scientific qualitative and quantitative documentation on your valuable loose diamond. Information like a valid and independent Diamond Grading Report, MegaScope, BrillianceScope, and other such accepted metrics of your loose diamonds quality and specifications will all help you recognize and protect your diamond against theft and switching.
Independent Diamond Appraisal
Always make sure to get a proper independent appraisal on your loose diamond or diamond engagement ring before / after you buy it, as well as a possible re-check (by the same appraiser) after your ring has been serviced and away from you for an extended period of time.
A truly independent diamond and jewelry appraiser, is someone who has absolutely no vested interest in supporting/promoting the purported value of the item, nor does he have a vested interest in bashing and devaluing the item. These are competent and reputable professionals who do nothing other than appraise diamonds and jewelry for a living. They do not sell diamonds and jewelry and do not work for the company who sold you the merchandise in the first place.
Therefore, you should not accept an appraisal from a person who sells diamonds and jewelry for a living and who offers his own "in-house appraisals" with the merchandise he sells. Nor should you bring your merchandise purchased elsewhere to an "appraiser" who also sells diamonds and jewelry as his primary source of income!
Why?
Simply because in one instance there is a conflict and a vested interest to validate the purchase price and more, to make you feel like you got a great deal and to ensure that you keep the merchandise. In the other scenario, a jewelry store that offers "Free appraisals" etc. will often do so, with the sole intention of bashing a competitors merchandise undeservedly, in order to pull the rug out by stealing a sale and getting the customer to return the item in order to sell the unsuspecting customer one of his own items in return. A classic approach for these scum is when they say.."oh I can get you a much better stone at a far better price...you totally overpaid...etc"
Both of these types of appraisals are worthless and unethical.
The people, stores and jewelers who engage in these types of shenanigans are exactly the hooligans who create the fear and angst on the part of the consumer in the first place.
Remember, a diamond grading report is not the same as an appraisal for this very reason. Whereas a grading report talks about the diamond with respect to what you should have and hopefully paid for...the Independent appraisal report actually confirms it for you. Both are crucial and important.
Reputable Jewelers Value Their Reputation Over Everything
This point is an often overlooked consideration when dealing with the stresses and anxiety involved in purchasing a loose diamond and/or submitting your diamond ring to a jewelry store for cleaning, polishing, setting, re-sizing etc.
That is to say that if after all of the extensive research you have done on the company...and you are still nervous, you need to consider the following:
A reputable jewelry store or Internet websites' largest and greatest asset is their REPUTATION!
In the final analysis, you need to understand and appreciate the fact that once you have found a clearly reputable company and jeweler, the proverbial "buck stops with them".
To be certain, you need to find your own comfort level. However, consider that regardless of what the value might be for the diamond or diamond engagement ring you have purchased (or are having serviced), the bottom line is that the hard fought, hard earned and well deserved reputation these jewelers have established over the years, is worth much more "money" than any one isolated sale and transaction and they would never do anything to jeopardize that.
So go out there, do your homework and due diligence, arm yourself with proper knowledge, buy informed and rest assured!!
I wish you all the best of luck!
Antwerp Diamond Cutter Introducing New Diamond Shape.
Antwerp Diamond manufacturer Michielsen Manufacturing & Co. has introduced a new diamond cut trademarked as the Centenaire cut.
This round diamond shape has 100 facets as opposed to the standard 58 facets on the traditional round diamond shape which is the most popular shape to get engaged in.
Michielsen claims that its special cut will show a higher color and significantly more dispersion than a 58 facet round diamond.
Centenaire diamonds come with an IGI certificate from 0.30-carats on up.
OK, just what we needed, another fancy gazillion facets diamond!
Here's a fast quiz for you, Class:
Can you identify and describe these specialty diamond cuts: Have you seen any?
Aleya
Amodena Cushion
Asscher
Barion
Context
CrissCut
Flanders
Flower
Gabrielle
Leo
Lucida
Quadrillion
And the beat goes on.
Ebay Makes Changes to Help Engagement Ring Shoppers.
