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Jewelry Television Web site starts accepting PayPal

Jewelry Television (JTV) and PayPal announced today that Jewelry Television's Web site, jtv.com, will now accept PayPal for purchases of jewelry, gemstones and other collectibles. PayPal is chosen by millions of online shoppers for its ease of use and high level of security. JTV has chosen to partner with PayPal after reviewing consumer research indicating that U.S. online consumers have a high level of trust with PayPal and many shoppers would not purchase online unless PayPal was an option. When paying with PayPal, the consumer's financial information is not shared with the merchant, ensuring the highest level of protection and security.

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Gitanjali May Bid for Whitehall - Rapaport

Gitanjali Gems is planning to buy United States jewelry retailer Whitehall Jewelers, India’s Economic Times reported citing unnamed sources. The Times said the deal could value at between INR 350 crore ($81 million) and INR 400 crore ($93 million.) Whitehall recently joined a growing list of U.S. jewelry retailers which have filed for chapter-11 bankruptcy protection, and asked a U.S. court permission to auction its assets by July 16. At the same time, Gitanjali has been strengthening its foothold in India and the U.S. through mergers and acquisitions.

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Fine Jewelry News Launches Designer Videos

Fine Jewelry News announces the addition of designer videos to its community-based website designed to give women a forum to share their love of fine jewelry, gain confidence about buying jewelry, and help others in need of advice.

"The videos add an exciting new dimension to the site," says Jodi Goldberg, editor. "Visitors get a sneak peek into the studios, inspirations, and artistry that make each designer one-of-a-kind, and they get introduced to designers they may not have known about before."


New videos are constantly being added to the site, so visitors will always be in-the-know about what's new and who's up-and-coming. "We're excited to offer this new service to our visitors," says Goldberg. "Meeting a designer on video gives fascinating insights into the passions and personalities that create these beautiful pieces."


Visitors to Finejewelrynews.com will also find a forum called "Fine Jewelry Connection" where they can ...<< MORE >>

AGS offers new sales training program

The American Gem Society (AGS) has introduced a new custom sales-training program developed exclusively for AGS members that offers opportunities for both classroom and online learning.

"Custom Sales Training: Measured Results" launched officially at the AGS 2008 Conclave in April, with classes following early this summer at the AGS' Las Vegas headquarters from June 4-5, and in Ashville, N.C., from June 15-19.

Participants at the sold-out classes engaged in real jewelry sales scenarios, including responding to customer objections and learning how to identify and respond to customer needs.

Instructor-led training classes include a two-day course for sales associates and a one-day coaching class for managers and trainers. The Web-based course focuses on critical training skills for sales associates, and can stand alone or serve as an introduction to or ongoing support for the instructor-led courses.

"Everyone in the fine gem and jewelry industry knows competition is ...<< MORE >>

Stores close as bank grabs everything - By Chris Flores

After suddenly getting all of its inventory seized and liquidated by Wachovia Bank last week, David Nygaard Fine Jewelers closed its seven stores on Monday. Owner David Nygaard claims he was current with his regular payments, but Wachovia invoked a clause that allowed the bank to call in the full amount of all of his long-term loans in April. Nygaard said he was liquidating his inventory in a bid to survive when Wachovia seized more than $1 million worth of jewelry last Wednesday.

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British Crown Jewels Represent One of the Largest Jewelry Collections in Existence

Subject to a turbulent history and much thievery, the British Crown Jewels represent the regalia and vestments worn by the king or queen of the United Kingdom during a coronation ceremony and other state functions. In all, the collection includes crowns, orbs, swords, scepters, and other regalia. Gold and silver plate was refashioned in 1661 after parliament had ordered the original gold ...<< MORE >>

Pearl Dangle Earrings Added To Tikanchay Collection of Silver Artisan Jewelry

Tikanchay Imports, LLC, is known for its beautiful handmade sterling silver jewelry, but what most people don't know is that Tikanchay also gives back to the artisan community.

In addition to importing high quality sterling silver jewelry directly from artisan family workshops in Peru and making donations to artisan schools teaching the range of traditions from silver work to clay pendants, the company made a donation to the Connecticut Peruvian Relief Fund after the earthquake that shook the country on August 15, 2007. The President of the Relief Fund recently contacted the owners of Tikanchay with news of how their donation is being put to use in Peru. An investment is being made in a small village, Catahuasi, located in the province of Yauyus several hours outside of Lima at the foot of the Andes. Slowly recovering from the damage inflicted by the earthquake and in need of infrastructure ...<< MORE >>

BHP Gains Partial U.S. Antitrust Approval for Rio Tinto Merger - Rapaport

BHP Billiton said Thursday it has received partial approval for its takeover bid of mining rival Rio Tinto from United States antitrust authorities. BHP said that the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission have granted early termination of the Hart-Scott-Rodino waiting period for the proposed acquisition and the Antitrust Division of the DoJ has concluded its review without further action.

