Jewelry News - Domestic & International News

Amazon Top Ten Hot New Releases in Jewelry

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 14:58:04 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 13:38:17 GMT

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)

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 02:22:23 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 14:29:13 GMT

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?

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 14:07:58 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:06:29 GMT

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?

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:25:22 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 12:36:32 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 17:16:29 GMT

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..

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:34:43 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:11:17 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 15:19:42 GMT

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..

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:29:03 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:26:07 GMT

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.

...

The Tiffany Experience

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 15:11:54 GMT

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?

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 03:01:56 GMT

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...

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 19:38:32 GMT

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!

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 14:20:35 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 15:05:45 GMT

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..

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 18:13:50 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 17:37:24 GMT

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?

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 17:32:45 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 14:12:39 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 13:37:09 GMT

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.
...

Conflict Diamond Update: Amnesty International

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 20:30:13 GMT

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?

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 23:39:58 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 22:29:01 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 14:19:00 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 13:37:00 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 13:34:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 13:29:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 13:31:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 13:29:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 13:27:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 13:24:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 12:07:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 12:04:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 12:02:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 11:57:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:22:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:19:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:16:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:48:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:46:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:43:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:40:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:37:00 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:47:00 GMT
"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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:44:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:42:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:40:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:38:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:35:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:32:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:59:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:56:00 GMT
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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:54:00 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:50:00 GMT

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

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 15:07:00 GMT
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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De Beers Averts Strike With 12% Pay Rise

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 15:04:00 GMT
De Beers avoided a strike Thursday when the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) accepted its proposal for a 12 percent wage increase for its South African workers. NUM had rejected De Beers’ previous proposal of an 11 percent rise saying its members would start striking at 6 p.m. Thursday if the issue was not resolved. NUM was demanding a 13.5 percent increase.

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Jewelry Helps Spur Christie’s Sales..

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 11:59:00 GMT
Strong jewelry sales helped spur Christie’s International performance in the first half of 2008 as total company sales rose 10 percent to GBP 1.8 billion ($3.5 billion.) The auction house said it had record sales results in each of the jewelry and watches; impressionist and modern art; post-war and contemporary art; and Asian, Indian and Arab art categories. Jewelry, jadeite and watches sales rose 34 percent to GBP 140 million ($275 million,) with Asian art being the biggest growth area, up 63 percent to GBP 239 million ($469 million.)

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Corum, poker pros, celebs 'Ante Up for Africa'

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 11:56:00 GMT
A bevy of celebrities and professional poker players gathered in Las Vegas earlier this month for the second annual "Ante Up for Africa," a Texas Hold'em charity game held to raise money for victims of the crisis in Sudan's Darfur region. The event was founded last year by poker pro Annie Duke, actor/director Don Cheadle and Norman Epstein with the hope of raising awareness of the humanitarian disaster that still continues in Darfur today.

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IDS to host Webinar on online integration

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 11:52:00 GMT
Ideal Diamond Solutions (IDS) will host a Webinar on July 23 to demonstrate how integrating a Web presence into the traditional business model is critical to a retailer's success, as jewelry and diamond e-commerce grows. In the Webinar, to be held at 1 p.m., Chasin will explain how retailers need to minimize e-commerce start-up costs, manage new Web operations in a cost-efficient manner and adopt a hybrid business model that incorporates the Internet into the overall retail strategy.

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Platinum outlook comfortably above $2000/ounce...

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 11:31:00 GMT
The Fortis metals monthly says the outlook for platinum is comfortably above $2,000/ounce on new investment demand, higher capital costs stemming from power generators and a looming Cosatu strike in South Africa. The Fortis/VM Group said in its monthly metals report more mining companies were likely to follow Eastern Platinum in installing their own diesel power generators that will add to their capital costs and could involve "new problems" given the high cost of crude oil.

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Moissanite money inspires dueling lawsuits

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 11:29:00 GMT
Moissanite maker Charles and Colvard and manufacturer K and G Creations are locked in a head-to-head battle in a North Carolina court, over which one owes the other money. Morrisville, N.C.-based Charles and Colvard fired the first shot on June 16, when it filed a complaint against K and G Creations in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Western Division. The complaint alleges that K and G Creations, also referenced in court documents as Jewelnet Corp. and Jewelnet Acquisition Corp., owes Charles and Colvard $2.83 million..

