The Daily Jewel

Daily Jewel Sponsors Crowd Jewel Competition

2012-01-29T09:34:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!! to some of us it is a day that symbolizes Love and really beautiful feelings...to others it can be a really difficult time....that is what I want this competition to bring to the table.

So this is your challenge...as professionals you know that you want your style and emotion to come through in everything you do. But, you also want to make something that is lovely that a customer would wear with pride.

BRING IT! Your theme is "Valentine's Day"! Contest Opens TODAY! Deadline for entries is Sunday, Feb. 5th. See the Crowd Jewel Facebook page for more...

Enter on the Crowd Jewel page on Facebook! You've heard of "Crowd Sourcing"? Well at Crowd Jewel one winner is chosen by the "crowd" and one by the Sponsor (this time that is ME!).

...and at the end of the contest I will be featuring the winners right here on my WILDLY ;-) popular Daily Jewel blog which can bring you both public and Industry interest and we all know it is about getting more eyes on the goods!

I am sitting here in sunny Tucson Arizona at the largest Gem & Jewelry Show in the country and I can't wait to see the submissions and the opportunity to get to know two amazing new Design winners!

About Crowd Jewel
"Our style curators hunted high and low to find the best jewelry designers in the world, and invited them to submit their exclusive designs on Crowd Jewel to compete for your votes.

View the entries, vote for your favorite, and at the end of the competition at 12 PM PST on Sunday, February 5, 2012, a Crowd and Sponsor favorite will be announced. You will then be invited to the limited edition sale of the winning pieces.

Don't forget!! After you vote, be sure to fill out the Crowd Jewel survey to enter yourself for a chance to win your choice of the Crowd or Sponsor favorite. "

Royal Asscher and CoutureLab Support Seven Bar Foundation

2012-01-28T01:50:00.000-08:00

RoyalAsscher and CoutureLab Partner
To Support the Seven Bar Foundation

Royal Asscher is thrilled toannounce the debut of jewelry from its Stars of Africa and Shining Stars collectionson CoutureLab in benefit of the Seven Bar Foundation.

CoutureLab, a luxurygift website which sells fine and rare to come by products from around theglobe, focuses on quality, heritage and craftsmanship - a perfect fit for RoyalAsscher’s specially crafted and unique jewelry.

Royal AsscherDiamond Company (www.royalasscher.com)is renowned for its unique heritage and history, which includes cleaving theworld’s largest rough diamond in 1908, the Cullinan, presently housed in GreatBritain’s Crown Jewels. Royal Asscher diamonds are considered to be among thebest in the world – always guaranteed to be of exceptional quality andcraftsmanship. In addition to creating beautiful diamond jewelry, Royal Asscherhas a strong collective social conscience and considers ethical and socialresponsibility to be of paramount importance.

Seven Bar is the brand for the empowerment ofwomen. As a social enterprise, Seven Bar fuels microfinance institutions bydriving profits with purpose with cause-marketing brand partners. The result isempowered women, enriched communities and higher GDP. Royal Asscher’sjewelry on CoutureLab will serve more than just an aesthetic appeal; 20% of theretail profit from the sale of each piece will benefit the Seven Bar Foundation and help extendladders to women out of poverty.

Renata Black, founder of the Foundation says, “TheRoyal Asscher Family provides the best quality jewelry on the market whilesimultaneously empowering women. It really doesn't get better than that.We are honored to call the Royal Asscher Family our steadfast partners becauseyou feel the goodness in the DNA of their product."

Royal Asscher’s beautiful and innovative Stars ofAfrica and Shining Stars collections consist of diamonds encased withinfluid-filled sapphire domes, which allow the diamonds to float freely likesnowflakes in a snow globe. The result is cascading diamonds that emit light,fire and beauty, creating a truly mesmerizing effect. Each piece is intricatelyhandcrafted by expert craftsmen in Florence, Italy, adding much allure to thesealready beautiful and unique pieces.

Lita Asscher, President ofRoyal Asscher of America says, “RoyalAsscher supports CoutureLabfounder Carmen Busquets’ vision for her website asa place where the stories of theproducts and the people behind them would be celebrated – where clients couldnot only learn about the heritage and see the true value of it, but also fallin love and own a piece of it. I believe Royal Asscher’s jewelry fitsperfectly with CoutureLab’s vision and we are thrilled to partner with them tohelp empower women.”

Formore information on Royal Asscher, visit www.royalasscher.com.

To purchase Royal Asscher jewelry on CoutureLab please visit www.couturelab.com.

GIA Museum Spotlights Rare Book Collection

2012-01-27T05:23:00.000-08:00

GIA Museum Shines Spotlight on Rare Book Collection

Original and one-of-a-kind archives on display

GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) latest museum exhibit, Tablet to Tablet: Treasured Pages from Past to Present, showcases more than 26,000 pages from rare books on gems, minerals, and natural science dating back to the 15th century. The collection is on display at the GIA museum in Carlsbad and will be open to the public until early summer 2012.

Tablet to Tablet: Treasured Pages from Past to Present features rare books, minerals, crystals and period artifacts from throughout the history of mining and gemology. Image © GIA

The exhibit encompasses the development of gemology, crystallography, jewelry manufacturing and design, valuation of gemstones and precious metals, diamond mining and more. Among the 15 cases of books and distinctive objects, is the documentation of one family’s incredible wealth: the Romanov jewels and regalia.

“Visitors are amazed at how fascinating rare books are when combined with gems, jewels and images that reveal their stories,” said Dona Dirlam, director of GIA’s Richard T. Liddicoat Gemological Library and Information Center. “The museum and library have assembled the best of the best from our archives; books written in Roman times, those printed around the time of Columbus, and one written by a 17th-century French diamond merchant about his travels to India.”

The oldest book on view is a 1496 edition of Pliny’s Natural History, which includes content dating back to 77 CE. Pliny died during the first recorded eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, yet his surviving records serve as the foundation of ancient gemology.

This edition of Marbode’s treatise, called a “lapidary”, was published in 1511.
Originally written in a 742-line poem, it is a list of 60 gemstones, some of which do not exist,
and is arranged in alphabetical order rather than by mineral species. Image © GIA

One-of-a-kind works include original renderings of jewelers’ designs, a handwritten book from 1840 about minerals from Great Britain illustrated with intricate hand-colored plates, and a self-published book containing original artwork that the author, Wendell Wilson, created for the Mineralogical Record.

For more information about Tablet to Tablet, visit the GIA website. Visitors can schedule a tour at the GIA campus in Carlsbad 24 hours in advance by email or calling 800-421-7250, ext. 4116 or 760-603-4116.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, GIA (Gemological Institute of America), established in 1931, is recognized as the world’s foremost authority in gemology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat Weight in the early 1950s and in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world.

Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Visit www.gia.edu.

Source: Gemological Institute of America

Celebrity Jewel: Kwiat on the Red Carpet

2012-01-23T06:06:00.000-08:00

Celebrity Jewel: Platinum at the 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards

2012-01-23T05:24:00.000-08:00

Celebrities in Platinum
At Hollywood Foreign Press Assoc.
for the 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards

From Reese Witherspoon and Natalie Portman's stacked bracelets, to Angelina Jolie and Jessica Biel's diamond stud earrings, Hollywood's leading actresses chose to celebrate their achievements with enduring platinum jewelry at the 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards.