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Jewelry in the United States 2008 Provides Predictions

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/ff0575/jewelry_in_the_uni) has announced the addition of the "Jewelry in the United States 2008" report to their offering.


The jewelry sector spans everything from inexpensive costume pieces for everyday wear, to special items such as engagement rings and watches designed to commemorate special occasions, to investment level pieces priced and sold like fine art. This report summarizes market size and key product and growth trends for the jewelry sector, based on industry research as well as the author's proprietary consumer research.


Analysis provided in this report include:


- Market size figures from 2002-07, both overall and by product segment, as well as projected growth of the sector through 2012.


- The impact that a difficult economy and record-high prices for precious metals will have on this highly discretionary product sector, including the importance of high net worth consumers.


- Trends and ...<< MORE >>

Tag Heuer launches new Carrera lady jewelry collection

Diamond-rich and supremely feminine, these new jewelry editions reflect the core values of TAG Heuer: prestige, elegance, and daring, cutting-edge design. Self-confident and poised, seductive and determined, fashion-focused yet independent-minded, utterly feminine yet not shying away from masculine accessories, the glamorous TAG Heuer woman doesn't follow trends, she sets them! 

Carrera Lady Mechanical Calibre 4 Jewelry Collection

The motor sports-inspired series first launched in 1964 and worn by legendary Grand Prix driver Juan Manuel Fangio, the Carrera celebrates TAG Heuer's unique link with the world of professional motor racing. 

A new ultra-feminine version of the iconic Carrera is now available for the TAG Heuer woman who shares the brand's driving passion. The sparkling jewelry edition is decked out with classic Carrera features: unique case design, superlative Calibre 4 automatic mechanical movement (a rarity in women's watches), water resistance to 50 meters, brilliant TAG Heuer dial logo, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and caseback, and ...<< MORE >>

DGSE Auction Nets $963K for Diamonds, Watches

DGSE Companies Inc. reported results of its Superior Galleries jewelry and watches auction from June 29, 2008. There were 700 lots in what was billed as the Superior Galleries Beverly Hills Elite Jewelry and Time Piece Auction and it realized $963,429 in sales inclusive of the 19.5 percent buyer’s premium. Some individual highlights of this auction by lot number included...

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DTC holds leadership summit in Africa

The Diamond Trading Co. (DTC) has completed its three-day Leaders in Africa Summit, an event gathering together leaders from the DTC, from Africa and from its sightholders' businesses, celebrating the start of a new three-year contract been the DTC and its 78 clients. The mission of the summit, held in South Africa, was to bring leaders to the place where the DTC's roots lie and to expose them to innovative approaches and thought leadership that could serve as a catalyst for change in the diamond industry.

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Luxury leaders: The eight-figure independents








Our Eight-Figure Independents list of independent jewelers doing $10 million or more in sales has gotten bigger this year. Who are these jewelers and how are they managing to float, feather-light, above the latest economic woes facing other retailers?





Wal-Mart tops 2007 retailer list
July 01, 2008 -
High-Volume Retailers
Washington, D.C.—As it has for the past 17 years, Wal-Mart ranks No. 1 on Stores magazine's Top 100 Retailers list, with 2007 sales of $379 billion.





DTC holds leadership summit in Africa
July ...<< MORE >>

Charles & Colvard Steps-up Consumer Outreach with New Website - Rapaport

Charles & Colvard unveiled a new interactive website, WhatisMoissanite.com, aimed to help consumers understand the created jewel known as moissanite. The new website works to educate the public about moissanite; explain what it is, and how it came to be, and why it stands out from other gems. In addition, the site was developed as an educational web link for retailers that sell jewelry set with moissanite. 

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LJ International Reports Financial Results for Fiscal 2007

LJ International Inc. (LJI) (Nasdaq: JADE), a leading jewelry manufacturer and retailer, today announced financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007. Revenues for 2007 totaled $152.0 million, up 23% from $123.8 million in 2006. Most of the increase was due to a 127% increase in sales for the Company's retail operations, to $34.3 million from $15.1 million.

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Attérg® Finds Success Among Fashion-Savvy Celebrities

Attérg®, Inc., a Menasha, Wisconson-based designer of exquisite handcrafted metalwork and beaded jewelry, has recently garnered major attention from Hollywood celebrities and stylists. Their pieces have been seen on this season's biggest prime time shows, as worn by finalist Brooke White on FOX's perennial juggernaut, American Idol.