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Ashi Diamonds offers Web site-building service

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 11:26:00 GMT
Global diamond-jewelry manufacturer Ashi Diamonds has introduced Avalon Solution, a Web service designed to help jewelers build their brands and businesses online. The company says that Avalon Solution utilizes the latest developments in technology, jewelry styling and fashion to help jewelers extend their businesses on the Internet, offering retailers end-to-end e-commerce solutions and the ability to customize and continuously update their Web sites as much, or as little, as needed.

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G3 Jewelry signs on Riskay...

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 11:23:00 GMT
G3 Jewelry, headquartered in New York City, NY, launched the "Glamour" line on its website in early July and wasted no time in finding a female endorser to represent the collection of customizable diamond jewelry for women. "We're very excited to have Riskay represent the 'Glamour' line. In seeking an endorser, we felt it was important to collaborate with an up-and-coming female artist who is confident and outspoken, but also embodies the everyday women who finds a way to manage the obstacles in her life," says G3 Jewelry President and CEO, Quincy Brown.

After conducting an extensive search, representatives from G3 Jewelry reached out to Riskay and her manager (Eric Young, I4 Inc / Track Blazers) and began talks. "After a few meetings we felt very confident that Riskay would be the perfect artist to team up with. But after we saw her perform live, we knew she ...

Gemfind partners with IDJC

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 11:21:00 GMT
GemFind, one of the first and currently foremost internet sites to offer consumers access to an affiliated network of jewelers for loose diamonds (http://www.gemfind.com), designer jewelry and other precious gems, announces that International Diamond & Jewelry of Chicago, Illinois has become an affiliate member of its extensive collective of diamond merchants, appraisers, gemologists, diamond cutters and diamond jewelers. IDJ is a family owned-and operated diamond jeweler now it its 25th year of operation.

Expressing his satisfaction with the new partnership, Gemfind.com President Alex Fetanat points out how each new member of the GemFind.com network increases the availability and variety of fine diamonds at more competitive prices. Explaining his company's operations, Fetanat says that the network allows customers interested in buying diamonds and designer jewelry (http://www.gemfind.com) to see these certified diamonds "first-hand at a local ...

Store closures could rise 7 percent this year

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:18:00 GMT
Retail chains have announced nearly 3,000 closures in the first half of the year, the ICSC says, with Linens 'n Things, Regis Corp., Starbucks and Steve and Barry's adding nearly 900 store-closure announcements to that total in the first few weeks of the third quarter. The apparel sector accounted for the largest portion of this year's store-closure announcements, according to the ICSC. During the first half of the year, apparel chains closed 981 stores. Last year, fallout from the housing bust resulted in a high number of store closings within the home entertainment and furniture and furnishings sectors.

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Wal-Mart Adds a New Facet to Its Fine Jewelry Lines

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:13:00 GMT
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) today launched Love, Earth(R) jewelry, its first completely traceable fine jewelry line available exclusively at Wal-Mart stores, Sam's Club locations and on Walmart.com and Samsclub.com. Marking a shift in how affordably-priced fine jewelry is produced and sold, the new line
is the result of collaboration between Wal-Mart, Conservation International (CI) and Wal-Mart's supply chain partners.

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Zalemark Calls-off Merger with Novori

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:10:00 GMT
In a newsletter to its business associate base, diamond jewelry designer and manufacturer Zalemark Inc. reported that the proposed merger with online retailer Novori Inc. was off. "Zalemark's legal and management team, during the due diligence and standstill agreement, determined that Novori Inc. was not a suitable merging partner," according to the note dated July 17.

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Richemont reports 13 percent sales increase

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:08:00 GMT
Sales for luxury goods company Richemont increased 13 percent in actual exchange rates (20 percent on a constant exchange rate basis) in the first three months of its current fiscal year, including a slight increase in sales in the Americas. According to an interim management statement released on Wednesday by the Geneva-based company, sales from April to June for its Jewellery Maisons group...

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Passion for Pearls - Robb Report

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:05:00 GMT
The South Sea pearl company AUTORE transforms the classic gem from the sea into imaginative jewelry creations. Inspired by the Great Barrier Reef, its latest collection brings to life colorful jewel-encrusted sea horses, starfish, jellyfish, shells, a flying fish, and an octopus..

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Silver industry to launch consumer-marketing push

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:02:00 GMT
The Silver Institute has announced plans for a marketing initiative to increase awareness and encourage consumer purchases of sterling silver jewelry.

