Jewelry News - Domestic & International News

Amazon Top Ten Hot New Releases in Jewelry

2011-10-23T14:58:04Z

Hot New Releases in Bracelets & Bangles

1.

Bracelet for Pandora Beads and Charms - Silver plated - fits all pandora / troll / chamilia beads - Fits Pandora/Biagi/Troll/Chamilia Beads & Charms - BOGO - Buy One Bracelet - Get ONE Free - Select Size from Drop Down Window Below

by ...

Top Ten Amazon Registered Wish List Jewelry

2011-10-15T13:38:17Z

The most wished for items on Amazon.com (in jewelry bangles & bracelets) is as follows: (as of October 15, 2011)

Designer Inspired Silver Heart Charm Toggle Bracelet Links Of Love

by Links of Love

3.4 out of 5 stars (28)

List Price: $2.99

Price: $1.39

You Save: $1.60 (54%)

2 new from $1.39
...

Top Ten Jewelry Sellers on Amazon (October 9, 2011)

2011-10-10T02:22:23Z

Bracelet for Pandora Beads and Charms - Silver plated - fits all pandora / troll / chamilia beads - Fits Pandora/Biagi/Troll/Chamilia Beads & Charms - BOGO - Buy One Bracelet - Get ONE Free - Select Size from Drop Down Window Below

by Windsor Sterling

Shambhala Jewelry - The New Wave

2011-10-08T14:29:13Z

What happens when jewelry designers run out of ideas for new jewelry products? They go to the far reaches of the world and re-create a product that can gain popularity - thanks in part to the internet.

How many have heard of a Shamballa bracelet? If you shop on Amazon, there's pages of these bracelets being sold. One can find them under the following names/titles:

Shamballa
Shambala
Tibetan Shambhala (correct spelling)
Unisex
Hip-Hop Bracelets

Yes, a good salesman can sell just about everything (and anything) if he or she can promote a product line to the hip-hop community and also appeal to those with a need to connect with the Tibetan community.

Don't get me wrong, I'm all for finding one's inner peace and certainly don't mind wearing a symbol of my devotion - especially if it's encrusted in diamonds. Many may purchase this style ...

Celebrity Faux Jewelry - Crossing the Line?

2011-10-06T14:07:58Z

You see them all over the net for sale. Jewelry pieces inspired by celebrities. You may come across an eternity ring offered on HSN through Legends Jewelry. The inspiration for the design of the ring was derived from the eternity band, which Joe DiMaggio gave to Marliyn Monroe. The description of the ring on the HSN website states it's inspired by the Monroe/DiMaggio eternity band.

This brings up the question of who licenses such products and/or are the products actually licensed or, just inspired. We know what they say about inspiration and perspiration, however, how much perspiration does it take to attach a celebrity name to a piece of jewelry and wait for the cash to come rolling in?

In 1998, the Franklin Mint produced products bearing the likeness of Princess Diana. In response, the estate of Princess Diana sued the Franklin Mint and won. In a nutshell, it was found that the Mint did not have the consent to use the identity and trademark of Diana to profit from her death.

However, the law can be a tricky ...

Top Ten Jewelry Best Sellers on Amazon

2011-10-05T15:06:29Z

Ever wonder what jewelry designs/styles consumers are purchasing on Amazon?

Those in the know bookmark the Top 100 Amazon Jewelry Sellers and check it daily, while others may not even know a stats page for the Top 100 even exists. As an extra example, I have posted the Top Ten Sellers in the bracelet category.

Star ratings and reviews are posted by Amazon customers and reviews can be helpful in deciding whether or not a product may be right for you.

The ten most popular (best selling) jewelry products on Amazon (as of October 5, 2011) area as follows:

Kenneth Cole New York "Item Bracelets" Bracelets

by Kenneth Cole New York

Price: $21.00 - $30.00

Kabbage - A Leaf or the Whole Head?

2011-10-03T00:25:22Z

How many mom and pop merchants are out there suffering just a wee bit in this economy? No doubt, some folks are living off of credit cards, while others are taking out payday loans.

Payday loans are simply a bad thing (on every level), however, what if you could take a payday loan and reinvent a payday to the point where you could sell it to merchants who do business on Amazon, Yahoo and eBay?

I have an opinion about the site known as Kabbage and I have a feeling that this site may be nothing but bad news for anyone seeking a funding source for their online business models. It's basically a lending site with a program that decides if your business lives or slowly dies
Kabbage offers merchants what amounts to a loan against their future receivables. This might not be a bad idea for some of the big boys out there, however, the small fries might want to think twice about factoring their invoices. ...