Attérg® jewelry has found increasing popularity lately among celebrities, being seen on everyone from Rachel Ray to Courtney Cox-Arquette to Grey's Anatomy's Ellen Pompeo and Kate Walsh. Especially popular are their hand-forged and stamped mother's pendants, as customized for celebrity fans like Brooke Shields, whose bears the names of her two children, Rowan and Grier. Their jewelry is also a favorite in celebrity event gift bags, as featured at last year's LA Femme Film Festival, with requests for inclusion in gift bags for the Emmys and the Oscars.


An all-female owned and operated corporation, Attérg® was founded in 1999 by hobbyist-turned-designer ...

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Solomon Brothers Jewelry Enrolls to Launch Website Security Plan

In an effort to show their shoppers that they are taking the necessary steps to secure their information online, Solomon Brothers Fine Jewelry (http://www.solomonbrothers.com) has enrolled with ControlScan, a leading Internet security company, to increase consumer confidence.

Solomon Brothers Fine Jewelry will utilize ControlScan’s Verified Secure services to conduct regular scans of www.solomonbrothers.com for thousands of known vulnerabilities against a knowledge base which is updated every 12 hours to identify any potential vulnerability. ControlScan delivers timely reports with recommendations for security breach resolutions.

“It is our goal to help merchants protect their customers from fraudulent activity,” says Joan Herbig, chief executive officer, ControlScan. “Solomon Brothers Fine Jewelry is demonstrating their commitment to Website security by using ControlScan services.”

The Verified Secure offerings (Security and Business Certification seals, PCI Compliance, SSL Certificates, Search Engine Submissions, Press Release Program, LIVECHAT and RatePointSM) have become the solution of choice for small- ...<< MORE >>

Titanium-Jewelry.com Announces Availability of Palladium Wedding Bands

Titanium-Jewelry.com, a leading online retailer of titanium rings, tungsten rings and unique contemporary jewelry designs for men and women, today announced the arrival of the newest lines of mens wedding bands in stunning palladium designs.

Titanium-jewelry.com has been providing mens wedding bands and titanium and tungsten jewelry constructed from the highest quality materials and manufacturing techniques, for several years. The online retailer has an unmatched tap on market drivers and fashion sense, keeping tabs on the latest trends in wedding rings, wedding bands and contemporary jewelry designs. The new palladium rings offer customers even more of a selection pleasing those with even the most discerning of tastes.

The palladium rings are an ideal solution in today’s weakening economy, particularly for those who like the look of white gold and platinum. Similar in appearance, palladium offers the sheen, luster and shine of platinum or white gold, without the added cost, thus ...<< MORE >>

Other eBay News - Al-Qa'eda plans UK attacks with ambulances bought on eBay

Terrorists are reportedly planning to use former National Health Service (NHS) ambulances and police cars bought on eBay for launching suicide bomb attacks in Britain. The Telegraph quoted The Association of Chief Police Officers as saying that the Government must pass a law stopping the sale of such vehicles in the wake of fears that al-Qa'eda inspired extremists may use them as they have been used in Iraq and Israel..

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LVMH wins $63M - eBay get your checkbook out! National Jeweler

A French court has ordered eBay to pay LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton 40 million euros (about $63 million), ruling that the online auction giant did not do enough to prevent the sale of counterfeit goods on its site, according to a report on Monday from Bloomberg.

Luxury-goods maker LVMH claimed in the lawsuit that eBay, the world's largest Internet auctioneer, has a heightened responsibility to prevent fraud. According to the report, LVMH said it found that in 2006, 90 percent of the Louis Vuitton- and Dior-labeled perfumes, watches and bags being offered on eBay were fakes.

In a statement, eBay said that it would appeal the ruling. (nothing new there - appeal! appeal! appeal!)

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Gitanjali Gems Profits Soar in 4Q Fiscal 2007-08

Gitanjali Gems profits more than tripled in its fourth fiscal quarter boosted primarily by stronger sales during the period. Net profits grew 252 percent to INR 483.17 million ($11.14 million) during the three months ending March 31, 2008. Net sales rose 23 percent to INR 8.27 billion ($190.57 million,) and expenses increased 20 percent to INR 7.77 billion ($179.23 million.) Operating profits rose 101 percent to $500.98 million ($11.55 million) for the quarter. For the full fiscal year 2007-08, Gitanjali net profits rose 69 percent to INR 1.38 billion ($31.84 million.)