Platinum is naturally white, so it never changes color or fades, thereby maximizing the brilliance of diamonds and colored gemstones. It is the ideal setting for the red carpet, and all of life's most important moments.

Angelina Jolie
-Platinum and diamond stud earrings (25 carats) by Lorraine Schwartz

-Platinum and diamond ring (12 carats) by Lorraine Schwartz

Debra Messing
-Blackened platinum, amethyst and emerald drop earrings by Lorraine Schwartz

-Platinum and emerald ring by Lorraine Schwartz

Julianna Margulies
-Blackened platinum, green jade and diamond drop earrings by Lorraine Schwartz

Emma Stone
-Blackened platinum and ruby stud earrings (19 carats) by Lorraine Schwartz

Jane Lynch
-Blackened platinum, black diamond and blue sapphire earrings by Lorraine Schwartz

-Blackened platinum ring by Lorraine Schwartz

-Blackened platinum bracelet by Lorraine Schwartz

Lea Michele

-Blackened platinum and diamond earrings by Lorraine Schwartz
-Blackened platinum and emerald ring (29 carats) by Lorraine Schwartz

Sarah Hyland

-Blackened platinum and multicolored diamond flower earrings by Lorraine Schwartz

-Platinum and diamond ring by Lorraine Schwartz

-Platinum and diamond cuff by Lorraine Schwartz

Kate Beckinsale

-Platinum and diamond mesh bowtie earrings by Lorraine Schwartz

-Platinum and diamond braided cuffs by Lorraine Schwartz

-Platinum and diamond geometric cuff by Lorraine Schwartz

*Total is 300 carats of diamonds

Paula Patton

-Platinum and diamond "Firecracker" earrings by Kwiat

-Platinum and diamond bracelets by Kwiat

Madonna
-Five platinum and diamond bracelets by Neil Lane

-Platinum and diamond cocktail ring by Neil Lane

Diane Lane
-Platinum chandelier earrings with yellow and white diamonds by Neil Lane

-Platinum cocktail ring with yellow and white diamonds by Neil Lane

-Platinum bangle bracelets with yellow and white diamonds by Neil Lane

Andrea Riseborough
-Platinum and diamond necklace (25 carats) by Neil Lane

Natalie Portman
-Platinum and diamond drop earrings by Harry Winston

-Three platinum and diamond bracelets by Harry Winston
-Platinum and pear shaped diamond cluster ring by Harry Winston

Jessica Biel
-Platinum and diamond opera length necklace worn down her back by Tiffany & Co
-Platinum and round solitaire diamond stud earrings by (6.12 carats) by Tiffany & Co.

Naya Rivera

-Platinum ring with an oval cabochon moonstone by Tiffany & Co.

-Platinum and round solitaire diamond stud earrings (6.11 carats) by Tiffany & Co.

Piper Perabo
-Platinum and diamond cuff by Tiffany & Co.

-Platinum and diamond stud earrings by Tiffany & Co.

Zooey Deschanel

-Platinum Estate ring from 1970 featuring pearl and diamonds by Van Cleef & Arpels

Dianna Agron
-Platinum bow bracelet with onyx and diamonds from the 1920's by Fred Leighton

-Platinum line bracelet with diamonds and onyx from the 1920's by Fred Leighton

Helen Mirren

-Platinum pendant earrings, sapphire & diamonds, 1950's by Fred Leighton

-Platinum barrel link bracelet, sapphire & diamonds, 1930's by Fred Leighton

Tilda Swinton

-Platinum and diamond wing brooches from 1900 by Fred Leighton

Reese Witherspoon

-Platinum and European cut diamond drop earrings (9 carats each) by Fred Leighton

-A pair of platinum and diamond bracelets from 1900 by Fred Leighton
-Platinum and diamond bracelet from the 1920's by Fred Leighton

Julianne Moore
-Platinum earrings with diamonds and emerald bead tassels by Fred Leighton

Sharon Osbourne

- White and grey diamond drop earrings by Dena Kemp (price upon request)

- Circle diamond ring by Dena Kemp (price upon request)

Shaun Robinson

- Black and white diamond drop earrings with 68 black diamonds totaling 5.01 carats, and 210 white diamonds totaling 17.13 carats (price upon request) by Dena Kemp

- White diamond cocktail ring totaling 5.61 carats (price upon request) by Dena Kemp

Kristina Guerrero

- Diamond earrings set with pear shape and princess cut emeralds by Dominic Jones for Gemfields (retail price: $25,000), www.gemfields.co.uk

- Black diamond cuff (26.89 carats) by Dena Kemp (retail price: $36,000)

Claire Danes

-Platinum earrings with princess cut diamonds by Bulgari

Jessica Alba
-Platinum earrings with diamonds (37.14 carats) by Bulgari

Jodie Foster
-Platinum and diamond earrings (8 carats) by Bulgari

-Platinum bracelet with 84 diamonds (42.61 carats) by Bulgari

-Platinum and diamond ring by Bulgari

Sofia Vergara

-Platinum and diamond earrings by Harry Winston

-Two Wide Platinum and diamond bracelets by Harry Winston

-Platinum and diamond ring by Harry Winston

Jessica Chastain

-Platinum cluster earrings with pearl and diamonds by Harry Winston

-Platinum and diamond feather ring by Harry Winston

-Vintage platinum and diamond bracelet by Harry Winston

Emma Roberts (Warner Bros./InStyle party)
-Platinum and diamond cluster earrings (15 carats) by Chopard

-Two platinum and diamond cuffs (107 total carats) by Chopard

-Platinum and rose cut diamond ring (15 carats) by Chopard

Stacey Keibler

-Platinum and diamond cluster earrings by Chopard (9 carats)

Queen Latifah
-Platinum and diamond chandelier earrings (30 carats) by Chopard

-Platinum and asscher cut diamond bracelet (40 carats) by Chopard

Penelope Ann Miller

- Platinum and diamond bib necklace (50 carats) by Chopard

- Platinum earrings with heart and pear shaped diamond drops (6 carats) by Chopard

- Platinum and heart shaped diamond line bracelet (25 carats) by Chopard

Andie MacDowell

-Platinum and diamond line bracelet by Chopard (14 carats)

About Platinum Jewelry
Platinum is the ideal choice for red carpet jewelry because it holds diamonds and precious gemstones more securely than any other metal. It is not only the highest quality metal, but its density makes it one of the most durable and enduring precious metals. Platinum is also naturally white, unlike white gold, which means it will not cast any tint onto a diamond or gemstone, allowing the stone's genuine color to sparkle brightly.

www.pgi-press.com.

SOURCE: Platinum Guild International USA

新年快乐 Happy Chinese New Year!

2012-01-22T23:08:00.000-08:00

恭喜發財 Kung Hei Fat Choy
YEAR OF THE DRAGON
Happy Chinese New Year
January 23, 2:39am EST
New Moon 2˚Aquarius

Howard Rubin, Inventor of GemDialogue, Passes Away

2012-01-18T23:39:00.000-08:00

Howard Rubin, Inventor of GemDialogue, Passes Away

Howard Rubin passed away on January 17th at the age of 86. His sixty four years of gem trade experience touched every facet of the jewelry industry.