To Buy or Not to Buy a Synthetic Gem

2011-10-01T12:36:32Z

Buying gemstones online can be exciting and akin to a treasure hunt! However, how to distinquish between a synthetic and natural gemstone is part of the detective work treasure hunters have to take into consideration before clicking on the "Buy it Now" or "Place Bid" button.

This Quick Reference Guide will assist you in what too look for in purchasing gemstones. First, if the description states the gem is "lab created" there's not much guesswork involved. If what you're looking for is a Lab Created Gemstone and the description states "Lab Created" then you know what you're buying.

However, sometimes you really have to read the description (line by line) in order to truly know if a gem is Lab Created. Read the description carefully as the words "Lab Created" may be present however, if the description of the item is extremely long, you might just miss the words "Lab Created".

Remember that some lab created gemstones can cost the same (if not more) than a genuine gemstone!

Lab Created gemstones are exactly what they are (created "grown" ...

BOGO Jewelry Deals on Amazon

2011-09-29T17:16:29Z

No doubt, BOGO (Buy One - Get One) deals are extremely popular when hitting the local supermarket. Go into any Publix and each week they offer a myriad of two for one deals on everything from ketchup to bread. BOGO are now finding a niche market online for those seeking to scoop everything from fashion apparel to jewelry.

Jewelry BOGO deals are somewhat hard to come by as one would think it's a bit difficult to offer jewelry products at an affordable price. In addition, it's even more difficult to find something you might want (or need) two of - except for earrings but, their often sold in pairs!

One seller on Amazon, is offering two for one deals on European bracelets and on beads and charms. The beads and charms fit on any major brand bracelet. The seller ID is Windsor Sterling and while I was referred to their products on Amazon - by a friend who recently purchased a bracelet, I could not find an ...

Declasse Gem Sales on the Rise..

2011-09-28T13:34:43Z

Declasse gems are hitting the market in high numbers as the holiday season kicks into gear. Jewelry sellers seeking to make a quick buck are flooding the market declasse gems. While these gems are normally sold at jewelry and gem trade shows, the true end purchaser is the consumer. Because declasse gems can be purchased at gem shows for just a few dollars a piece (the huge profit margins are the driving force that keeps them on the market). In fact, they can purchased by the bucket load.

Declasse = NO CLASSIFICATION

A declasse gem isNOT hard to identify (nor is a smashed glass diamond) however, a picture is worth a thousand words...

Below is a picture of a Declasse Emerald Ring...

Notice that the Emerald has absolutely NO LIFE! The color is flat and the stone is NOT highly polished).

It looks like a mottled piece of stone (which is what it is). However, there are those who buy these stones (that's really what ...

Cadmium - The NEW Jewelry Industry Nightmare

2011-09-26T14:11:17Z

We've all heard about the potential dangers of cadmium. While many may know that cadmium is used in the manufacture of rechargeable batteries, many may not know that the Chinese have been using cadmium in the manufacture of jewelry products. Probably the most vulnerable group affected by the use of cadmium in jewelry is children, as China produces a bulk of jewelry products for children for export to the United States.

In an odd move (and announcement) the U.S. jewelry industry has agreed to voluntarily place limitations on the amount of toxic cadmium that can be used in the manufacture of children's jewelry defined and/or described as trinkets. What exactly a trinket is has yet to be determined. I think the big question should be who are those speaking on behalf of the jewelry industry?

No doubt, the best way for the Chinese to keep up exports of children's trinkets to United States is to voluntarily limit the amount ...

Sample an Auction House Find

2011-09-24T15:19:42Z

The Most Underrated Collectible-Antique on the Market Today...

This item can be found in the America's and in Europe. It may be found in various sizes and condition. You may have one in your attic and/or have a family member who has passed one down through the generations. This piece of art was created by hand (in most cases) by schoolgirls and can date back as far as the 15th century.

This item (if vibrant - full of life and color) and in good condition, can command thousands of dollars at auction. In fact, one such item achieved a hammer price of $1,300,000.00 in 1996 and an entire collection was sold for $1,700,000.00 (that very same year) by Sotheby's in New York.

Samplers are one of the most highly prized pieces of art on the market today. While many dismissed Sampler's as "child's art" (not more than a few decades ago), serious Sampler collectors (around the world) are quietly and deftly acquiring these pieces of art and amassing private collections for the future.

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The New Gold Rush? The Pawning of America..

2011-09-21T14:29:03Z

No doubt, you've seen all the ads on television telling you that so and so will pay you TOP dollar for your scrap gold. In fact, you can go online and print out forms and go through a step by step procedure on how to insure your scrap gold and send it in to the buyer. In other cases, the buyer will send you a complete package in which you place your gold into a pouch, fill out the forms and wait for a check to come in the mail.