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Taylor Walks away from Jewelry Company & Shareholders

DAME ELIZABETH TAYLOR has been forced to walk away from her jewellery company after her designs failed to entice shoppers. The veteran actress and her House of Taylor Jewelry partner Kathy Ireland quit their California-based firm last week (begs23Jun08) after executives' efforts to revive the brand proved futile. The pair owned a combined 49.5 per cent share in the company. But despite their stock options, generous licensing fees and personal involvement in the project, Taylor and Ireland have opted to turn their backs due to lacklustre profits.

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Van Cleef & Arpels Unveils Bridal Collection - By Cathy Rose A. Garcia

French jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels recently unveiled its new bridal collection ``French Kiss,'' with a romantic fashion show featuring the wedding gowns of French haute couture designer Eymeric Francois. Models wore Francois' exquisite wedding gowns, along with pieces from Van Cleef & Arpels' bridal collection like stunning diamond solitaire rings, intricate diamond-studded necklaces, earrings and bracelets.

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$1M in Diamonds Stolen from Traveling Dealers - Rapaport

Authorities now say robbers attacked two diamond dealers working on calls in Arkansas and Tennessee in the past three days, and reportedly the theives made-off with $1 million in diamonds in what is being described as similar circumstances.  One dealer from Los Angeles was hit in a shopping center parking lot at a Pine Bluff, Arkansas, mall yesterday, and a dealer from New York was hit in a hotel parking lot on Tuesday evening in Nashville.

Attention sales people: Please view this important video on travel safety tips from the Jewelers Security Alliance.

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De Beers Wage Deal in Dispute, Workers Threaten Strike

South Africa's National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) upped its wage increase demand from De Beers after accusing the diamond mining company of reneging an earlier deal, Reuters reported Friday. NUM said on Thursday that De Beers had agreed in principle to a 12 percent wage rise for its members, but a De Beers spokesperson told Reuters the announcement was put out prematurely as an agreement had not yet been finalized.

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Diamonds International is Offering Free Jewelry on Web Site

With a recession looming and the credit markets in a crunch, Americans have less and less money to spend on luxury items like jewelry. Diamonds International is currently offering free bracelets, earrings and necklaces on their web site, ShopDI.com, for those who are strapped for cash but still want to sparkle.

Anyone who wishes to claim their free jewelry can go to http://www.shopdi.com/Free-Jewelry/ca/fj.cfm and place an order using ShopDI.com's fast, secure online checkout. There are no strings attached - customers pay only $3.45 shipping and handling, and satisfaction is always guaranteed.


"We're just trying to show our customers that we appreciate their business," says Isaac Klugmann, Vice President of Direct Sales for Diamonds International's Internet Department. "We know that with the rising cost of gas, food and other basic essentials, most people don't have much left in their budget for jewelry." Klugmann hopes ...

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Vintage Jewelry Group Purchases Entire Collection from DeLizza & Elster, Inc.

TAMPA, FL - At the first DeLizza & Elster (Juliana) Jewelry Show & Conference, conference attendees got a glimpse of original art renderings depicting costume jewelry and accessories created specifically for the company, DeLizza & Elster, Inc. (D&E) from 1977-1980. Mr. DeLizza was on hand to answer questions and provide first hand information about the renderings.

According to sources, these renderings were sketched and painted by Sandra Boucher, a celebrated designer of both costume and fine jewelry, long time artist and instructor for the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York. The story of Sandra Boucher and her phenomenal career in both fine jewelry (Harry Winston, Tiffany's) as well as costume jewelry (Marcel Boucher Ltd. Novelty & Jewelry) is a story in itself.

The collection includes 176 pages of jewelry and fashion accessories. Some are dated in the artist own hand along with random titles and descriptions. The jewelry depicted in ...<< MORE >>

ASPCA Jewelry Designed by Animal Loving Grandmother in Florida

A 57 year old grandmother has just designed her 4th piece of jewelry exclusively for the ASPCA online store.

Merry Rosenfield, who co-owns the internet business www.themagiczoo.com with her husband Ed, has been designing original animal themed jewelry for over 20 years.


"I'm an animal fanatic," said Rosenfield, who lives in Florida surrounded by native lizards, raccoons, possums and a yard full of the neighbor's cats.


In 2007 Rosenfield was approached by Stephen Dercole, director, ASPCA Merchandise, about creating a new line of logo jewelry. "I was delighted," said Rosenfield.


She donated her design time, estimated at between 20 to 25 hours and created 3 initial designs. That was in 2007. This year she has added 2 more designs to their collection.