After serving in World War II as an infantry soldier, he took advantage of the G.I. Bill to hone his skills as a diamond and colored stone setter. He studied gemology in the 1950s: first to become a better artisan by learning the properties of the stones he worked with, and then, in 1982 to enhance his knowledge of the science of color so he could develop a system that would allow jewelers to “talk” to each other. This became GemDialogue, that teaches a system for description and color notation of gemstones and fancy color diamonds – having made a permanent impact on the jewelry industry. GemDialogue will remain active and continues to support the industry.

Howard was the President of the AGS New York Guild from 1976-1977. From 1979 to 1988 he was the Vice President of Leer Gem Ltd., the color stone division of M. Fabrikant & Sons Diamond Company. This was followed by an enriched career as a consultant to companies like QVC, Walmart, I.B. Goodman, Charles & Colvard.

In 1990 and onward, Mr. Rubin acted as an independent consultant, appraiser and educator. In 1993 he joined his wife Gail Brett Levine’s appraisal practice company, Timeless, Inc., as senior evaluator and appraiser.

He was a Senior Member and the National Secretary of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA) and was NAJA’s representative at The Appraisal Foundation serving on the Industry Advisory Council since 2004. Mr. Rubin recently received the 2011 Manhattan Chapter GIA Alumni Chapter Achievement Award.

He is survived by his wife Gail, four children, and one grandchild.

DIAMOND EMPOWERMENT FUND’S FIRST ANNUAL GOOD AWARDS!

2012-01-14T05:30:00.000-08:00

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DIAMOND EMPOWERMENT FUND’S

FIRST ANNUAL GOOD AWARDS LIGHTSUP MANHATTAN

New York, NY; January11, 2012—Atop the Empire Rooftop Hotel the DiamondEmpowerment Fund held its inaugural GOOD Awards on January 5, 2012. The festiveaffair kicked off a weekend filled with annual industry luncheons and galadinners.

Fourindividuals received GOOD Awards for outstanding leadership in the area of goodcorporate citizenship, sustainability, and helping to communicate the diamondindustry’s commitment to helping individuals through education in African diamond-producingnations. The four were:

Ms. Varda Shine, CEO and the Diamond Trading Company (A De Beers Group Company)
Mr. Edward Hrabak, SVP General Merchandising Manager and Sterling Jewelers Inc
Ms. Rebecca Foerster, U.S. Manager Marketing and Sales and Rio Tinto Diamonds:
Ms. Ivanka Trump, Founder and Principal and Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry (Under the ‘New and Brightest’ category )

Videos of thehonorees and their good works can be found on diamondempowerment.org.

A highlight ofthe GOOD Awards’ evening was a jaw-dropping performance by Grammy-nominatedsinger Melanie Fiona, who almost brought the roof down with the incrediblerange of her voice and her R&B themed song choices. Another highlight wasthe rhythmic beat of music played throughout the evening by New York’s famous DJM.O.S.

Russell Simmons,co-founder of the Diamond Empowerment Fund and chair of its Advisory Boardsummed up the evening by stating “The Diamond Empowerment Fund is unique to the diamondindustry. It’s about action and empowerment on the ground in Africa. Thefirst-ever GOOD Awards is also unique and was designed to shine on a light onthose within the diamond and jewelry industry who understand the importance,urgency and impact education can have. I'm happy to say the event was asuccess."

Added Board President Phyllis Bergman, “The GOOD Awardsallowed us to put the Diamond Empowerment Fund on the map for the industry. Wehad an amazing turnout and the feedback has been incredibly positive. We aregrateful for the sponsorship from industry leaders, Sterling Jewelers, Inc, RioTinto Diamonds, Julius Klein and Ritani and the Gemological Institue of Amercia(GIA) whose support helped us put together such a wonderful event. Withadditional support from the industry moving forward, we can further our missionof building and strengthening diamond producing nations through the educationof their youth”

Honoree IvankaTrump reinforced this message affirming “it’s just good business to care abouteveryone involved in the various layers of production…especially when the endproduct is such a beautiful symbol of love”.

About the Diamond EmpowermentFund

The Diamond Empowerment Fund is a New York based non-profitorganization (EIN# 20-5967103) that raises money to support educationinitiatives in African nations where diamonds are a natural resource. It wasestablished in 2007 by a group of individuals and businesses in the diamond andjewelry industry, with the belief that education is essential to empower bothindividuals and society to reach their fullest potential.

Celebrity Jewel: At the Critics Choice Awards

2012-01-13T11:02:00.000-08:00

Winners included:

George Clooney wins Best Actor for his role in The Descendants

Viola Davis wins Best Actress for her role in The Help

Octavia Spencer wins Best Supporting Actress for The Help

The Artist wins Best Picture

Stacy Keibler, with beau and award winner George Clooney, in white Armani - Marchesa Clutch and Kara Ackerman Designs jewelry.

Charlize Theron The 36-year-old actress (in an Alaia dress and Bulgari jewelry) up for Best Actress for her work on Young Adult. Bulgari Platinum earrings with princess cut diamonds (4.17 carats)

Kirsten Dunst hits the red carpet in Christian Dior - Jimmy Choo shoes and Harry Winston Jewelry.

Michelle Williams sparkled in PLATINUM jewelry by Fred Leighton for Forevermark:

Bracelets featuring diamond clips set in platinum on a ribbon
Platinum and diamond stud earrings (1.50 carats each)

Elizabeth Olsen in Emilio Pucci nominated for Best Actress for her work on Martha Marcy May Marlene. Emilio Pucci shoes, a Lena Erziak bag, and rings by Meus and Kara Ackerman.

The home page of Kara Ackerman Designs explains why so many celebs choose KAD Rings!

These Earrings are the winner for me!

Berenice Bejo (The Artist) in Elie Saab lapis blue sleeveless beaded v-neck cocktail dress. She finished the look with an Edie Parker clutch, Jimmy Choo sandals and a pair of aquamarine and sapphire drop earrings from Chopard’s Temptations Collection.

Jessica Chastain, The Help, in Balenciaga finished her look with Jimmy Choo shoes and jewelry byPalladium.

Don't you love Emma's smokey eyes? Emma Stone accessorized with Alexander McQueen shoes, a Bottega Veneta handbag and ring, and Sydney Evan earrings.

From GirlFriends Wendi McLendon-Covey wore a stunning necklace that I was unable to place...

Any one know?

It has been confirmed...thanks Wendy!

By LeVian:
Arusha Exotics by Le Vian® Blueberry Tanzanite™ Necklace.
The 14k white gold necklace is a one of a kind design.
It features over 92 carats of Blueberry Tanzanite™, accented with 2.740 carats of diamonds and 21 carats of Blue Zircon.