I don't know about the rest of the gold selling world but, I would NOT trust ANY of the ads that being touted on television on how to strike it rich - quick - by selling your gold. In fact, in most cases, no one is receiving the true value of their gold and the margins these present day pirates are making can range from 30% to 60%. The pirates earning 30% to 60% are the ones located in every ...

Proxibid Live Auction Platform Expands

2011-09-20T14:26:07Z

Not too long to go before many will find themselves sitting inside their homes, watching snow drifts form above their first floor windows. In addition, it is nearly that time of year when smart shoppers are getting their holiday shopping completed, whether online or at the brick and mortar source.

One alternative to hitting the malls or, visiting the river to shop your holiday away might be a site known as Proxibid.

While there are still a few auction sites on the net, live auction sites are far and few between, especially live auctions that have a reputation for being the best and offering up a real time auction format that works on every level. Proxibid has been around for many years and in fact, is one of the few live auction platforms still in operation.

Proxibid offers time auctions as well, however, its live auction format offers more of a good time than waiting for lots to count down.

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The Tiffany Experience

2011-09-18T15:11:54Z

While the holidays are approaching quickly, jewelry and fashion retailers are getting ready for what may be a hit or miss season of sales and profits. No doubt, the Tiffany name is to the jewelry industry what Warren Buffett is to Bank of America, sans the hand out. Tiffany stock is currently trading at $84.49 a share and its 52 week range has been $43 to $84 per share. Tiffany stock has doubled its value against the odds of a bad economy during the past year.

What in the world makes Tiffany stock worth $84+ a share? For one, Tiffany's has been consecutive in its dividend payments (for years) and its growth rate appears to be unstoppable.

While I do not consider myself affluent (Tiffany's target market), it is the affluent who recover quickly. Those who have money to burn, may burn a bit less in a down economy (and reduce their burning of cash down into a modest campfire - from ...

QuiBids - Bidding or Betting?

2011-09-15T03:01:56Z

No doubt, QuiBids came out of nowhere and they're making enough money to inundate the marketplace with television ads. The question becomes, is this site worth a visit and is it for real? There are some message boards screaming scam.

On the other side of the coin, it would appear that there are those out there thinking that QuiBids is worth their time studying. I read one post in which the author called the site a scam and accused the site of using bots to place bids. Whether this is true or not, the question becomes can you really buy "X" for as little as "Y". One author claims he was banned from bidding for a period of time, as he won three times in as little twenty-four hours. Yet, another author stated that his "loss" is a "gain" as QuiBids lets one roll their bids toward the purchase of a product.

In other words, if you lose, you still win.

The only ...

The True Pirates of the Caribbean...

2011-09-11T19:38:32Z

When we think of the Caribbean, we think of white sand, beautiful pristine waters and shopping! Yes, shopping is on the list - as one of the most popular things to do while vacationing on many of the Caribbean islands... St. Thomas is a popular destination in which to shop, as they claim it's Duty Free! Not really, as jewelry that arrives into St. Thomas (for sale in the endless stream of jewelry stores) has been taxed upon arrival into St. Thomas. So, while everyone advertises Duty Free "this" and Duty free "that" - the simple fact is that the tax has been passed through to you! St. Maarten is an interesting place for shopping as well. However, the price of finished diamond jewelry in St. Maarten can vary from one store to another (even if that store is one of three stores - all owned by the same company). Go to store number one - get one price and then go to store number two and the price may be 50% higher for the same item as store number one. Go to store number three and the price ...

Roku, Jewelry & You!

2011-09-10T14:20:35Z

If you own a Roku box, chances are you're receiving content from more providers than just Netflix and Hulu.

Millions now own a Roku box and if they don't own a Roku box, they more than likely own a Blu-Ray player, an Xbox 360 or an internet ready television in which to capture programming ...

Trade Shows Allowing Counterfeits

2011-09-09T15:05:45Z

How many of those in the jewelry trade attended a trade show this year? How many came upon a booth, which offered counterfeit Tiffany products? How many attendees reported those selling counterfeit to show operators and/or Tiffany directly?

Believe me, when I say, I'm not against anyone trying to make a living in these poor economic times. However, I simply can no longer stand by and say nothing, when I walk ...

Cruising for a Bruising..

2011-09-07T18:13:50Z

When we think of the Caribbean, we think of white sand beaches, beautiful pristine waters and shopping!