Buying a diamond engagement ring on ebay can be hazardous to your wallet and we have blogged on this in the past: Ebay diamond listings: Caveat Emptor
Recognizing this, eBay last week announced a change in its listing rules for diamonds, synthetic and natural, and imitation diamonds. To be listed as a real diamond, stones must be natural mineral “consisting essentially of pure carbon, crystallized in the isometric system with a hardness of 10, a specific gravity of approximately 3.52 and a refractive index of 2.42.”
Synthetically-produced stones must be preceded by one of the following words, spelled out in full: created, lab-created, man-made, synthetic, manufactured, laboratory-grown, laboratory-created, or [manufacturer name]-created.
When listing a product in the “Diamond” category, the seller must also specify a sub-category. Only naturally mined diamonds that have not been enhanced may be listed as “Natural”.
Naturally mined diamonds that have been enhanced to reduce flaws may only be listed in the “Natural Enhanced” sub-category. Laboratory-grown stones with the same mineral composition as a naturally mined diamond may only be listed in the “Synthetic” sub-category.
Imitation stones, including Cubic Zirconia, Moissanite, quartz, etc. may be listed as diamonds only if the word “diamond” is immediately preceded or followed by the words “simulated” or “imitation”, spelled out in full. Sellers must also include the real name of the material (such as ‘Cubic Zirconia’) in the item description and in equal visibility to other terms.
In our opinion this move by eBay should have been instituted a long time ago but is better late than never and no doubt the result of numerous consumer complaints as well as negative publicity on several Diamond Internet Chat Forums.
No question that this move will help consumers from getting ripped off.
In our opinion if you are seriously considering buying a diamond engagement ring from an eBay Vendor make sure it comes with either a GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society) lab grading report. These diamond grading labs are the best in the world for their accuracy, strictness, and consistency in diamond grading. Accept no substitutes.
"Loose Diamonds" (Build Your Engagement Ring) vs. Pre-Set Engagement Rings
It is interesting to note, that if you canvassed any number of consumers shopping for diamond engagement rings, you would find that shoppers who purchase from a local jewelry store will usually feel more comfortable buying a completed or pre-set diamond engagement ring, rather than choosing a loose diamond first and then deciding on a ring setting to go with it.
Conversely, people who shop for their diamond engagement ring on the Internet, will usually feel more comfortable selecting a loose diamond and engagement ring setting separately and then having the jeweler put it all together.
Why is this?
Well, for starters, traditional "bricks and mortar jewelers" usually find a stocked showcase of completed diamond engagement rings, much more captivating and appealing than parcels and papers of loose diamonds flying all around.
It is much more effective marketing and advertising to have gorgeous displays of gleaming, pre-set diamond engagement rings, than scores of drab parcel papers stuffed with loose diamonds and showcases of unmounted solitaires and settings.
Additionally, consumers who walk into a jewelry store for a diamond engagement ring, are more likely to walk out of the store with an engagement ring in hand and are usually less inclined to wait until an engagement ring is actually put together for them.
They are not at all put off by the idea that they need to choose a pre-set diamond engagement ring, so long as they find something which appeals to them and which they can purchase via the instant "cash and carry" method.
For these reasons, it is usually in the best interests of the jewelry stores to have their in-stock diamonds pre-set into a collection of their beautiful and popular engagement ring settings.
Conversely, you will note when searching the Internet for a diamond engagement ring, most websites utilize some type of "build your own engagement ring" feature, whereby they encourage you to select the loose diamond and the actual engagement ring setting separately. Once you have completed your selection and "built your ring", so to speak, the entire ensemble is pieced together and shipped out to you as a completed diamond engagement ring.
Most diamond websites will tend to focus on the positive aspect of buying a diamond engagement ring in this fashion, by pointing out that the consumer is "in the drivers seat" and in complete control of the entire purchase process. They will push the fact that by choosing a loose diamond and ring setting separately, the customer actually has greater flexibility and can search exclusively for the loose diamond that most qualifies for his/her parameters for items like diamond shape, cut, color, clarity and carat weight. Once they find a loose diamond that most closely fits their criterion, it is on to the perfect engagement ring setting.
The Internet diamond websites will push their "build your own diamond ring" feature as a tool for consumer empowerment and will point to the advantages over forcing the customer to select a pre-fab diamond engagement ring, where all variables have already been chosen.