Merry's newest logo design, a beautiful paw print in gleaming sterling silver, can be seen on the ASPCA ...

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Fortgangs fight back in Fabrikant case - By Michelle Graff

Members of the Fortgang family, the former owners of now-bankrupt diamond company M. Fabrikant and Sons, have won the right to a hearing and were granted access to a monthly "personal allowance" a week after a judge ordered all of their assets seized, court papers said. The motion, filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, modified the court's...

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Reports from lesser-known labs OK, consumers say

Although consumer awareness of diamond-grading labs is strong, they are willing to accept grading reports from labs they are unfamiliar with, a new survey by the World Gemological Institute (WGI) shows.

According to the survey, done in conjunction with the Jewelry Consumer Opinion Council (JCOC), more than 50 percent of consumers stated that grading reports are somewhat to extremely important.

Labs familiar to survey respondents included the American Gemological Society, the Gemological Institute of America and the International Gemological Institute.

And while there is a widely held belief among jewelry retailers that consumers will only accept diamond-grading reports from labs they are familiar with, the survey showed that actually only 13 percent of respondents feel this way.

According to the survey, 87 percent of respondents stated they would accept—or were unsure if they ...<< MORE >>

Bidz.com sees strong international growth

Online jewelry auctioneer Bidz.com announced today that growth from sales outside of the United States continues to be strong, with international sales expected to be up more than 50 percent from the second quarter of fiscal 2007.

The company said it is seeing encouraging results from the newly launched Spanish-language version of its site, with Chile, Columbia, Mexico and Spain among the top 10 countries for visitors in June.

"The Spanish translation of our Web site is yielding the desired results, and we are encouraged that future translations into foreign languages will be equally successful," Bidz.com Chief Executive Officer David Zinberg said in a media release issued today. "We believe our jewelry offering at value prices and in ...<< MORE >>

Charles & Colvard hit with $50M countersuit

Gem maker Charles & Colvard faces a $50 million countersuit from a jewelry manufacturer the Morrisville company sued earlier this month. K&G Creations said in a news released issued Thursday that its suit accuses Charles & Colvard of breach of contract, tortious interference, unfair competition and fraud. The legal action is in response to a $2.8 million lawsuit Charles & Colvard filed against K&G on June 16. Charles & Colvard claims that K&G owes the company for purchases made under a manufacturing agreement that ended Dec. 31, 2007.

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NJJA Phone Campaign Stops Used Jewelry Bill

The New Jersey state legislature went on its summer vacation without voting on a bill that would have regulated how jewelers can purchase used jewelry. The bill, A 2712, was tabled following a last minute phone campaign led by the New Jersey Jewelers Association. The bill had passed the Senate and was expected to be approved June 23 in the state assembly, said NJJA board member Paul Sanford of Paul Sanford Jewelers, Somerville, N.J.

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Seiko Files $500K Complaint Against Whitehall - Rapaport

Seiko Watch Corporation seeks the immediate payment of $500,000 for watches sent to Whitehall Jewelers in June. In a 17-page suit filed with U.S. Bankruptcy court against Whitehall yesterday, Seiko took great exception with the jeweler for having withheld its financial condition from the watchmaker before merchandise was ordered and sent. 

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Signet Secures $520M Credit Facility - Rapaport

Signet Group plc entered into a $520 million unsecured multi-currency five year revolving credit facility agreement. This replaces an existing $390 million facility entered into in September 2004, which was due to expire in September 2009, and will be used for general corporate purposes.  The replacement facility was led by Barclays Capital, Fifth Third Bank, HSBC and The Royal Bank of Scotland. The other participating banks are ABN Amro and National City Bank.

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JTV Ranked 4th Largest Online Jewelry Retailer

www.jtv.com was recently named the 4th largest online jewelry retailer of 2007 by Internet Retailer. The ranking was a step up from www.jtv.com's standing as 5th largest in 2006. Internet Retailer ranks retail web sites by category based on annual sales projections and other established industry metrics.

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HAND In HAND Custom Jewelry Design voted Best Of The Bay

HAND in HAND custom jewelry design has been voted the Bay Area's "Best Kept Secret" by San Francisco Magazine. The achievement marks the second year in a row that HAND in HAND custom jewelry design was recognized by the readers of San Francisco Magazine. The announcement was made at the 8th Annual San Francisco Magazine "Best of the Bay Area" party and fundraiser held on June 26.

"Needless to say, we are incredibly thrilled and excited, yet completely humbled by this amazing honor," says Kim Stiglitz, director of marketing, HAND in HAND. "We are so grateful to all our family, friends, clients and the readers of San Francisco Magazine who took the time to vote for HAND in HAND."