Yes, shopping is on the list - as one of the most popular things to do while vacationing on many of the Caribbean islands...

St. Thomas is a popular destination in which to shop, as they claim it's Duty Free! Not really, as jewelry that arrives into St. Thomas (for sale in the endless stream ...

Sapphire - September's Birthstone

2011-09-07T17:37:24Z

Blue Sapphire the birthstone for the month of September is associated with the zodiac signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra and Taurus. It is form of Aluminum Oxide known as Corundum. The name Corundum is said to have originated from either the Indian word Kauruntaka or the Sanskrit word Kurinvinda. And the name Sapphire is derived from the Latin word ‘Sapphirus' which means "Blue".

The ...

Time to POP the Question?

2011-09-07T17:32:45Z

If you're reading this, you have probably made the decision in your head that you are ready to propose to that one special person. Before we go any further, we would first like to say CONGRATS! Proposing is a huge step and could lead to a lifetime spent with the person you love the most. What more could you wish for?

While planning to propose is exciting, choosing an engagement ring is (for ...

Off Topic: Jerry Lewis & MDA

2011-09-05T14:12:39Z

The MDA Telethon came and went and quite frankly, I never knew it was even on. They claim they raised 61M, which was a bit more than last year and, I can believe they actually did raise more money than last year, however, at what cost?

It's no secret that MDA raises the bulk of its money (year in - year out) through sponsors like Seven-Eleven and the like. ...

Pandora's Box

2011-09-04T13:37:09Z

Articles abound on the topic concerning the availability of fake Pandora beads and charms being sold on websites and in flea markets worldwide. There have even been articles presented, which actually go to the extreme of comparing real Pandora beads/charms like beads/charms. In most cases, these beads and charms are manufactured and not sold as Pandora. They are sold as being Pandora bracelet compatible.
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Conflict Diamond Update: Amnesty International

2011-09-01T20:30:13Z

Some diamonds have helped fund devastating civil wars in Africa, destroying the lives of millions. Conflict diamonds are those sold in order to fund armed conflict and civil war. Profits from the trade in conflict diamonds, worth billions of dollars, were used by warlords and rebels to buy arms during the devastating wars in Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Sierra Leone. Wars that have ...

Is it time to sell your GOLD?

2011-08-30T23:39:58Z

Is this the time to sell your gold? If you need the money (really, really need the money) you can sell your gold and bring in some dough. Question is, will you get TOP dollar from the carnival barkers out there offering to buy what you've ...

RodeoBags.com Launches Website

2011-08-30T22:29:01Z

Rodeobags.com announced today that it has launched its consumer/B2B website. Rodeo Bags (pronounced ROW-DAY-O) is located in Orlando, Florida and offers jewelry, handbags and celebrity collectibles/memorabilia.

The site boasts offering fully licensed handbags with images of I Love Lucy, Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and comic-character Betty Boop. While the site offers consumers a unique spot on the web to shop, it also offers business owners the opportunity to view wholesale pricing after registering for an account.

The site also offers an alternative to expensive beads and charms such as; Pandora, Troll, Biagi and Chamilia. It appears as though glass beads can be had at $4.95 and metal charms (with or without crystals) are $6.95. This might be ...

Jewelry.com Gets a Facelift

2008-08-06T14:19:00Z

Jewelry.com has just re-launched its popular site. The redesign incorporates more choices, more jewelry styles and more information for visitors and jewelry lovers alike. Visitors to the site are greeted with fresh, super-stylish new images, editorial reviews, jewelry sale specials and featured trends that better showcase the site's vast offering of quality contemporary pieces. From diamond rings to gorgeous gold earrings, colorful gemstone rings to celebrity diamonds and jewelry -- Jewelry.com is the jewelry pulse.

The content-driven site features daily updates from the celebrity circuit, fashion trends, and international jewelry news, along with expert advice and tips on researching and buying jewelry. "If jewelry is the word, jewelry.com is the dictionary," says Jewelry.com editor-in-chief Virginia Halevi. "Jewelry.com's exclusive library of jewelry and gem education, jewelry buying tips and fashion updates makes sure that jewelry.com visitors enjoy an unsurpassed jewelry shopping experience."

Jewelry.com members also receive a ...

Four 'Hot' Jewelers Make Top 100 NRF Growth List

2008-08-04T13:37:00Z

In a difficult retail environment, four jewelry retailers placed among the fastest growing retail outlets in the United States during 2007. This industry however was largely inconspicuous on the list, which was published by the National Retail Federation (NRF.) “Though the retail environment began to cool last year with the slowest industry growth since 2002, a number of retail companies experienced scorching sales,” NRF explained in a precursor to its annual Hot 100 Retailer ranking survey to be published in the August issue of the NRF’s Stores Magazine.