Gem Fling - Consumer Search Engine for Jewelry

2012-01-12T17:37:00.000-08:00

Verichannel Launches Consumer Search Engine for Jewelry
to Address "Google Logjam"

Dillon, CO, USA. January 11, 2012 -- Verichannel, LLC, a trade-restricted search engine for the jewelry industry, has launched in beta mode a consumer version to help retailers and brands break free from what it calls the "Google log-jam." Marketed under the URLGemfling.com, the site brings together some of the most successful models on the Web, including Kayak™-style vendor comparisons, rewards-based viral techniques popularized by Microsoft's Bing™ and Groupon,™ and back-end technology powered by Google™ itself.

"After our first year successfully helping retail stores connect more efficiently with suppliers, we are now extending our patent-pending technology to help consumers more easily connect with retail stores and brands," said Verichannel CEO Jacques Voorhees. "Based on our research, there is almost a marketing crisis occurring at this level. Consumers increasingly go to the Web as a starting point, and that means Google or one of the other search engines. But if you're not on the first page in the results -- you're invisible. And everyone in the industry is trying to be on that first page, which of course is impossible. It's a log-jam that is just as frustrating to consumers as it is to suppliers."

Gemfling.com is Verichannel's answer to the problem. "You don't go to Google to buy an airline ticket, you go to Expedia," Voorhees continued. "Why? Because it is a specialized search engine that focuses on the unique characteristics of the travel industry -- hence delivering a more efficient shopping experience for the consumer. Now, with Gemfling, the jewelry industry can provide similar efficiency. It's better for consumers and vastly more efficient for retailers and brands seeking exposure."

Gemfling's functionality is divided into three components: (a) a key-word search system based on backend Google technology, but restricted 100% to jewelry industry websites, (b) a Kayak™-style shopping architecture that divides the Web into specific channels (local stores, e-tailers, brands, and b2c multi-vendor platforms like eBay and Yahoo-shopping), and (c) a store-locator tied into Google Maps™.

"The shopping architecture is the core of the system," explained Voorhees. "It uses proprietary technology to serve up powerful jewelry-specific filters -- such as American Gem Society membership -- and delivers results in side-by-side spawned browsers, similar to Kayak™.

The site launched January 11th. A rewards-based viral marketing program will begin in second quarter 2012, which rewards both retail stores and consumers based on usage and promotional (viral) activity. The site expects to serve up every consumer-facing company in the jewelry industry.

"We recommend all retail stores visit www.gemfling.com/shopping/localstores and search their postal code to ensure their information appears properly," noted Teri Welsch, Customer Service Manager. "Every company in the industry can go to the site, register at no cost in the Trade section, and add or make changes to their own data."

Placement within Gemfling, for both retail stores and brands, is being offered on a first come, first serve basis. For more information contact Verichannel at +1-917-512-2393 x 4, or email teri@verichannel.com.

Verichannel is a private company launched in early 2011 by Polygon founder Jacques Voorhees, former GIA president Bill Boyajian, and I Hennig & Co., the leading international diamond broker for clients seeking supply from the Diamond Trading Company. Verichannel provides an environment to help jewelry industry retailers and suppliers "find and be found" on the Internet. Verichannel includes a database of loose diamonds listed by Sightholders and other major suppliers world-wide, a Daily Diamond Report™ of stones freshly graded by GIA, AGS, IGI and HRD labs, a Google-powered system for searching jewelry industry websites, and other resources. Visit www.verichannel.com andwww.gemfling.com.

New Board at MJSA!

2012-01-11T15:49:00.000-08:00

MJSA Elects New Board Directors,
Re-elects Officers

ATTLEBORO FALLS, MASSACHUSETTS--MJSA, the trade association dedicated to professional excellence in jewelry making and design, recently re-elected the officers on its board to a second term, and also welcomed two new directors, Lee Krombholz and Bimal Das.

Krombholz is the third-generation owner of Krombholz Jewelers and Just Like You Designs, a leading retailer and design studio in Cincinnati. An award-winning designer who specializes in custom work, he is a past president of the Mid-America Jewelers Association, and currently serves on its advisory board. He also serves on the MJSA Custom Design Advisory Council, and has contributed to or been featured in multiple MJSA Journal and MJSA Custom Jeweler articles about custom design.

Das is director of ScotiaMocatta, the precious metals division of the Scotiabank Group and a global leader in precious metals trading and finance. He has been with the bank since 1998, working in offices in Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bangalore before being transferred to New York in January 2006. Prior to joining the Scotiabank Group, he was a currency trader at Asia Fx Pte. Ltd., a privately held trading firm based in Chennai, India.

In addition, David Pillow, formerly with Zale, returned to the board as president of Innovative Design Group in Richland Hills, Texas.

Re-elected as officers were David Meleski (Richline Group), chair; Edward DeCristofaro (LDC Inc.), vice chair; Michael Toback (Myron Toback Co.), vice chair; Stuart Lee (Sterling Jewelers), secretary; Ann Arnold (Lieberfarb Corp.), treasurer; and Richard Powers (Cookson), MJSA Education Foundation chair.

About MJSA

MJSA is the U.S. trade association for jewelry makers, designers, and related suppliers. It provides the resources to achieve professional excellence and maintain a competitive edge. For more information, call MJSA at 1-800-444-6572 or visit www.mjsa.org.

Free Appraisals - Consign Now!

2012-01-10T05:13:00.000-08:00

Fine Jewelry at Auction March 13, 2012

Consign Now

18kt Gold, Coral, and Diamond Figural Brooch,
Cartier, Paris, Auctioned for $14,220

We are accepting consignments of diamonds, colored gemstones, fine artist-signed, antique jewelry, and watches for our March 13, 2012 auction in Boston.

Consignment deadline: January 20, 2012

Receive a Free Auction Evaluation

Fine Jewelry Department | jewelry@skinnerinc.com | 617-874-4313

Mastercut Diamond Jubilee Jewellery Competition

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

Mastercut Diamond Jubilee jewellery competition to launch at Spring Fair 2012

To celebrate the Royal Diamond Jubilee in 2012, Mastercut Diamonds is launching a Jubilee Diamond Design Competition at The Jewellery Show in Birmingham in February.

The competition's goal us to foster creative talent, with entrants encouraged to let their imaginations soar, and then translate this into an innovative piece of diamond jewellery, which will contain 20 sparkling Mastercut diamonds, valued at over £20,000.

The winning design will reflect the brand ethos of Mastercut Diamonds, the perfect expression of love. Every Mastercut diamond has a very special symmetrical cut that has been developed to bring out the maximum sparkle in the stone.

The competition will be judged by Jean-Paul Tolkowsky of Mastercut Diamonds and the winning design will be manufactured by Mastercut Diamonds. The piece will then be exhibited during London Jewellery Week, at the Company of Master Jewellers Business Conference in June and the CMJ Summer Trade Event in August, and at the IJL Show in London in September, as well as touring the country to be exhibited at selected Mastercut stockists.

The competition will be a valuable stepping stone for young designers on their way to successful careers in the jewellery industry, and the winner will also be awarded a free stand at the CMJ August Trade Event in Birmingham, with the chance to showcase their jewellery design to leading independent retail buyers across the UK and Ireland.

Criteria
Submitted entries must be original designs, which have not previously been put on display or commercialised.

