Jewelry Archives
Jewelry: Platinum or Gold?
Above: Platinum Rings.
Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands.
A Synopsis:
When shopping for a diamond engagement ring, the question of what metal type to choose will invariably come up. Although whatever your choice, platinum engagement ring, or white gold engagement ring, you are certainly a winner, there are however certain distinguishing characteristics between the two metals.
Platinum Rings
Platinum is a heavier and denser metal than white gold and is more expensive than gold which contains a combination of alloys. Platinum rings are extremely appealing for the following reasons:
* Platinum is incredibly durable (much more so than white gold.)
* Platinum will hold your loose diamond or gemstone more securely than white gold which is a softer, more pliable metal.
* Platinum develops a beautiful sheen or patina over time.
* Platinum rings are hypoallergenic and will resist tarnishing better than gold.
Gold Rings
Gold rings are much less expensive than platinum rings and have the following characteristics:
* Gold will not scratch as easy as platinum.
* Because gold also contains other alloys its color will fluctuate depending on the purity of the gold that is used.
* Gold will tend to fade eventually and will require repolishing.
In Depth Analysis
Platinum:
Platinum is valued as the finest metal for jewelry. It is the strongest metal and weighs twice as much as its gold counterpart. Additionally, the exceptional weight and density of this precious metal make it extremely attractive and desirable, and will increase its value significantly. Platinum engagement rings, and platinum diamond rings, have taken the market by storm due to the fact that the sheen or patina of the metal does a better job than gold of highlighting/contrasting the beauty of the set diamonds. The platinum metal is part of a group of six metals including; platinum, iridium, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, and osmium. These metals are all extremely similar to platinum in their chemistry, density, and weight. As a matter of fact, they are often difficult to distinguish from each other. Platinum jewelry is also unique in that it is the only metal that is of 90% to 95% purity.
Gold:
Gold in its purest form is an extremely soft and pliable metal. Because it is so soft and malleable it cannot be used in jewelry since it would disfigure with normal wear. Because of this problem jewelers resort to an alloyed gold known as karat gold (different from "carat" measurement used to characterize diamond weight) Adding alloys to the gold will make the metal tougher and harder so that it may be used in jewelry applications. It will also result in different colors depending on the different combinations used. White gold contains approximately 10-20% nickel, with combinations of platinum, zinc, copper, and palladium. This combination makes white gold a tougher metal than yellow gold. The amount of gold in any given combination is described by karat number. Examples of these numbers would be 14k, 18k, or 24k. The number indicates how many components of pure gold are included in the 24 components that make up the alloy. The following chart illustrates these combinations:
10k = 10/24 = 41.67% purity of gold
14k = 14/24 = 58.33% purity of gold
18k = 18/24 = 75.00% purity of gold
24k = 24/24 = 100% pure gold
Pearl Jewelry
History:
Throughout history, the Pearl has been one of the most highly prized and sought after gems. Numerous references to the pearl can be found in religions and mythology of many cultures from the earliest times.
Ancient Egyptians prized pearls so much they were buried with them. Cleopatra dissolved a single pearl in a glass of wine and drank it, in order to win a bet with Marc Antony that she could consume the wealth of an entire country in just one meal.
In ancient Rome, pearls were considered the ultimate symbol of wealth and social standing. The Greeks held the pearl in high esteem for both its beauty and associated it with love and marriage.
Pearls evolved into symbolic figures, and were presented as evocative gifts dating as far back as 2206 B.C. during the time of Confucius. Myth has it that the Polynesian God Oro (God of peace and fertility), came to earth on a rainbow to offer a pearl as a symbol of love to the princess of Bora Bora. The Roman and Greek legends of Venus/Aphrodite(Goddess of love, beauty and pleasure), is said to have come out of the sea with water droplets turning into pearls, offering her “charms” as the love goddess.
During the Dark Ages,women of nobility wore pearl necklaces and knights wore pearls onto the battlefield believing that pearls had magic powers and would protect them from harm.
Pearls were extremely popular among the Royal Courts during the Rennaisance Period. Since pearls were so highly regarded, a number of European countries passed laws forbidding the wearing of pearls by others outside of the nobility. Queen Elizabeth I was the most avid pearl lover in history, and the “Fairy Queen Portrait,” (1550s – 1603) depicts the queen adorned in one of her 300 gowns that were laden, set, and sewn with natural pearls.
During the European expansion into the New World, the discovery of pearls in Central American waters added significantly to the wealth of Europe. Greed and lust resulted in the depletion of virtually all the American pearl oyster populations by the 17th Century.
Until the early 1900’s, natural pearls were accessible to only the rich and famous. In 1916, famed French jeweler Jacques Cartier bought his landmark store on New York’s Fifth Avenue by trading two pearl necklaces for the property.
During the early 1900s the worldwide demand for natural pearls exceeded supply, leading to development of cultured pearls by Kokichi Mikimoto.
Famous designer Coco Chanel paved the way for the wide acceptance of cultured pearls by popularizing them as everyday wear. Chanel thereby defined Pearl's as classic women’s fashion. In 1955 Tiffany responded to growing consumer demand by showcasing Pearls. Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor also often dressed in sumptuous pearls.
Today, natural and cultered pearls share the same properties as both are grown in live oysters and are readily available and affordable.
Pearl Formation.
As mentioned, due to the growing popularity for high quality Pearls, supply of natural Pearls became insufficient to meet demand. Thus the cultured Pearl industry was born and developed.
Pearls are grown by live oysters far below the surface of the sea.
The process begins when a foreign object, such as a parasite or piece of sand, accidently lodges itself in the oyster’s soft inner body where it cannot be expelled.
In an effort to ease this irritant, the oyster’s body takes defensive action. The oyster begins to secrete a smooth, hard crystalline substance around the irritant in order to protect itself. This substance is called nacre. As long as the irritant remains within its body, the oyster will continue to secrete nacre around the irritant, layer upon layer. After a few years, the irritant will be totally encased by the silky crystalline coatings. The result is the gem called a Pearl.
Foreign object enters oyster and cannot be expelled.
Cells then secrete a a smooth and hard substance called nacre around the irritant.
The exact process by which pearls are formed from what an oyster regards as merely protection against irritation is one of nature’s mysterys. Nacre in addition to being a soothing substance is composed of microscopic crystals. Each crystal is aligned perfectly with each other so that light passing along the axis of one is reflected and refracted by the other to produce a rainbow of light and color. Cultured pearls are formed by oysters in almost an identical fashion. The only difference is that man surgically implants the irritant — a small piece of polished shell into the oyster rather than leaving it to chance, then allows the oyster to do it's work.
After several years of nacre "building" a beautiful Pearl is formed.
Cultered Pearl Farming.
Pearl cultivation intially depended entirely on wild oysters. Now Pearl cultivation is more selective. Japanese scientists were in the vanguard in isolating strains of oysters possessing superior pearl bearing qualities. These selectively bred oysters are capable of producing pearls of exceptional lustre and color clarity.
Technicians open the live pearl oysters carefully, then surgically implant a small polished shell bead and piece of mantle tissue in each. The shell bead serves as the nucleus around which the oyster secretes layer after layer of nacre.
Pearl Tecnician implanting shell into Oyster.
The nucleated oysters are then returned to the sea. There, in sheltered bays rich in natural nutrients, the oysters feed and grow, secreting layers of nacre around their nuclei. In winter, the oysters are moved south to warmer waters.
Pearl Culturing.
These nucleated oysters are then suspended from rafts in order to provide the best growing conditions. Pearl technicians check water temperatures and feeding conditions daily at various water depths and then move the oysters up or down to take advantage of the best growing conditions. Cleaning and health treatments are administered and anything that might interfere with feeding such as seaweed, barnacles, and parasites which are removed from the shells.
Cultured pearls cannot be a mass-produced factory-like product.
On the average, about fifty percent of the nucleated oysters do not survive the surgical procedure to bear pearls. Others may succumb to a variety of conditions such as disease, heavy rains which reduce necessary salinity, explosive and unchecked growth of plankton which decreases oxygen in the water, predators, and parasites. Twenty percent of the survivors will bear marketable pearls. The rest are too imperfect or flawed to be used commercially.
Above: Oysters positioned for growth.
Above: Beautiful Pearl result of the Culturing Process.
Types of Cultured Pearls.
There are five basic Cultured Pearls types:
1. Akoya
2. White South Sea
3. Tahitian
4. Freshwater
5. Mabe
Akoya 
Akoya pearls are the classic cultured pearls of Japan. They are the most lustrous of all pearls found anywhere in the world. In recent years, China has been successful in producing Akoya pearls within their own waters. However, at this time they are not on par quality wise compared to the Japanese Akoya pearls.
White South Sea
White South Sea cultured pearls are grown in large tropical or semi-tropical oysters in Australia, Myanmar, Indonesia and other Pacific countries. They generally range in size from 10mm to 20mm and command premium prices because of their relative rarity and large size.
Tahitian 
Tahitian cultured pearls are grown in a variety of large pearl oysters found primarily in French Polynesia. Their beautiful, unique colors (which can range from light grey to black, and green to purple) and large size can command very high prices.
Freshwater 
Freshwater pearls are found in bays and rivers throughout the world. They are easily cultivated from freshwater mollusks in China, Japan and the United States. They are less lustrous than salt water cultured pearls but their low price, unique shapes and colors have made them popular jewelry items in recent years.
Mabe 
are grown in Japan, Indonesia, French Polynesia, and Australia.
Mabe pearls are hemispherical and are grown against the inside shell of an oyster rather than within the oyster’s body. They are used in earrings or rings which conceal their flat backs.
Buying Pearls- What to Look For.
There are five very important characteristics and features of Pearls that you should focus on when you are in the market to make a purchase. They are:
1. Lustre
2. Surface
3. Shape
4. Color
5. Size
LUSTRE:
Lustre is the combination of surface brilliance and a deep seated glow. The lustre of a good quality pearl should be bright and you should be able to see your own reflection clearly on the surface of a pearl. Any pearl that appears too white, dull or chalky indicates low quality.
SURFACE:
refers to the absence of disfiguring spots, bumps or cracks on the surface of a pearl. The cleaner the surface of the pearl, the more valuable.
SHAPE:
The fact that cultured pearls are grown by oysters makes it very rare to find a perfectly round pearl. Therefore the rounder the pearl, the more valuable it is.
COLOR:
Pearls come in a variety of colors from rosé to black.
SIZE:
Cultured pearls are measured by their diameter in millimeters. Size can range from 1 millimeter to more than 20 millimeters. The larger the pearl the more expensive it will be. The average sized pearl sold today is between 7 and 7-1/2 millimeters.
Some beautiful examples of Pearl Jewelry.
Photo's and Graphics courtesy of www.exceldiamonds.com and The Pearl Information Center
Right Hand Diamond Rings
Recently in the diamond and fashion jewelry industry there has been an almost unprecedented marketing blitz by the DTC (Diamond Trading Company) which is the marketing arm of the DeBeers Diamond Company to promote and sell "right hand diamond rings" for women.
The idea was to basically create a niche for women to wear Diamond rings on their right hand in addition to the traditional diamond engagement rings and wedding bands worn on the left hand. The way this was done was by promoting the notion that a diamond ring worn by a woman on her right hand has a different significance and connotation than the traditional rings being worn on the left hand.
The premise of "empowering" women with a right hand ring is the main thrust of the campaign and is best summed up by this direct quote from the DeBeers website, www.adiamondisforever.com:
"The right hand need not be ignored any longer… The newest trend is the diamond Right Hand Ring. The diamond Right Hand Ring signifies the strength, success and independence of women of the twenty-first century. These rings come in a variety of beautiful designs -- Modern Vintage, Floral, Romantic, and Contemporary -- offering each woman a design that best suits her individual personality. Women of the world, raise your right hand!"
The biggest marketing companies were called in to create catchy slogans and brochures for the campaign.
Here is a photo of one of the advertisements created for this campaign:
A typical advertisement will read; "Your left hand holds on. You right hand reaches out. Your left hand plays hard-to-get. Your right hand just plays hard. Women of the world raise your right hand."
The question is, how effective has this campaign been?
I recently read a fascinating article in The Rappaport Diamond Report for the diamond industry where the author interviewed a few owners of some of the prominent jewelry stores for their opinion on how effective this campaign has been thus far based on consumer reaction.
Here is what a few of them had to say:
Paul Cohen, President Continental Jewelers, Inc. Wilmington,Delaware
"I believe as the designs evolve that the campaign will have greater impact and greater appeal....it has had an impact on increasing sales in what we used to call cocktail rings. The campaign is in effect saying, Ladies celebrate yourselves. It's okay to wear a diamond ring other than a diamond band or a diamond engagement ring. It's okay to wear a diamond dress/cocktail ring. It just gives it another name. And it's a name that's more in keeping with the evolution of women's lives and the fact that they are becoming equal; they are moving forward."
Christopher Duquet, President Christpher Duquet Fine Jewelry design Evanston, Illinois
"I haven't had a real, significant surge of requests for them in our store. I think it has been a successful campaign in terms of its psychographics. It's right on target in terms of expanding their market. But I don't think it has reached the depths yet where it has gotten consumer reaction in a big way."
The truth is that these right hand diamond rings are really nothing new at all. Kwiat, Hearts on fire diamonds, Tacori, Verragio, and many other designer ring companies have been creating fashion jewelry and diamond cocktail rings for quite some time.
In short, I think that it is still left to be seen whether this right hand diamond ring campaign will flourish and gain momentum or go bust the way of so many other diamond and jewelry fads before it.
Pictures of right hand diamond rings courtesy of DTC and www.exceldiamonds.com
Everything in PINK! The New Craze for Pink Gold and Pink Sapphires.
In a recent article in the Modern Jeweler magazine; Pink Sapphires have become the rage in fashion and bridal jewelry.
With actual colors ranging from shades of dusky rose to reddish gold, pink is now more than just a trend in jewelry. It has become a staple commodity in both gemstones and precious metals.
The mainstream jewelry stores and fashion jewelry boutiques are now showcasing pink jewelry in every conceivable look and configuration.
You have pink gold with white gold, pink gold with platinum, pink and white gold with combinations of pink sapphires and dazzling white diamonds, etc.
Jewelry retail stores have seen a tremendous hike in demand for diamond engagement rings in pink gold, accented by pink sapphires and fine gemstones.
White gold and diamond earrings with pink sapphires:
Rose Gold and diamond bangle:
Diamond Sales Tips from Jewelry Experts
Some of the most knowledgable jewelry salespeople in the country congregated recently in central Florida to sell old jewelry inventory at the premiere of the Presige Jewelers Vault Inventory Liquidation show. The show was held for a period of 3 days in Orlando, Fla, in mid October 2004. The ballroom was packed with great fashion jewelry deals for both consumers and jewelers alike. The show also turned up the following sales tips:
* Always under-promise and over-deliver. If you promise designer jewelry items for Tuesday, have it ready on Monday.
Source: Weston Jewelers, Weston, Fla.
* Arrange jewelry pieces in sets so that consumers can visualize jewelry items on themselves. This also makes it easier to up-sell items Source: Moyer Fine Jewelers, Carmel, Ind.
* Never Judge Clients by their looks. Customers' purchases might surprise you. Source: Weston Jewelers, Weston, Fla.
* Know your customer. If you sell a diamond bracelet as a Christmas gift to a man whose wife hates bracelets, he'll be back in January to return the piece.
Source: James Free Jewelers, Dayton, Ohio.
* Listen to your customer. If a diamond or jewelry customer says, "I never wear white gold," don't pull out the platinum jewelry. Observe their style, the colors they wear, etc.
Source: Shreve, Crump, & Low Jewelers, Richmond, VA.
* Know when to stop selling. Customers generally indicate when the next contact should be. You also don't want to confuse your customer by "adding on" too much to the sale.
Source: Sidney Krandall & Sons, Troy, Mich.
* Present it, present it, present it! Observe what the customer is already wearing and suggest pieces.
Source: Susan Robinson Jewelry, Tyler, Texas.
* Remember what you've already sold to a customer. That makes it easy to sell pieces that complement the others.
Source: James Free Jewelers, Dayton, Ohio.
* Get jewelry pieces onto customers. Sales are easier once shoppers see themselves in the jewelry merchandise.
Source: Gold & Roses, Stockton, Calif.
* Smile! Buying jewelry is a happy occasion.
Source: Little Switzerland, Boca, FL.
* Location, location, location. Secure a good location for your jewelry store.
Source: George Walton's Gold and diamond
Co., Anchorage Alaska.
* Connect first, sell second. Make friends and care about your diamond customers; ask questions and be sincerely interested in the responses. Relate to shoppers so they are comfortable and open to what you are selling.
Source: Fire & Ice, Juneau, Alaska
* "Shut up" at the end of the sale. Listen twice as much as you speak.
Source: R.F. Moeller Jeweler, St. Paul, Minn.
* Always be closing. Perform suggestive trial closes throughout the sales pitch and ask for the sale at the end.
Source: Barry Peterson Jewelers, Ketchum,
Idaho.
* Know your market. Offer the right jewelry product for the right individual coming into the store.
Source: Tivols, Kansas City, MO.
Montegrappa Diamond "Peace Pen"
Proving that there is a market for dazzling white diamonds in any industry; noted pen maker Montegrappa has just introduced its new $1 million dollar diamond studded "Peace Pen".
Would make a great Valentine's Day Gift!
Sotheby's Puts Jackie O Jewelry on Block
Jackie Onassis Kennedy
A small selection of fashion jewelry owned by the late Jaqqueline Kennedy Onassis will be among the many lots offered by Sotheby's in their Feb. 15-17 2005 auction.
These magnificent jewelry items include many unique diamond jewelry pieces by Van Cleef and Arpels. There is a diamond bracelet and diamond earrings estimated at $3,000 to $5,000 and a colored stone and diamond brooch estimated at $1,200 to $1,500.
The sale will also include a silver-topped gold, sapphire and diamond flower brooch estimated at $12,000 to $15,000, a Cartier black velvet, diamond, coral and Emerald purse estimated at $3,000 to $4,000; and a Faberg'e gold and enamel miniature triptych frame, circa 1900, estimated at $15,000 to $20,000.
A portion of the auction proceeds will go to the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation and other charities.
There are going to be many more pieces of fine jewelry on display and the auction is open to the public. If you are a collector of fashion jewelry and jewelry collectibles (vintage jewelry etc.) this is probably something you don't want to miss!
For more information click on this link.
Pearl Jewelry Looking Strong For 2005
Pearls' popularity is peaking for the begining of 2005 and is showing no signs of slowing down.
Trend analysts predict that for 2005 designers of fashion jewelry will be going for nontraditional materials, and will look to combine pearls of various shapes and sizes with leather, rubber, and sterling silver.
Some of the big sellers predicted for 2005 are ribbon-tied pearl chokers, long pearl and gemstone strands, tahitian pearl bracelets, pearl cufflinks (for men), south sea pearl diamond rings, tahitian pearl rings flanked by diamonds and pearl cocktail rings.
Much of the tremendous surge in popularity for pearl jewelry has to do with their availibility in many hues and colors as well as funky shapes (eg: barouque pearls) that allow designers to innovate.
Jewelry Designers Partner With Celebrities
The concept of Jewelry "Branding" is nothing new to many designer Jewelry companies. There are some jewelry manufacturers who have recently partnered with celebrities to promote their designer jewelry.
Unlike with advertising and marketing which takes years to really make an impact; Celebrities offer instant name recognition.
The house of Mouawad (jewelers) has collaborated with supermodel Heidi Klum on a jewelry collection for the last three years. Klum designed a jewelry collection that includes about 100 pieces of fine jewelry priced from $300 to $80,000. Klum is heavily involved in creating the line and can offer her fans a product with more than just her stamp of approval as a spokesmodel.
In addition to her involvement in the design, Klum is extremely visible in the Jewelry's marketing, appearing in advertisements and at special events promoting the line, to help customers make the connection between the products and her name and image.
A-list actor Brad Pitt has also been affiliated with Fashion Jewelry Designer, Damiani after working with the designer to create wedding rings for himself and his (soon to be ex) wife Jennifer Aniston.
More recently, Damiani has partnered with actress Gwyneth Paltrow to be their spokesmodel for 2005.
Silvia Damiani with the new face of Damiani for 2005 Gwyneth Paltrow
While jewelry manufacturers benefit from the instant branding of their jewelry products, the partnership offers benefits to the celebrities as well.
Robert Thompson, an expert of popular culture and Professor at Syracuse University says that the move toward celebrity products represents a natural evolution for celebrities, spurred partly by the American public's facination with them. He adds that jewelry is especially suited to celebrity endorsements due to its grandeur.