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ALROSA Aug. Auction Nets $31M

2008-08-04T13:34:00Z
ALROSA generated $31 million at its 30th International Diamond Auction held in Moscow on August 1, 2008, representing 70 percent above the estimated value of the goods, according to the company. Nearly all lots were sold. Of the goods offered, 104 lots were produced by ALROSA and 63 lots by its subsidiary Alrosa-Nyurba.

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Cash4Gold Opens TheEstateBuyer.com

2008-08-04T13:29:00Z
Cash4Gold's high end buying service for fine jewelry and watches has expanded to a wholly owned subsidiary, TheEstateBuyer.com. The new site evolved from a specialized service offered by Cash4Gold, buying fine jewelry worth more than its weight in gold. The original service grew from a small team of gemologists and fine jewelry specialists for proper jewelry appraising to a fully self-sustaining business.
TheEstateBuyer.com caters to a more refined clientele with higher priced ticket items. There are many types of family heirloom jewelry that are worth more in tact than melted down. Cash4Gold's tradition service and long running reputation of quality and value for its clients was the basis for TheEstateBuyer.com. The new subsidiary of Cash4Gold is rapidly expanding through hiring of specialty trained fine jewelry, diamond, used watches, and estate jewelry experts.
Customer Service is another area of growth for TheEstateBuyer.com. While ...

Bulgari Profits -9% in 2Q 2008

2008-08-03T13:31:00Z
Net profits at luxury retailer Bulgari fell 8.8 percent to EUR 31.4 million ($48.9 million) in the second quarter of 2008 brought down by higher operating costs, a slump in its watch sales and sluggish performance the America’s region. Second quarter revenues grew 4.8 percent to EUR 274.7 million ($427.6 million.) Jewelry revenues grew 5.2 percent to EUR 118.3 million ($184.14 million,) while watches fell 11 percent to EUR 65.6 million ($102.11 million,) accessories rose 2.1 percent to EUR 20 million ($31.13 million) and ‘other’ fell 8.4 percent to EUR 1.8 million ($2.8 million.)

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Online Jewelry Sales -10% in 2Q 2008

2008-08-03T13:29:00Z
Online jewelry sales in the United States fell 10 percent in the second quarter of 2008, Comscore, which monitors online trends, reported. Total online retail sales (excluding travel) rose 13 percent to $31 billion during the three months ending June 30, 2008. The strongest growth for the year so far was seen in April with growth of 15 percent. Online retail sales in May grew 12 percent and in June by 11 percent despite government stimulus checks which were expected to boost spending.

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Gitanjali 1Q Sales, Profits Rise on Strong Jewelry Segment

2008-08-03T13:27:00Z
Gitanjali Gems had a strong first quarter of fiscal 2008-09 as its jewelry unit boosted sales and profits. Group sales rose 8.8 percent to INR 7.12 billion ($168.29 million) in the three months ending June 30 with jewelry sales up 16 percent to INR 2.29 billion ($54.22 million,) and diamond revenues rising 11 percent to INR 5.11 billion ($120.97 million.) Inter segment sales quadrupled to INR 291.69 million ($6.9 million,) the company said.

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Fashion Jewelry Hall of Fame Inducts Trifari's Diane Love

2008-08-03T13:24:00Z
The most recent inductee, Trifari's Diane Love, has a story worth telling and reading. As with many fashion jewelry designers, Diane Love's name never became a household word like Tiffany or Chanel, but her designs have stood the test of time and are now eagerly searched out by vintage and costume jewelry collectors who know what to look for in vintage costume jewelry for collecting and trade.
One of the most interesting aspects of the jewelry designed by Diane and produced by Trifari is how her design style was a departure from Trifari's well-known classic brand. The variety of items manufacturered by Trifari which were influenced by Diane Love were based on her art history and precious jewelry background. She liked to offer a tidbit of historical detail about each piece and the original art object which was its inspiration. The article about this fascinating jewelry designer and artist ...

Adalah-NY continues Leviev protests

2008-08-02T12:07:00Z
Adalah-NY, the group responsible for the protests outside Lev Leviev's store on Madison Avenue, continued their campaign against the billionaire diamantaire at the JA New York Summer Show. According to a release from the group, Adalah-NY volunteers passed out flyers at Jewelers of America (JA) events over the weekend and at the show, which was held from July 27-30 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

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Richard Hughes leaving AGTA GTC

2008-08-02T12:04:00Z
Richard W. Hughes, gemological administrator for the American Gem Trade Center Gemological Testing Center (AGTA GTC), will be leaving his position for a new opportunity in Thailand, effective Aug. 31. Hughes has been with the AGTA since 2005. Hughes is one of the world's foremost authorities on ruby and sapphire. A Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, his first book, the highly regarded Corundum, was published in 1990.