Diamonds must be an absolutely indispensable part of the jewellery design. The jewellery design should contain 20 Mastercut diamonds between 15pts and 50pts in size, set in 18ct white, rose or yellow gold.

Designs will be judged according to originality, wearability, the creative use of Mastercut diamonds and technical skill.

The competition is open to professional and non-professional designers, students, graduates, teachers, jewellers and goldsmiths based in the UK.

Participation is on an individual and not a company basis.

How to enter

Submit drawing(s) of your design(s).
Specifications for drawings: A4 size, full colour, top and bottom should be marked. Name and address of entrant must be included on the reverse of every design.
Competition entries can be emailed to mastercut@masterjewellers.co.uk or posted to Mastercut Diamond Jubilee Competition, The Company of Master Jewellers, Somers House, 25 Somers Road, Rugby, CV22 7DG.
Entries should be received before the closing date of 30th March 2012.

Celebrity Jewel: Bulgari's Mission Possible!

2012-01-08T05:30:00.000-08:00

This from Bulgari's Facebook page...for original post see:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=417847174962&set=a.78101649962.21233.48981224962&type=1&theater

BULGARI ON A MISSION!

Bulgari is thrilled to announce that it makes a remarkable appearance in the latest "Mission: Impossible"' installment - "Ghost Protocol".

The brand was the natural partner for the stylized universe of M:I4, perfectly complimenting the glamourous and chic aesthetic of a key scene of the highly anticipated film.

The stunning one of a kind Bulgari earrings, made of yellow gold with turquoises, green tourmalines and round brilliant cut diamonds 2.49 ct.are the obvious choice for Agent Jane Carter, clearly adorning the sophisticated and sexy look of her character.

"Mission: Impossible, Ghost Protocol" is currently being released in theaters worldwide.

Your mission, should you accept it: go watch the movie in a cinema near you and let us know what you think about Bulgari's latest Hollywood cameo!

Find out more on: http://www.missionimpossible.com/
Credits: ©2011 Paramount Pictures - all rights reserved.

GIA Launches 4Cs iPad App in Simplified Chinese

2012-01-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

GIA Launches 4Cs iPad App in Simplified Chinese

Interactive diamond tool for consumers, retailers

CARLSBAD, Calif. – Jan. 5, 2012 – GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has announced that its 4Cs iPad application (app) for consumers and retailers is now available in Simplified Chinese. The free app is designed to educate and engage consumers on the 4Cs (Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat weight) of diamond quality through video and interactive tools.

“By creating the 4Cs iPad app in Simplified Chinese, we reach a significant demographic for gems and jewelry,” said Kathryn Kimmel, GIA vice president and chief marketing officer. “As a global organization dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gemstones, it is imperative to educate as many consumers as possible, and using the latest technology is a great way to do it.”

App users can explore how diamond color changes across the GIA D-to-Z Color Scale, typical inclusions and blemishes at various points in the GIA Clarity Scale, a diamond’s anatomy, how various parameters influence a diamond’s cut grade, how a diamond’s size changes by carat weight, and a GIA Grading Report Anatomy. The app also features direct access to GIA Report Check, a secure online database of GIA grading reports, and the special consumer feature, “My Diamond Wish List.”

The consumer version of the app is downloadable for free on iTunes. A retailer version, designed for use at point of sale, is also downloadable for free from GIA’s retailer support site www.retailer.gia.edu.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. Early in the 1950s, GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat weight. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™, which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world.

Sotheby's Announces Valuation Days...

2011-12-26T08:27:00.000-08:00

Valuation Days

The Important Jewels auction will take place in New York on February 9th. In January 2012, the Jewellery department will be traveling to the following cities for complimentary valuations. Please contact us on +1 212 606 7392 or atnewyorkjewelry@sothebys.com to schedule a confidential appointment.

Los Angeles: 5-6 January 2012
San Francisco: 9-10 January 2012
Philadelphia: 10 January 2012
Chicago: 18-19 January 2012
Ft. Worth: 24 January 2012
Dallas: 25 January 2012
Los Angeles: 25-26 January 2012
Houston: 26 January 2012

more info at Sotheby's Website

Royal Jewel: Princess Charlène of Monaco Stellar In Montblanc

2011-12-19T06:01:00.000-08:00

H.S.H. Princess Charlène of Monaco

Scintillates In The Seven Stars Collection

from Montblanc Haute Joaillerie

H.S.H. Princess Charlène of Monaco wearing Montblanc Haute Joaillerie
“Collection Seven Stars” Kate long earrings and an Akris gown
at the “Ein Herz für Kinder“ Charity Gala in Berlin, Germany
on Saturday 17^th of December.

H.S.H. Princess Charlène of Monaco wore the "Kate", long earrings, from Montblanc's Haute Joaillerie “Collection Seven Stars” for her appearance at the renowned German 'Ein Herz für Kinder' (A Heart for Children) Charity Gala Event on December 17th, 2011.

The Charity Gala held in Berlin is an annual event that aims to raise money for children in distress across the world.

Princess Charlene, the beauty that married Prince Albert of Monaco in May, was the recipient of the prestigious Golden Heart award.

Princess Charlene accepts award from former German swimmer Franziska van Almsick,
with an embrace after announcing her award, makes moving acceptance speech.

In shoulder sweeping diamonds, Princess Charlene accepted the award in recognition of her work teaching poor or disabled children to swim in her native South Africa and worldwide, via her Foundation Princess Charlene.

From the UK's Daily Mail:

"I accept this award with pride and joy in the name of the volunteers who work so hard," she said in her speech, according to German newspaper Bild. "Tonight it comes to children. The rescue of these children is a struggle and we can not afford to lose him."

Since the event's inception in 1978 as Bild's charity, it has collected more than over 170 million euros for children's charities, both in Germany and Internationally.This year it raised a whopping £14million euros.

Montblanc Haute Joailleries Collection Seven Stars:
Seven Stars shine in the Montblanc firmament...Seven delicate and intricately designed necklaces form Montblanc's Collection Seven Stars.

Handrafted in Montblanc’s Haute Joaillerie Ateliers in Paris, each necklace is a subtle
variation on the theme of timeless beauty and femininity. The unique Montblanc diamond, cut by the hands of the very few artisans entitled to do so, is set on each necklace in sophisticated round cut diamond motifs which embrace it like a lace ribbon, like a thread of sparkling light, like a path of beauty.

Seven Stars is a way of celebrating seven beautiful women, seven moments of pure and eternal joy...that capture the essence of preciousness, eternal values and outstanding craftsmanship that defines Montblanc Haute Joaillerie.

About Montblanc:Montblanc has been known for generations as a maker of sophisticated, high quality writing instruments. In the past few years, the product range has been expanded to include exquisite writing accessories, luxury leather goods and belts, jewellery, eyewear and watches. Montblanc has thus become a purveyor of exclusive products which reflect the exacting demands made today for quality design, tradition and master craftsmanship.