"Being voted 'Best of the Bay' by the readers of San Francisco Magazine two years in a row tells us that people share our core belief that for most of us, ...<< MORE >>

ImaGem Offers Tech for Fluorescence Measurement in Diamonds





ImaGem is proud to announce that it has patented technology for measuring fluorescence in diamonds. The technology establishes a standard for UV light source, measures fluorescence, identifies fluorescence color and assigns fluorescence grade consistently. The technology does not require different size master stones or different types of cuts to measure fluorescence and assign a grade. The fluorescence grading is repeatable to + /- 1/3rd of a fluorescence grade.


Recently in a press release Accredited Gemologists Association has acknowledged a need to establish a standard for UV light source. This initiative by AGA is in response to ‘consumer dissatisfaction with inconsistent grades and a specific concern that current procedures used to color grade fluorescent diamonds result in grades that are inaccurate, unscientific and misleading’ the parties said in a press release.


“Consistent fluorescence grading and establishment ...

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House of Taylor Surrenders Collateral to Lender

House of Taylor, which currently operates without a name (from here-on registrant / debtor,) informed the SEC that it had entered into a peaceful possession of collateral letter  with New Stream Secured Capital L.P. today. Under the possession letter, debtor acknowledged that it is indebted to New Stream for about $11.182 million. In addition, the amount must include interest accrued, commissions, costs, expenses, attorneys’ fees and other charges or contractual obligations, and charges associated with the sale or other disposition of the debtor’s assets. New Stream continues to have valid, enforceable and perfected first liens upon and security interests in certain of the debtor’s personal property.

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B&B’s Jewelry and Watches Auction Fetches $1M

Bonhams & Butterfields’ Jewelry and Watches auction held at the company’s San Francisco and Los Angeles locations on Tuesday took in more than $1 million. A pair of diamond oval-shaped hoop earrings went for $12,000, well above estimates of $7,000 to $9,000. “The luxury jewelry market continues to be impressively strong particularly for unique and fashion-forward pieces including colored stones such as rubies, opals, pearls, emeralds, and sapphires of all varieties,” said Michael Larsen, G.G., jewelry specialist in Bonhams & Butterfields’ Los Angeles gallery.

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Kathy Ireland Pulls Out from Under House of Taylor

After months of struggling, House of Taylor Jewelry (HOTJ) revealed today that Elizabeth Taylor and Kathy Ireland have terminated their license agreements with the embattled company. HOTJ said in the SEC filing that it is “unlikely” it will be able to remain in business. In the filing, HOTJ said it received notice last Thursday from Interplanet Productions Ltd, Taylor’s branded jewelry the marketing firm, that it is terminating the exclusive worldwide license agreement to use her name or market and manufacture under her name.

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G3 Jewelry Inc Launches its Online Shopping Boutique

Since the initial launch of G3 Jewelry's website in April there have been several updates and enhancements made, but none bigger than the debut of the G3 Jewelry Online Shopping Boutique. "Internet users now have a new destination for custom diamond jewelry on the web. Women who love diamond jewelry are encouraged to stop by our website and look at our 2008 "Glamour" line", says G3 Jewelry President & CEO, Quincy Brown. "We decided to luanch with 30 items and add more from to the "Glamour" line each week until we round out the categories", says Brown.

The online boutique features diamond jewelry that is completely customizable. When purchasing an item, shoppers can choose from various metals such as 14k or 18k White Gold, Yellow Gold or Platinum. Customers can also match the metal they want with the diamond ...

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JVC Presents Training for Rough Diamond Traders - Rapaport

The U.S. Treasury will enforce two new amendments to the Clean Diamond Trade Act that will affect rough diamond importers and exporters’ businesses. Amendments cover data collection for the import and export of rough diamonds in the U.S. to support obligations under the Kimberley process. To help you understand these new amendments, the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) is presenting “Training for Rough Diamond Traders: U.S. Statutory Requirements” at the JA/NY Summer Show, Jacob Javits Convention Center, Monday, July 28, 2008, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon, meeting room 1E03.   

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Royal Asscher Statement Following Fortgang, Fabrikant Court Charges





On June 18, 2008, a U.S. district court ruling document cited RA Cut LLC as a named affiliate company through which M. Fabrikant & Sons and the Fortgang family diverted finances to before filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. In the document the business was referred to as the hereafter term Royal Asscher without due consideration for the fact that another business is operating under a similar name. 