"Jewelry is one of those luxury items that you get for its association with glamour and wealth, and the kind of lifestyle that only big celebrities can sell and endorse.," he says.
The celebrities themselves are seeing that, rather than being advertisements for someone else's designs, they can create (and profit from) their own design. This is a very powerful motivator for them and has been the catalyst for many celebrities including Paris Hilton, Jennifer Lopez and Pamela Anderson launching (their own) wildly successful fashion jewelry collections.
Swarovski Shines at Fashion Week!
If you are like me and you love the timeless beauty and elegance of the Swarovski Crystals and Jewelry; you're sure to get more than you bargained for during the 2005 Fall Fashion Week!
Many prominent designers will be using the Swarovski crystals in their gowns and garments.
Elizabeth Taylor to Launch Jewelry Line With Mirabelle!
Elizabeth Taylor
The ageless and beautiful screen legend; Elizabeth Taylor has ventured into the jewelry market through a deal with Mirabelle Luxury Concepts.
Elizabeth Taylor is more associated with diamonds and jewelry than any other woman in the world. Her outstanding collection of jewelry was immortalized in her New York Times best selling book, "My Love Affair with Jewelry". This book is a fabulous display of unbelievable glamour, assembled over a lifetime, by one of the most extraordinary women in the world.
The House of Taylor Jewelry collection will appear at the upcoming JCK Las Vegas Show, as well as the JA New York Summer Show. The Elizabeth Taylor collection will feature an assortment of traditional fine jewelry, as well as one-of-a-kind couture pieces priced in excess of $1 million.
The House of Taylor has already proven successful in converting Taylor's appeal into sales of fragrances, cosmetics, gaming and publishing.
Read the full report here.
Macho Men Wear Diamonds?
During year 2004, men purchased jewelry for themselves, representing 11 percent of the total ($57.4 billion) jewelry market. But the potential to sell men diamonds is, according to Unity Marketing, a marketing goal worth exploring.
"Targeting the male jewelry market for self-purchasing men and gift-giving women is a new opportunity for growth,” said Pamela Danziger, president of Unity Marketing.
As business culture swings back into line with more formal attire, the demand for power jewelry is increasing, and men's gemstone choice is diamonds.
“The time is right to position jewelry as a gift for women to give men,” Danziger said.
“Positioning jewelry as a gift for men is a wide-open marketing opportunity," especially for men who are interested in fashion and grooming. "Jewelry is an innovative gift idea which offers significant potential for marketers and retailers,” Danziger concluded from her company's consumer insights study.
Pamela, I think that's a great idea, and Ladies, you can hit me with them bling-blings!
Emerging Jewelry Trends for 2005
The first jewelry show of 2005, held January 16 to 23 in Vicenza, Italy is seen as the jewelry trend setter for the entire year. This show usually predicts the sales season as the mood at this show has often been an indication of how the rest of the year will develop.
Italian jewelry was much in demand.
Foreign countries were well represented by visitors from Turkey, Eastern Europe and China.
In total, there were 21,000 visitors at the show. Compared to last year’s attendance numbers, U.S. buyers dropped by 2 percent. At this year’s show, the U.S. represented 7 percent of the total foreign presence, Japan only up 5 percent and Turkey up 33.6 percent.
In addition to business opportunities, Vicenzaoro 1 2005 featured numerous events and conferences covering the new challenges in the diamond industry, how to protect designs and trademark, future trends, new technologies in gold workmanship and pricing in the precious metals and stones sector.
The trends showcased for this year are light woven mesh and gold ropes which are intertwined extensively with the use of boules and mesh chains and large hoops in three colors of gold — white, yellow and pink. Diamonds embedded in white gold are the more sophisticated jewels, and feature light twisted ribbons and metal threads or create precious motifs alongside colored stones cut in different shapes. This style is often combined onto large rings with modular parts, such as the rings in the “rose bouquet” collection of La Nouvelle Bague. The latter also display a frequent theme that is present on various jewels: spirals.
In contrast to sparkling shapes and motifs, the clean geometric shape is often featured in gems of unprecedented shapes. In the “Athena” bracelet by Talento, a large, asymmetrical amethyst is placed in the center and studded with white diamonds.
Pendants and lucky “charms” have maintained their popularity; they are freely applied in necklaces and bracelets and often complemented by diamond pavé.
Long earrings with pear-shaped stones are very trendy this winter as well as earrings with tiny satin-finished yellow gold parts with embedded diamonds.
Two-tone or tricolor gold's popularity continues in numerous pieces, including those with a modern, geometric clean look, such as the ring by Collezione Privata that uses diamonds to highlight the movement of its asymmetrical plates.
Nature themes are front and center this season,with floral patterns, leaves and various flowers, alternating shiny yellow and processed gold. Flowers are also covered with luxurious diamond pavé and colored gemstones. The best example is the set of “Four Hearts,” “Daisy” and “Gerbera” rings by Palmiero in white or yellow gold with diamonds and various shades of sapphire.
Fancy colored diamonds in cognac, yellow and pink are popular. However, black diamonds, which were very popular the last few years, are now in much less demand.
Ethnic styles are back, bangles and slave bracelets are back in style. These bracelets are made of hollow cane or by electroform so that they appear large, but are very light.
Diamond Jewelry and The Academy Awards
With the recent Academy Awards ceremony now a blip in the rearview mirror, one cannot help but reflect on the tremendous boom of celebrity endorsements of diamond jewelry by specific designer companies.
It amazes me how so many diamond and jewelry companies are literally tripping over each other in an effort to get the Hollywood elite to borrow their designer jewelry pieces for the Oscars.
Understandably, with the heavy media exposure at this high profile event there is a tremendous marketing advantage to be considered. And while it is certainly true that the Red Carpet at the awards show has traditionally been the showcase for the latest in glamour, elegant dresses and sparkling jewelry; it is also true that many jewelry companies are faced with huge headaches in the days leading up to, and right after the awards ceremony.
It is common knowledge in the diamond industry that Actresses are notorious for choosing to wear a certain designer jewelry piece to the ceremonies, only to change their minds right before the show. Designers don't know until the very last minute if their diamond and jewelry creations will actually be worn on the red carpet. Another huge problem is the very common occurence of jewelry pieces being returned post ceremony in very bad shape and in dire need of repair. I've even heard a few stories from collegues of mine in the diamond industry where expensive diamond jewelry pieces were never returned under the false "assumption" of an "unspoken agreeement" that the jewelry item was a gift in return for the celebrity showcasing it at the event.
The bottom line however, is that these gorgeous diamond treasures created by the likes of Harry Winston and Van Cleef have become as much a part of the Awards ceremony as the Oscars itself and creates a buzz that invariably leads to a hike in consumer demand for fine diamonds and designer jewelry.
Oscars
Celebrities in Their Element
Jewelry a No-No for Race Car Drivers.
Auto-racers for the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) were banned from wearing jewelry while driving, the organization's governing body said. Diamond earrings or piercings, gold chains and hoops were no longer permitted, as ratified by the world motor sport council summit in Paris.
The ban was proposed by the FIA's medical commission, and would apply to world rally and other pilots. Several pilots interviewed by sports media wear "an earring," or sentimental, good-for-luck amulets. The order was made for safety reasons as metal can cause burns in the event of fire the council said.
It was not clear if the ban applies to wristwatches, which if the driver wins could be seen by millions of television viewers on a driver's left wrist, providing advertising space and revenue for the bearer.
New!! Custom Modified X Prong Channel Diamond Setting By Vatche
This magnificent diamond ring by Vatche is actually a custom made piece (or in the case of a Vatche ring, a "Custom - Custom piece"...)that we had Vatche make for a recent customer of ours.
The ring is a combination of two of the hottest Vatche Engagement Rings; the X Prong, and Royal Crown Settings. This ring features the unique and beautiful X prong (Lucida Style) basket, and the distincly tapered shank (ring portion) of the equally famous Royal Crown ring. The result is a gorgeous ring of tremendous elegance and beauty. The addition of quality channel set round diamonds (supplied by Vatche)in a Platinum setting completes the look!!!
In case you are wondering...the center diamond in this ring is a 1.11 H VS2 SuperbCert Signature Diamond!!
I think the beauty of this ring is that many people have shown a preference for the tapered shank of the Royal Crown but still prefer the distinctive look of the X Prong basket. Here, you have the ability to mix and match to suit your own taste!
We will be putting this ring up for sale on our website shortly!
Wanna Buy A Cell-Phone, Cheap? Here's A Nokia, ONLY $90K!!
London's Guardian today reports that although Diamonds are forever, mobile phones are not designed to last quite so long. Unless you are a lucky recipient of a jewel-encrusted mobile this Christmas, that is. Vertu, a subsidiary of Nokia, is producing 200 mobile phones decorated with diamonds. The most expensive of the range are believed to be the first mobile handsets to cost in the region of $88,300.
The company, which sells the mobiles through expensive jewelers and department stores such as Harrods, plans to ship the first of the diamond handsets next week. The phones are handmade at the company's headquarters near Hook in Hampshire, and are already pre-sold. But don't worry if a Vertu phone is on your Christmas wish list. The company produces a range of "cheaper" handsets, which start at around $5,300, and these are still available.
So what do you get for your 90 grand? Down the side of the phone is something called a pave, jewelers' parlance for a "carpet" of tiny diamonds. The keypads of the most expensive handsets are made up of eight carats' worth of diamonds. The keypad itself is housed in a body of white gold (or platinum), underpinned with ruby bearings and furnished with the same ceramic material that was initially manufactured for the space shuttle.
"Luxury isn't about need, it is about want," explains Chris Harris, the company's UK sales director. "We all have our areas where we spend beyond reason because we get a buzz from it. Owners of Vertu know they are buying an object that only a few people can own." Indeed, consumer technology has long had a luxury market that, at its peak, is often indistinguishable from jewelry. The humble timepiece can cost eight dollars, but it can also cost $18,000 and do its job little better. But to the owner, that's not the point. You only have to look at the Persian wealth currently on show at the British Museum to see that everyday objects have long been status symbols.
Surprisingly, the $88,300 phone comes with just a single year's warranty, doesn't have a camera and there are no promises to retrofit the handsets if the current GSM technology, which it relies on, is ever replaced.
Even a $88,300 phone has a finite lifespan as a working model. But then again, it is easy to be snotty about such success. What Vertu is doing, after all, is establishing a luxury brand that is becoming synonymous with hi-tech phones, just as Switzerland is with high-end watches. And you can admire a Vertu almost like a Faberge egg. The engineering is technically excellent and the aforementioned ruby bearings are designed to perform millions of actuations over the handset's life cycle, for example. The phones are far more durable than regular brands and are expected to last up to 20 years if looked after properly.
It is tempting to think of such glittering objects as future antiques, bought as an investment, and Vertu says that a number of its phones are bought by collectors, especially in the far east. So could we expect to see a Vertu handset pop up on the Antiques Roadshow 50 years from now?
"That's just silly," says a spokeswoman with the auction house Christie's. "The jewels will have an inherent value," she says, "but it is impossible to know what they will sell for in the future. What gives an antique its value is a combination of rarity, quality and provenance. Just because a rich person owns it doesn't give it value."
But if a famous person owns it, then it is a different story. David Beckham, Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Pitt all own Vertu phones, as do members of the Saudi royal family. And Vertu is not the only firm making phones that go bling, bling.
Motorola is rumoured to be producing a limited edition, solid gold version of its superslim clamshell, the V3. Last month, Samsung, one of the biggest "non-luxury" phones manufacturers, announced a partnership with Bang & Olufsen, the Danish makers of sleekly futuristic audio equipment. The resulting lovechild is the Serene, a very odd mobile handset. It features a "dial" keypad, doesn't play music and is expected to cost around $1,240 when it goes on sale in the UK next month.
"The intention is to provide an alternative for those customers who demand the highest quality," reads a statement from the company, "for whom simplicity and quality are important factors, and for whom less can be more. It is a phone you want to keep. It is timeless in use, in design, and in technology, freed from unnecessary functions and instructions." The phone is, therefore, the polar opposite of the Vertu handset. But then again, when have the rich ever agreed on what makes style?
But blinging up your phone is no longer the preserve of the super-rich. Jewelry makers such as Boodle already supply a range of accessories to glam up the most mundane of mobiles, and Swarovski, the makers of high-quality crystal products, manufacture special cases and holders for mobile phones that sell for several hundred dollars each.
But adding a bit of glitz to your phone doesn't have to be so expensive. Last week, Siemens unveiled its first piece of mobile jewelery. Inspired by the Japanese practice of accessorising handsets with bits of pendants, lucky charms and ribbon, the Gharani Strok charm will be available for $150.00 from the Siemens website.
"We found that women are left cold by the square masculine designs of most mobile phones," says Louise Forbes, the company's head of marketing. "They want their phones to be feminine - a fashion accessory rather than a functional tool."
Conspicuous consumption, as defined by the Norwegian-American philosopher Thorstein Veblen, describes the flaunting of prosperity, power or prestige, and it can take the form of a Rolex watch, a Rolls Royce or the ownership of a football club. With consumer technology so important to so many people, it has become another obvious choice.
There is even a 24-carat gold holder for Sony's PlayStation Portable on sale at Harrods this Christmas. Produced by Simmons the jeweler, the $35,400 Baby Phat is made using a pound of gold, with yellow and black diamonds on the front and "croc finishing" on the back.
But with mobile phone theft rife, you can't help but wonder about the wisdom of such purchases. "If you can afford to buy one, you can afford to lose one," says the cabbie on the way to the Vertu factory.
Bling-bling, ring-ring.
Jewelry At Top of Holiday Gift Giving, Study Finds.
National Jeweler this morning reports that one in 10 consumers will buy jewelry as a gift this holiday season, according to a new consumer survey.
The study, "Shopping in America: Holiday 2005," finds that the average consumer will spend $655 on holiday gifts, with 11 percent purchasing jewelry.
Indicating that the jewelry trend has real legs, layered necklaces came in as the second-most popular gift for women among all types of holiday gifts, with 15 percent of shoppers naming them as the best gift for women this season.
Conducted by August Partners for real estate investment trust The Macerich Company, the survey finds that digital music players, Barbie items, fashion and entertainment gifts will represent the best-selling gifts in 2005.
Holiday budgets are projected to swell 7.8 percent this year, with many shoppers looking for clothing (21 percent), toys (12 percent), electronics (12 percent), books/CDs (11 percent) and mall gift cards (10 percent).
The survey finds that the top gifts for men will be sports tickets (22 percent), while the top gifts for women will be CD and DVD box sets (17 percent), though females shoppers gave equal weight to both the box sets and layered necklaces, with 16 percent choosing them as the top item on their wish
Gorgeous Diamond Necklaces and Pendants For This Holiday Season!
We have just added these magnificent diamond necklaces and diamond pendants to our Exceldiamonds.com website. Manufactured by world class jewelry designer, Vatche, these gorgeous diamond pieces will make for excellent Holiday gifts.
Inexpensive Jewlery High on Buy List.
Results from the Jewelry Consumer Opinion Council (JCOC) survey indicated that consumers favored staple items over expensive jewelry this holiday season. Holiday sales in 2005 appear to have fared slight better than in 2004.
Only 30 percent of respondents purchased jewelry this year. In a study conducted earlier in the holiday season, 30 percent of those interviewed said that they would purchase jewelry in the months from September to December. The JCOC concluded that most of the people who bought jewelry intended to do so before going shopping.
The JCOC study also found that most of the Christmas buying took place at large retailers and at low price points. Nearly half of JCOC panel members (46.9 percent) who purchased fine jewelry or watches this year bought from a department store, national jewelry chain store, or a mass discount store. Only 11 percent bought at independent fine jewelers.
More than half (56.7 percent) of jewelry purchasers this holiday season spent less than $200 on jewelry and watch gifts, while 33.5 percent spent below $100. Consumer preferences this holiday season included yellow gold, diamond jewelry, precious metal jewelry with no gemstones, earrings, necklaces and watches. According to the survey, 32.5 percent chose diamond jewelry for their holiday purchases.
Of the panel members, 35.4 percent spent more on fine jewelry and watch gifts compared with previous years, while 32.4 percent spent less. Among those who spent less, 30.1 percent said that jewelry was not in their budget, while 16.6 percent said they wanted to buy something different.
The JCOC also found missed opportunities for the industry. Less than 20 percent of respondents said they purchased fine jewelry for themselves this holiday. However, back in September, more than 40 percent indicated that they would make a self-purchase. The JCOC concluded that sought for products were not available for self-purchasers and that retailers need to be sure to include self-purchases in their sales efforts during the holiday.
Buying The Right Jewelry For Your Spouse
I've been talking on the phone recently with so many clueless men who are looking to buy their spouses some jewelry, I figured I'd dedicate an article on the topic.
Here are a few common problems facing men who are trying to buy a gift for a spouse or a girlfriend:
What does she like? What does she need? What's her size? Will this gift really dazzle her?
Left to our own devices, men will often opt for the "safe" method of buying stuff that they know won't get thrown back in their faces. Things like teddy bears, flowers, chocolate truffles, are all common gifts that us men tend to purchase for our loved one. Problem with these things are that they are too predictable and really get stale over time. I mean, how many times are you gonna come home with chocolate to celebrate a milestone??
Problem with buying jewelry is that there are so many variables and styles to choose from. How do we know were going to buy something she's gonna like??
Click on this link to find out.
Continue reading "Buying The Right Jewelry For Your Spouse" »
Rent-A-Diamond Tiara!
Going to the Ball and want to dazzle your competition and win the Guy by wearing that Diamond tiara? No problem. Ever want to borrow the latest Fendi bag for a month or drive around in a bright yellow Lamborghini for a day? No problem.
Why Buy It When You Can Borrow It?
A number of companies are tapping into consumers' penchant for leasing luxury. They're targeting both the affluent who don't want to hold on to anything for long and those less monied folks who want to get a taste of the lifestyles of the rich.
Portero is a two-year-old online luxury exchange site that sells diamonds, jewelry, secondhand high-end electronics, fashion, art, cars, and home items, and it now has 8,000 buyers and 6,000 sellers registered.
"The whole mindset is changing. Customers are no longer buying things to hold on to," said Daniel Nissanoff, president of Portero. "The brands need to embrace this, and the retailers need to embrace this." Nissanoff is also the author of FutureShop, a book about the new auction culture sweeping luxury markets online.
Portero struck a deal with watch merchant Tourneau in 2005 in which the watch company will authenticate any watches resold on the Portero site. It has signed similar deals with other designer brands that Nissanoff declined to name and is in negotiations with various luxury brands to promote Portero to customers as a place to sell goods they no longer want.
Seattle-based online service Bag Borrow or Steal allows customers to borrow designer handbags through a monthly membership fee. New York-based Gotham Dream Cars LLC will deliver exotic cars like a Lamborghini Gallardo to customers' doorsteps for a rental fee ranging from $595 to $1,950 per day.
Golf manufacturer Callaway Golf Co. is making it easier for customers to trade in old golf clubs and get discounts on new ones at 4,000 golf stores and pro shops nationwide. The retailers get reimbursed for the price difference, and Callaway resells the old clubs on a Web site called callawaygolfpreowned.com.
Executives say they've been pleased with results.
Brian Hemley, senior vice president of Callaway Golf Interactive, which oversees the program, noted that he now sees consumers trading in their golf clubs every three to four years, instead of every four to five years.
Nissanoff said Portero's sales are beating expectations but it has had to do some tweaking in recent months. It's further limiting its fashion assortments to focus on the most popular categories: watches and diamond jewelry.
Portero has also turned to apparel brands and other companies to supply it with inventory. About 60 percent of the merchandise is now from companies; the remainder is from consumers.
Trend expert Syl Tang, who is CEO of Hipguide.com, believes that this idea of temporary ownership is limited to items with depreciating value like golf clubs and cars. Fashion, she says, is a different story.
"There is a limited audience honestly," Tang said. "Women I know who buy designer handbags covet them. They love, cherish, show them off. Then they wait for that Fendi baguette to become retro.
Jewelry UltraSonic Cleaners
Just found a great link for a really hight tech Ultrasonic diamond and jewelry cleaner.
I don't vouch for how well it works though...since I've never tried it.
Its cheaper than the ones at brookstone or sharper image
Stolen Diamond Slippers Returned!
Three Toronto photo lab workers will share a $25,000 reward for helping recover a pair of slippers stolen from the Bata Shoe Museum.