Dubbed "The Silver Marketing Initiative" (SMI), the program will educate consumers and the trade press on sterling silver and be a source of marketing information and product news on the metal.

"The consensus of our executive committee is that the time is right to introduce an industry-supported marketing program in the U.S., with the initial focus being on silver jewelry," Silver Institute Executive Director Michael DiRienzo said in a media release.

Marketing and management services firm Michael Barlerin Associates has been appointed as the consultant to the Silver Institute in the development and rollout of the SMI.

"In light of what has been happening to the price of the other noble metals, now is definitely the time for silver jewelry," Barlerin said in the release. ...

K&G Threatens Class Action, Charles & Colvard Vows Vigorous Defense

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:00:00 GMT
K&G Creations (of JewelNet Corporation) filed a $50 million lawsuit against Charles & Colvard Ltd. and four of the company’s top ranking officers after the moissanite creator sued for a $2.8 million debt claim. Even though K&G was Charles & Colvard’s largest customer, "over the last four years K&G alleges that Charles & Colvard engaged in practices that ruined K&G’s reputation and ultimately forced K&G out of the Moissanite business," according to the company today.

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Blue Nile Schedules Second Quarter 2008 Earnings Release

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:07:00 GMT

Blue Nile announced that it will release financial results for its second quarter ended June 29, 2008 on Tuesday, August 5, 2008. The Company will hold a conference call to review the results that day at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET. The call will be broadcast live via webcast and may be accessed at http://investor.bluenile.com. Following the completion of the call, a recorded replay of the webcast will be available for 30 days at the same Internet address.

About Blue Nile, Inc.

Blue Nile, Inc. is the leading online retailer of diamonds and fine jewelry. The Company delivers the ultimate customer experience, providing consumers with a superior way to buy engagement rings, wedding rings and fine jewelry. Blue Nile offers in-depth educational materials and unique online tools that place consumers in control of the jewelry ...

GCAL offers consumer-focused initiatives

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:06:00 GMT
Gem Certification (GCAL) is launching three new services to spark sales opportunities for members. First, the company is offering one-on-one consultations with Marketing Manager Linda Osofsky, who will educate retailers on how in-store training, the Certified Diamond Exchange or specific marketing collateral can drive diamond-buying consumers into stores. She can be reached at (646) 871-4036 or losofsky@collectors.com.

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NRF: Consumers slow discretionary spending in June

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:05:00 GMT
Although millions of tax rebate checks hit mailboxes in June, consumer spending remained soft last month, with retail sales (excluding automobiles, gas stations and restaurants) increasing just 0.2 percent seasonally adjusted from May and 1.3 percent unadjusted over last year, according to the (NRF). June retail sales released today by the U.S. Commerce Department show total retail sales (including non-general-merchandise categories such as automobiles, gas stations and restaurants) increased 0.1 percent seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 1 percent unadjusted year-over-year.

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Rockwell Diamonds Trims Loss 58% to $801K

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:03:00 GMT
Rockwell Diamonds reduced operating losses in the three months ending May 31, 2008 as it trimmed costs at its four South Africa mines, the company said Tuesday. Rockwell’s net loss was reduced 58 percent toe $801,353 for the first fiscal quarter of 2009, and revenues fell 7.6 percent to $7.09 million. Revenues included contract sales of $156,220, which had been significantly larger in the same quarter one year ago.

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Wal-Mart to Source Responsible Gold, Silver from Rio Tinto

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:00:00 GMT
Wal-Mart chose Rio Tinto to provide gold and silver for fully traceable, responsibly-produced jewelry. The partnership is part of a Wal-Mart, the nation's largest retailer by far, developed an initiative to achieve 100 percent traceability for all of the gold and silver jewellery sold at its stores. Wal-Mart’s Love, Earth® jewelry collection will be produced with the metals mined by Rio Tinto based upon industry-acceptable criteria. The project will initially focus on gold and silver jewelry using metal from Rio Tinto’s Kennecott Utah Copper (KUC) Bingham Canyon Mine in Utah. This partnership marks a shift in how Wal-Mart jewelry is produced and sold..