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SEO Becomes Point of Contention for Diamondgeezer.com

2008-08-02T12:02:00Z
There was an interesting "web" critique out of the U.K. this week after diamondgeezer.com's owner appeared on an episode of Dragon's Den (BBC Two.) The television show allows one to pitch a business idea that is "investment ready," and website owner and jeweler Clive Billing went on air seeking venture capital of about $500,000 -- and it was offered. Billing declined though when the venture capitalists demanded 40 percent equity.
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Gold -1% -- Profits Soar at Barrick, Gold Fields

2008-08-02T11:57:00Z
Gold fell 1.1 percent on the week to $913.70 an ounce in late morning trading today. From one year ago though gold has gained 38 percent. Gold began its most recent historic climb in August 2007. Platinum shed 5.1 percent to $1,641 an ounce on the week or about where it was in late January 2008 before its record run. Platinum is up 29 percent from one year ago. Silver is up 1.8 percent to $17.33 an ounce, and has gained 37 percent from one year ago.

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Bush says goodbye rubies, Tuesday

2008-08-01T13:22:00Z
President Bush has signed off on legislation that makes it illegal for rubies and jadeite from Myanmar, including stones that were processed in third-party countries, to be imported into the United States. The "Tom Lantos Block Burmese JADE Act of 2008," was signed by Bush on Tuesday and is to take effect 60 days later.

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DTC to sum up price increases for 2008

2008-08-01T13:19:00Z
For the first time in its history, the Diamond Trading Co. (DTC) plans to release cumulative price-increase data for the year, National Jeweler has learned. DTC spokeswoman Louise Prior said the DTC most likely would make this announcement on Aug. 15, just before that month's sight, which is slated for the week of Aug. 18. The announcement will cover the cumulative changes in rough prices to date for 2008, which will give a "directional snapshot for the year," Prior said.

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Stornoway Diamond is Debt Free After Private Placement

2008-08-01T13:16:00Z
Stornoway Diamond Corporation closed a $22 million private placement comprising 24,444,444 common shares at a price of 90-cents per common share split equally between Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited and Lorito Holdings Limited. As a result of the private placement, Stornoway is now debt-free. Agnico-Eagle and Lorito held, equally between them, convertible debentures in the aggregate principal amount of $20 million, which were due in March 2009.

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De Beers' Forevermark opens grading labs

2008-07-31T14:48:00Z
Forevermark, a separately managed division of th DeBeers Group formerly known as De Beers Group Marketing, announced the opening of the first Forevermark diamond-grading laboratories this week. The labs, which are located in Antwerp, Belgium, and Maidenhead in the United Kingdom, will grade only diamonds that meet Forevermark standards.

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Mervyns files for Chapter 11

2008-07-31T14:46:00Z
Mervyns filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection this week, with the ultimate goal of restructuring and emerging. According to Business Wire, the Hayward, Calif.-based department store chain intends to work with its constituencies to execute its reorganization and, in the meantime, Mervyns stores will remain open. In conjunction with the filing, the company received a commitment for a $465 million debtor-in-possession facility from a lender group led by Wachovia Capital Finance Corp. (Western) as the agent. This financing, along with operating cash flow, will be used to fund the company's ongoing operations.

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Company's Cubic Zirconia Realistic Enough to Be Declared Diamonds by Certified Gemologist

2008-07-31T14:43:00Z
B in Style (www.binstyle.com) noticed a trend among jewelry companies. The prices were getting higher and higher, and the jewelry was getting out of the price range of many people. The company states that was causing people to be unable to buy the jewelry they wanted. Instead, they had to go without because their budgets did not allow for that kind of spending.
In an effort to produce fashionable jewelry that more people can afford, B in Style started making cubic zirconia jewelry and selling it to the public. The company states that the jewelry looks so good that a certified gemologist thought it was made of diamonds when looking at it with the naked eye. They claim that their jewelry looks exactly like fine jewelry. The only difference is the price. In fact, the company states that no one will even know how ...

San Diego Jewelry Buyers Sees Gold Rush Going Green

2008-07-31T14:40:00Z
California (and the entire country) has seen a gold rush over the past year—with consumers cashing in on exploding gold prices to sell their outdated and unwanted gold jewelry to ease the burden at the pump, take a holiday, or modernize their fine jewelry boxes. But San Diego Jewelry Buyers reports that it is not just $900+ dollar spot prices for gold that is sending customers through their doors. They say that shoppers desire to “go green” is also a driving factor.