Stolen Diamond Slippers
These rare, jewel-encrusted slippers, once worn by an Indian prince, were stolen from the Bata Shoe Museum on Jan. 22.
The jeweled slippers, worth $160,000, were stolen from the Toronto museum in late January in a daylight robbery.
A gold toe ring, set with diamonds and rubies and valued at $11,000 and a gold anklet, set with diamonds, rubies and emeralds and valued at $45,000, also were taken.
The theft led museum founder Sonja Bata to offer a $25,000 reward for return of the items.
Tom Hamilton, the owner of the photo shop, was packaging some photos when he spotted a picture of one of the slippers.
When a man returned to pick up the photos, Hamilton and his staff diverted his attention enough to secretly snap his picture and call police.
A gold toe ring set with diamonds and rubies and a gold anklet set with diamonds, rubies and emeralds also disappeared.
During their investigation of the robbery, Toronto police released photos of "persons of interest" in the case, without saying where they got the photos.
That led to a break in the case. A man was arrested on March 3.
Filip Djukic, 35, was charged with possession of property obtained by crime.
The slippers, once worn by the Nizam Sikandar Jah of Hyderabad, and the other two items were recovered in a Toronto church after an anonymous call to a museum employee.
Buying Loose Diamonds, Engagement Rings, Wedding Bands, & Wedding Rings: Trust and Verify.
Marshall Loeb of Market Watch quotes our friend and colleague, Jay Mednikow with advice to consumers on how to safely shop for loose diamonds, engagement rings, wedding rings and bands, both in jewlery stores and through internet websites. It is advice we agree with 100% and worth following.
Few purchases are more mystifying for first-time buyers than fine jewelry. There's more information out there than ever - from jewelers' Web sites and online forums to nearly ubiquitous grading reports from independent labs. But buying expensive gems and precious metals is still largely a matter of trust between you and the jeweler.
First, educate yourself on the basics. For diamonds, that means the four Cs: cut, color, clarity and carat weight. For gold, platinum and silver, it means purity.
You can find helpful information on these fundamentals from the Federal Trade Commission ( FTC) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The Gemological Institute of America, the most prominent diamond grading agency, provides tutorials on buying diamonds and colored gems at (GIA Education).
"It's less of a blind purchase than it used to be," says Jay Mednikow, president of 115-year-old Mednikow Jewelers in Memphis and Atlanta. "But a jeweler who knows what he's doing can take advantage of you if he wants to."
Thus, there is still no substitute for a reliable dealer with an established reputation. Many jewelers are GIA-certified gemologists and display their credentials prominently.
For diamonds, Mednikow recommends buying only those with grading certificates from GIA, the American Gem Society or another independent laboratory. If a jeweler says he can offer you an uncertified diamond at a discount, tell him you'll pay to have it analyzed since the cost should be only $50 to $300 depending on the size of the stone. Read warranty and return policies carefully and make sure all guarantees are written on your sales receipt - it's your legal contract.
You may have a hard time distinguishing between slight variations in color and clarity, but still trust your own eyes.
Mednikow recommends holding diamonds with a pair of tweezers over your finger or against a white background and under lights of different types and varying brightness. With shapes other than round-cut, which has standard specifications, and with colored gems, you will have to rely much more on the jeweler's expertise.
If you are buying a colored stone such as a ruby, sapphire or diamond, ask if it has been "treated" to enhance the color. Some processes are routine, like heating for sapphires and rubies and oiling for emeralds, but others are temporary or undesirable.
Up to half the gold jewelry sold in the U.S. bears a false karat rating, says Mednikow. Choosing a reliable merchant is your only insurance, although national retailers like Zales and Sears are diligent about the purity of their gold.
Guess Where You Can Buy Diamonds & Jewelry? You Won't Believe It!
Idex Research today reports that Specialty jewelers who lament that they are losing sales to discounters, department stores, and many other retail categories are correct. Just-released information from the U.S. Department of Commerce reveals that for every specialty jeweler in the U.S., there are three other merchants – whose primary business is not jewelry – who are also selling diamonds, precious metals, and other goods that have traditionally been the domain of specialty jewelers.
There are just over 128,000 retailers in the U.S. who sell jewelry in their stores, according to the latest Business Census data from the U.S. Department of Commerce. Roughly 28,000 of those stores, or about 22 percent of all jewelry retail outlets, are specialty jewelers; the others represent a wide variety of retail categories including department stores, general merchandise stores, warehouse clubs, apparel retailers, non-store retailers, and a number of other specialty retailers. The graph below illustrates the mix of specialty jewelers to total retailers of jewelry in the U.S.
Stores Selling Jewelry by Category
Percent of Total of 128,000 Stores
Source: Dept. of Commerce
Because jewelry is such an attractive industry – gross margins are healthy and the long term characteristics of demand are positive – there are many merchants who are trying to sell jewelry.
Further, as a result of few barriers to entry, retailing attracts a large number of merchants who will try to sell anything to make a profit.
The bad news for specialty jewelers is that they are losing market share to those merchants whose business is not primarily selling jewelry. Over the past decade, specialty jewelers’ market share in the U.S. has dropped from about 50 percent to just over 47 percent, as the graph below illustrates.
There may be some surprises among the list of retailers who are gaining – and those who are losing – market share in the jewelry category. As expected, non-store retailers have among the strongest growth of any retail category. Stores that retail sporting goods, hobby supplies, books, and music (a single category, according to the Department of Commerce) have also posted strong jewelry sales gain, though this category generated an aggregate of just over $100 million in sales. That was just enough to be included on the Idex list, which analyzes only retail categories with $100 million or more in annual jewelry sales.
A graph of those retail categories that are gaining market share and those which are losing market share is shown below. These are all of the retail categories which report that they have $100 million or more of jewelry sales annually.
U.S. Specialty Jewelers’ Market Share
Source: Dept. of Commerce
Who Is Taking Jewelry Market Share?
Sales Growth over Past Ten Years by Retail Category
In addition to the list of logical purveyors of jewelry, there are a number of surprises on this list of jewelry outlets. For example, the Commerce Department’s Business Census, lists 117 stores which primarily sell beer and wine that also sell jewelry. You can gas up your car at 178 gasoline stations that also sell jewelry. In addition, there are about 385 convenience stores (such as 7-Eleven) which sell jewelry; 1,210 book stores sell jewelry; and, 37 pet stores also sell jewelry. In the prior Business Census (1997) about 85 automobile dealers also sold jewelry; by 2002, however, those car dealers apparently had stopped selling gemstones and watches.
Here’s an exhaustive list of all merchants who sell jewelry, but whose primary product line is not jewelry.
* Furniture & furnishings stores
* Consumer electronics stores
* Appliance stores
* Home centers, including building materials, lawn & garden supplies, nurseries, farm supply and hardware stores
* Grocery stores, supermarkets, convenience stores
* Fruit, vegetable, confectionery, and nut stores
* Beer, wine, and liquor stores
* Cosmetics, beauty supplies, and perfume stores
* Optical goods stores
* Gasoline stations
* Clothing stores, including men’s wear, women’s wear, children and family clothing, shoe stores, and infants’ stores
* Luggage and leather goods stores
* Sporting goods, hobby, and musical instrument stores
* Sewing, needlework, and piece goods shops
* Book stores, news dealers, college book shops
* Music stores
* Department stores
* Warehouse clubs
* Variety stores
* Florists
* Office supply, stationery, and gift shops
* Used merchandise stores (pawn shops are included in this category)
* Pet stores, art dealers, tobacco stores
* Electronic shopping and mail-order retailers
* Vending machine operators and direct selling, including in-home sales
Diamond Cleaning: Use Efferdent and Smile!
Saw this humorous posting today on Bridal Blog
Here's her story:
I keep meaning to stop in at a jeweler to have it professionally cleaned, but my mother-in-law to be (MILTB) told me this ridiculous slash terrifying story where she swears a friend of a friend of her cousin Phyllis did just such a thing and had her ring replaced with a fake. I realize that the chances of this story being true are infinitesimal, but I’ve yet to stop in and have it done, so clearly there is a tiny part of me that truly believes Phyllis’s friend’s friend. My MILTB went on to say that the BEST and ONLY means one should be using to clean a ring like mine is Efferdent—as in denture cleaner Efferdent.
So, today I did it. I walked into Duane Reade with purpose and conviction, found a box of denture cleaner and bought it. I was so excited to come home and try it out, I could barely contain myself. I heated up some water in a small teacup, dropped in the efferdent tablet, plopped in my ring and stood there watching the water fizzing for five long minutes. Even my dog looked up at me as if to say “you’ve officially crossed the line.”
When I couldn’t handle the suspense for one second longer, I fished my ring out of the icky blue solution, rinsed it off and Bing. Bam. Boom. Seriously, WOW. I may have been temporarily blinded. Dammit all if my ring didn’t look just as sparkly and shiny as the day I got it.
Now I just wonder if an Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner can have the same cleaning results for dentures?
Smile!
Zales COO Resigns.
Management shifts continue at Zale Corp. as the company announced the departure of another top executive, Sue Gove, executive vice president, chief operating officer and member of Zale's board of directors.
Gove resigned as an officer and director effective immediately, according to a Zale release issued Thursday. She follows former CEO Mary Forte and former Zales Jewelers' president Paul Leonard, both of whom left the company earlier this year.
"The company would like to thank Sue for her many contributions over the last 25 years, and we wish her well in her future endeavors," Richard Marcus, chairman of Zale's board of directors, said in the statement. "We are very appreciative of the talent, dedication and passion she brought to the business."
Zale is currently operating with an interim CEO, Betsy Burton, and has not named a successor to Forte.
Expect a continued Management shake-up at Zales who have been losing money at a rapid rate as we have chronicled here: Zales Loss . Increased competition from the Internet and the flight to diamond and jewelry quality by consumers are a few of the reasons for Zales downward spiral.
I hope the Zales Board of Directors at least gave her a Gold Watch on her way out the door.
WOW!! Look At Precious Metal Silver!
U.S. silver futures rallied to a new 22-year high on speculative buying early Monday amid expectations of rising silver demand, pushing the other precious metal higher as well, dealers said
Riding silver's coattails, palladium jumped to a two-year high, platinum scaled a six-week peak and gold rose to a three-week high.
Record copper prices and a shaky dollar were also supportive to the complex, while investors awaited clues on the Federal Reserve's policy outlook after an expected rate increase at a two-day meeting that ends on Tuesday afternoon.
By 10:27 a.m. EST, May delivery silver
"Will $11 prove a correction pivot? More likely, the next stiff resistance lies somewhere above $12," Greg Weldon, independent analyst and publisher of the Metal Monitor, said.
Silver surged for a fifth straight session on hopes that a silver-backed investment vehicle will soon launch and create greater investment interest in the gray metal.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission last week seemed to clear the way for final approval of the first exchange-traded fund that tracks the metal's price.
Credit Suisse said the price could climb further in the medium term, to $15, hoisted by increased consumer and investment demand due to the ETF.
Monday's fresh buying held down the gold/silver ratio, the number of ounces of silver needed to buy one of gold, which is a bullish technical signal for silver.
The ratio remains below 52 to 1, versus 58:1 at the end of February and 60:1 late last year.
Fund positioning in COMEX silver futures has increased in the latest week, according to closely watched U.S. Commitments of Traders data from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
Where are the Hunt Brothers?
Unique Jewelry Custom Designed For Tiffany's!
Just found an article on the beautiful and custom designed jewelry by Frank Gehry. This guy makes some of the most ostentatious diamond and jewelry creations for such big wigs like Tiffany, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston to name a few.
Wan't a $ 1 million dollar diamond medallion of Walt Disney's Mickey Mouse?
Check it out here.
David Yurman Jewelry: Evolution of a Jewelry Designer.
The Orlando Sentinel has an interesting feature on David Yurman today.
David Yurman jewelry is like your favorite blue jeans -- only much more expensive. The jewelry is "comfortable," says Yurman, 63, who recently visited his new boutique, which rubs shoulders with Cartier and Tiffany in Orlando's Mall at Millenia.
The jewelry is also versatile, he says. "You can wear it anywhere, day to evening." Just like blue jeans.
It wasn't always that way with jewelry. Before the 1980s, when Yurman's now-iconic cable bracelets became the most coveted, and copied, arm candy in the United States, there were two kinds of jewelry: Costume for everyday wear, and fine jewelry for special occasions.
The relaxed elegance of Yurman's designs bridged the divide. The jewelry is classic but with a modern twist that gives it go-anywhere elan.
Fashioned from gold and silver, many pieces also feature coral and turquoise, a sparkling array of gemstones and Yurman's current favorite, South Seas pearls. Signature motifs include a squared "cushion" shape, a hook-and-eye closure and the widely recognized twisting "cable" pattern.
The designs are "a combination of art, fine jewelry and fashion," says Yurman, who wears several of his creations: A ring, a bracelet and a square-faced watch.
Dressed all in black, his thick white hair swept straight back, his chin fashionably stubbled, he looks every inch the artist from Tribeca, the New York neighborhood where he and his artist wife, Sylvia, live and work.
Before designing jewelry, Yurman was a sculptor, hanging out with prominent Beat artists of the 1960s; writer Norman Mailer, painter Franz Kline, sculptor Ron Boise.
"I did these funny little silver angels," he says.
It was one of those angels, fashioned into a belt buckle, that sparked his career as a jewelry designer.
The buckle was a gift to Sybil, his girlfriend at the time. She wore it to an art opening, where it caught the eye of the gallery owner. He asked if it was for sale. Yurman said no, but Sybil said yes -- and within weeks they found themselves in the jewelry business.
Ever since, they've had good-luck angels perched on their shoulders. Their collections are in more than 450 stores around the world, and David Yurman is one of the best-known luxury brands on the planet.
Gwyneth Paltrow and Barbra Streisand wear the jewelry; Steven Spielberg and Kevin Spacey the watches; hip-hop moguls Jay-Z and Damon Dash the men's designs. Their ad campaigns have featured models Amber Valetta and Kate Moss, and the company's newest "face" is Naomi Watts -- who recently flashed Yurman earrings of rose quartz and diamonds at the Oscars.
Orlando real estate agent Virginia Morales, 49, collects Yurman bracelets. "I wear three, four at a time," she says. "My husband always knows what to give me for my birthday, anything David Yurman."
Since founding their company in 1980, the Yurmans have worked as a team.
"I have the vision; I design the collections," explains Yurman. "My wife does the styling and merchandising."
Their son, Evan, is part of their ever-expanding creative team. And let's not forget the lawyers.
The couple's designs, which range from about $300 for a simple bracelet to more than $7,000 for a multistrand couture necklace, are among the most copied in the world. Yurman is not flattered by imitators and spends $1 million a year protecting his brand.
"Copying is stealing," he says. People who wear copies are deceptive. "And that's not cool."
Worse, he says, they are supporting counterfeiters who may pay no taxes, have ties to illegal operations or use child labor.
As his company grows, Yurman finds himself more in the role of executive than artist.
"It's less like playing an instrument, more like being the leader of the band," he says. "I'm about ready to do more art work."
But that is not likely to happen anytime soon. First, he plans to introduce a line of Yurman eyewear and a Yurman fragrance, followed by Yurman handbags and luggage.
No wonder he believes in angels.
Tiffany Sales Up, Profits Down.
Tiffany & Co.’s overall net sales in fiscal 2005 rose 9 percent to $2.4 billion, and profits fell 16.3 percent to $254.7 million.
Tiffany’s attributed the decline in profit to a one time gain in December 2004. In fiscal 2004, earnings in the fourth quarter and year benefited from a pre-tax gain of $194 million as a result of the company's sale of its shares in Aber Diamond Corporation.
Retail sales in the United States rose 9 percent to $1.2 billion during the fiscal year, same-store sales rose 7 percent (branch store sales rose 7 percent and New York flagship store sales rose 5 percent.) Tiffany’s attributed comparable store sales growth to higher spending per transaction. Tiffany’s opened four stores stateside in 2005 and operated 59 Tiffany & Co. stores by year-end 2005.
Great Jewelry Engraving Ideas!
Diamond jewelry customers often ask to have their jewelry customized and engraved with a personal message to their loved one.
While the typical jewelry engraving is usually of the Anniversary date or "I love you" variety, many people try to come up with a unique message to engrave on their diamond jewelry.
Here are 3 really cool websites that offer treasure troves of quotes, many of which would be an appropriate and unique way of proclaming your love in the form of an engraved stamp on your jewelry!
Check them out.
www.famous-quotes-and-quotations.com
1 Million Dollars Worth Of Jewelry Lost & Found!
Just today 1 million dollars worth of designer jewelry left in an expensive purse on a park bech was found and returned to its rightful owners by a good samaritan.
Read about it here.
Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend, NOT Moissanite.
Shares of jewelry maker and sole source of moissanite Charles & Colvard Ltd., fell on March 27, a day after the company forecasted lower quarterly sales due to substantially lower orders from K&G Creations.
Shares dipped $1.73, or 12.8 percent, to $11.75. The stock price is down 27 percent so far this year, adjusted for stock splits.
In a company statement on March 26, Charles & Colvard said sales for first quarter fiscal year 2006 are expected to be between $7.5 million and $8.4 million, which is 25 percent to 33 percent lower than a year ago. The company expects K&G's orders to slip due to lower orders from the 2005 merger of its customers, Federated Department Stores and May Department Stores Co.
Charles & Colvard’s board authorized the repurchase of up to one million common shares. Company shares have traded between $8.63 and $26.29 over the past year.
Loose Cushion Cut Diamond: What Is It?
The Cushion Cut is a generic name for the Old Mine Cut developed before the turn of the century; these days the name" cushion" is often used for colored stones cut in this shape.
A Cushion Cut is a square or squarish-rectangular cut with rounded corners and 58 brilliant-style facets that resemble a pillow shape, hence the name.
A hundred years ago, when Cushion Cuts were first developed, diamonds were not cleaved into two pieces of rough, as they are today; they were ground down as a single stone and the resulting polished was lumpy and thick. Cushion Cuts have very thin girdles and bigger culets than today's full-cut diamonds.
Designers are requesting Cushion Cuts with big culets, but, in general, the smaller the culet, the better the stone. Older Cushion Cuts return light in blocky patterns; newly cut ones return light in needlelike patterns.
MARKETS AND MARKETING
Cushion Cut diamonds are popular in matching pairs. They are especially being used in larger-carat earrings and also as a center stone in rings. Cushion Cuts first became popular again about ten years ago, and their popularity has increased as designers and antique dealers continue to use them.
Cushion Cuts offer a lot of weight at a moderate price. Larger Cushion Cut diamonds sell for about 30 percent less than full-cuts of the same weight, while smaller cuts sell for about the same. A 1-carat G/VS Cushion Cut stone will sell from $2,800 to $3,800. Two-carat and up stones sell in the $3,500 to $5,000 per carat range. The most popular sizes are .75 to 1.5 carats. The availability of 2-carats and up is a problem because of the high demand for larger stones, both by estate and antique dealers for replacement or repair and by manufacturers.
Look for good clarity and color. Because Cushion Cuts have very thin girdles, girdles on older ones are often chipped. Look for Cushion Cuts that are symmetrical; off-shape ones are difficult to use. Look for a medium culet that is not too heavy, unless you have a special reason to use this cut with a big culet. Pick a mounting that's appropriate for the softer reflections and refractions of a Cushion Cut. Old Mine Cuts were traditionally set in yellow gold or silver with a patina or oxidation; therefore, they look better set in matte metals rather than highly polished ones.
Engagement Ring Purchase onThe Internet: Is This A Good Deal?
Is the question being asked by a consumer this morning on Diamondtalk.com. He has seen a Princess Cut that is being listed on EIGHT different internet diamond websites at different prices!!
Discussion is here: Good Deal?
Here are the multiple listings for this one diamond:
Who really has this diamond?
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6209 $13847*SP
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6262 $13964SP
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42-7.27-5.21 $6276 $13996*
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6291 $14029
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6306 $14062*S
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6308 $14066*SP
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42*7.27*5.21 $6339 $14136*S
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-sl thk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $7198 $16051
This diamond is supplied by the manufacturer to many internet websites and is known as a "Virtual Diamond".
Little if any information is provided save for a few numbers off the lab grading report and the price. You are buying blind.
We have blogged on this topic several times. Same Diamond Listed All Over The Internet?
Virtual Diamond (VD) databases do not give you the necessary information you need, e.g.; photo's, Imagescopes, and light performance data such as provided by the Gemex Brilliancescope. As such, these lists are useless. Would you buy a Home this way? I doubt it. Why should your diamond purchase be any different. It's also big money.