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Melrose Jewelers Announces Rolex Standards

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:33:00 GMT
Melrose Jewelers (http://www.MelroseJewelers.com.au) Announces the 2008 Australia Preowned Rolex Standards Award Winners: McGlades Jewellers , Nicholas Hacko Fine Watches , Armadale Watch Gallery , Harrington Antiques
How the Melrose Jewelers Australia Preowned Rolex Standards Award Winners are Chosen:
A sample purchase is made at each online retailer website to test the company’s level of authenticity disclosure as to which parts of its Rolex watches are original and which parts are aftermarket. Once received, each Rolex watch purchased is then taken apart and inspected to make sure the watch is indeed authentic and then it is tested to make sure it keeps proper time.
The Preowned Rolex Standards Awards were designed by Melrose Jewelers,
Ranking from 1 to ...

Shecy Pearls Adds New Designs...

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:29:00 GMT
Shecy Pearls added 90 new designed pearl pendants and pearl rings to their pearl jewelry collection list for this summer. The new release pendants mainly feature black pearls, black Akoya pearls and freshwater pearls; while the new release rings mainly feature freshwater pearls. Summer is a time of harvest and maturity. We use a lot of black pearls on pendants for our special summer designs. Black pearls perfectly illustrate women's maturity, dignity, wisdom and spirit, says Ivy Huang, the Director of Shecy Pearls. We also add a lot of detail to these pendants, such as butterfly, flower, heart, ribbon, diamond circle and diamond frame, to bring out women¡¯s femininity. On the other hand, the rich color in black pearls reminds people of mature fruits and brings association of excitement of harvest.
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Swiss watches a hit, but will supply suffice?

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:09:00 GMT
Despite concerns about supplies and pricing, U.S. retailers who returned from the Swiss watch shows in Geneva and Basel were full of enthusiasm for the new watches on display there. Several retailers noted an overall movement toward "retro" looks. Tourbillons are favorite add-ons this year, but some watchmakers are hoping to score with bare-bones, basic models as well.

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Whitehall settles discrimination suit

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:05:00 GMT
Whitehall Jewelers has reached a settlement in the discrimination case filed against it last year in which Sgereen Attia claimed she wasn't hired because she was wearing an Islamic head scarf, various news outlets are reporting. No details of the settlement are available but, as a result of the agreement, the Asian Law Caucus (ALC) and the law office of Minami Tamaki will dismiss its claims against Whitehall, according to a statement on the ALC Web site.

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VTB Sells 10% Stake in ALROSA for $377M

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:03:00 GMT
VTB, Russia’s second largest bank, sold its 10.63 percent stake in ALROSA for RUB 8.7 billion ($376.87 million,) VTB announced. The bank said it disposed of its holding of 21,253 shares as part of an agreement with the Federal Property Management Agency (Rosimushchestvo.) The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2008.

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Women's Jewelry Assoc. Awards

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 10:07:00 GMT
The Women's Jewelry Association's member grant program awarded a total of $6,000 to 12 members across the country. The award's intention is to provide a financial contribution for ongoing education for women in the jewelry, watch and related industries. Member grants are available in amounts up to $500 to all Women's Jewelry Association (WJA) members who submit an application.

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June Retail Performance Softer, Jewelry Sales Help - Rapaport

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 10:04:00 GMT
Retail sales during June at big box stores across the United States were basically in-line with expectations as the weak economy continues to keep consumers home. Nordstrom Inc.'s June sales fell 14 percent to $731 million. Same-store sales decreased 18.6 percent. The company believes that quarter-to-date results, which combine the results of May and June 2008, provide the most accurate view of recent sales trends. Preliminary quarter-to-date sales of $1.45 billion decreased 2.8 percent and same-store sales decreased 5.9 percent.

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Panama: ‘Last of the Untapped Diamond Markets’ - Rapaport

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 10:02:00 GMT
At a time when diamond dealers are eyeing Dubai, China, and India as the new growth markets for the diamond market, Panama is slowly emerging as the industry underdog and as a gateway to the largely untapped Latin American region. “There are tremendous opportunities in the region,” Erez Akerman, president of the Panama Diamond Exchange (PDE) said at a meeting with the trade press in Tel Aviv Wednesday. “When you consider there are 650 million people in Central and Latin America, with a rising wealth and middle class, you see it is a bigger consumer market than the United States and Europe combined.”

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De Beers Unveils New recovery Plant at Finsch Mine

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 10:00:00 GMT
De Beers today unveiled the new Finsch Mine Treatment Plant Upgrade at the world's most technologically advanced underground diamond mining operation in Northern Cape Province.