“The internet has made jewelry customers tremendously more informed,” says SDJB spokesperson Alan Blyler. “Not only do they know more about the 4 Cs of diamond quality and the intricacies of fine millgraining and filigree, they increasingly are aware of the ways that gold and diamond mining impact the environment. Today, many people come to us because they are looking to do their part toward recycling precious resources.”

The impact ...

DGSE Companies, Inc. Announces Opening of New Superior Gold & Diamond Exchange

2008-07-31T14:37:00Z

DGSE which wholesales, retails and auctions fine watches, jewelry, diamonds and precious metal and rare coin products via traditional and Internet channels, today announced the opening of new facilities in Woodland Hills, California.

The new facility at 20011 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills, California combines a new retail activity that will function as a rare coin, precious metals and jewelry Gallery with headquarters for auction activities for Superior Galleries. Superior will conduct auctions in the new location and continue to conduct auctions in Beverly Hills, California and in other locations.

"The opening of the new facilities in Woodland Hills is expected to significantly expand Superior's retail activities and provide a conveniently accessible location for its precious metals and jewelry buying activities," noted William H. Oyster, President and Chief Operating Officer of DGSE Companies, Inc. Mr. ...

Study: Jewelry No. 2 Father's Day Gift

2008-07-30T12:47:00Z
"Fine jewelry and watches tied for second place with the innocuous power tool," MVI Marketing President Liz Chatelain said in a media release issued on Monday. "More men seem to be requesting jewelry and watches from the females in their life and purchasing items like power tools for themselves." According to the study, stainless steel jewelry and watch purchases were up this year, compared with both last year and what consumers expected to purchase this year.

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Tiffany ad applauds stricter Burmese-ruby embargo

2008-07-30T12:44:00Z
In an ad that ran on Monday in the Washington Post, Tiffany and Co. gave the U.S. Congress kudos for passing legislation that would ban the importation of all gemstones from Myanmar (formerly Burma) into the United States, including those that were processed in a third-party country...

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New Specialty Wood Cabinets Provide Unique Storage Solutions For The Modern Home

2008-07-30T12:42:00Z
The secret to a perfectly organized home is to find a place for everything. WG Wood Products have been helping American homes stay organized for many years with custom-made wood cabinet and wood shelf systems. Their range of unique in-wall specialty cabinets occupies an enviable standalone position in the market place, with no other company offering the same type of innovative storage solutions.
"From our WC-8 Jewelry Cabinet to our WC-10 Entry Valet Cabinet, we know that our products are unmatched in the market. We have always prided ourselves on knowing what storage solutions American homes need and then custom building a solution," said Michael Sloan, owner of WG Wood Products (http://www.WGWwoodProducts.com).

A favorite choice for the billiard buff is the WC-9 Billiard Cabinet. This specialty cabinet, like ...

Apples of Gold Jewelry, Authorized Benchmark Wedding Rings Retailer

2008-07-30T12:40:00Z
Apples of Gold Jewelry, online jewelry retailer, is one of the few online jewelers recently courted by prestigious wedding ring company, Benchmark Rings. Apples of Gold Jewelry was approached by Benchmark Rings in 2008 to showcase their precision grade wedding rings and to become an official Benchmark Authorized Dealer.

At times, there is a certain stigma associated with online jewelers--not so much by savvy jewelry shoppers--but by major manufacturers and name-brands due to stiff competition online. Yet Apples of Gold Jewelry has proven itself yet again by bringing onboard its fourth major name brand to its already existing lineup of 2,500 jewelry products. In 2007, Apples of Gold Jewelry introduced to its product line the Von Dutch Watch name, GianTTo, and Polanti watches, becoming an authorized online dealer of all three. In fact, Apples ...

104 Year-Old Jewelry Findings Manufacturer Continues to Expand Its Product Line

2008-07-30T12:38:00Z
Guyot Brothers Company, Inc., a jewelry findings manufacturer for over 100 years, understands the age-old question every sales representative and every manufacturer are asked nearly every day - "What's new?" Even revived jewelry trends such as Victorian, Art Deco, vintage style, and classic costume jewelry from the 1940's and World War II era need updating with new findings and fresh twists each time a particular jewelry fashion returns to market, and Guyot Brothers understands the need designers have to continue to build and improve their product lines. "The constantly changing world for consumer and fashion products requires a continual flow of new ideas for design and enhancement purposes," noted Stephen Guyot, President of the 104 year-old company. "Jewelery is an important part of self-expression, requiring an ever-expanding variety of designs and components. By continuing to add new items our line, we can help feed the creative spirit of the designers ...