This is a big purchase not only because of the money, but even more so because of the emotion and psychology behind it. You need to get this right the first time. Work with Internet websites that give you comprehensive information.
Hearts On Fire To Replace The Dog with Diamonds, As Man's Best Friend.
Don't tell the family dog, but Hearts on Fire is making a bid to replace a man's favorite canine companion with diamonds.
The company announced that it is challenging the notion that custom diamonds are only gals' best friend by introducing a loose diamond program aimed specifically at men. The new platinum collection, "Distinguished," offers rings, bracelets and cuff links as semi-mounts for diamonds of male customers' own choosing.
"Men are wearing more and more diamond jewelry, and are demanding more of a selection, much like women have," designer Katherine Rosenberg-Pineau, Hearts on Fire vice president of product development and merchandising, said in a release. "Why shouldn't men be able to select the diamond of their choice, too? The 'Distinguished' collection offers this."
In platinum, the collection retails from $5,900-$20,000. Hearts on Fire touted Olympic Gold medalist Apolo Anton Ohno in its release, who wears the brand's "DreamStone Talisman" around his neck. It retails for $16,000.
"Diamonds Are For Ever", But Are Diamond Mines?
Cramer's Mining Weekly reports that the slogan "Diamonds may be forever", but the same cannot be said of diamond-mines.
While De Beers Consolidated Mines (DBCM), the largest producer of diamonds in South Africa, produced a record 15,2-millioncarats last year, it estimates that it will produce just over 14-million carats this year.
Part and parcel of new DBCM MD David Noko’s strategy is to sweat the company’s existing assets, and bring new, additional production on line.
“I do not think that we can grow production from our existing operations – we just can’t.
“Our installed capacity is fixed, and we need capital to improve it,” Noko, who was appointed as DBCM MD on February 7, tells Mining Weekly in an exclusive interview.
And, gaining approval for brownfield projects that do not meet the hurdle rates of the company’s principals is out of the question.
“There would be no point in injecting capital into declining mines like The Oaks, as a return would not be realised, but, by exception, all opportunities are being explored, the major ones being brownfields, but some being greenfields through finding partners that have large resources,” Noko says.
Hence, besides organic growth projects, DBCM’s growth strategy is levered on partnerships with smaller diamond-mining companies.
“If we partner with smaller companies, they will benefit from our knowledge, while we will benefit from the resources that they have acquired,” Noko says.
DBCM has many partnerships in Kimberley, where it has large tailings dumps that require advanced technology to turn the low grades of diamonds that they contain to proper account.
The company is also continuing to research the opportunities of working with junior miners and, in Kimberley, already 25% of revenue emerges from joint ventures with junior miners through contracts.
Diamond & Jewlery at Retail: How Much Money Is Involved?
The US jewelry retail industry generates annual revenues of about $44 billion from 28,000 specialty, department, and discount stores. Specialty retailers hold about 50 percent of the market. Wal-Mart is the biggest jewelry retailer in the country, followed by Zale, the biggest specialty jeweler with over 2,000 stores and kiosks. The industry is highly fragmented: the top 10 jewelry chains hold less than 25 percent of the market. Other large specialty retailers are Tiffany and Sterling, the US branch of British jeweler Signet Group.
Jewelry sales depend partly on consumer income. Small jewelers can effectively compete with large chains because price isn't the main factor determining retail sales. Profitability depends on the volume of sales because sales costs are high and fixed. Because gross margins are very high, often 50 percent, mass merchants like Wal-Mart have taken market share by controlling costs and cutting prices.
Jewelry is often classified as bridal merchandise (engagement, bridal and anniversary rings - about 35 percent of the market); fashion jewelry (rings, bracelets, earrings, pins, gold chains); and watches, silver flatware, and other giftware. Diamond jewelry and loose diamonds account for the largest share of total jewelry store sales (46 percent); gold jewelry for 11 percent; colored gemstone jewelry (rubies, sapphires, emeralds, etc.) 9 percent; and watches 4 percent.
Tiffany's Lucida Diamond: What is it ?
Tiffany & Co.'s Lucida is an exclusive patent pending diamond cut whose shape is a square mixed cut. It has 50 facets, a high crown, stepped facets, wide corners and a small table with a brilliant pavilion. The design of the cut maximizes the stone's sparkle and brilliance. A photo is shown below.
AGS-0 Ideal Cut Princess Diamonds have similar sparkle to the Tiffany Lucida, without the price tag!
Lucida Diamond.
Tiffany has added an eternity band and a three-stone ring as well. Lucida, which means the brightest star in a constellation, is available exclusively at Tiffany & Co. stores worldwide. The setting is copyrighted and the diamond has multiple patents pending.
The Lucida diamond is made from the same rough as a well-cut round. Created by Tiffany's gemologists, the cut is similar to the Asscher and antique Cushion Cuts. Tiffany showcases the Lucida cut in a special four-prong ring shown below. The sculptural band has clean lines and soft curves that merge with the prongs in a sloping crisscross design, which, when viewed from the side, is reminiscent of cathedral arches.
Lucida Ring.
Lucida was designed and introduced by Tiffany in 1999. The retailer has positioned the collection to fit between its classic Tiffany setting and its cuttingedge Etoile collection and has become something of a status symbol. The worldwide launch was backed by an extensive advertising campaign that included four-page inserts, spreads and single-page units in fashion and lifestyle publications. The Lucida is available at 150 locations internationally, including Japan, France and London.
Each Lucida diamond is sold with a Tiffany Certificate. The inside shank of each ring is currently engraved with the following: Copyright, Tiffany & Co. Lucida, metal fineness and the phrase "patents pending." When the patents are finalized, the actual patent numbers will be engraved in the shank.
Click on the icon below for a stunning collection of the finest Tiffany style diamond engagement rings and Ideal Cut diamonds at outstanding values!!
Do You Know How To Buy Your Diamond Engagement Ring?
NOT as this couple unfortunately found out. Be A Smart Diamond Shopper
We totally agree. Here are our recommendations for your safe diamond engagement and wedding ring shopping:
1. Work with a reputable Jeweler; be it Brick & Mortar (B&M) or Internet. Check with your local BBB and the Jewelers Vigilance Committe (www.jvclegal.org)
2. Know what you're buying. Make sure your diamond has a lab grading report. The two most stringent, accurate, and consistent diamond grading labs are the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and the AGS (Americn Gemological Society). Insist on them.
3. If you're more comfortable shopping with a B&M Jeweler, look at as many diamonds as you can and away from the diamond counter's high intensity halogen lights which tend to make even the ugliest darkest diamonds look D-Flawless.
4. If you're shopping with an Internet Diamond vendor, make sure that they can examine the diamond for you to determine if there are any red flags you need to know about which would dissuade you from buying the stone.
A great number of Internet Vendors sell of Virtual Diamond (VD) databases and never see the diamond you're buying. The diamond is drop-shipped directly to you from the manufacturer. We covered this topic in more detail here: Cyberspace Diamonds
5. Ask the Internet Vendor to supply you with as much information as possible, including photo's.
6. Be clear and understand the Vendor's Policies: Payment, Returns, Upgrades, etc. and any timelines or deadlines that might accompany these Policies.
7. Ask about and receive any paperwork that comes with the diamond.
8. Stay away from in-house Appraisals. Such Appaisals are inflated, will cost you undue high insurance Premiums, and is a practice that is frowned upon and not sanctioned by the reputable National Association Of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA). Best is to get an evaluation and Appraisal from an Independent Appraiser that does not work for a Jewlery store and does not sell their own diamonds and jewelry. Contact NAJA for a llisting and location of such Appraisers.
Shop Smart. This is a big purchase not only in terms of money but also in terms of emotional significance.
Good Luck!
It Is Safe To Buy Your Diamond Engagement Ring On The Internet.
According to recent statistics from comScore Networks, online sales are already up in 2006. Gian Fulgoni, comScore chairman, said in a January press release, “The 2006 year opened on a strong note, with solid growth of 33 percent in online nontravel sales versus the same period in 2005.” He went on to optimistically predict, “It’s clear based on what we’re seeing so far in 2006 that the strength in online sales will not wane anytime soon.”
According to a comScore press release: “The growth in 2006 online consumer spending follows a year of solid gains. Total online spending for the full year 2005, including travel, reached $143.2 billion, up 22 percent over 2004. Online nontravel spending in 2005 accounted for $82.3 billion, an increase of 24 percent over 2004 levels.”With this kind of money at stake, the question is not whether a business can afford to set up an online store. The question is whether a business can afford not to.
Sales of Loose Diamonds, Diamond Engagement Rings, Diamond Rings, and Wedding Bands by reputable Internet vendors are increasing at a rapid clip. Information on the Cut quality of the diamonds such as lab grading reports, photographs, and light analyses help consumers "see" the diamond on-line and provides very useful information to making an informed purchasing decision.
Keep in mind that buying your Diamond Engagement Ring through an Internet Vendor demands the same caveat Emptor and verification as does shopping with a Brick and Mortar Jeweler.
We discussed and covered several important DO'S and DON'TS just yesterday in this Blog Entry.
Buying Your Diamond in Cyberspace
To paraphrase Sy Sims: An educated consumer makes for a very good and happy customer.
Hey Guys: Can Diamonds Buy Women Love? Guess Again.
Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend. Right?! Well, fellas, not according to a survey just released by True, an on-line relationship service. They found (surprisingly?) that women value Love and a long-term committment-relationship more than diamonds and jewelry.
Read the results of their survey here: Love Or Diamonds?
The Cost Of "Love" Keeps Going Up!
THE price of love just got higher – much higher.
The soaring price of gold, which yesterday hit $US615.08 an ounce, might be good news for resource companies but it has pushed the cost of producing jewellery up by almost 50 per cent.
Aaron Wilson, director of Melbourne company Michael Wilson Diamond Jewellers, said the value of the gold in an average diamond engagement ring had risen by about $100 in the past 12 months.
The price of platinum had also sky-rocketed.
"The jewelery industry, especially hand-made diamond rings, is a very competitive market," he said.
"It makes it very difficult for us. People don't like the prices being put up (so) we try to absorb it as much as possible." The price of gold is now at a 25-year high, having risen about 5 per cent this month on the back of concerns about Iran's nuclear intentions.
As the spot price of gold continued to gain strength, the miners kicked along.
Newcrest Mining picked up 61¢ to $22.86, Newmont gained 36¢ to $7.54, Kingsgate Consolidated was up 17¢ at $6.26 and Lihir up 14¢ at $2.96.
Gold stocks reaped the benefit yesterday, with Lihir Gold up almost 5 per cent to $2.96, Newcrest 61 higher at $22.86 and Oxiana climbing 10 to $2.85.
Analysts said people were buying gold as a safe haven and an inflationary hedge.
Mr Wilson, who grew up in the family business, said the soaring gold price – up 40 per cent since April last year – was unprecedented.
"In the past 12 months it's gone up more than I've ever seen it," he said.
Iran Affecting Diamond & Jewelry Prices.
Commodities prices roared to new peaks on Tuesday as fund buying restarted, triggered by fears over the nuclear stand-off in Iran and the impact of surging economic growth in China, investors said.
The oil market hit a new record peak, taking key industrial metals prices with it and propelling precious metals to their highest since the early 1980s.
"The fundamental factors are the intensifying of the political situation in the Mideast Gulf and the Chinese GDP figures, which got everyone back to thinking China is eating up global natural resources," a fund manager said.
China's economy is on course for growth of at least nine percent this year signalling accelerating imports of energy and raw materials.
Fears about Iran's row with the West over the country's nuclear program sparked oil's latest rise.
IPE Brent crude set a fresh high of $72.20 per barrel before falling to $72.03 at 0847 GMT.
Brent has rallied from below $60 in December, buoyed by a fresh flow of fund investment amid mounting concern over Iran and the possibility of U.S. military action against the world's fourth largest oil producer.
"If we look forward it's continued economic growth and a potentially disastrous situation in the Mideast Gulf," the fund source said.
Most commodity indexes, which between them have attracted around $80 billion of speculative investment into the markets, are weighted heavily towards oil.
Fasten Your seatbelts!
Mothers Love Diamonds.
Children, Mother's Day is fast approaching.
Mother knows best...when it comes to driving gift sales, as American moms are expected to motivate $13.8 billion in retail gift buying this year, finds the National Retail Federation (NRF) 2006 Mother's Day Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey.
Jewelry gifts are expected to account for $2.1 billion In Mother's Day sales, compared to the $1.7 billion spent on jewelry for the holiday last year. That's second only to the $2.8 billion that NRF's survey indicates will be spent taking moms out for brunch or dinner, up from the $2.2 billion shelled out for celebratory Mother's Day comestibles in 2005.
The average Mother's Day shopper expects to spend $122.16 this year, according to NRF, up from $104.63 last year. Popular gifts include: greeting cards, which 85.4 percent of respondents said they'll be giving mom this year; flowers, which 67.6 percent of respondents expect to purchase; gift certificates or gift cards, on the list for 31.9 percent of shoppers; books or CDs, which 25.8 percent plan to give; and electronics or computer-related accessories, which 6.7 percent plan on giving mom.
"Consumers certainly enjoy splurging on luxury items, such as fancy meals and jewelry, but greeting cards and flowers still remain favorite tokens of their appreciation," Phil Rist, vice president of strategy at BIGresearch (which conducts the NRF survey), said in an NRF release. "No price tag is too high when it comes to showing mom the love and appreciation she deserves."
Men are expected to spend more than women on the holiday, with the average male expected to devote at least $148.51 on mom, compared to the $97.72 women are expected to spend.
Moms aren't the holiday's only gift recipients, as 20.7 percent of respondents to NRF's survey said they'd be buying for wives this Mother's Day; 9.1 percent for daughters; 8.5 percent for grandmothers; 7 percent for sisters; 7 percent for friends; and 12.3 percent for other relatives.
Young adults, ages 18-24, are this year's big spenders, dropping $142.40 per person this Mother's Day, up from the $96.08 they put toward mom last year. Those aged 45-54 are expected to come in second, spending an average of $129.29 per person, followed by 25-34 year olds, who are projected to part with $122.39 each.
Hey! Do you know What a Bottega-Venatta Is?
Either did I, since Bottega Veneta may not be as widely recognized as its more famous luxe-label sisters, but to wealthy consumers, the lesser-known line is the most prestigious luxury fashion brand.
In the 2006 Luxury Brand Status Index survey (LBSI) of Luxury Fashion Designers conducted by the New York-based Luxury Institute, Bottega edged out both Hermès and Armani to claim top rating.
The Luxury Institute surveyed a national sample of more than 500 households with a minimum of $200,000 in gross annual income and a minimum net worth of $750,000.
Bottega Venatta handbag. Only $3850.00
Wealthy customers who were surveyed rated 21 leading luxury fashion brands based on their perceptions of critical brand reputation metrics. Brands rated included: Armani, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Chanel, Christian Dior, Coach, Dolce & Gabbana, Façonnable, Fendi, Ferragamo, Gucci, Hermès, Hugo Boss, Izod, Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Polo Ralph Lauren, Prada, Versace and Yves St. Laurent
Bottega Veneta's relatively low public awareness level of 21 percent, versus Hermès, which garnered 55 percent recognition, and Armani, which drew 74 percent, portends a strong future for the classic Italian brand, which is part of the Gucci Group portfolio.
"Those who know the brand rated it highest in quality, highest in uniqueness and exclusivity, as the brand most used by people who are admired and respected, and the brand most able to make its customers feel special," Milton Pedraza, CEO of the Luxury Institute, said in a release. "No surprise then, that it was rated the most worthy of a significant price premium."
The Luxury Institute's independent surveys are designed to measure brand performance from the perspective of the wealthy consumer. Publications include the monthly Wealth Report, the Luxury Brand Status Index surveys, the Luxury Best Practices surveys and the Luxury Consumer Experience Index surveys.
Belgian Gov't Reduces Taxes On Diamond Companies.
At the end of 2005, a new fiscal law was adopted that will make Belgium far more attractive to all companies doing business there —which means not only diamond companies, but firms from all business sectors and industries.
The principle of the new program relies on what’s been referred to as a “notional interest rate.” As of accounting year 2006, all Belgium-based companies will have the opportunity to calculate a totally fictitious interest rate on their equity. This interest rate — which is currently between 3.442 and 3.942 percent — will be deductible from the taxable profit, a measure that is likely to reduce the taxable profit of businesses to verylow levels. The effective tax burden, especially for larger capitalized companies, could drop from the usual 28 or 34 percent corporate income tax rate to the negligible figure of 6 percent in the best cases.
The new tax law does not have any stringent conditions — no employment condition, no investment condition, applicable to all companies, no limitation on activity — and will restore the balance between Antwerp and other competing diamond centers.
Kaushik Mehta of Eurostar Diamond Traders, however, has a different opinion: “It’s very good as you pay less tax. The notional interest will certainly help ease business in Belgium, but it’s still no match for Dubai, at least as far as their zero tax is concerned. Antwerp has other assets, such as a huge market, to compete with other diamond centers.”
The notional interest tax plan will also assist with respect to DeBeers Diamond Trading Company (DTC) and the Banks. The diamond industryr is typically a sector that requires large working capital and relatively small profit margins, and a substantial number of companies have capital booked as current account. Currently, this cannot be taken into consideration for the notional interest deduction and is booked as a loan. From this year onward, registration fees on capital increases of 0.5 percent are abolished and there is virtually no cost involved anymore in increasing the statutory capital. Therefore, it is useful to incorporate the loans/current accounts into statutory capital. This, of course, can substantially increase the equity of the company, which also results in an improved solvability toward third parties — this is equity against balance sheet total. Banks are, indeed, pushing diamond companies to move toward an equity of 15 percent-plus because traditionally the equity of Belgian diamond companies is very low. Also, for sightholders, DeBeers takes into consideration the financial strength of a company, which is reflected in the equity and solvability ratio.
Consequently, the larger the capital, the higher the amount of the notional interest deduction. This allows companies with larger capital to pay lower taxes on their profit and as a result have higher net profits, which, again, they can capitalize. The following year, the equity has grown with the increased net profits of the previous year on which the notional interest deduction is applicable. So, this creates a rollerball effect in which equities grow quicker and quicker and are constantly leveraged with the notional interest deduction the following year.
It’s been understood that the measure would also benefit smaller-size companies, depending on their degree of capitalization, as the law applies to all corporate entities. Percentwise, it can create the same result, but, of course, the nominal amounts are smaller.
The first cycle of the system will be completed within the year. Tax reduction is positive in that it spurs production and eventual tax revenue. The effects on consumer prices remains to be determined.
Remember to Wear Your Diamond Engagement Ring When You Go Shopping Or You Could Wind Up In Jail!
From this morning's London Times:
There are many reasons why Mr Science Notebook doesn’t wear a wedding ring. Chiefly, when he tried one on, he thought it “felt funny”. He doesn’t really do bling.
I shall now have to warn him against hanging around Canadian supermarkets. For, in such places, social psychologists lurk unseen, noting the presence or absence of such jewellery among unwitting shoppers. From behind the frozen peas the psychologists have observed that people who don’t wear wedding rings are more neglectful of their charges than those wearing wedding bands.
The findings, by Andrew Harrell and colleagues at the University of Alberta, were presented at a conference this month and in a news release sensationally entitled: “Absence of wedding ring connected to parental neglect”. I can’t better the description of this utterly weird experiment, so I reprint it here . . . “862 caretaker-children combinations were furtively observed in 14 supermarkets in Edmonton. Caretaker neglect was measured according to how often the caretakers or their charges, estimated to be between one and seven years old, wandered out of sight or were more than 10ft away from each other — too far to prevent most accidents.” Leaving a kid in a trolley while dashing to a neighbouring aisle was a no-no, for example.
On average, 14 per cent of caretakers — with or without rings — lost sight of their charges at least once. But young, attractive adults without rings were particularly lax. Among women in this category, 19 per cent failed the vigilance test. Among the men, it was 25 per cent.
Dr Harrell’s conclusion? The lack of commitment to marriage, signified by unadorned fingers, extends to a laissez faire attitude to the kids. Harrell implies that these customers might have been shopping for more than just Shreddies, and might have been distracted by “an interest in establishing social, sexual or emotional ties outside of marriage . . .” And you thought that chap dithering by your trolley had just lost his way to the beer aisle!
Am I alone in finding this an excessive leap of imagination? Have you tried keeping a boisterous six-year-old within 10ft of you? Might the neglectful caretakers not have been parents? Dr Harrell’s team was not permitted to speak to shoppers, so we don’t know. That wasn’t the only methodological drawback. “A few children spotted us and would ask their parents ‘Why are those people following us?’,” Dr Harrell says. “Their carer would usually ignore them.”