While there is certainly much truth to this, the fact still remains that Internet diamond stores because of an entirely different business model, are usually forced to showcase and sell their diamond rings this way, much the same way that the local jewelry stores find pre- fabricated engagement rings to be in their own best interests. The actual accrued benefit (credited to many Internet diamond stores) of having the customer select all of the variables for both the loose diamond and ring setting, is in many instances a purely secondary or non-intended benefit.
To be certain, many websites, as well as brick and mortar jewelry stores, will offer both options. That is to say, that the consumer will have the ability to select a pre-set diamond ring, or have one put together and created from scratch.
Which is the better method??
The answer is, there is no "better" or "worse" method; only the one that works for each individual consumer. Some people cannot deal with too many options. They would rather be given a set of options and will choose the one that best fits their criterion. These customers therefore appreciate the ability to choose from a pre-set selection of diamond engagement rings. Others, need to be in full control from A to Z and appreciate the ability to actually put together and build this sentimental and significant purchase as a completely unique diamond engagement ring and based entirely upon their own parameters.
There is no bad choice, although, clearly, the Internet diamond stores and the local jewelry stores will often appeal and cater to these two different consumer segments.
In either case and whatever your individual choice, the only thing you as a consumer need to be cognizant of, is that you should always be in control of the quality and specifications of your diamond engagement ring from start to finish.
There is no such a thing as having to "settle" for a diamond engagement ring, where you are still unhappy about a few of the details, but feel like in the totality of its pre-set specifications...it is "good enough".
You must understand, that a diamond can always be exchanged out of a ring and replaced with the one that more closely fits with your specs. and budget...and via versa.
You should never be made to feel like you need to "settle" for a certain engagement ring, simply because it has already been pieced together for you..regardless of where you buy it.
Buying a diamond ring is a once in a lifetime purchase...(we hope..;-))....and is usually not a cheap proposition.
Anybody earning a shot at your business should be more than happy to do whatever it takes to make sure that you secure the diamond engagement ring of your dreams!
Best Of Luck!
A Diamond Studded Saucepan!!
Hmm... just wondering what kind of market this diamond covered saucepan would cater to??
This saucepan is covered with 200 diamonds!
Via: Luxist
Moissanite Sales Are Down, Again.
Profits for Charles & Colvard Ltd., creator of MOISSANITE, more than halved during the second quarter of 2007 as sales were affected by a weak overall jewelry market the company concluded.
Net income stood at $529,000 for the quarter, representing a 52 percent decline compared with April through June 2005. Sales fell 11 percent to $7.6 million.
The North Carolina-based company said it expects sales trends to strengthen in the second half of 2007 as retailers accelerate their rollout for the holiday season. Despite this, Charles & Colvard lowered its annual revenue expectations to between $35 million and $38 million, from its prior prediction of $45 million to $48 million.
Might just be that consumers want the real (diamond) thing instead of simulant that gives off a greenish hue!
Stay tuned.
Important Information on a Loose Diamonds' "Cut".
I just got an e-mail from Carol who asks as follows:
"I have been trying to find out a little about my diamond and the one C that
I cannot find anywhere on your site is what does the 'round' cut
description mean. The diamond is set in a 14K gold setting solitaire, 4
prong, Carat 1-1.01, Clarity SI, Color H. Can you tell me what the round
signifies?
Regards,
Carol
-------------
Here is the answer:
Round refers to the shape of the stone.
A 10x magnified photo of a (58 faceted) round "cut" Ideal Diamond. The marks within the stone are blemishes or internal "diamond inclusions" as viewed under this level of magnification. However, as a result of this diamonds ideal cut proportions, beauty and brilliancy, this diamond will quite possibly face up "eye-clean". This means that the inclusions will not be seen with the naked eye and without the aid of magnification.
This is sometimes called a round "cut", not because it is a particular "quality of cut", but because it is the overall cut that influences the shape. Unfortunately, the "cut quality" of the diamond for this reason is often confused and associated with the "shape" of the diamond. The reality is that one has nothing to do with the other. A "Round Cut" diamond, means a round diamond shape, regardless of the actual "cut quality" of the stone. Conversely, talking about the "cut" or "cut quality" of a round diamond, refers to the precision and resultant beauty to which the "round cut" diamond has been fashioned.
A traditional "round cut" diamond, has 58 "facets" which are like mirrors to reflect and refract light.
