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Jewelry.com Gets a Facelift
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.
Jewelry.com members also receive a ...<< MORE >>
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 ...<< MORE >>
Four 'Hot' Jewelers Make Top 100 NRF Growth List
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
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
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 ...<< MORE >>
Bulgari Profits -9% in 2Q 2008
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
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
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
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 ...<< MORE >>
Adalah-NY continues Leviev protests
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
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
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.
Gold -1% -- Profits Soar at Barrick, Gold Fields
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 ...<< MORE >>
San Diego Jewelry Buyers Sees Gold Rush Going Green
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.”
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“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.”
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DGSE Companies, Inc. Announces Opening of New Superior Gold & Diamond Exchange
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. ...<< MORE >>
Study: Jewelry No. 2 Father's Day Gift
"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
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
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 ...<< MORE >>
Apples of Gold Jewelry, Authorized Benchmark Wedding Rings Retailer
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 ...<< MORE >>
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 ...<< MORE >>
104 Year-Old Jewelry Findings Manufacturer Continues to Expand Its Product Line
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 ...<< MORE >>
LVMH Jewelry, Watch Sales +7%, Profits +30% in 1H08
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
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
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 ...<< MORE >>
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 ...<< MORE >>
eBay to Change Product Attributes in Media and Jewelry Categories -AuctionBytes
eBay will make changes to product attributes, called Item Specifics, in certain categories in August. In certain Books, DVD & Movies, Music and Video Games categories, eBay will change "Condition" values from "New" and "Used" to "Brand New", "Like New", "Very Good", "Good" and "Acceptable."
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Shecy pearl jewelry – shining on the beauty queen
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 ...<< MORE >>
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 ...<< MORE >>
The Chain Gang Body Jewelry Store Lowers Shipping Rates
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 ...<< MORE >>
Eternal Sparkles Bring on the Heat This Summer
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 ...<< MORE >>
Jewelers of America Offers Business Tips Program Online
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
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..
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'
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
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...
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
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
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...
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 ...<< MORE >>
Gemfind partners with IDJC
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 ...<< MORE >>
Store closures could rise 7 percent this year
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
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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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
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
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
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
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. ...<< MORE >>
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. ...<< MORE >>
K&G Threatens Class Action, Charles & Colvard Vows Vigorous Defense
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
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 ...<< MORE >>
GCAL offers consumer-focused initiatives
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
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
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
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
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 ...<< MORE >>
Shecy Pearls Adds New Designs...
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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Silver Rings Back In Demand, High Gold Prices Help
Kaisilver today reported an increased demand for high quality silver jewelry. Senior executive Ms.Ang said that this could reflect future growth of the custom jewelry sector. She added that, quality concious buyers who moved from gold to silver jewelry are not satisfied with the cheaper mass produced silver jewelry. Sterling silver jewelry has a classic look and feel that is hard to get in gold jewelry. As jewelers reduce gold weight for gold rings and other jewels, the long term durability is being compromised. On the other hand, sterling silver jewerly can have a healthy metal weight. The buyer is also left with a better budget for the gemstone and diamonds in the ring.
Ms.Nok from Kaisilver noted that, custom silver jewelry cannot be as cheap as their mass produced counterparts but, the high degree of customization offered by custom made silver jewelry is a major attraction for buyers. You ...<< MORE >>
Exclusive Design Jewelry Enthusiast Starts Blog
Special gifting advocate, Brenda Calbert, has partnered with Neekam company to create the Exclusive Design Jewelry Blog. This blog will act as a source of information and networking for premier design jewelry, design your own jewelry, jewelry design, jewelry design internships, jewelry design school, jewelry design center, jewelry design jobs and more!
The Exclusive Design Jewelry Blog also stresses the importance of custom design jewelry by yourself. Learn information, facts, and methods for designing jewelry along with tips on how to get started as a jewelry designer. This blog is a resource to help designers get a better ideas for every grade and every type of jewelry design, whether it be fine, costume or bridge.
According to Ms. Calbert, jewelry is finally getting a much deserved respect as a unique art form, Brenda Calbert says, “I've heard individuals in the jewelry design universe, especially collectors, say that it used to be pottery ...<< MORE >>
The Exclusive Design Jewelry Blog also stresses the importance of custom design jewelry by yourself. Learn information, facts, and methods for designing jewelry along with tips on how to get started as a jewelry designer. This blog is a resource to help designers get a better ideas for every grade and every type of jewelry design, whether it be fine, costume or bridge.
According to Ms. Calbert, jewelry is finally getting a much deserved respect as a unique art form, Brenda Calbert says, “I've heard individuals in the jewelry design universe, especially collectors, say that it used to be pottery ...<< MORE >>
Rio Tinto Chosen to Supply Wal-Mart with Responsibly Produced Jewelry
Rio Tinto has been chosen by Wal-Mart, the world’s largest retailer, to provide gold and silver for fully traceable, responsibly-produced jewelry. The partnership is part of a Wal-Mart initiative to achieve 100 percent traceability for all of the gold and silver jewelry sold at its stores.
Wal-Mart’s Love, Earth® jewelry collection will be produced with 100 percent traceable gold and silver mined and manufactured based on industry-leading 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. The jewelry will be sold at Wal-Mart stores and Sam’s Club locations, and online at walmart.com and samsclub.com. This partnership marks a shift in how Wal-Mart jewelry is produced and sold, and it will give customers the ability to trace their Love, Earth jewelry all the way back to the mine it came ...<< MORE >>
Neiman Marcus sales drop 2.4 percent in June
Same-store sales at Neiman Marcus Inc. decreased 2.4 percent in June to $396 million, compared with $406 million for the same period last year, the company announced on Thursday. Total revenues for the five-week June period decreased 1.1 percent to $401 million from $406 million in June 2007. Revenue growth trends were strongest in the company's stores in the Southeast and in New York City.
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Swiss watches a hit, but will supply suffice?
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
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
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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eBay wins key ruling in Tiffany trademark suit
Internet auction giant eBay cannot be held liable for trademark infringement for counterfeit items sold through its website, a US judge ruled Monday in a case brought by luxury retailer Tiffany. US District Judge Richard Sullivan in New York found that "eBay is not liable for contributory trademark infringement" for the sale of counterfeit Tiffany silver jewelry on its website.
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Women's Jewelry Assoc. Awards
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.