If one wanted to do a serious study on whether unmarried parents are more neglectful of their children than married ones, why the supermarket espionage? After all, in the pantheon of perilous environments, the home reigns supreme. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, children regularly burn, scald or poison themselves, start fires or fall down stairs or out of windows. They are treated in A&E departments, or by GPs, both of whom have access to family records.
Dr Harrell holds his hands up: “You’re right. We had to make do with the limitations of this study but we hope to look at such things in future.” Meanwhile, he stands by the unpopular thesis that unwed couples are probably more lax than marrieds: “Sometimes the truth hurts, and if it’s predictive of injury and death, then we have to say it.”
Hey, Harrell! Why don't you turn around, bend over, and see if you're hat's on straight. You'd be better off and so would we if you drove a Taxi.
Diamond Sales Increasing.
Consumer drive for diamonds hasn't waned in the past decade, with the Diamond Information Center (DIC) reporting 2005 as the 10th consecutive year of retail diamond jewelry's growth in the U.S.
Diamond jewelry sales rose in 2005 to $33.7 billion, up 7 percent from $31.5 billion in 2005. In addition to the growth of overall U.S. sales, which comprise more than 50 percent of worldwide sales, transactions grew by 3 percent and average ticket prices were up by 4 percent.
Canada Drops Jewelry Excise Tax!
The Canadian Government today abolished it's jewelry excise tax.
Canada's conservative majority in government dropped a number of excise taxes on May 2 to create "a more competitive business tax system," said Jim Flaherty, the country's finance minister.
Along with the tax changes, Canada's jewelry excise tax was eliminated. In June 2005, Parliament voted to abolish the jewelry excise tax over a period of 5 years.
"Jewelry is available at all price levels and is purchased by a wide range of Canadian households," the budget report read. "Repeal of the Excise Tax will recognize this and ensure that the Canadian jewelry industry is able to compete on a fair and equitable basis with other retail and manufacturing businesses in Canada. It will also serve to reduce the compliance burden on the jewelry industry, a particular benefit to small businesses.”
The Canadian Jewellers Association (CJA) briefed the industry on the news. Morris Robinson, chair for the group's government relations committee, said, “We are delighted that the conservative government has ended the inequity and confusion inherent in the Excise Tax in the content of minister Flaherty’s budget.
According to a statement by CJA, the "vote of confidence to our industry is the result of many group and individual efforts, specifically to the Prime Minister [Stephen Harper] for honoring his campaign promise to our sector."
Are you listening U.S. Congress? Get rid of these consumption taxes!!
Diamond And Pink Sapphire Earings.
.91 carat weight Diamonds and 1.40 carat weight Pink Sapphires in Platinum. Chris saw a smaller version at Tiffany's and asked us to replicate this design with bigger stones. Chris is getting married this Saturday.
Congratulations, Chris!!
This Diamond Jacket Looks Good on You!
Lazare Diamonds recently collaborated with Japanese designer Ritsuko Shirahama, to create an unusual, one-of-a-kind diamond couture evening jacket valued at $1 million.
The jacket, which debuted at the JCK Las Vegas show earlier this month, is adorned with 2,000 ideal cut Lazare Diamonds, totaling 300 carats, as well as two pounds of platinum.
The Lazare Diamond couture evening jacket is scheduled to tour around the world and is already booked to appear at retail stores throughout the U.S.
I'll take two!
Gorgeous Custom Made Diamond Eternity Ring in Platinum!
Here is another one of our hand made U prong diamond Eternity rings that we just completed for one of our customers.
There is a tremendous amount of hand labor that goes into the manufacturing of this diamond eternity band, which cleverley gives the impression of diamonds floating in space..due to the minimal obstruction/clutter of metal.
This Platinum diamond band features 19 Ideal cut round diamondsof F color, VS clarity and a total of 2.19 carats.
Pictures do not do justice to the beauty and unique qualities of this womens diamond eternity ring!
Jewelers: Are You Really The Oldest Profession?
Science magazine reports this week that jewelers are part of a profession that is very old indeed.
Ancient beads that were previously discovered at sites in western Asia and North Africa may represent the first attempt by human beings to decorate themselves, the report says.
The study reports that ancient gastropod shells that were collected previously from two inland sites appear to have been made into jewelry.
Both sites date back to more than 100,000 years ago, which makes them about 25,000 years older than similar but more abundant drilled shells that have been found in South Africa. Examination has shown that the shells were drilled by humans, presumably to be threaded and worn as jewelry, the magazine reports. What's more, the researchers said the shells were found many miles from the sea, indicating they were brought to those locations deliberately, most likely for the purposes of bead-working.
The finding is significant because it means that such modern cultural behaviors as self-adornment are older than scientists once believed.
"Our paper supports the scenario that modern humans in Africa developed behaviors that are considered modern quite early in time, so that in fact these people were probably not just biologically modern but also culturally and cognitively modern, at least to some degree," study co-author Francesco d'Errico of the National Center for Scientific Research in Talence, France, told The Associated Press.
The newly identified shells were found in a study of museum collections. The research was funded by the European Science Foundation, the French Ministry of Research and the Fyssen Foundation.
Survey Highlighlights Importance of Diamond and Jewelry Branding
Diamond and diamond jewelry brands continue to see increased awareness among consumers, according to a survey of 2,571 members of the Jewelry Consumer Opinion Council (JCOC) conducted from May 31 to June 12.
A media release from JCOC stated the leader of the branding pack is the Zale Diamond. It remains the strongest diamond brand since the survey was last conducted in October 2004. It is followed closely by Hearts On Fire, Radiant and the Leo Diamond. While consumers say a brand name is still the least important factor in driving the diamond purchase, they acknowledge that brands are gaining importance.
Among the changes since the 2004 survey: Hearts On Fire has gained recognition in the past two years; consumers are naming more diamond brands, such as Lucida and the Princess Plus; more respondents are saying they own a branded diamond, while a smaller percentage are citing a lack of awareness for not owning one; a larger percentage of respondents say they own branded diamond jewelry such as Vera Wang, Scott Kay and Escada; and consumers say they are slightly more willing to pay higher prices for branded diamond jewelry versus two years ago.
"It's extremely difficult to establish specific brand awareness with consumers," said Elizabeth Chatelain, president of MVI Marketing Ltd., founder of JCOC, in the release. "Although consumers are more willing to pay premium prices for branded products, making a jewelry line 'stand out' is not getting any easier. With the saturation of brands in the market, a name and logo is not enough to catch consumer attention. Each brand must develop a niche, a unique selling proposition, or a product attribute demanded by consumers."
While consumers were willing to pay more for a brand, they were also deterred from purchasing branded designer jewelry because of high prices, Chatelain said.
"The key to successful product branding is to design and deliver a unique product the consumer needs and prefers to other products available," she said. "Manufacturers and retailers can help consumers come to understand what exactly branded diamonds and diamond jewelry are, and that the consumer has increased flexibility in choosing."
Memorial Service for Jewelry Designer Steven Kretchmer
A funeral service for jewelry designer Steven Kretchmer has been scheduled to take place 11 a.m. Sunday at the Lasher Funeral Chapel on 100 Tinker St. in Woodstock, N.Y.
Kretchmer, known for perfecting the art of tension-set jewelry, died in a motorcycle crash Saturday afternoon. He was 52.
A New York City memorial service is being planned for July 29, and a Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Scholarship in metallurgy is being created in Kretchmer's name.
Kretchmer, a Palenville, N.Y. resident, began making jewelry in 1969. In 1976, he received a bachelor of fine arts degree in jewelry and metalsmithing from RISD.
He then traveled to Milan, Italy, where he worked as a goldsmith, learning from master craftsmen. While in Italy, he met his future wife and business partner, Alma, and his stepdaughter, Claudia.
Special Jewelry Tribute to 9/11.
As a tribute to the citizens of New York City and the 100th Anniversary of JA New York, Indian designer Nayna Mehta has built a special monument as a tribute to the victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Mehta, a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America, designed and created a statue of the Twin Towers, set in 18-karat gold. The endeavor took 25 weeks, 38 artists, designers and technicians. The iconic structure is created of 14,080 diamonds and over 3 kilograms of gold. It will be on display at the JA New York Summer Show this July 30-Aug. 2 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan.
Madonna's New Chopard Necklace!
Madonna has just commissioned designer jeweler, Chopard to create this fabulous necklace in time for her new tour.
"Hang up" by Chopard
Get the inside scoop here.
Buy Loads of Jewelry!
This article brings new meaning to "buying by the pound"! Go get your diamond jewelry!
This Diamond Kiss Will Cost You 25K.
Hershey's Kisses has commissioned jewelry designer Neil Lane to make an 18-karat gold and diamond brooch to commemorate the candy's upcoming 100th anniversary.
Lane has created a 7-carat piece, set with 755 diamonds, which is worth more than $25,000. The designer hopes the brooch will appear on a celebrity on the red carpet of the 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, but it has not yet confirmed which celebrity will wear the piece, says designer spokeswoman Tracey Kahn.
"It's getting a lot of nice attention," she adds.
Following the award show, the brooch will hit the auction block as part of the "Clothes Off Our Back" foundation sale with 100 percent of the proceeds from celebrity-worn items going to children's charities.
The online auction (www.clothesoffourbacks.org) will begin Aug. 28 and run through Sept. 15.
Ethnic Jewelry: Can It Grab Market Share?
A recent study conducted by the Jewelry Consumer Opinion Council (JCOC) reveals significant consumer awareness of ethnic-inspired jewelry.
Sixty-five percent of the study's 2,930 respondents said they would be open to purchasing quality ethnic jewelry if they knew more about the styles available and their histories.
More than one-third of respondents said fashion is a critical purchasing driver of ethnic-inspired jewelry. Nearly a third said they like to mark a trip with jewelry from the place visited, while 14 percent said they display their own ethnic pride by wearing jewelry representative of their culture.
Sixty-nine percent of respondents said they are concerned that the gems they buy are mined in an ethical way, and 63 percent said they are willing to pay more for a piece of quality ethnic jewelry depending on its origin. A majority of the respondents said they have spent up to $200 on a piece of ethnic jewelry, with nearly a quarter spending $200 to $5,000. Local craftsmen are the most popular source for consumers buying ethnic jewelry, followed by jewelry chain stores, local independent jewelers and art fairs.
Wedding Insurance: Do You Really Need It?
Having an insurance to cover your home or car is a no-brainer and in almost all States mandatory.
Specialty insurance is a growing segment of the insurance market, says Jeanne Salvatore, spokeswoman for the Insurance Information Institute, a New York-based industry group.
"There are only so many cars and homes out there to insure," Salvatore says. And insurance products have to keep up with a changing world. For example:
How about insurance to cover your costs if your wedding gets canceled?
So what happens if you spend a boatload of money on your big day and you have to postpone because of something like a flood or a hurricane or because the bride or groom or one of their parents is hospitalized?
Maybe you lose your deposits. Maybe you have to reschedule at great expense. Not to worry: Wedding insurance can help.
Such policies will cover expenses if you have to reschedule your wedding for a "covered reason," such as Mother Nature, illness or military deployment.
If the bride or groom simply gets cold feet, though, forget it.
The policies cover expenses like forfeited deposits and travel expenses. If a rowdy dancer or drunken guest runs into your gift table at the reception and causes it to collapse and break some of your gifts, the damage is covered. If your wedding photos don't turn out, the insurance will pay to reconvene your wedding party to take replacement photos. If the best man loses the wedding rings, it's covered. And if a wedding postponement or cancellation causes the bride or groom to need professional counseling, the insurance will pay for the sessions.
Mother-In-Law clause is NOT included in the Policy.
One policy, WedSafe insurance through Robertson Taylor Insurance Brokers Ltd. of London, costs $185 for about $15,000 coverage, and $405 for about $75,000 coverage.
Good Idea!
Diamonds In Hospitals Not Welcome
England's Daily Mail reports today that Nurses are being urged by hospital bosses to cover up their cleavage and make sure they don't inadvertently expose their pants to patients.
I Need A Nurse, Quick!
The new uniform guidelines drawn up by health bosses also place a ban on high heels as they can wake up sleeping patients.
Workers at Southend Hospital in Essex are being asked for their views on the proposals which also include a ban on jewelery other than ear studs and wedding rings.
Doctors have also been told not to wear stethoscopes around their neck for fear of spreading infection around hospitals.
Guess many of the old geezer patients will now be checking themselves out of this hospital. Bummer!
Would You Buy A Diamond Engagement Worn By A Celebrity?
Good Question. Would you be influenced?
While luxury brands are eager to get celebrities to show off their goods, the impact may be negligible, according to a new study. In fact, the survey found celebrity endorsements are twice as likely to backfire as they are to produce immediate sales results among wealthy consumers.
The Wealth Report, compiled by the Luxury Institute, finds only one percent of wealthy consumers (median income of $250,000 and net worth of $1.5 million) will buy a luxury product based on an endorsement from a celebrity. Only five percent say endorsements would increase their consideration of such purchases.
Of those surveyed, 13 percent would definitely not consider a celebrity-endorsed luxury product, and 63 percent said celebrity endorsements do not affect their decision-making at all.
But the report finds celebrity endorsements do raise awareness of luxury products and services. Of those surveyed, 18 percent said celebrity endorsements help them become aware of luxury offerings.
In terms of products, celebrities have the greatest power in promoting fashion designers, with 30 percent of those surveyed admitting celebrity influence in this category.
Holiday Gift Spending To Increase, Says Report.
Shoppers buying gifts this holiday season will spend an average of more than $1,000 each, according to a new study from Unity Marketing.
This represents an 8 percent increase over last year's average holiday gift budget of $928.
So far this year, consumers have spent an average of $1,034 on gifts, 20 percent more than last year, according to Unity Marketing's quarterly "Gift Tracker" survey, which monitors gift givers' purchases.
If consumers continue buying gifts at this rate, average gift-spending could exceed $2,250 for the entire year, a 12 percent increase over last year. A quarter of consumers polled have already spent $169 on Christmas gifts, according to the survey.
Unity Marketing expects top gift categories to include gift certificates; gourmet gifts like wine, spirits and chocolate; and "little luxuries" like soaps, candles and home fragrances.
The Gift Tracker survey takes quarterly polls of 800 gift-buying consumers, tracking what gifts they have purchased, why they purchased the gifts and where they bought them.
Information on Platinum or Gold Mens Wedding Bands
Platinum is an incredibly rare metal of exceptional beauty. Unlike gold, (which is yellow in its purest form) platinum does not require rhodium plating since it is naturally white.
Platinum is a very dense, heavy metal. Platinum is also more durable than gold which makes it much preferred for wedding bands. However, because of all these attributes, it is also significantly more expensive than gold. Platinum provides an excellent contrast for diamonds but is also exceptionally elegant by itself. Most men tend to prefer platinum wedding bands, if they can spring for the additional monies, because of its timeless beauty, and hypoallergenic proprieties. Platinum also develops a gorgeous patina over time, which is completely uniqe to this metal.
Considering the rarity and cost of platinum, it is small wonder that the selection of men's platinum wedding rings is smaller than the options available for gold and titanium rings, and even palladium rings.
Most men, when selecting a platinum wedding band, will choose a simple and timeless band without accent diamonds.
Certainly, white gold or yellow gold mens wedding band are an extremely viable option for any mans consideration. What appeals to you personally, is entirely up to you!
The good news is, there is no bad choice to make!!
Pearl Jewelry is Hotter Than Ever!!
Pearl jewelry is simply hot!!
Tiffany is opening up more and more jewelry stores selling designer pearl jewelry.
Wherever you look..every bridal magazine, every jewelry catalog, you will find loads of diamond and pearl hoops, earrings, pearl strands, pearl necklaces, pearls...and more pearls...with no sign of letting up!
Go to the Emmy's..what are they wearing?.........Diamonds and pearls!
Here are some beautiful diamond and pearl jewelry offerings by Assael.
Snap On, Snap Off, For Body Jewelry!
A new type of belly ring called TummyToys is one piece, hinged, and claims to make life easier for wearers of body jewelry. Charms can be added for aesthetic purposes, but you needn't screw on any other components for the ring to stay put!
Cool!
Jewelry For Your Belly!
Magical Anniversary Ring....Check This Out!
Ever get into trouble because you forgot your Anniversary date??
Well, now there is a solution....and its right there on your anniversary wedding band!!
This innovative technology programmed into your gold or platinum mens wedding band, will make sure that you never forget your Anniversary date again!
Score major points with your woman...(and keep your marriage intact..;))
Check it out at Gizmodo.
Vegas To Get New Jewelry Center.
The City of Las Vegas and real estate developer Probity International Corporation unveiled plans for one of the largest jewelry projects in the world on October 26, 2006.
Las Vegas Mayor Oscar B. Goodman welcomed guests and Probity's Robert Zarnegin and Bill Boyajian to celebrate this future one-million square foot mixed-use World Jewelry Center.
The World Jewelry Center is expected to host both corporate offices and trading offices of several hundred domestic and international gem and jewelry companies. The center will also have free-standing retail jewelry stores. The complex is planned to open for business between late 2009 and mid-year 2010.world jewelry center
Altoon & Porter Architects have designed the cornerstone of The World Jewelry Center, which will be an iconic, state-of-the-art office tower (one of the tallest office buildings in Nevada.)
Artists rendition of the new Las Vegas Jewelry Center
Tenants will own their own subdivided space in the tower and the structure will include meeting and exhibition facilities, international restaurants, a private club and a fitness center.
The top floors of the tower will be dedicated to luxury residential condominiums with panoramic views of the Las Vegas sprawling, desert landscape. An adjacent three-story retail jewelry center will offer a world-class gem and jewelry museum and exhibition space for the public.
"We're very excited about this global project coming to our city," said Mayor Goodman. "The World Jewelry Center will revolutionize the jewelry industry as well as change the way people and businesses view Las Vegas.
"The entire concept of the World Jewelry Center is very progressive and will fit in well with all the other innovative, international business projects coming to our city. The tower itself will change the face of the Las Vegas skyline and become a key landmark for the city."
The Center will be built with every amenity and service in mind to make it the world's premier fully integrated, service-oriented business hub catering to international and domestic retailers, manufacturers, dealers, and wholesalers in the gem, jewelry, and pearl industries.
Other features include state-of-the-art security; secure shipping and receiving; gem grading labs and educational facilities; trade associations; and plans for a dedicated Foreign Trade Zone.
The World Jewelry Center will be located in downtown Las Vegas (not on the Strip) within the prominent master-planned community of Union Park.
Carats and Cleavage: Perfect Together.
This year's annual Victoria's Secret Runway Show featured plenty of carats to go along with the cleavage, including a $6.5 million Hearts On Fire (HOF) Diamond Fantasy Bra.
Combining two of nature's most precious gems—supermodels and diamonds—Karolina Kurkova wore the prized 800-carat lingerie as she sashayed down the runway. Completing the look was a $350,000 HOF diamond belt that adorned the model's panties.
Karolina Kurkova
Kurkova wasn't the only ice queen. HOF also dressed Gisele Bundchen (in 20-carat diamond stilettos and two diamond cuff bracelets totaling 150 carats) and Alessandra Ambrosio (in 15-carat diamond earrings), among others, for the "Glacial Goddess" segment of the show.
Alessandra
Giselle Bundchen
The Diamond Fantasy Bra was made with over 2,000 super-ideal-cut HOF diamonds, the first all-diamond bra for Victoria's Secret. It was featured in the store's Christmas catalog.
This fashion show will air on CBS on Dec. 5.
Hey Guys, this beats NFL Football, for sure!
Guys, 24 Shopping Days To Christmas. She's waiting for you.
View Some Of The Finest Jewelry Ever Created!
The Lester and Sue Smith Gem Vault
Intensely hued jeweled masterpieces float wondrously in utter darkness, embodying the ultimate combination of natural perfection and flawless artistic execution. Opening November 17, 2006, The Lester and Sue Smith Gem Vault, a new permanent exhibit hall at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, completes the story begun by the now world-renowned Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals.
Sapphire brooch. This platinum brooch has a 168-carat, yellow sapphire center stone, a 0.65-carat, yellow sapphire side stone, 3.46 carats of green diamonds and 2.92 carats of pave diamonds. Designed and created by Ernesto Moreira. (Photo: Harold and Erica Van Pelt)
View the collection here:
Lance Armstrong Jewelry???...Yes!