If the stone is "cut" well (now referring to the precision or quality to which the round diamond has been fashioned from the rough), it will refract the light entering the stone back out through the table facet and to the eye, in the form of brilliancy and beauty. Loose diamonds that are cut for maximum beauty and brilliancy as opposed to maximum weight retention (both of which are polar opposites) are the most prized and valued diamonds on the market. These diamonds are also known as "Ideal Cut Diamonds", or "Hearts & Arrows" Diamonds.
If however, the "round cut" diamond is swindled and cheated by the diamond cutter in an effort to save as much of the rough carat weight as possible, this will result in a diamond that may be larger in total carat weight, but will be lifeless and dull due to its poor "cut quality".
Consumers who choose a loose diamond or diamond engagement ring for beauty and brilliancy, will stay far away from these diamonds that look like frozen spit.
Conversely, consumers who don't care about the quality and beauty of their loose diamond and only care about the size of the diamond ("just give me a big rock") will often wind up with these cheated and swindled diamonds of larger carat weight and minimal light performance.
I hope this helps!
Regards,
Buying Diamond Engagement Rings Online: How's it Looking?
A few short years ago the a suggestion to buy a diamond engagement ring on-line to the tune of thousands of dollars would have been met with an icy incredulous stare and a reach for the Digitalis.
Fast forward to today where increasing numbers of consumers are very comfortable buying their diamonds and jewelry from an Internet website.
Our colleague, Edahn Golan reports in Idex that ten U.S. Jewelers are among the top 500 on-line retailers.
According to the table compiled by Internet Retailer you will find a venerable name such as Tiffany as well as some names you may not be familiar with.
Top Ten Internet Jewelry Retailers.
Times, they are a'changin.
Ideal Princess Cut Diamond Engagement Ring {Pics!}
Here is a beautiful collage of a diamond engagement ring just completed and being shipped out today for one of our customers. The diamond is one of our Signature SuperbCert princess cuts and the engagement ring setting is from Designs by Vatche.
Just thought I'd share some eye candy!
Diamonds & Jewelry: Luxury or Commodity?
With the explosion of Internet sales of diamonds and jewelry during the past several years, consumers have learned that the online diamond and jewelry marketplace is not only a source of in-depth information and education, it is also a place where you can often purchase high quality diamond engagement rings and jewelry at a fraction of the traditional jewelry store prices.
This powerful concept, together with burgeoning consumer confidence in the Internet marketplace as a viable medium for making expensive purchases, has led to an overall decline in retailer profits (profit margins) for the sale of loose diamonds and jewelry.
Diamond stores, regardless of whether they operate on the Internet or off, have been forced to recognize the power of the "Internet revolution" and have lowered prices on their merchandise in order to remain competitive.
In almost all instances, traditional retail jewelry stores are no longer able to command and expect significant profits on diamond and jewelry products that can be purchased on the Internet for a fraction of the price. Consumers either buy directly off the Internet, or they use the price point on the net to negotiate a better price (or a price match) with their local jeweler.
Indeed, the only way that jewelry stores continue to reap some of the "1980's profits" on their diamonds and jewelry, is often by aligning themselves with a "brand" or a niche that gives them the ability to sell on their own terms, without fear of "watered down profits".
The Hearts on Fire Signature Diamonds Brand, which has a registered trademark touting themselves as being "the world's most perfectly cut diamond," is a perfect example of some of these last "strongholds" of retailer "profit bonanzas".
Hearts on Fire diamonds (tm) is a company that manufactures beautiful Ideal Cut Diamonds which they market through authorized retail jewelers across the country. They do not sell their diamonds over the Internet..and for good reason.
Indeed, diamonds of similar quality, beauty, and ideal cut quality, can be purchased over the Internet at an absolute fraction of the Hearts on Fire diamonds prices.
Therefore, Hearts on Fire made a decision to market their diamonds exclusively within the framework of traditional "bricks & mortar" jewelry stores.
They are an excellent company, with a high quality product and amazing retailer support. The retailers who are authorized to carry the Hearts on Fire diamond brand, swear by the product, since it allows them to sell a beautiful "flagship" ideal cut diamond, at a huge markup and significant profits, per the "suggested price" structure mandated and enforced by the company and without fear of being undercut by Internet diamond stores.