Website: http://www.montblanc.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/montblanc

Skinner Fine Jewelry Auction Brings $4.7 Million

2011-12-16T09:48:00.000-08:00

Skinner Fine Jewelry Auction Brings $4.7Million, $1.3 Million

Over Pre-Auction Estimate

A classic example of Art Decojewelry leads the way with an outstanding result

Skinner, Inc. today announcedthe results of its latest Fine Jewelryauction, which was held in Boston on December 6th. The highly successful salegrossed $4.7 million including buyer’s premium, surpassing the pre-auctionestimate high by more than a million dollars. Colored stones, Art Deco pieces,diamonds, and natural pearls were especially strong performers.

Colored Stones & Art Deco Jewelry

A rare star Burma ruby anddiamond ring (lot 751) smashed the auction presale estimate ($15,000 to$20,000). Featuring an oval cabochon star ruby weighing 28.00 cts., the stone wasextraordinary in size and color, and brought an outstanding $242,500. A Kashmirsapphire ring (lot 763) featuring a cushion-cut sapphire weighing 8.40 cts.sold for an impressive $369,000, and an oval-cut, unmounted, yellow sapphire(lot 225A) brought $159,975.

Afine French Art Deco carved emerald, ruby and diamond pendant brooch (lot 750)by Chaumet (originally from the Lillian S. Timken collection) sold for$385,500, and, a fine Art Deco platinum and diamond figural bracelet (lot 764),originally retailed by Thomas Kirkpatrick, sold for $171,825.

Diamonds & NaturalPearls

Whilecolored stones and Art Deco pieces were very popular, diamonds also made anexcellent showing, proving the timeless appeal of the diamond solitaire and thestrength of the market for high-clarity. A round brilliant diamond weighing4.98 cts. (lot 747) with melee accents sold for $385,500. Other diamondsolitaires included a round, brilliant-cut diamond (lot 648) weighing 3.00 cts.that sold for $84,135, and, a solitaire set with a full-cut diamond (lot 642)weighing 5.16 cts., which brought $74,655.

Severallots featuring natural pearls also sold well. A necklace composed ofeighty-seven natural pearls ranging from 4.10 to 7.90 mm and accompanied by aGIA report from 1956 (lot 665) sold for $46,215. A pair of natural pearl anddiamond ear pendants (lot 737), also with a GIA report, sold for $26,070.

Artist-Signed and VintageJewelry

Wellknown for bringing importantartist-signed and vintage jewelry to auction, Skinner continues to satisfythe demand for unusual and signed works. A pair of antique 18kt gold andreverse-painted crystal fishbowl ear pendants from the 1870s (lot 509) brought$17,775, and an Edwardian diamond sunburst pendant/brooch from Tiffany &Co. (lot 762) brought $74,062.

An18kt gold and enamel caddis worm pendant/brooch by John Paul Miller (lot 424)demonstrates beautifully the goldsmith’s mastery of enamel and granulation andbrought $11,258. A brooch (lot 484) from the 1870s depicting Alcatraz Islandfrom the days before it was a prison sold for $7,703.

According to VictoriaBratberg, director of Fine Jewelry at Skinner, “This auction was uniformlystrong across all the categories: colored stones, diamonds, natural pearls,artist-signed jewelry, Art Deco, and antique works.” Bratberg continued, “The sale generated interestfrom around the world, and demonstrates our ability to consign extraordinaryjewelry that brings top prices at auction.”

About Skinner
Skinner, Inc. is one of the world’sleading auction houses for antiques and fine art. With expertise in over 20specialty collecting areas, Skinner draws the interest of buyers from all overthe world and its auctions regularly achieve world record prices. Skinnerprovides a broad range of auction and appraisal services, and it is widelyregarded as one of the most trusted names in the auction business. Skinner’s appraisal experts regularly appearon the PBS-TV series, Antiques Roadshow, and its specialty departmentsinclude American Furniture & Decorative Arts, American & European Worksof Art, European Furniture & Decorative Arts, 20^th CenturyDesign, Fine Ceramics, Fine Jewelry, Couture, Fine Musical Instruments, AsianWorks of Art, Fine Wines, Rare Books & Manuscripts, Oriental Rugs &Carpets, American Indian & Ethnographic Art, Fine Judaica, Antique MotorVehicles, Toys, Dolls & Collectibles, Discovery and Science, Technology& Clocks. Skinner galleries are located in Boston and Marlborough, Mass.For more information on upcoming auctions and events, visit Skinner’s web site www.skinnerinc.com.

Designer Jewel: Duncan Stevens, Opulence - Men!

2011-12-16T05:49:00.000-08:00

We are all born originals - why is it so many of us die copies? - Edward Young

Duncan has again released a mouth-wateringly significant piece of jewellery. Signet is part of his extravagant one-off rarities and is Duncan’s first men’s ring to join the Opulence Collection, that collection of rings and necklaces which grabbed attention in the media throughout the global financial meltdown for their oversized gemstones, diamonds and weighty solid gold sculptural forms.

Handcrafted in 18k yellow gold, this polished men’s ring has a gently curved top which houses the fifteen specially cut square gemstones. These stones are set into three lines, its grid broken by the solitary Diamond amongst all the Onyx. Along the inside of the band is a single small round diamond used as part of a personalised message and the recipient of this ring absolutely loved it, even commenting on how the piece was even more spectacular than the drawings.

The opulent Signet ring will be but the beginning of his men's range, as well as some other women's sumptuous pieces to join this rarefied collection. Only a handful of these pieces have been created so far, the sheer extravagance of the materials used, keeping them reserved for the most discerning and fortunate few, and with clients including an African and European royal, as well as women of means, it is no surprise that his work continues to grab the attention of loyal clients and collectors abroad.

In 2009, Duncan released what became known as the Opulence Collection. He was not afraid to buck against the prevailing trends of that time to go smaller, more commercial and cheaper. Duncan’s intention with the Opulence Collection is a strong desire to develop a strand of one-off collectors pieces, a body of estate jewellery. Investment pieces of solid precious metals and gems, with his over-arching vision to develop no more than a hundred pieces a year of spectacular jewellery, each piece having it’s own essence, fulfilling it’s own vision, not tied into being part of a set. In a sense, the piece itself should be able to stand alone, the wearer needing no other artifice.

“Duncan Stevens whose pieces are rare objets d’art in their own right…creates pieces of high value that are infused with the energy that is present in this talented man dedicated to high end craftsmanship.” – Luxury News

Duncan has never truly felt comfortable with the idea of making multiples of pieces. He has however developed ranges of jewellery, where perhaps no more than a 100 of his smaller ready-to-wear pieces have been created (in his mind this constitutes mass production). But the pieces that reside in the Opulence collection are some of his most fabulous pieces, not only for their cost, but also for the manner in which they shall never be repeated. And there-in lies the beauty in what Duncan does, part of his design and commissioning process to create these signature pieces are carefully thought out shapes and material or in-depth meetings with his clients to ascertain their needs.

Attention to detail and careful selection of materials ensures that these pieces are special, each one a small part of the designer himself. Duncan never wants to compete in the saturated mass produced market, the hallmark of our industrial age, instead, he continues to produce a small quantity of special pieces and builds a portfolio of some of the most exquisite and bold one-off pieces around.