The newly constructed diamond recovery plant was officially opened on Tuesday July 8, 2008 by Ms Dipuo Peters, Premier of the Northern Cape, and Nicky Oppenheimer, the De Beers Chairman. Deputy Chairman of De Beers Consolidated Mines (DBCM) Manne Dipico and David Noko, the DBCM Managing Director, joined Maxwell Morapeli, Finsch Mine Operations Manager, and local government officials and union representatives and employees at the event.

The company has over the past few years improved the efficiency levels of all its mines and the productivity of the company’s 5,000 employees on all its South African operations. The Finsch Mine Treatment Plant Upgrade (FMTPU) is one of the investments made by De Beers at Finsch to improve the diamond recovery process at the operation.

The objectives of the ...

De Beers says operations staying outside U.S.

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:07:00 GMT
DeBeers stands firm that it has no plans to launch full-scale operations in the U.S., even though the London-based company's days of being locked out due to antitrust laws appear to be all but over. U.S. District Court Judge Stanley Chesler announced in mid April that a written ruling in the De Beers class-action suit was forthcoming...

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Finlay to Trade on OTCBB, Delist from Nasdaq

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:05:00 GMT
Faced with a falling stock price Finlay Enterprises Inc. is in the process of transferring the quotation of its shares to the OTC Bulletin Board (OTCBB.) Shares in Finlay closed today 2.2 percent lower at 44-cents. One year ago FNLY traded at $5.35. Shares in the company slipped below the dollar mark on February 25 and bottomed-out at 34-cents on April 14. Finlay was advised that a "market maker" has filed the necessary application with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority to make a market in the company's common stock on the OTCBB...

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DTC Prepares Sightholders for Opportunity

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:04:00 GMT
The Diamond Trading Company (DTC) this week presented sightholders with an opportunity to receive goods from a separate Ontario, Canada sight once production from the Victor Mine comes available for polishing in the province. DTC presented the plan during the sight in London this week. Any of its 79 sightholders can gain an additional sight by building a polishing factory in Ontario. The province is looking to mirror the beneficiation process currently underway in Africa.

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JVC: Training for Rough Diamond Traders

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:01:00 GMT
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 – 12:00 noon, meeting room 1E03. U.S. Treasury has announced 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.

Training will cover new procedures diamond traders must follow, including mandatory requirements of “formal entry for consumption” documents and for filing an annual report in the U.S. The e-mail address for filing both reports is USKimberleyProcess@state.gov. Failure to file the annual report can expose a rough diamond importer or exporter to a civil fine of $10,000 for each instance of non-compliance, or criminal penalties of up to $50,000 in fines ...

John S. Brana - Distinctive Jewelry

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:00:00 GMT
John S. Brana's eight distinctive jewelry collections, SoMa is the most contemporary and has been worn by celebrities including Natasha Bedingfield and Janice Dickinson. This collection includes hammered link necklaces and earrings, as well as his unique copper collection, and will now include 14K and 18K gold designs and rings set with solitaire gemstones.
Until now, Brana's only ring designs were elaborate cocktail rings with intricate wire settings from his Pacific Heights Collection and enchanting sea creatures cast in sterling silver from his Seacliff Collection. The new SoMa ring designs are simple and geometric and will feature 8+ carat gemstones encased in hammered sterling silver, 14K gold, or bronze. Available gemstones include green-gold quartz, blue topaz, opal, amethyst, green amethyst, and citrine…just to name a few. The designs are clean and understated yet remain true to Brana's signature stand-out-from-the-crowd jewelry characteristics. Brana will also release designs in 14K and ...

Some question buying jewelry online - Jenni Mintz

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:11:00 GMT
Would you buy a diamond online? A growing number of consumers, who are stretched and looking to save where they can, are buying big bling over the Internet. It's no surprise that more consumers are hunting for bargains online; similar market shifts have occurred in several industries. But buying a book on Amazon is a lot different than buying a diamond wedding ring...

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As gold prices level, lower margins linger - Beth Braverman

jewelryblogger@yahoo.com (Posted by Jewelry News) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 10:07:00 GMT
Despite a recent leveling off, the yearlong increase in gold prices has hit the bottom lines of both retailers and designers, who say they have had to increase prices and cut their margins to cope. Most, however, say they have not changed the quality of their products...

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