However, aside for a few select "brands" like Hearts on Fire diamonds, most of the diamond and jewelry marketplace has been strongly affected by the Internet revolution, with an overall decline in profits due to the competitive nature of the Internet.
So the question is, has the Internet turned diamonds and jewelry from a luxury item into a commodity?
I have recently seen threads on this topic from a few different marketing and branding gurus including our friends and Janus Thinking.
Here is my own take:
Obviously, the old profits on diamonds and jewelry are gone forever. Consumers today are smart, savvy, and educated. However, the reality is that diamonds are still considered luxury items. These are not commodities like bread, butter and milk. Additionally. diamonds and jewelry are not intrinsic to our survival...(well at least for most people..;-).
Therefore, the reality is that you are still buying diamonds and jewelry with your discretionary income, regardless of the value and excellent price.
This simple fact, in my opinion, still qualifies diamonds and jewelry as being considered luxury items.
What Is Palladium? How Does It Compare With Platinum & Gold?
Given that we now offer all of our engagement rings in precious palladium, I thought it would be appropriate to briefly outline the properties of this metal in relation to gold and platinum.
Purity
Palladium is from the same precious metal family as platinum at significantly lower prices.
Palladium is 95% pure.
White
Palladium, (unlike yellow gold which has been rhodium plated to create "white gold") is actually a naturally white metal (similar to platinum). It is hypo-allergenic, nickel free, and requires no rhodium plating.
Precious
Palladium is 30 times more rare than gold and shares the lustre of platinum (at a fraction of the price).
Strong
Palladium wears exceptionally well and does not suffer from porosity and prong failure.
Gorgeous & Unique Jewelry by YVEL!
Well, as you all know, I'm always on the lookout for new and interesting jewelry designs and creations for all of you jewelry lovers!
I always enjoy giving kudos and spreading love to the designers and manufacturers of unique and dazzling jewelry baubles and creations.
Enter Designs by YVEL.
These guys caught my eye with their advertisement in a recent trade publication.
I took a look at their jewelry offerings and was quite impressed with the beauty and originality of their creations.
Their jewelry creations combine pearls, diamonds and precious gemstones in unique settings with a distinct look and a flair for the dramatic!
Check them out, I think you're gonna love their stuff!
Diamond Manufacturer Reaches Out To Same-Sex Couples
Well known diamond manufacturer, Fabrikant-Tara, has recently announced a new effort to reach out to same-sex couples.
In an effort to celebrate "love without boundaries", they have released a new collection of cutting edge jewelry called the "LVOE" collection, which features a unique range of wedding bands and solitaires geared towards same-sex unions.
To view the collection, visit www.lvoehasnoboundaries.com
Tax & Spend Rangel Wants Your Diamond Engagement Ring Money!
U.S. Congressman Charles B. Rangel received enthusiastic applause as he opened the Jewelers Association New York Summer Show on Sunday with a message of support for the Brick & Mortar Jewelers on the issue of taxing online diamond retailers.
House Ways & Means Chairman Charles Rangel at the Podium.
Rangel, the chairman of the House of Representatives' Ways and Means Committee, indicated his support for brick-and-mortar jewelers. In particular, he touched on legislation in the current session of Congress that would allow individual states to collect sales tax from Internet retailers.
"Whether it's the Ways and Means Committee or whether it's national policy, we have to concentrate on small retailers, making it possible for them to be able to play with a level playing field," he said, referring to the legislation that would help achieve this goal.
From our vantage point, taxing Internet diamond and jewelry sales will not by itself level the playing field for B&M Jewelers as Internet prices will still be lower.
Gotta love those Polticians
Irradiated Blue Topaz: Be Very Careful!
The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has called for the checking of irradiated blue topaz and for members to consider temporarily suspending imports of these gemstones.
Recently the United States, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) stepped up enforcement of irradiated gemstones, which resulted in some retailers pulling these goods from the shelves.
AGTA said that while there hadn't been a confirmed report of cancer or radiation poisoning as a result of irradiated gemstones to their knowledge, increase care in handling was prudent. "We have no reason to believe that any significant quantity of dangerous gemstones [exist] in the market today. However, since there have been a handful of sightings over [the past few decades] of gemstones with potentially harmful radiation, we are taking the prudent step of reminding all AGTA members that if they handle deep blue topaz, they should do their own radiation checks".