Lita Asscher, president Royal Asscher® of America Inc. states:


“In 2001 Royal Asscher Diamond Company entered into a distributorship agreement with M. Fabrikant & Sons, whereby the company was responsible for the marketing and sale of our branded diamond cut the Royal Asscher® Cut.   Thus Royal Asscher Cut LLC was established as a Fortgang entity, it was owned by Matthew and Susan Fortgang's private ...

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GSol Jewelry Takes Customers to the Carribean With Pirates Gold

Inspired by her world travels and flare for adventure, Los Angeles native Natalia Ramirez will launch the signature product line of her company, GSol Jewelry, just in time for the summer holiday. The Pirates Gold Collection features 11 pieces that are each enhanced by a combination of Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls, pirate-themed charms, and bead embellishments. Each product is delicately hand-crafted and reflective of the exotic jewelry one may expect to unearth from a pirate's treasure chest.

"My goal in designing Pirates Gold was to capture the essence of a mysterious yet sexy woman who is not afraid to live on the edge or finds sheer pleasure in taking chances," remarks Ramirez. "As a female entrepreneur, I know what it means to take a risk while in the same breath remaining feminine and innocent. I want women to feel empowered when they wear my jewelry, ...

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Platinum Demand for Jewelry Fell in 2007

Total fabrication demand for platinum rose 0.8 percent to 7.06 million ounces in 2007 year-over-year, according to the Platinum Group Metals Yearbook. High platinum prices affected demand in some sectors, such as jewelry and electronics, but were offset by relatively inelastic demand in other sectors, in particular the automotive industry...

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Jeweler to celebrities sentenced to 2 1/2 years

Celebrity Manhattan jeweler Jacob Arabov was sentenced to 2-1/2 years in prison and fined $50,000 today in federal court in Detroit for lying to federal agents about the ownership of jewelry seized from a major cocaine trafficker...

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Leviev Namibia Workers Continue to Strike

Approximately 200 workers at Lev Leviev Diamonds (LLD) Namibia factory continued to strike Tuesday despite the company obtaining a court order to keep them off the premises, local newspaper New Era reported. The workers, now in their fourth day of strikes, have vowed to continue the action until their grievances have been met, the newspaper said. Among their demands include the removal of LLD Namibia’s general manager Mike Nesongano, who they claim has created a hostile working environment.

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Novori Says Average Sales Prices +45%

Online jewelry retailer Novori reported its average sales price rose 45 percent per customer sold during the three months ending May 31, 2008, from one year ago. Mark Neild, Novori’s chief financial officer, attributed the rise to the struggling U.S. economy as "consumers who would typically purchase higher-end bridal jewelry from a store are now more likely to be looking for value online."

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Have An Unexplained Rash? Your Jewelry Could Be To Blame

Unexplained skin irritations, itchy rashes it happens to millions of Americans and many say they have no idea what causes the breakouts. According to experts jewelry allergies are not only extremely common, but very simple to prevent.

"We see it quite frequently," says Lisa Garner, M.D., dermatologist on the medical staff at Baylor Medical Center at Garland. "Some patients come in and actually realize what's going on and others do not have any idea what's causing their rash."

For millions of Americans the problem is nickel.

"The most common metal to be allergic to is nickel and any metal that looks silver-ish in color has nickel in it to some degree," explains Dr. Garner.

Getting diagnosed is the first step to stopping the breakouts, but treating them is not so simple.

"The only real treatment for an allergy like this is to avoid contact with items like this," adds Dr. Garner.

Sounds easy, but nickel can ...<< MORE >>

Sharon Stone to endorse Italian jewelry from Damiani

Sharon Stone, one of the most hot-favorite and dynamic Hollywood actress, has reasons to feel lucky after bagging the prestigious opportunity to endorse Musts and Masterpieces collection of Italian jewelry company, Damiani. Sharon Stone has been nominated as the new celebrity endorser for this exclusive jewelry collection from Damiani. With the kind of success she encountered with Basic Instinct, Casino, The Mighty and The Muse, it won’t be very difficult for this stunning dame to get favorable response of her fans to this jewelry line.

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Whitehall Jewelers Files for Chapter 11 Protection

Chicago-based Whitehall Jewelers Holdings Inc. filed for Chapter 11 protection Monday and will soon put its assets on the block. The company explained in a statement that it had filed for bankruptcy protection, along with its diamond retail business Whitehall Jewelers, while it was implementing its reorganization plan. Whitehall also secured an $80 million debtor-in-possession (DIP) credit facility from the Bank of America, Wells Fargo Retail Finance, and GMAC Commercial Finance, to replace the company’s previous $125 million revolving credit facility.