Kendra Scott Design has taken Lance Armstrong's yellow rubber cancer awareness bracelet high-end with these solid 18kt. white or yellow gold bracelets featuring a yellow diamond set in the center of the "O."
The suggested retail price is $10,296 (a minimum of 50% will be donated to the Lance Armstrong Foundation)
I think this is a tremendous concept and kudos to the people behind Kendra Scott Design for their largesse.
For more information, call them at 512-499-8400
Tiffany Inspired Custom Diamond Eternity Ring!
In keeping with our well deserved reputation for selling the highest quality Tiffany replicas and Tiffany inspired diamond jewelry on the Net, comes this new fabulous custom Tiffany style Baguette diamond eternity ring!
Here are a few photos I just took of this ring.
Custom Tiffany Style Baguette Cut Diamond Eternity Ring by ExcelDiamonds.com
Here are the specifications for this ring:
20 Baguette cut diamond
1.59 carats total weight
F/G Color
VS Clarity
Heavy Platinum Channel Band
Nicolas Cage is Mont Blanc's New Face
Mont Blanc, New York, has appointed actor Nicolas Cage as international brand ambassador. The brand will feature Cage in a campaign entitled, "Helping others gives success true meaning." It will highlight Mont Blanc's chronograph watches.
Do You Recognize These Diamond & Jewelry Stores?
I just saw this really cool posting in one of the industry magazines.
Here is how it goes:
After losing his job at the Department of Public Works, Sully the dyslexic signwriter has been given a lifeline at his cousin's jewelry-store sign shop. In a flurry of activity, Sully knocked out 10 jobs. Below is what he's come up with, and he needs your help to straighten out the letters.
(Hint: All are big name jewelers or watch retailers with the exception of one independent - a pretty cool store from the South. Additionally, all these signs were fashioned according to the well known and recognized brand logos and nameplates of these various stores.)
Custom Made Tiffany Style Diamond Eternity Ring!
Here is an absolutely breathtaking Tiffany style diamond eternity ring we just completed today for one of our customers!!
A very lucky lady will be receiving this 4.01carat, custom made shared prong diamond eternity ring in heavyweight platinum, tomorrow.
These icy white ideally cut diamonds are top flight color/clarity with blinding sparkle!!
Here are a few pictures (don't do any justice :( )
Buy Your Gal Beautiful Jewelry For Valentine's Day!!
Guys,
We go through this every year....
Valentine's Day is fast approaching and it really tends to confuse us "men who are from Mars".
Sure it's a day for emotional expression and appreciation.
However, many guys get it completely wrong...they are just totally on the wrong "emotional" train.....
Allow me to explain with this illustration:
'aint that the truth...
This mindset is going to get you in trouble all over again.
Your gal is waiting for that elusive gift and she has something very specific in mind...
Flowers???............don't even think about it!!!
You won't get away that easy...
Let's face it..your gal is thinking JEWELRY.
So you think..o.k., I'll buy her a cheezy gold band from JC Penny...shouldn't cost more than a few dollars....
Think again...this next illustration could be you....
Scratch that idea.....
Bottom line is, you owe it to your gal to buy her something nice, something memorable, something significant.
This does not always have to translate into big bucks.....it is true..that "it is the thought that counts".
However, this only applies when you actually spend two seconds thinking outside of...er...the box.
You cannot go wrong this Valentine's Day with a nice piece of diamond jewelry for your significant other....
Best of luck!
Naomi Campbell Helps Launch New Jewelry Line By Mont Blanc!
Montblanc hosted a gala "The Night of Stars" to celebrate its launch of a new diamond jewelry collection in Chamonix, France.
The Montblanc gala featured supermodel Naomi Campbell who presented the "Etoile" necklace and earrings worth approximately $4 million.
Naomi showcasing Mont Blanc Jewelry
Naomi wearing a Mont Blanc Watch
The Montblanc Diamond Jewelry Collection features four collections with more than 65 pieces of 18-karat gold studded with precious diamonds. The collection is now available for purchase beginning February 3, 2007 at Montblanc boutiques across the Country.
Well......
Naomi Campbell in the news promoting beautiful designer jewelry from Mont Blanc, sure beats Naomi Campbell in the news for a latest arrest as a result of beating someone to a pulp!!
Naomi Campbell during her most recent arrest in N.Y.C.
Chinese Millionaires!?
Used to be a distinct oxymoron under the old Communist regimes and grist for jokes by Leno and Letterman but no more. Chinese Millionaires are growing by leaps and bounds in the new capitalist economic system and this is causing a major rift and jealousy among the have-nots. Here is a report that appeared yesterday in the Indo-Asian News Service about this new trend in Chinese society. Should be noted that many diamond and manufacturers have built state of the art factories on the Chinese mainland in order to take advantage of the highly motivated and intelligent labor force and cheap working wages.
We recently blogged about China becoming an emerging economic power with our focus on the diamond and jewelry industry. Read it here: China Rising!
Anytime there is a seismic shift in economic matters, there are growing pangs and adjustements. Here is the Indo-China News Service report.
___________________________________________
Mr. Lai is on the horns of a dilemma as he stands amid what may be the most dazzling collection of luxury goods gathered under one roof in modern China. Should he listen to his wife and buy the $750,000 Rolls Royce Phantom or should he listen to his instincts and stick to his modest Mercedes Benz?
"It's not the money I'm worried about," says the 43-year-old head of a major textile company. "It's just that if I drive a car like that, we'll need a bodyguard too. When they see you inside a Rolls Royce, some people hate you and you need protection."
Next to him, in an exhibition hall filled with diamonds, sports cars, boats and diamond-studded mobile phones at China's first major luxury goods exhibition, Lai's 28-year-old wife is gently caressing the wing mirror of the gleaming maroon Phantom. It looks as if she will get her way.
In nearby Shenzhen, where a parallel exhibition is being staged, Xhang Ming is in a black mood after having spent two days watching the wealthy browse among Bentleys and jewellery that he could not afford in a lifetime's labor.
"I hate these people," says the 28-year-old security guard, paid $4 a day to patrol with dozens of other uniformed guards for the three-day event. "Everyone knows that none of them get their money honestly."
He gestures towards a circular Hastens bed from Sweden at the center of the hall with a price tag of $49,000. "It's disgusting," he sneers. "In my hometown in Hunan province, you can buy three apartments for that money. How could anyone spend so much on something like that?"
In today's China, the answer to his question is "very easily." There are legions of nouveau rich in the world's fastest growing economy who can afford to do much more than spend the price of three rural homes on a single bed.
This is the brash new China, where more than 20 years after former leader Deng Xiaoping announced that to be rich was glorious, thousands of people are gloriously rich - and they want the freedom to flaunt their wealth in public.
Millionaires from across the nation in December descended on the southern cities of Shenzhen and Guangdong for the two fairs aimed at showing them ways of spending their newfound fortunes and taking some of the stigma out of being filthy rich in China.
Wealthy guests - personally invited from the 27,000 people in China now worth $6 million or more - spent $12 million in Shenzhen alone in two days, and donated hundreds of thousands more at charity auctions held to raise money for orphaned children.
Most of China's super-rich are young - in their 30s and their 40s - and driven by a desire for opulence. At the same time, however, they are fearful of the reactions to their extravagance.
Most of China's 1.3 billion people still scrape by on no more than a few hundred dollars a year while a small elite are yuan billionaires worth a minimum of $13 million - and more than 90 percent of them are the children of senior Communist party officials.
Not everyone is wary of being ostentatious. Li Cai, the ebullient 37-year-old head of the Guangzhou Yulong Tenggao Electronics Company, who took one look at a light aircraft as he toured the Guangzhou fair with his partner then signed up for a $50,000 membership in a private flying club, exclaiming with a broad grin: "It's so cheap.
"I would like to buy a boat while I'm here too if I can find one."
The twin cities of southern China were chosen for the luxury goods' exhibitions because they have a more liberal attitude to wealth than Beijing, 2,000 km to the north, and also because Guangdong is the nation's richest province.
Some observers see the widening rich-poor divide in China as a powder keg that could ultimately bring down the ruling Communist party. There have already been widespread anti-corruption riots in rural areas as anger mounts over the gulf in earnings which has seen the difference between urban and rural incomes increase 16-fold since 1990.
"Luxury is still a dirty word for many people," said exhibition organiser Liu Jidong. "There is still a big gap between the rich and the poor in our country but maybe if people learn more about these luxury products, they will begin to believe that if they work hard, they too can enjoy these better things in life. This kind of event might encourage them."
The highlight of the Shenzhen fair was a $400-a-head televised dinner and millionaires' auction for 800 invited guests, to raise money for underprivileged children.
"The idea of the auction is to show that rich people really care," said Liu. "If they do things like this more often, maybe the poor people will not envy them."
Outside the auction venue, migrant worker Wang Guihua, 35, laughed bitterly when told of Liu's remarks.
"Doesn't he understand we belong to different worlds?" she asked.
Some Very Unique Diamond Jewelry For You!
Did you ever wonder what a piece of diamond in the rough looks like?
Wonder no more.
This company manufactures one-of-a-kind diamond in the rough jewelry creations, which combines natural polished diamonds with rough uncut diamonds to a beautiful effect!
This beautiful and interesting diamond ring above, features a huge uncut diamond in the rough, flanked by a wrap of polished micro pave set diamonds.
This ring was sold by Bergdoff Goodman this past holiday season for a whopping $100,000.00 to a private customer.
The company, Diamonds in the rough jewelry which introduced their jewelry collections to customers in Las Vegas in June, during the jewelry industry's biggest buying week, indicates that the response from retailers in New York, Shanghai and Sardinia has been overwhelmingly positive.
Some observers might be stumped by the quick success of a high-priced selection of uncut diamond jewelry.
However, among luxury jewelry shoppers and consumers, there is no denying the growing appeal of jewels that defy the traditional sparkle effect, in favor of an earthier, more organic appeal.
Here is a great article on this jewelry collection by Victoria Gomelsky of The International Herald Tribune.
Jewelry For The Geek In You.....
Honestly, I don't know what to say about this one..other than to give you the link so you could see for yourself....
If you happen to be a science buff (or a geek...) you might just appreciate this jewelry stuff.
What Is Moissanite? - Here Is Your Definition.
Many guys and gals are asking us for an alterantive (a.k.a. cheap fake...) to real polished diamonds.
While some have turned to cubic zirconia jewelry, many are asking about Moissanite.
Moissanite, is a lab created material that was made and developed with the purpose of mimicking certain qualities found in a natural diamond.
Here is a brief but informative article on Moissanite..
One well known company that manufactures Moissanite jewelry is Charles & Colvard
One of the negatives of Moissanites that it tends to give off a green tint and hue.
Guide To Choosing A Diamond Setting - Styles and Descriptions
What is a diamond bezel setting?
Diamond bezel setting
A bezel is a circle of precious metal that wraps around the loose diamond. A diamond bezel setting is quite popular and is often used for diamond pendants.
The bezel is secured to the top of the diamond ring and adds height and another dimension to the diamond setting. A bezel is sometimes 'split' into two halves around the diamond. This is called a half bezel diamond setting.
This technique is often used for a fancy cut diamond -- with precious metal around the wide curve and a section of precious metal ensconsing the narrow end.
What is a Pave diamond setting?
Pave ring by Vatche
When the surface of any diamond ring seems to be covered with clusters of tiny diamonds, the technique is called Pavé which literally means paved. This moniker is entirely appropriate given that the surface looks like a typical paved street of cobblestones.
These smalls diamonds are inividually set by hand in tiny holes that have been carved out of the ring shank. The diamonds are set in rows, so that they occupy the entire space of the diamond ring. The better the cut quality of the diamonds, the better the brilliance and beauty of the completed diamond ring.
Each tiny diamond, often weighing just a few points in carat weight, is traditionally cut with 58 facets and set in its hole. Small metal bits from the top of the ring are pushed over the diamond to secure the stone in place.
The Pavé technique is a demanding technique that is successfully accomplished in the hands of a patient and extremely skilled diamond jeweler.
The price and cost of any pave diamond setting is largely influenced by the incredible amount of hand labor that goes into the production of a jewelry item of this nature.The better the skill of the jeweler, the better the overall design will look, with a seamless beauty of dazzling diamonds throughout.
What is a channel diamond setting?
Channel diamond accents on a custom SuperbCert - Excel Diamonds Tiffany Setting
Channel diamond settings are most often used in the form of diamond eternity rings and bands. Channel settings feature smooth and elegant lines that contrast and support the beauty of any well cut diamond.
Channel settings have the ability to protect the integrity of your diamonds in a way that not mny other diamond settings can. Since none of the diamond edges are exposed, they are not subject to hard knocks and abrasions.
What is a bar channel diamond setting?
Bar channel diamond rings by Vatche
A variation of the channel diamond setting, is called the bar channel. Here, there is also a separation of precious metal between every diamond in addition to the channel on the sides of the ring.
The diamond cluster setting is a diamond ring where the stones are arranged in the form of a stylized flower, or done in a very specific type of arrangement using small diamonds of equal carat weight.
Diamon cluster setting
Although there are other styles of diamond settings, the few styles above are considered the most popular and are most often used in diamond jewelry creations
Cheap Diamond Ring? No Way!!
A Five Diamond Resort Tempted its Guests with this Rare $1.5-Million, Heart-Shaped, Yellow Diamond on Valentine's Day .
Read the full story here.
Mikimoto Pearls Does it Again!
Gorgeous new designs from Mikimoto pearl jewelry designers, are in the works.
Mikimoto pearl necklace with a flair for the dramatic!
Here is an article on their new jewelry line by Mikimoto.
Bridal Jewelry In The News.
The Contemporary Design Group, a national organization of jewelry designers and retailers, has named Mark Schneider its "Designer of the Year."
Mark Schneider
The group honored Schneider at an awards dinner held on Feb. 2 at the Congress Hotel in Tucson, Ariz.
"It was a great honor to be recognized by fellow artists and members of the jewelry-design community I respect and admire," Schneider said in a statement.
The awards dinner, which took place in Tucson instead of Las Vegas for the first time this year, drew attendees from the American Gem Trade Association, the American Jewelry Design Council, the Manufacturing Jewelers and Silversmiths Association, and retailers from across the country.
Schneider, a third-generation jeweler, specializes in jewelry featuring clean lines and simple design. Best known for his bridal and colored-stone collections, he has received more than 36 national and international awards for his work, including two American Gem Trade Association Spectrum Awards in 2006.
New Judaica Jewelry
A newly formed group of Israeli jewelry designers named the Holy Land Group aims to introduce Israeli jewelry designs to consumers all over the globe.
They feature some very interesting and unique jewelry creations like the one pictured below
This bracelet by Ruth Anchelovitch of HLG pairs black lava with bronze color pearls in a bracelet that's finished with a sterling clasp.
For more information and to view their jewelry collection, visit them at www.hlgjewelry.com.
Binary Wedding Bands - Geeks Need A Ring Too
This company puts out a "Binary wedding band" that looks like this:
Binary wedding band by www.greenkarat.com
Here are the details in their own words:
"Our computers, like our love, are built upon very simple foundations. In the case of computers, that foundation is binary code.
These sophisticated, yet simple rings bear your personalized message in that computer code.
Binary code is a way of representing numbers using a pair of symbols (such as 1 and 0) in a string. The placement of the symbol in the string determines its value, just like the decimal place of the digits in our normal counting numbers determines their values.
In binary notation:
1 is one
10 is two
11 is three
100 is four, etc.
With 5 digits you can count from 0 to 31, enough to represent all 26 letters of the alphabet with 1=A, 2=B and so on.
On the Binary rings, there are 5 parallel tracks running around the ring, each track representing a digit in the binary lexicon. The track is engraved for 1 and left blank for 0. In this way, the five lines of engraving which progress around the ring spell out, in combination, your personalized message. Whew! Got it?
The message on the ring above reads “A Marriage of Values”. Your message may contain up to 20 characters. Cast in either recycled gold or recycled platinum.
Our Binary rings are designed and hand carved by artist Gideon Weisz. These are custom rings. As such, they are not eligible for the usual return and exchange privileges."
Most of our wedding rings at Excel Diamonds are a little more traditional and don't have binary code...yet!
Also indexed via Bridal Wave
Cleaning Jewelry: Another Great Article!
So many great articles recently on the art of properly cleaning your diamond and jewelry baubles!
Here is a great jewelry cleaning tips read for you.
Enjoy!
Custom Mens Wedding Bands
Here is a beautiful and unique custom mens wedding band we just completed yesterday for a customer.
18kt. Mens Cufflinks: By Mont Blanc
One of the lesser known facts about Mont Blanc is that they manufacture beautiful jewelry!
Here is a gorgeous pair of 18kt. gold cufflinks for men, by Mont Blanc, with there snow cap signature in the center of the brushed gold face!
Understated. Elegant. Gorgeous!
Petra Nemcova Launches Jewelry Line For Fortunoff
Stunning Czech supermodel, Petra Nemcova established the Happy Hearts Fund at G2A to aid children in need who have suffered from natural disasters and other causes. The Fund's initial focus is helping children affected by the December 2004 tsunami, in Thailand, where Petra and her boyfriend were vacationing that fateful morning, as well as Aceh, Sri Lanka and India.
Now the 27-year-old Czech has co-designed a signature collection of silver, gold, and diamond jewelry called "Infinite Heart" which is being offered exclusively by upscale retailer Fortunoff.
The collection gets its' shape from the symbol of Nemcova's Happy Hearts Fund, and indeed Fortunoff will donate 10% of the sale proceeds to this worthy cause!
Petra Nemcova launches her new exclusive Infinite Heart Collection. Fortunoff will donate 10% of the net proceeds to the Happy Hearts Foundation, founded by Petra in 2005. (02/08/2007). Photo Credit: Splash News
"Infinite Hearts Jewelry"
Gold Earphone Necklace: Great For Ipod Lovers!
Anna Tascha is a brilliant Jewelry designer who is still a full time student in Stockholm. Recently, she heard of the many reports of students in N.Y.C. getting mugged for their Ipods and came to the realization that the coveted white ipod headphones (a sure indication of an ipod lurking somewhere in a jacket..) have become more popular (and dangerous..) than diamonds.
Gold "ipod earhones" necklace
She decided to do something about this cultural phenomena and has created the first ever gold earphone necklace to look exactly like the ipod earphones!!
This is a great idea IMO and I'm sure she's gonna capture some really cool feedback (maybe even significant sales) for this original and funky idea.
Be sure to click on her link and check out some of her other cool and original jewelry items!
Cool Phone Bracelet Concept
Thanks to Barry Schwartz of SEO Roundtable for alerting us to this cool new phone concept that can be worn like a bracelet!
Unofficially known as the bracelet phone, this one locks on your wrist like a bracelet and vibrates during an incoming call. To speak, you unclip it and hold it to your ear. It’s got a few neat tricks, such as its ability to play MP3s.
However, don't get too excited just yet. This phone is purely conceptual at this point.
Check out the guy who worked up the design on this puppy. View his designs here:
The World's Most Expensive Diamond Studded Cellphone
GoldVish Le Million
$1.3 million for a cellphone??
YES!
Guinness World Records certifies this GoldVish phone as the most expensive in the world--1 million euros, or about $1.3 million. The odd-shaped device is made out of 18-carat white gold and features 1,800 diamonds totaling 120 carats (this goes waaay beyond "bling")!! A Russian businessman bought Le Million for his wife last September at a luxury goods fair in Cannes, France. Don't have a spare million for this made-by-request gadget? Geneva-based GoldVish has plenty of expensive phones in its lineup, including models with gold plating and diamond-studded cases.
A Sharpie Diamond Pen By Hearts on Fire
One of the coolest diamond and jewelry promotions to coincide with a national brand from a completely different industry, was the joint effort from Hearts on Fire Diamonds and Sharpie pens for this years Superbowl weekend back in February.
For the ultimate autograph experience, Sharpie® and Hearts on Fire unveiled a one-of-a-kind Sharpie marker worth more than $10,000 in Miami during the week leading up to football’s biggest game. Featuring more than 1,300 Swarovski® crystals and 65 perfect-cut Hearts on Fire diamonds, this “Celebrity Edition” Sharpie will be auctioned off for charity.
This Celebrity Edition Sharpie was introduced as the brand launched its “Autographs for Action” program, which aims to secure one million autographs nationwide. In exchange, Sharpie will donate $1 million in supplies and funds to charities, community organizations and schools across the country. The Autographs for Action program enlists celebrities and professional athletes to inspire the public to make their mark for positive, permanent change.