Government rules affect darker color blue topaz, as some light blue topaz is LINAC (linear accelerator) treated and had been exempt from the rules. NRC rules apply to treated gemstones. In coming months however, LINAC treated gems will face there own regulations including having an NRC license for the importation of blue topaz, red tourmalines, many beryls (except emerald,) kunzite and irradiated diamonds.
AGTA concluded that since blue topaz generates more than $1 billion in sales each year, expanded regulations increase the amount of business risk.
NRC rules require documentation of all irradiated gems, including a paper trail of sources, and AGTA members are encouraged to identify inventories by vendor and date of import. Older stock will have had radioactive decay, AGTA mentioned, and could be easier to sell or document as safe.
All new imports must be clearly identified by vendor and date, as should sales to manufacturers and retailers AGTA concluded. AGTA urged its membership to temporarily suspend importing such stones until the status and safety could be clarified.
We advise that you check with your Jeweler before purchasing.
Want Your Diamond To Sparkle? Keep It Clean!
One of the biggest mistakes women make is not cleaning their diamond rings.
Diamonds have a tremendous affinity to the oils of our skin. They are also the center of gravity for the collection of every piece of dirt and grime a woman will come across during her daily routine.
Any time you cook, eat, wash dishes, handle food, etc. the dirt will get trapped in your diamond engagement ring and cake up the stone.
Very soon, you will find that the beautiful and sparkly diamond you purchased will appear dull and lifeless.
How could that be?
Very simple.
Think of the following analogy:
You take a transparent window that has the potential to let sunlight stream into a room, illuminating it beautifully. Now you pull a shade over the window, effectively blocking all sunlight from entering the room. Is there something wrong with the window? Did something happen to it? Of course not! You are simply preventing it from letting in the light.
It is exactly the same with your diamond engagement ring, just in reverse!
A perfectly cut Ideal diamond engagement ring, will refract maximum light entering the stone back out to the eye in a dazzling display of brilliance. However, if the stone is caked with dirt and grime, you are literally "pulling a shade' over the diamond and preventing the stone from refracting the light properly and effectively.
As a result, the diamond will "appear" dull and lifeless until you bother to clean it, bringing back its original beauty and brilliancy.
So how do you clean your diamond ring? Well, my Dad blogged on this some time ago over here.
How about the "no-no's" when it comes to properly maintaining the hygiene of your diamond engagement ring..;-)??
Are there any specific activities you ought to avoid?
Well, I just saw a really cute posting by Sean Dunn of J.R. Dunn Jewelers, with a list of items to avoid when attempting to keep your diamond ring clean!
Bedat Celebrates 10 Years..Shh!!
I'm not sure why I forgot to mention this right after the recent watch show in Basel..but one of my favorite luxury watch companies celebrated its 10th birthday this year!!
Yes, it is Bedat!
I know I haven't exactly been faithful to you this year Bedat (I currently sport the classic Ebel wave watch in two tone on my wrist), but I am still one of your biggest fans!
In conjuction with its milestone birthday, Bedat has launched a new advertising campaign called ‘Shh!’, which features models Carmen Kass and Andoni Anastasse with fingers to their lips in the universal ‘Shh!’ sign.
The campaign tag line reads "Very famous amongst very few people". This marketing strategy, IMO is a very cool and effective way to bring an already respected and established luxury watch brand to the broader public. The marketing strategy and idea came from the famous Paris based advertising agency Pascal & Thierry.
Here is to the next 10 years!!
Gomelsky Wins Jewelers Press Award
The Jewelry Information Center (JIC) honored Victoria Gomelsky for exceptional coverage of the fine-jewelry and watch industries at a luncheon held on Tuesday in conjunction with the JA New York Summer Show.
Victoria Gomelsky
Editor since 2004 of Couture International Jeweler, and with a Master's Degree in nonfiction writing from Columbia University, Gomelsky was previously the diamond and gemstone editor for National Jeweler. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, International Herald Tribune, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Escape, The Sun and an anthology called Waking Up American: Coming of Age Biculturally.
Congrats Victoria! LOVE those earings !!!