LVMH Jewelry, Watch Sales +7%, Profits +30% in 1H08

2008-07-30T12:35:00Z
LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton revenues rose 5 percent to €7.8 billion ($12.2 billion) in the first half of 2008. Group profits rose 7 percent to €1.541 billion ($2.4 billion.) Sales for the LVHM jewelry and watch category rose 6.9 percent to €417 million ($650 million) and profits in this category rose 30 percent to €74 million ($115.4 million.) De Beers continued its sustained growth with the expansion of its store network, although LVMH didn't provide specific sales figures for this partnership.

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African Diamonds a Likely Takeover Target, Says Chairman

2008-07-30T12:32:00Z
Just as the dispute over developing the AK6 mine deepens between joint venture partners De Beers and African Diamonds (AfDiamonds,) the junior miner’s chairman, John Teeling, said Wednesday he believes the likely outcome to the rift will be a takeover of his company. “We simply cannot afford to wait two to three years for AK6 to develop [as De Beers proposes,]” Teeling told Rapaport News. “In the end we will probably be taken over by De Beers itself, or one of its friends as a new strategic partner, or another company that recognizes the value in African Diamonds.”

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Pet Cremation Jewelry Allows Owners to Keep A Cherished Pet Close to Their Heart

2008-07-25T13:59:00Z
More pet owners memorialize a departed pet through cremation, and choose Everlife Memorials’ pet cremation jewelry to keep a part of their cherished pet close to their heart forever.

Everlife Memorials--one of the leading Internet providers of funeral and cemetery memorial products–provides a line of pet cremation jewelry that includes pet memorial pendants in an array of designs and metal finishes.

“Pet cremation jewelry has grown to be one of the most popular ways to memorialize a departed pet,” said Joseph J. McCabe, president of Everlife Memorials.

“More than 80 percent of homes across the country have at least one pet and see them as a loved member of their family. So when a pet passes away, the owner wants to memorialize their pet just like they would another family member,” said McCabe. “Since more than half of pets are cremated, now the owner can have a beautiful urn to ...

Shecy pearl jewelry – shining on the beauty queen

2008-07-25T13:56:00Z
Shecy pearl jewelry (/www.shecypearljewelry.com) will be the sponsor of the Sixth National America Queen Pageant, which will take place at the Daytona Beach Resort, Daytona Beach, Florida from July 30 to August 3, 2008.

As the leading pearl online store and fashion icon of the pearl world, Shecy is taking a more active role in fashion and beauty world than before. And this year, Shecy will be one of the thrilling sponsors ...

The Chain Gang Body Jewelry Store Lowers Shipping Rates

2008-07-25T13:54:00Z

The Chain Gang Body Jewelry Store has slashed its shipping rates in lieu of the store's growing customer base which now includes people from all over the world.

The Chain Gang (http://www.thechaingang.com), a leading online body jewelry store, has slashed its shipping rates to cater to its growing customer base even better. The new rates have been introduced to make things easier for US customers, but especially overseas customers who earlier had to pay heavy shipping prices. In business for well over a decade, The Chain Gang has been recognized as one of Internet's best sources for jewelry shopping.

The Chain Gang's low shipping rates aim at helping customers from all over the world buy body jewelry without worrying about the shipping and postage and ...

Eternal Sparkles Bring on the Heat This Summer

2008-07-25T13:50:00Z

City of Industry, CA (EternalSparkles.com)- Fashion jewelry is the perfect accessory for any summer outfit. Feel fabulous all season long with online fashion jewelry retailer Eternal Sparkles' wide collection of fashion rings, CZ jewelry, and sterling silver jewelry. Constantly updating its fashion jewelry pieces to suit the current trend of the season, Eternal Sparkles guarantees that one will find the right fashion jewelry for whatever season and reason.

This summer's hottest trends in fashion jewelry call for big, bold, and beautiful. The chunkier and more noticeable the fashion jewelry is, the better. However, not all ...

Jewelers of America Offers Business Tips Program Online

2008-07-24T15:07:00Z
Jewelers are facing challenging times right now, and Jewelers of America (JA) is providing these retailers with actionable tools that will help them to succeed, said JA chairman John Green. "If we can do one part of our jobs better, smarter and more cost effectively every week, our company will be more profitable and enjoyable," said Green who is also the owner of Lux, Bond & Green, in West Hartford, Connecticut.

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