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Zales.com Introduces 'Z Trends'

America's diamond store, Zales Jewelers, introduced a new fashion-forward feature on its expansive website,
http://www.zales.com. The new "Z Trends" column will focus on the season's hottest looks from the runway to the red carpet each month, and give site visitors up-to-the-minute news and information about the vast selection of fine jewelry and accessories available at Zales.com.

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New Charms Feature Exact Likenesses of Pets in 3D

According to Richard Coburn, president of A Charming Life, "We are making one-of-a-kind three-dimensional charms created in the exact likeness of a person, and now a pet, from a profile photo." Available at
Charming Life. "Our company philosophy celebrates the spirit of remembrance," adds Coburn. Using the photo, A Charming Life's artists "interpret" the face...

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Adversity Taught Arizona Jewelry Artist-Designer

Award-winning artist and jewelry designer Joyce White redefines African motif through her glass and sculpted wire jewelry. What is profound is how far White has come from her days as a forklift operator to create the beauty of her jewelry and to become a fine artist earning first place in shows like 2007-08 at the Arizona Fine Art Show and Jewelry Art and Glendale Fine Art Show in 2007.

An untimely injury allowed White to take a leap of faith and open a florist business to express her artistic side. White took broken pieces of vases that became fused glass jewelry art. Serendipity was at work when she declared her talent out loud and began receiving praise for her designs.


White's business name grew out of her identification with her African roots. White was born and raised in Mississippi. From her humble beginnings, she never dreamed of being ...

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Belgium’s May Polished Exports +14%

Belgium’s polished diamond exports rose 14 percent to $1.1 billion in May 2008, according to statistics provided by the Antwerp World Diamond Centre. Polished imports also grew 14 percent to $979.89 million, resulting in a 14 percent rise in net polished exports (polished exports less imports) to $121.85 million. Rough imports increased 3 percent to $962.69 million for the month, while rough exports grew 15 percent to $1.09 billion.

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A birth of a new clarity grading system-GIA - Mithun Rao

The GIA clarity grading system was proposed and developed by Richard T. Liddicoat in 1952 when he was the president of the GIA. He worked on this system with the support of Lester Bensen and Joe Phillips and was assisted by Robert Crowningshield and Bert Krashes. The system was developed for assessment of the clarity of the diamonds used in jewelry. While in the progress of development the clarity grading system was called 'diamond grading and evaluation appraisal'. The key aspects of the grading system were - color, clarity and make (quality of the cut, polish and finish).

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Diamond Empowerment Fund PSA to air on Monday

A new public service announcement (PSA) will begin airing nationwide on Monday in an effort to draw more attention to—and raise more money for—music mogul and jeweler Russell Simmons' Diamond Empowerment Fund (DEF).

Titled "Diamond Empowerment for Africa's Future," the PSA uses stop-motion animation to tell a fictional tale of how one African boy benefited from diamonds.

The approximately 40-second spot takes viewers through each phase of the boy's life, starting with the medical care he received at birth through the education he received growing up, before concluding with him using that education to become a doctor.

The PSA ends by directing viewers to the DEF's Web site,
Diamondempowerment.org.

In an interview with National Jeweler, Simmons, who founded the DEF after a trip to Africa in 2006, said ...
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Jewelry-site traffic strong in May

The jewelry, luxury goods and accessories e-commerce category was one of the strongest gainers in visitors in May, according to comScore's monthly analysis of U.S. consumer activity at the top online properties.

The category was up 9 percent in traffic last month to 17.5 million visitors, compared with April.

Other categories showing visitor increases in May included flowers, gifts and greetings (up 15 percent to 42.4 million visitors), coupons (up 11 percent to 24.5 million visitors) and travel-information (up 9 percent to 47.2 million visitors).

The e-cards category also saw traffic increase, up 8 percent in May to more than 35 million visitors.

"Mother's Day was a key driver of Web activity in May, as the convenience of online shopping for flowers and gifts drew many to retail sites," comScore Media Metrix Executive Vice President Jack Flanagan said in a media ...<< MORE >>

Custom Jewelry Collection Launched by Roberta Degener

Her creations are as unique as the markings of a magnificent butterfly; no two are alike. Monarch Jewels are one-of-a-kind jewelry creations of beauty that will make you feel as beautiful as a butterfly.

Inspired by her love of beautiful jewels and minerals, from a very young age, Roberta Degener collected rocks on the camping trips taken around the United States with her grandparents. She and her grandfather would tumble the rocks in her grandfather’s garage to create beautiful stones. The name was inspired by her grandmother’s love of butterflies, nature and animals.

Each of Roberta’s unique creations contains a signature butterfly; be it a tiny butterfly charm dangling from the clas