“Duncan Stevens is not only one of South Africa’s leading jewellery artists in creativity and design, he is also a remarkably clever designer. His love of innovative design can be seen in his pieces and demonstrates his commitment to unique jewellery matched with fine craftsmanship.” – Makia

About Duncan Stevens
The formation of Duncan Stevens is born of a love for jewellery and objets d’art. There is a clear aesthetic to the work designed and produced by him. The intention is to continue to create unique pieces of high value work, small batch pieces of mid-range priced jewellery and a range of affordable jewellery, all the while maintaining quality and design integrity.

The core ethos of Duncan Stevens is simple;quality over quantity. His core values are defined by a highly developed aesthetic, but matched with fine craftsmanship. Limited editions, one-offs and small runs means every piece is catalogued, and every piece remains special.

Every time a person purchases a piece of jewellery, they know the quantity available, and that should they own a unique piece, that it belongs only to them, and will never be repeated again.

Check out www.duncanstevens.com to see images of more stunning works from Duncan Stevens or join the Duncan Stevens Jewellery Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Duncan-Stevens-Jewellery/83486492477 or get jewellery styling & gift tips @DSJewellery on Twitter

Source: Press Release from Duncan Stevens

MOST VALUABLE PRIVATE JEWELRY COLLECTION SOLD AT AUCTION

2011-12-15T07:36:00.000-08:00

7 WORLD AUCTION RECORDS BROKEN, INCLUDING

A PEARL JEWEL, AN INDIAN JEWEL, AN EMERALD JEWEL,
PRICE PER CARAT FOR A COLORLESS DIAMOND AND FOR A RUBY

“Elizabeth Taylor's magnificent collection of jewels has captivated the auction world this fall, resulting in world-wide bidding and this first landmark result. Without a doubt the greatest private collection of jewelry ever assembled, this sale marked the powerful start of Christie’s historic week of sales auctioning the Jewelry, Fashion, Accessories and Memorabilia from The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor between the 13 – 16 December, in tandem with the online-only sale (3 – 17 December),” said Marc Porter, Chairman and President of Christie's Americas.

AFTER TODAY’S SALE OF THE COLLECTION OF ELIZABETH TAYLOR: JEWELRY (II)

THE COMBINED TOTAL OF BOTH SALES ACHIEVED $137,235,675!

(Pictured above are the Burton Wedding bands which, after a 15 minute bidding battle, realized $1,022,500)

Results from The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor: The Legendary Jewels, Evening Sale

Results from The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor: Jewelry (II)

“The extraordinary results of the first jewelry sale are a tribute to Elizabeth Taylor's expert eye for fine gemstones and jewels, as well as her stature as a legendary star and inspiring philanthropist. During the international pre-sale exhibition tour, which travelled all the way to Hong Kong, via Moscow, London, Tokyo, Los Angeles, Dubai, Geneva and Paris, before arriving in New York, thousands of collectors and admirers braved long lines to get a glimpse of one of the greatest collections of all time,” noted François Curiel, International Jewelry Director and President of Christie’s Asia. “For many, there was both the desire to share in the stories behind Elizabeth Taylor’s iconic jewels and to dream of perhaps acquiring one. For others, the sale provided the opportunity to purchase unique jewels, which brought Elizabeth Taylor such joy and reflect her remarkable taste and connoisseurship. I know she would be thrilled that her passion has inspired others through this landmark event. Being the auctioneer for this sale was one of the most memorable auctioneering events of my life.”

About Christies:
Christie’s, the world's leading art business had global auction and private sales in 2010 that totaled £3.3 billion/$5.0 billion. Christie’s is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie's conducted the greatest auctions of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, and today remains a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Christie’s offers over 450 sales annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewellery, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $100 million. Christie’s has 53 offices in 32 countries and 10 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Dubai, Zürich, and Hong Kong. More recently, Christie’s has led the market with expanded initiatives in emerging and new markets such as Russia, China, India and the United Arab Emirates, with successful sales and exhibitions in Beijing, Mumbai and Dubai.

Christie's First of the Elizabeth Taylor Auctions - $115,932,000

2011-12-14T06:06:00.000-08:00

The first of the Elizabeth Taylor auctions took place last night at Christie's...there was a total of 80 items with 100% sell through. Some of these prices will surprise you!

THE ELIZABETH TAYLOR DIAMOND
Estimate: $2,500,000 - $3,500,000
Set with a cut-cornered rectangular-cut diamond, weighing approximately 33.19 carats, flanked on either side by a tapered baguette-cut diamond, mounted in platinum.
With report 1132411262 dated 9 May 2011 from the Gemological Institute of America stating that the diamond is D color, VS1 clarity; accompanied by a working diagram indicating that the clarity may be potentially internally flawless

Price Realized - $8,818,500

LA PEREGRINA
Estimate: $2,000,000 - $3,000,000
A NATURAL PEARL, DIAMOND, RUBY AND CULTURED PEARL NECKLACE, BY CARTIER
Suspending a detachable drop-shaped natural pearl pendant, weighing approximately 202.24 grains or 50.56 carats, measuring approximately 17.35 - 17.90 x 25.50 mm, with an old mine-cut and rose-cut diamond and silver foliate bail, suspended from a circular-cut diamond flame motif set with a pear-shaped ruby, spaced by a detachable pear-shaped ruby and natural pearl link, to the two-strand necklace, comprising fifty-six natural pearls and four cultured pearls, intersected by eight circular-cut diamond and cushion-cut ruby flame motif plaques, mounted in platinum and gold, La Peregrina late 16th century; diamond bail early 19th century; natural pearl, diamond, ruby and cultured pearl necklace by Cartier 1972, 13½ ins., pendant may also be worn as a brooch, accompanied by the seed pearl and platinum neckchain from the time of the purchase at auction in 1969, 30¾ ins.
Signed Cartier
Designed by Elizabeth Taylor with Al Durante of Cartier
La Peregrina with report 59574 dated 19 May 2011 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the analysed properties confirm the authenticity of this saltwater natural pearl

Price Realized - $11,842,500

THE TAJ MAHAL

AN INDIAN DIAMOND AND JADE PENDANT NECKLACE RUBY AND GOLD CHAIN, BY CARTIER

Estimate: $300,000 - $500,000

Set with an inscribed heart-shaped table-cut diamond, within a red stone and jade mount set with table-cut diamonds, the reverse decorated with an enamel latticework motif, from a gold neckchain set with cabochon rubies and old mine-cut diamonds, mounted in gold, inscribed heart-shaped table-cut diamond bearing the Islamic date 1037 [1627-1628], gold and enamel cage of later addition, neckchain circa 1972, length adjustable, pendant suspends 17½ ins. at longest
Neckchain by Cartier, no. 53559

Price Realized - $8,818,500

THE MIKE TODD DIAMOND TIARA - ANTIQUE DIAMOND TIARA

Estimate: $60,000 - $80,000
Designed as nine old mine-cut diamond scrolls with larger old mine-cut diamond terminals, spaced by old mine-cut diamond latticework motifs, mounted in platinum and gold, circa 1880, 9 5/8 ins. circumference

Price Realized - $4,226,500

I hope that whoever purchased the individual Emerald pieces by Bulgari picked up enough pieces to make a Suite - in which case it would have run approximately $14,000,000!