About Hearts on Fire Diamonds
Hearts on Fire diamonds is the company behind the very expensive Hearts on Fire branded diamonds claiming to be "the world's most perfect cut diamond".
Here is a recent blog entry regarding hearts on fire diamonds and whether they are actuall worth their inflated price tag.
Lil Jon Owns World's Largest Diamond Pendant
The Guinness Book of World Records has just added Rapper LIL’ JON as the owner of the largest diamond pendant ever. The hip-hop star’s, “Crunk Aint Dead” pendant is 7.5 inches (19 centimeters) tall, six inches (15.2 centimeters) wide, and one inch (2.5 centimeters) thick. It weighs almost 12 pounds (5.4 kilograms) and features 73 carats of diamonds – with 3,756 round-cut white diamonds encrusted in 18-karat yellow and white gold. The diamond pendant has been valued at about $500,000 .
Moshe asked me for a bigger photo of the pendant and I found one courtesy of Getty images Via Deidre on Luxist, so here you go!!
Bug your eyes out on this puppy (I'm talking 'bout the pendant...;-))
Jon said, “I’m glad the Guinness World Records folks acknowledged me and my `Crunk Aint Dead’ piece. I spent a load of money on that chain. I had no idea I would break a record and be recognized for it. It’s an honor... I grew up reading and hearing about people and celebrities who break records in the Guinness world records book and it always fascinated me. Now I’m on the list.”
$500,000 Diamond Studded Chess Set!
Renowned French artist and jeweler, Bernard Maquin created the Royal Diamond Chess set in 2005.
This is one of the most expensive chess sets in the world.
Thirty craftsmen, under the direction of Maquin spent over 4500 hours creating the expensive chess set. The work was done from start to finish by hand.
The artists and jewelers used 1168.75 grams of 14 carat white gold, and approximately 9900 black and white diamonds, bringing the total weight to 186.09 carats and the total cost to a whopping $500,000.
Pocket change, huh??
I wonder if the game is more fun when played on a chess set that cost more than the homes we live in.....
View More detailed photos of this gorgeous diamond chess set at the Charles Hollander website!
Cool Ring Watch!
Who said that jewelry couldn't be hip?
This watch is worn on your finger like a ring and is available in your choice of yellow or white gold!
New Gold Jewelry Designs Are The Rage In China!
At yesterdays jewelry showcase event in Beijing China, models went absolutely crazy with gold jewelry items that ran the gamut from the funky gold sunglasses below to more over the top designs like a bra made from solid gold (I won't post that picture here, but you can see it on my links..;-)
This model is wearing a pair of gold glasses, which weighs 111.33 grams and was designed by Chinese designer Zhu Fei, during a gold jewellery design competition in Beijing March 28, 2007. [Reuters]
Wonder if she can even see out of those glasses??
Via China Daily for those additional pics. you might be interested in...
Hello Kitty Is Making Expensive Diamond Jewelry
From the pop-culture crazy company that just will not go away, here is a new nick-nack for you to spend your money on; a $4250 diamond ring for you Hello Kitty fans!!
People are absolutely crazy...what can I say!!
Via Popgadget.
Gold and Crystal Necklace Shaped Like A Donut
This interestingly beautiful necklace featuring crystal and gold is not only shaped like a donut, it's actually called the "donut necklace".
Not sure if the company is trying to capitalize on peoples hunger for donuts, or whether it isn't just bad marketing.
Looking at the bright side; the name is 'catchy'.
The "crystal donut necklace".
The crystal donut is wrapped with gold silk strands and capped with 14kt gold beads.
Priced at $525, your average Dunkin Donut is a heck of allot cheaper...
Unique Custom Jewelry by Barry Wine
I found some really unique and custom diamond rings by a mater designer named Barry Wine.
In a consumer driven market, where diamond jewelry is often mass produced with corner being cut everywhere and jewelry that leaves much to be desired, it is really refreshing to see a master jeweler celebrating his passion for fine jewelry, with exquisite designs that you won't find anywhere else.
These rings by Barry Wine are not only unique, you can actually see the painstaking work that went into every detail of their creation!
Via: I Love Bling.
Exquisite Designer Jewelry and Diamond Rings
De Lalys is a relatively new and refreshing diamond and jewelry purveyor of really unique designs and custom jewelry.
They are currently building out their new website and already have some really beautiful featured custom made jewelry, like the diamond ring below.
Fashion Editors Say Clear & Colorless Jewelry is In Vogue For Spring 2007
Pick up any copy of InStyle, Marie Claire, Jane, and other popular fashion magazines and you will find the editors talking about the rage for jewelry this Spring.
It seems everyone is pushing colorless baubles like lucite, rock, or crystal jewelry for your fashion accessories. Jane magazine bluntly states that "clear jewelry is no longer for strippers".
I just blogged on this new gold and crystal pendant design.
Glamour magazine declares that the jewelry should be piled on and become "the focal point" of your outfit.
Fashion jewelry icons like David Yurman, Georg Jensen, and Tacori are all devoting some considerable effort to this end, with flashy ads devoted to showcasing many of these new designs.
So get out there and buy yourself some clear crystal jewelry...and don't worry about looking like a stripper says, Jane magazine!!.;-) ;-)
Diamond Studded Dress Worth A Fortune!!
You'd have to be either certifiably crazy, or certifiably crazy to spend £2.4m on an evening dress like the one pictured below, but then again, who am I to tell anyone how to spend their money!
This diamond laden evening dress was recently modeled by Tanya Alvarez to launch the Powers Whiskey Irish Grand National in the Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin.
This diamond studded evening dress was designed by Thomas Heverin of Sligo and was specially made for the launch by Appleby’s. It is encrusted with 4,000 diamonds which took approx. 200 hours to sew individually by hand into the fabric of the dress. The dress is so expensive, it is actually accompanied by a personal security guard, wherever it is displayed!
Not much in the way of fabric on this dress BTW, so whoever wears this has got to be pretty comfortable in diamonds..;-)
Via: Belfasttelegraph
Protect Yourself With The Pepper Spray Jewelry Ring!
THE STUNNING RING™ pepper spray ring is designed to be worn on either hand on the 1st (index) or 2nd finger preferably your dominant hand, with the thumb (or other hand if necessary) accessible to operate the safety latch and depress the trigger. The pepper spray comes out of the front of the ring next to the stone. A safety slide locks the trigger button in place until you are ready to fire.
Black Onyx Stone set in silver or gold plated pepper spray ring.
Refillable pepper spray cannister available
Via: DefenseDevices
Chandelier Earrings Are Making A Comeback
It wasn't too long ago that chandelier earrings exploded on the market to large acclaim.
It seemed that everywhere you looked, women were wearing long, hanging earrings with, or without diamonds.
Then, just like that it disappeared.
The novelty was over and the trend had evaporated.
It was almost as if anyone wearing chandelier earrings was out of touch and radioactive.
Recently, however, it seems that this jewelry item is making something of a comeback.
There have been celebrity sightings of gals wearing chandelier earrings and dangling hoops and sticks.
Here are two relatively recent photos:
Kellie Pickler
Carrie Underwood
Enter Your Own Unique Jewelry Design To A Competition!
The Diamond Promotion Service (DPS) is inviting U.S. Sightholders, manufacturers, and designers to create new and innovative Journey diamond jewelry for an up coming competition.
The DPS is seeking designs that are the “latest and greatest” Journey diamond jewelry that will “capture the attention of retailers and consumers alike.”
On April 23 a team of industry experts will select the top designs which may one day join the S-Curve and Heart-Shaped Journey diamond jewelry designs.
Winners will be highlighted at the DPS booth at the 2007 JCK Las Vegas trade show, added to the DPS website and considered for future “A Diamond Is Forever” consumer advertising campaigns.
To participate in the competition, email submissions to Nicolina.Nelson@jwt.com at the DPS by April 20. Submissions must be photographs, renderings, or Cad-Cams. Jewelry will not be accepted.
Winners will be announced Tuesday April 24, and they will have until May 21 to submit winning jewelry designs.
Hmm... I wonder if they will allow renderings of unique jewelry designs from consumers, enthusiasts, and jewelry designers in training??
Try it out!
Via: IDEX
Moissanite Sales Are Down.
Charles & Colvard Ltd., the global source of moissanite, reported first quarter of 2007 sales fell 28 percent to $5.8 million. For the three months ending March 31, 2007, net income fell 78 percent to $339,000, or 2-cents per diluted share.
Does this mean that Guys and Gals want real Diamonds for their Engagement Rings?
Stay tuned.
'Baroda Pearls' Fetch 7 Million!
New York—Christie's auction house has received a record price for the Baroda Pearls, a two-strand natural-pearl necklace with matching earrings, brooch and ring.
Baroda Pearls
The set sold for $7.096 million to a private Asian buyer.
The necklace features 68 of the finest and largest pearls from the seven-strand natural-pearl necklace that once formed the cornerstone of the Royal Treasury of the Maharaja of Baroda.
The pearls sold during the "Magnificent Jewels" auction held on April 25, which netted more than $39 million with 90 percent of the lots selling.
The sale also set a record for the highest per-carat price ever paid for a sapphire, when a cushion-cut, 22.66-carat Kashmir sapphire sold to an anonymous buyer for $3.064 million.
"This auction marks a turning point in the jewelry world where original designs, rarity and provenance prove to be just as important as the quality of the gem," Christie's Head of Jewelry Rahul Kadaki said in a statement.
Source: National Jeweler
Gorgeous Jewelry Gift For Mothers Day!
I just came across this stunning new diamond pendant by Tacori
From A-Z, the Initial pendant reveals a unique script-style Initial written with diamonds. Available with either a High Polish or Sand-blasted background, the Initial is set inside a diamond-studded crescent silhouette frame.
Just breathtaking diamond jewelry by a great designer!
Gorgeous Jewelry That Looks......Edible!
Seldom do I come across jewelry that really makes me drool......
The few jewelry pieces I'm about to show you are not only gorgeous; they are completely edible......well, almost edible..;-) Take a look at this collection of diamond and gemstone earrings and rings!
Just delightful!
...and now for the kicker.......a beautiful freshly squeezed......diamond and gemstone ring from the masters at de Grisogono!
Juice, anyone??
Via: Spluch
Chastity Jewelry Becoming More Popular For Teens
The lure of chastity for teens has never been more popular, according to a recent survey.
More and more teens are choosing chastity and parents are honoring this commitment from their children with gifts of chastity jewelry.
Here is a great article I just read on the subject.
Mother's Day Is Huge For Jewelry Sales!
PR Newswire reports today that Mother's Day has become an economic bonanza for retailers, generating more than $11 billion in sales annually.
Much of these sales revolve around diamond and jewelry gifts and the numbers are only going up!
It is good to know that Mom is appreciated and the truth of the matter is that there really is no such thing as a "bad gift", only one that isn't given.
Yes. Mom Rocks! Show your appreciation and get her some diamond rocks!
Perfect Gift For Mom! A Diamond "Lego" Ring!
I found a great way to pay tribute to the joys of being a mother for the upcoming Mother's Day!
Here is a fantastic silver ring, set with a brilliant diamond that has an uncanny resemblance to a piece of toy Lego!
A woman who wears this ring is a walking advertisement for the joys of motherhood!
What a great gift to buy your Mom.
Whether she'll wear it or not, is an entirely different story.........;-)
To purchase this ring, click here.
Diamond Eternity Rings Make A Great Gift!
Diamond eternity bands and eternity rings make for an exceptional gift, due to their versatility, beauty, and value.
There are so many different types of diamond eternity rings and plenty of styles to suit every taste and budget.
You can go for a Tiffany style diamond eternity ring with channel or bead set diamonds.
You also have the option of going for the classic shared prong or 4 prong settings.
Women today are also mixing it up with regards to the diamonds as well. It used to be common for a woman to get a diamond eternity ring with either round, or princess cut diamonds.
Today, women are trying all kinds of new diamond shapes for their eternity rings and to a great effect.
It is not uncommon today for women to select asscher cut diamonds, or cushion cut diamonds for their eternity rings. Even emerald cut diamonds have become popular today in diamond eternity rings.
An additional benefit of buying a diamond eternity ring today, is that the customer is literally in full control over all variables.
The customer has the ability to work with a company who will allow them to individually select all of the diamonds by their own preference for diamond shape, cut quality, brilliancy, size, color, and clarity.
Then the customer selects the metal type, style and design to be employed in the creation of the actual eternity ring setting.
The options are endless......
Eternity diamond rings make for a beautiful, timeless and classic gift. This stunning piece of jewelry is the highlight of any diamond jewelry wardrobe and will be cherished forever.
Diamond Eternity Rings by Hoover & Strong
Diamond Eternity Rings by OGI
Diamond Eternity Rings by Abe Mor
Screen Legend To Launch Jewelry Line
New York—Star and style icon Lauren Bacall has partnered with Weinman Bros. to create a branded jewelry collection bearing her name.
The collection, "Bacall," will feature a variety of gems and price points, and will hit retail stores this fall.
Founded in 1912 by David and Sam Weinman, Weinman Bros. is a privately held manufacturing firm run by Robert Weinman, grandson of founder David. Prior to the launch of Bacall, the company focused on its Generations 1912 collection, which features antique-reproduction pieces based on the original molds and models used by the company's founders.
Bacall's film career began in 1944 when she played opposite Humphrey Bogart in To Have and to Have Not. The couple went on to co-star in three movies and to get married.
Bacall also made several Broadway appearances throughout her career, winning Tony Awards in 1970 and 1981.
In 1997, Bacall received the Kennedy Center Honors in recognition of her contributions to American culture.
Via: NJN
Chad Allison Jewelry Designs....Just Beautiful!
A really gifted jewelry designer that I'd like to recognize is Chad Allison Designs.
What is unique and refreshing about this jewelry designer and jewelry company, is their uncanny ability to weave intricate jewelry workmanship with a classic and timeless appeal.
Their gorgeous diamond jewelry designs are different, yet familiar.
Diamond Vues offers kudos to this special designer of fine diamond jewelry!
Some Of The Most Exquisite Diamond Jewelry You Have Ever Seen
Geometry, nature, and poetry are amongst the inspirations Lorenz Baumer draws from, when creating his one of a kind and highly acclaimed diamond jewelry.
The designer
The jewelry!
Custom Jewelry To Drool Over!
In keeping with our tradition here at Diamond Vues, of spreading love, traffic, and kudos to designers of fine jewelry who are at the top of their game, it is my pleasure to introduce you all to Jewelry Designs by Novell!
This company, creates gorgeous jewelry with a distinctive flair for the dramatic!
Engagement rings and wedding bands are available in gold, platinum, and palladium.
Briolette clusters in gold!
Jara Design: Realy Cute Jewelry!
I stumbled across some really funky/artsy jewelry by a company called Jara Design
Via: Design Milk
Buy A Diamond Tiara From A Princess!
An Italian princess is putting her valuable and rare diamond tiara on auction to help her with some of her tax payments!! (No this is not a joke!)
Christies Auction house will be selling this gorgeous diamond tiara to the highest bidder!
Could be you!
Here is the history of this diamond tiara, as well as its formidable specifications:
Queen Maria José inherited the tiara from her brother Prince Charles Theodore (1903 -1983)
In his will, this exceptional jewel is referred to as 'The Empress Josephine Tiara' on account of the fact that the briolette-cut diamonds in the tiara were a gift from Tsar Alexander I of Russia to the Empress Josephine. The Tsar used to bring presents for Josephine when he visited her at La Malmaison, following her divorce from Napoleon
It was purchased after the First World War in Switzerland by the King of Belgium from the collection of the Dukes of Leuchtenberg, a title first granted to Eugene de Beauharnais, son of the Empress Josephine, and adopted son of Napoleon, on the occasion of his marriage to Princess Augusta Amalia, daughter of King Maximilian of Bavaria. Their youngest child, Prince Maximilian Joseph married in 1839 Grand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna of Russia, eldest daughter of Tsar Nicholas I.
Have you got any spare cash sitting around?
You might consider snatching this masterpiece...then you could really say you own the "crown jewels"!!!
Read this extremely interesting story on why exactly these jewels are being put up for auction at this time. Really cool stuff.
Roberto Coin Jewelry Teams With Supermodel Christy Turlington
Model Christy Turlington has teamed up with jewelry designer Roberto Coin to be their new Ambassador.
Italian jewelry designer Roberto Coin chose supermodel Christy Turlington Burns as the fresh face of the company's new advertising and promotions.
Turlington has graced the covers of more than 1,000 top fashion magazines and has also been involved in a variety of charitable causes, including (PRODUCT) RED, which raises funds to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, and CARE, which combats global poverty.
Five percent of the net profits from jewelry pieces featured in the campaign will be donated to Youth AIDS, a program that spreads the message of HIV/AIDS awareness to the world's youth population.
Diamond & Jewelry Advertisements Need To Get Better!!
The recent diamond and jewelry show in Las Vegas, as well as my obsessive perusal of diamond and jewelry industry magazines, has helped solidify a thought I have had for some time now...............
Advertisements for the diamond and jewelry industry absolutely stink!!
That's right...you heard me say it!
It amazes me that my industry, which ought to be at the very top of the field when it comes to effective advertising (since by definition, we are selling beautiful diamonds and jewelry), is actually so far behind many other industries selling far less glamorous products!
You would think we would showcase gorgeous and unique diamond jewelry in a tasteful and compelling way.
Instead, you open up any jewelry magazine, bridal magazine or diamond industry magazine, and you will find pictures of scantily clad women.
The fact that they are wearing diamonds on their bodies, is not simply secondary to the crass promotion of their bodies. On many ads, you have to actually look with a magnified jewelers loupe before you can see the tiny diamond studs on the models ears....;-)
While it is common knowledge in today's decadent society that "sex sells", the question the diamond industry needs to ask itself, is how much of it??
At what point does it become a liability to the core objective of promoting and selling diamonds and jewelry??
I asked this very question on this blog some time ago and still do not understand what motivates some jewelry companies to promote their products with a racy photo that could just as well be an ad for a very different type of company.
I'm not saying that it is not glamorous and effective to showcase diamonds and jewelry on a beautiful model. What I am questioning, is the effectiveness of showcasing a scantily clad model...PERIOD....(with some tiny text on the bottom of the ad to indicate that the people responsible for this ad..err...happen to own or manufacture jewelry somewhere...)
The cheezy diamond ads by DeBeers are not much better either....
Indeed, there are far better ways to effectively and memorably create advertisements for diamonds and jewelry (even if it incorporates the use of a model) over some of the crass and vulgar "offerings" I have seen lately.
Take a look at this ad for a Weight Watchers office in France:
Positively brilliant!!
The marketing guru who thought up this clever ad, ought to win a major award!!
I certainly don't have the answers....but to recognize a problem is hopefully a step in the right direction.
My two cents.
Jewelry Treasures From Ancient Shipwrecks!
This company manufactures jewelry from ancient shipwrecks, including original coins from sunken Spanish Galleons!
This themed jewelry is perfect for today,s trendy "pirates" climate!
You will actually look stylish wearing a pendant with an actual coin recovered from the 1681 wreck of the Galleon, Consolacio'n.
A 14kt. white and yellow gold frame shaped like a skull and crossbones holding an actual coin has a suggested retail price of $1000.
Not too bad for a pirate!
'Kiss Me' Mens Cufflinks by Geri Designer Jewelry
Still looking for the perfect Father's Day gift?
Here is a really funky pair of cufflinks I found from jewelry designer; Geri.
These cuff-links are fashioned in 18kt. white gold with your choice of gray mother of pearl, onyx, turquoise, or tigers eye face. The cuff-links are capped by two round brilliant diamonds in a bezel setting.
More unique jewelry by Geri.
The Pony Goes Precious
Ralph Lauren, creator of the Polo pony is unveiling a fine-jewelry line with Richemont, the luxury goods group that own Cartier.
The new venture is being dubbed the Polo Ralph Lauren Watch & Jewelry Co.
This venture represents a first for both companies: a joint venture with a fashion designer for Richemont and a push into fine jewelry for Lauren.
Is Tacori Designer Jewelry Prostituting Its Brand?
Tacori is the Los Angeles-based jeweler known for intricate designer baubles and jewelry, including engagement rings with platinum and diamonds. They are also recognized for their relationships with many Hollywood celebrities and fashionistas.
Jewelry and engagement rings by Tacori, have always been associated with consumers who had the ability to spend a small fortune on a unique and beautiful diamond engagement ring.
Not anymore.
Some of you may recall the recent alliance that brought Tacori's designer jewelry together with QVC's "Platinum Clad" (sterling silver) and "Diamonique" (simulated gemstones) jewelry.
This initiative was done with the idea of making Tacori Jewelry more affordable to the masses and the result was a resounding success. Paul Tacorian of Tacori appeared on the program with its host and all Tacori merchandise created for this event sold out in about 18 minutes.
After the sale, there was some debate in the diamond industry as to whether or not Tacori made a tactical mistake with its decision to sell their jewelry on the QVC channel.
For those of you who do not understand how a jewelry sellout in 18 minutes can be construed as a "mistake" for Tacori designer jewelry; let me explain:
Here you have a company who has spent probably a few million dollars just to promote their designer brand and to create a brand identity for manufacturing some of the finest and most unique designer jewelry. Tacori advertises monthly in some of the most popular bridal and jewelry magazines and their jewelry has always carried a premium.
Many upscale jewelry chain stores and independents, bought into the Tacori jewelry brand for many thousands of dollars as a result of their unique designs, uber marketing, retailer support, and hefty profit margins. These jewelers spend good money on joint advertising with Tacori in some of these publications. They also buy inventory for stock and invest tremendous time and effort in promoting and selling jewelry designs by Tacori.
There are women all over the country who own Tacori jewelry and engagement rings which cost them a small fortune and netted a HUGE profit to the jewelry store where they bought it from...and you know what???.............
The customer was always happy with a unique and beautiful product ("value" being determined by every individual) and the salesperson was always thrilled with the amazing profit margin.
Then, Tacori comes along and decides they are gonna have their cake and eat it too.
They figure, why not get into a new market and sell Tacori jewelry to the masses for a few dollars on QVC?? Sure, there is less profit per item, but the difference can be made up with volume sales and quick turnaround!!
Sure enough, the initial undertaking is a huge success and they sell out the entire inventory in 18 minutes!!
Problem is, Tacori has just royally ticked off two major market segments and indeed his two biggest supporters to this point.
The independent jewelry stores who have invested so much effort into selling and promoting the Tacori brand are upset about the way Tacori has chosen to make an about face and promote and sell jewelry with their designer name for far less than their usual (astronomical) premiums and to a whole different market.
These jewelers are asking; what happened to exclusivity? What happened to the unique selling point? What happened to the brand name? What about all of our efforts and loyalty? How do we continue to push and promote this brand and justify the premiums to our customers, when Tacori jewelry can be bought for far less over the QVC channel?? What will happen to our profit margins?
Additionally, those customers who represent the loyal and faithful Tacori consumers and who invested a fortune and "bought into the brand" by purchasing a Tacori engagement ring from an upscale jewelry store for many thousands of dollars, are none to happy about the women standing next to them in line at the grocery store who recently purchased Tacori jewelry off the QVC channel for a mere fraction of the cost!
Bottom line; is Tacori prostituting his designer jewelry brand and did he make a tactical business mistake over the long term and in the final analysis?
Will his independents and faithful jewelry store owners forgive him and continue to push his merchandise? How about his original and loyal customer base? Will they continue to buy expensive jewelry and engagement rings by Tacori, considering the dilution of the brand? Or, will they turn to some of the other jewelry and engagement ring designers like Vatche, Verragio and Ritani?
I guess only time will tell.
A Pearl Necklace You Could Fly Away With!
Ordinarily, I try to refrain from personal commentary, views and opinions when showcasing a piece of jewelry (certainly when it is not one of our own manufacture..;-).
I simply show the piece and leave it to you faithful readers to make your own judgements.
This time, I simply cannot help myself!
What in the world was this jewelry designer thinking when he/she created this pearl necklace, called "Splendid Night" for a recent exhibit of pearl jewelry in Jinan City, China!!!
This necklace is beyond ostentatious.....
I mean, it almost looks like a set of wings!!
Perfect for a peacock, not a woman, IMO.
Notice any similarities??
Courtesy of Spluch.
Stunning Mechanical Watch Cuff Links
This set of Mechanical Watch Movement Cufflinks set in 18K gold is designed for enthusiasts and collectors of fine jewelry and complicated timepieces! They are created from gears, levers, and jewels taken from watches of the early to mid twentieth century. A mix of antique and modern appeal, each authentic vintage cuff link will have slight variations in shape and size. Gift boxed complete with authenticity certificate, set shown here in gold available for $1404.
Via: Luxist
Most Popular Mother's Day Jewelry Gift?
Of those who purchased jewelry as a Mother's Day gift this year, one-third selected yellow-gold items, according to the Jewelry Consumer Opinion Council (JCOC).
The JCOC found yellow gold the most popular metal choice for jewelry, followed by sterling silver (selected by 25 percent) and white gold (selected by 21 percent).
Just under half of survey respondents (45 percent) purchased a Mother's Day gift this year, and 13 percent of those respondents bought fine jewelry or a watch. Among those who bought fine jewelry, 24 percent bought earrings or necklaces, 15 percent selected fashion rings, 15 percent chose pendants and 13 percent opted for bracelets.
By material, 26 percent bought diamond jewelry, 18 percent selected gemstone jewelry and 18 percent chose precious-metal jewelry without gemstones.
Of those who did not give fine jewelry or watches as a Mother's Day gift this year, 40 percent cited budgetary reasons, and 26 percent said their mother did not want jewelry or watches.
Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts & Susan Sarandon Wear La Loop. Get Yours!
La Loop has a patented, 360-degree swivel that keeps glasses safe & in place without bending, twisting or falling to the floor. The necklaces can be updated seasonally and are made from precious metals, coral, turquoise and gemstones.
Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts and Susan Sarandon have all been spotted wearing La Loop.
Hmm... I guess that makes it a quality piece of jewelry??
Whatever....be like the stars!!
Via: I love Bling
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!
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.
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.
Camilla Duchess Of Cornwall, Wears The Family Jewels
It Appears that Camilla wears the family jeweles; literally and figuratively.
Tamera Adams reports that the Queen lent the Duchess of Cornwall a stunning graduated diamond necklace (seen in the picture above) from the Royal Collection, to wear to a private celebration in honor of her recent sixtieth birthday.
Camilla not being very popular among the Brits., I imagine they were not happy with this "goodwill gesture" on the part of the Queen.
Rolls-Royce Gold & Diamond Bracelet
This gorgeous bracelet, was created by jeweler Heinz Mayer as part of a purchase of one of the 35 special Rolls-Royce "Centenary Phantom" cars. The 35 pieces are each registered individually. The 18K gold bracelet's links reference the traditional "organ-stop" ventilation switch on the cars and the clasp features the Rolls-Royce logo. Six of the organ stop links are also pavé set with diamonds.
Beautiful bracelet, but a bit on the chunky side IMO.
Via: Luxist
John Hardy Sells His Jewelry Brand
John Hardy, the jewelry designer who became a consumer recognized jewelry brand, has sold his interest in his namesake company to the President and Creative Directors of the company.
He will remain as the "brand visionary" and "brand ambassador" while the company he founded tries to expand internationally.
John Hardy jewelry sales were $150 million in 2006.
Wedding Rings Personalized With...Your Fingerprints!!!
Talk about personalizing your wedding rings!!!
This company has come up with an incredibly unique way of putting "your stamp" on his and her wedding rings; it is called your own fingerprints!!!
Commissioned bands are delicately hand-engraved with the fingerprint of your partner and therefore completely unique to each couple. Available in 9, 14 & 18ct white/yellow/rose gold and platinum. The bands are available in a number of styles with the fingerprint hand-engraved on either the in or outside of the band. Each set is tailored specifically to the couple's taste.
Wow!!
Via: e-Potpourri
Kabbalah Bracelets Replacing Diamond Bracelets!
Nowadays, you almost cannot be considered a true Hollywood celebrity if you are not chic enough to run around with a simple red string tied around your wrist.
These red strings have become so coveted, they are begining to usurp the more "traditional" diamond jewelry worn on the wrists of many celebrities.
These red strings are called "Kabbalah Strings" and are designed to ward off the "evil eye".
In reality, today's "red strings," are nothing nothing more than crass commercialism and a complete perversion of this old Jewish custom related specifically to red string which was wrapped around the tomb of the Jewish matriarch, Rachel.
Here is one typical, albeit modernistic explanation to the "Red String" phenomena:
"Long ago, the ancient Kabbalah scholars revealed a powerful technology of protection. Its purpose is twofold: to protect us from the envious looks of others, and to help us eliminate feelings of jealousy and resentment in ourselves. The technology is the red string; a strand of Red wool worn around the left wrist.
The teachings of Kabbalah do not include prohibitions or commandments. Instead, the kabbalah speak of positive and negative energies. The negative energies of jealousy and envy emanate through the eyes—which gave rise to the very vivid and very ancient term, the Evil Eye.
Maddonna seen wearing her "Kabbalah Bracelet".
Jewelry By John Atencio
Jewelry by John Atencio, is our latest Jewelry Star showcase!
This company creates some of the most beautiful and unique designs in diamond jewelry!
Visit them and see for yourself.
Victoria Secret's Diamond Fantasy Bra For 2007
Since 2003, Victoria Secret has teamed up with diamond houses to create and showcase fabulous diamond studded lingerie.
Each year at the event, a different model showcases the Victoria Secret "Fantasy Bra" studded with major bling!
This year, Victoria Secret hooked up with the Mouawad diamond house, to create a comple set of diamond lingerie!
Selita Ebanks showcasing the Fantasy Bra 2007.
This expanded full gift set, includes a thong, garter, cuff bracelet and matching barrette.
"I felt completely like a woman and so sexy," says model Selita Ebanks, who recently undertook her first Fantasy Bra experience in a shoot for ads appearing in the new Victoria's Secret holiday catalog, due in mailboxes Friday. Once that baby gets hooked on, she coos, "your confidence level immediately goes up."
The blinged out underwear is complete with $4.5 million worth of diamonds, rubies, emeralds and yellow sapphires hand stiched into a push-up bra.
This brings new meaning to diamonds being a "girl's best friend"!!
Ebanks, joins the elite group and gallery of famous models who have showcased these diamond studded bras by Victoria Secret since 2003.
Mood Sensing Jewelry!
Did you ever wish your jewelry would reflect your mood??
Here is what this company says about their new product:
"Skintile the Electronic Sensing Jewelry further explores emotional and physiological sensing. It is a new genre of product; a generation of wireless, stick-on body sensors that re-define traditional body adornment. It explores a range of functionalities in new product forms that are playful, sensual, mood affected, bio activity stimulated, and arousal enhancing. It is a semi disposable, bio compatible, non-allergenic, breathable, mass customizable, self contained body worn accessory". (design.philips)
Diamond 'Bling' With No Sting!
"Bling without Sting is Totally Worthless. (this posting is not in any way a "digg" at the people behind the sign above..I just thought the picture was appropriate..;-)
A colleague of ours just informed me of a new "connection" he made for diamond jewelry manufactured in India.
This manufacturer creates all kinds of jewelry; from mens diamond cufflinks, to womens diamond pendants and brooches.
"These guys are so incredibly cheap" he tells me; "ya gotta give them a try".
"You're gonna be able to charge the same prices for this stuff and make a killing, instead of your razor thin profit margins on all the stuff you sell"
No brain-er right?
Wrong!!
I told him, I was used to offering quality diamond jewelry to our customers, where the set diamonds as small as they might be, actually have life and brilliancy to them.
It was my experience (I told him), that many of these manufacturers in India and other places who create "diamond jewelry" at really cheap prices, are using "diamonds" that are of such poor cut quality, they literally look dull and lifeless.
I call this kind of jewelry, "all bling with no sting".
I mean, just walking in the N.Y.C. Diamond District and looking around, I can always distinguish the inferior quality "jewelry" items originating from these places where jewelry is created on "the cheap", vs. the higher quality diamonds and jewelry fashioned for beauty and brilliancy as opposed to refuge and "scrap".
My opinion is, ya gotta have a modicum of pride in what you do and sell.
Ultimately, if everything was always about the "Almighty Dollar", people would wind up selling their own mothers to make a buck!
The bottom line is, you need to have some pride in the quality and consistency of the merchandise you sell.
What you lose in profits based upon your own cost of manufacture vs. the selling price, you can more than make up for with building and cultivating a reputation for the highest standards for honesty and quality.
Just my two cents.
Jacob The Jeweler Pleads Guilty
Celebrity jeweler Jacob Arabov of New York pleaded guilty Wednesday to falsifying records and giving false statements to investigators looking into a multistate drug ring, The Associated Press reports.
Jewelry Designs By ZYDO.
A designer jewelry collection to catch my attention recently, is the collection of baubles by ZYDO.
ZYDO is a jewelry designer and manufacturer out of Italy. They sell their exquisite jewelry through retail stores around the world.
They also have a presence on the Internet.
This stunning right hand diamond ring by ZYDO, is available for purchase through reputable online diamond e-tailer, Whiteflash.com.
Check Out The Latest Jewelry Trends
Some really good ideas here.
American Brilliance Jewelry Designs To Be Featured On Excel Diamonds
In our never ending search to bring our customers the finest in diamonds and jewelry, we were happy to discover an incredibly talented designer of exquisite jewelry creations!
We are happy to introduce to you American Brilliance Designer Jewelry!
American Brilliance Jewelry manufactures their exquisite and high end jewelry designs for the discriminating jewelry connoisseur .
American Brilliance Jewelry is manufactured by the finest ateliers in Italy.
Indeed, these gorgeous jewelry designs are reminiscent of and entirely comparable to the famous designer jewelry by Roberto Coin.
The price points for American Brilliance Jewelry Designs will be more competitive than the sometimes prohibitively expensive Roberto Coin Jewelry.
We are very excited about this development and look forward to showcasing this wide array of unique and exquisite jewelry on our website in the very near future!
Stay tuned!
Mother of Pearl and Diamond Ring...WOW! {Pics!}
These absolutely gorgeous Mother of Pearl diamond rings from the - Atlantis Ring Collection - were awarded “Finalist” in N Magazine's ENNY’s 2007
I absolutely love this look.
However, not every woman can carry it off.....
Via: A Jaron Fine Jewelry
Nicole Kidman Loves Yellow Gold Jewelry
With every photograph that I see of Nicole Kidman wearing yellow gold jewelry at a charity fundraiser, celeb. bash, movie preview, etc. I reinforce my recognition of her particular liking to yellow gold.
Here she is with Keith at a very recent event.
Gorgeous Pearl Jewelry From Baggins
These 64-inch keshi South Sea strands from Baggins are incredibly beautiful and stylish.
I just saw a beautiful new concept from Baggins in a recent industry magazine.
Baggins has now expanded its diamond Huggie Collection, to include 18kt. white gold and Tahitian pearl drops that can be attached to and removed from the diamond pieces.
It can be worn as a set of beautiful diamond and pearl earrings, or you can use it with the included gold cable strand to function as a beautiful pendant on a chain!
Very novel and very beautiful.
One Website A Million Jewelry Designers!?!?
www.YLANG23.com offers a wide array of jewelry from many different designers...most of them names nobody in the industry has ever heard of...
Nevertheless, the selection of diamond jewelry designs is quite alluring!
This gold and diamond bracelet from one "Cathy Waterman" is actually quite interesting and unique. Of course, for the outrageously overpriced price of $25,600.00 it might prove to be a bit prohibitive for many.
Here are the specs:
Cathy's 22kt gold bees chasing wildflowers hinged bangle bracelet is a knockout addition to your holiday jewelry wardrobe, with its "floating" bees alternating with platinum and diamond flowers. Fits a normal to smaller wrist and is actually an oval shape so that it resists turning. Besides the push clasp, there is a safety bar hidden on the bottom.
$25,600.00 .....WOW!
Arm Revolution Cufflinks Gives You A Unique Serial Number!
We are just back from the Holidays and would like to introduce you to a new and interesting concept in mens cuff links which I just came across.
This radical change in men’s luxury accessories focusing on cufflink design, introduces a product uniquely engraved with its own identification number, which, once registered, gives its owner membership to the exclusive gatherings of the movement.
I'm really not even sure myself what this is all about....looks kinda weird if not a bit intriguing.
Check them out here.
Wear An Elephant On Your Finger! {Pics!}
Talk about interesting and unique jewelry!!
I just stumbled across this unique ring
This sterling silver cocktail ring features a CZ encrusted, pave coated pink elephant with gold detailing. Zoelle's body, head, and trunk are embedded with pink CZs over a rose gold hued base; her ears are outlined in clear CZs. Gold CZs laid over a gold hued base make a V down her back with a faux pearl on the tip of her trunk. That's one elegant elephant!
Nuts and Bolts Wedding Rings
This interesting set of his and hers wedding rings, is a creation of jewelry artist Kiley Granberg.
Here is how she describes these wedding rings:
Wedding Bands
Brass, 24k gold plate, white zircon
Wedding Bands are about commitment. The inherent connotations are a huge part of the piece and, quite often, reveal themselves as a social or sexual comment.
The rings are constructed out of brass then plated in 24k gold. And although the stone is set into the men's ring, when screwed together, the stone actually sits against the woman's finger.
Hmm.....interesting.
Thanks Tamar!
A Gorgeous 9 Carat Emerald Cut Diamond Eternity Ring {Pics!}
We just completed this absolutely breathtaking Emerald cut diamond eternity ring today for one of our customers! The ring features 9.00 carats of hand selected emerald cut diamonds of exceptional cut quality, uniformity and beauty! The diamond color is F-G and the clarity VS!
Pictures don't do any justice!
Don't Wear Nipple Rings Next Time You Have To Fly.
An attorney claims security agents gave a woman a pair of pliers and forced her to remove her nipple rings in order to board an airline flight.
Los Angeles attorney Gloria Allred issued a press statement Thursday making the allegation but she did not provide details. A news conference was scheduled.
Transportation Security Administration spokesman Dwayne Baird said he had not heard of the incident. Baird said the TSA has no specific policy about body jewelry but if it was big enough to sound an alarm, the person wearing it would not be allowed to pass security until the alarm was investigated.
Baird noted, however, that people wear wedding and other rings through security without tripping alarms.
Fabulous Diamond Necklace From Piaget Unveiled!
Piaget has just unveiled this Limelight diamond necklace, splattered with diamonds and set into a majestic 18 carat white gold setting.
There are 632 brilliant cut diamonds totaling approximately 25.08 carats and 43 pear cut diamonds of approximately 7.8 carats adorning this beautiful masterpiece!
The necklace is part of Piaget’s Limelight Paris-New York collection which highlights the contrast of both cities.
Madonna's New Jewelry! April 2008
Madonna has turned to Chopard to create the custom diamond knuckle ring that reads “M-dolla” and the Happy Diamonds cross she wears on the cover of her new and much anticipated album “Hardy Candy.” Designed by Chopard co-president Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele herself, the ring features 258 brilliant cut white diamonds with the signature Chopard floating diamonds in the flourish of the letter M. This is the second partnership between Chopard and Madonna; their first was the pave diamond “Hung Up” necklace the Pop Queen wore onstage from her “Confessions on a Dance Floor” album.
Gold In Iceland
No, this is not the name of a diamond and jewelery company.
Iceland Review reports that Archeologists have discovered a gold ring in a grave in Skriduklaustur in east Iceland where there used to be a monastery. The discovery is considered significant because very few gold rings have been found in archeological excavations in Iceland.
The ring is engraved with a leafy pattern that indicates that the ring was made in the 16th or 17th century. The monastery church in Skriduklaustur was used after Iceland converted to Lutheranism in 1550 and until the 18th century, so it is not clear whether the ring dates before or after the church began operating.
The ring was found in an elaborate grave. The coffin was two-meters long even though the person resting there was much smaller. The lid of the coffin has an inscription, but so far, archeologists haven’t been able to decode it.
Who would want to Honeymoon in Iceland?
Diamond Studded Motorcycle! See It To Believe It!
Check out this amazingly beautiful work of art created by somebody I know!
This "motorcycle" is literally studded with diamonds to create a dazzling showpiece of singular appeal.
I don't think I have ever seen anything like this and I cannot imagine how much this would sell for.....to a specific and interested consumer of course.....!!!
Take a look!
Palladium Jewelry Not As Popular As It Used To Be.
When platinum jewelry prices were sky high some time ago, Palladium became a metal of choice as an alternative to the Platinum which was simply prohibitively expensive for many. With Palladium being an intrinsically white metal (unlike white gold, which is actually plated yellow gold..), like platinum and sharing the price point of gold, it was an easy choice.
However, now that platinum prices have come down from where they were several years ago and with certain porosity problems arising in the creation of a sometimes brittle palladium metal, the popularity of this precious metal has declined somewhat.
It will be interesting to see how Palladium does in the 2009-10 season.