For the complete Auction Results see Christie's

NEXT UP? JEWELRY (II)...TONIGHT!

Sotheby's Dec 7th Results...$30.4 million!

2011-12-10T19:22:00.001-08:00

Sotheby’s jewelry auctions achieved $30.4 million in New York yesterday, 7 December. The day began with the ‘white glove’ sale – 100% sold – of The Elegant John Traina – A Portrait in Style, which more than tripled its pre-sale high estimate of $570,000 in bringing $1,921,755. The following auction of Magnificent Jewels totaled $28,477,500, led by top prices for white diamonds, natural pearls, sapphires and emeralds.

“As has been the case throughout our recent auctions, yesterday’s sales saw persistent demand and strong results for unique and signed jewels,” commented Lisa Hubbard, Co-Chairman of Sotheby’s International Jewelry department, and Gary Schuler, Head of Sotheby’s Jewelry department in New York.

“The one-of-a-kind Platinum and Diamond Sautoir Necklace by Cartier sold for $1,650,500, above a high estimate of $1 million, while exceptional white diamonds and natural pearls brought top prices throughout the day. Though we are disappointed to have not found buyers yesterday for our top two stones amongst the rarified group of collectors at the highest end of our market, the results for the remainder of the sale demonstrate a continued demand for pieces of quality and unique character.”

Auction Results:

Sale N08805 The Elegant John Traina A Portrait in Style 07 DEC 11

Grand Total: $1,921,755 (£1,230,002) Exch Rate: 0.64

Sold by Lot: 100.0% Lots Offered: 92

Sold by Value: 100.0% Lots Sold/Unsold: 92 / 0

LOT 43

PAIR OF 18 KARAT GOLD AND RUBY CUFFLINKS, SCHLUMBERGER FOR TIFFANY & CO., AND RUBY AND DIAMOND STUDS, DAVID WEBB

The cufflinks set with cabochon rubies, signed Tiffany, Schlumberger; the three studs set in the centers with cabochon rubies, accented by small round diamonds, mounted in 18 karat gold, signed Webb.

Complete Catalog of Auction Results click here

Sale N08808 Magnificent Jewels 07 DEC 11

Grand Total: $28,477,063 (£18,226,487) Exch Rate: 0.64

Sold by Lot: 66.5% Lots Offered: 340

Sold by Value: 45.5% Lots Sold/Unsold: 226 / 114

LOT 434

PROPERTY FROM A PROMINENT AMERICAN FAMILY
A MAGNIFICENT PLATINUM AND DIAMOND SAUTOIR NECKLACE WITH LAVALLIERE PENDANT, CARTIER, NEW YORK, 1924

Designed as a series of openwork oval and bell-shaped links set with 13 old European-cut and cushion-shaped diamonds weighing approximately 37.75 carats, centering a larger cushion-shaped diamond weighing approximately 4.65 carats, supporting a lavalliere pendant set with 7 cushion-shaped and old European-cut diamonds weighing approximately 37.05 carats, length 15½ inches, signed Cartier, numbered 2419263; together with a length extender of a later date set with 13 cushion-shaped and old European-cut diamonds weighing approximately 22.30 carats, length 12¼ inches, separated into three segments, the necklace and length extender further set with smaller old mine and single-cut diamonds weighing approximately 18.60 carats.

Complete Catalog of Auction Results click here

Celebrity Jewel: Celebrities Abound at the UNICEF Ball in Los Angeles...

2011-12-10T16:16:00.001-08:00

Nicole Richie in Neil Lane Jewels...

Nicole Richie – Wearing diamond and gold chandelier earrings, diamond and gold cocktail ring and a diamond and gold bangle

Katie Walsh in Neil Lane....

Kate Wash – Wearing diamond and gold earrings, a diamond and gold cocktail ring and bracelet

Brooklyn Decker in Jordan Alexander

Brooklyn Decker wore what is arguably one of the hottest trends in Designer Jewelry, Sliced Pearls! Brooklyn wore a navy pearl slice & raspberry diamond ring.

Closeup on Sliced Pearls from Jordan Alexander via WWD

Fred Leighton at the UNICEF Ball

Sarah Jessica Parker and Vera Farmiga were among the glittering guests wearing Fred Leighton at the UNICEF Ball.

Photos via Zimbio

Lapponia's "Art of Expression"

2011-12-10T08:58:00.000-08:00

Lapponia Jewelry is undergoing a global renaissance. Today's strong women want to express themselves with our beautiful designs. Lapponia Jewelry is inspired by the rugged nature of northern Finland. This close bond with the nature of the north is brought to life in our new brand experience, the Art of Expression video, and our overall marketing strategy, The Silent Language of Nature.

View the Multimedia News Release:

The Lapponia brand video combines stunning images of northern nature with another source of Finnish pride, the internationally renowned musical talent of the band Apocalyptica and their song Sacra. The video tells the story of Lapponia's origins, presenting the artists' source of inspiration for those who have never had the opportunity to experience the exotic beauty of northern Finland.

Lapponia's artistic nature is also highlighted throughout our other marketing activities. During the filming of the brand video, world-famous photographer Arno Rafael Minkkinen, currently a professor of visual arts at the University of Boston, began work on a set of beautiful art photos based on Lapponia's 'silent language' marketing concept. This cooperation resulted in a collection of pictures that visualizes Lapponia's message in a truly beautiful way. In terms of communication, the campaign clearly differs from the way other luxury brands express themselves. And when it comes to timing, the campaign launch couldn't be happening at a better time, with Helsinki serving as World Design Capital for 2012.

About Lapponia
Lapponia's story began when the company's visionary founder Pekka Anttila asked sculptor and jewelry designer Björn Weckström, who he met while training to be a goldsmith, to design the first pieces of what was, at the time, very unique jewelry. The roots of Lapponia design are in Finnish Lapland. On trips to Lapland, Weckström got inspired by the exceptional shape and surface of the gold nuggets found in rivers there. It was this inspiration that led him to design the Flowering Wall, which received a Grand Prix award at the 1965 International Jewelry Contest in Rio de Janeiro. Since then, Lapponia has been an international success. Later Björn Weckström became fascinated by silver and created a series of jewelry in which silver portrays Finland's snowy fields and icy lakes. The exceptional treatment of the surface became the label of Lapponia's distinguished design.

The unique design and the exotic arctic nature began to generate more and more international interest. Lapponia grew into a brand that knew no boundaries. It was loved by royalty and stars alike, from the shahzadi of Persia to Yoko Ono. Following this success, in the 1970s Lapponia's jewelry was being designed by several international jewelry artists.

Lapponia's mystical designs still captivate people across the world. Today, Lapponia has six visionary artists who draw inspiration from the nature of Lapland to fulfill Lapponia's mission of creating revolutionary pieces of jewelry in the otherwise conservative world of jewels. This jewelry is worn by charismatic women who are not afraid to stand out from the crowd.

Press Views New 2012 Offering by William Henry - Bejewelled Function

2011-12-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

William Henry Adds New Bejeweled Creations to Its Offerings of Functional Jewelry.

Exclusive new pieces integrate fine jewelry adornments and offer a new distinctive choice to men looking for an important personality statement.

The 'Ventana' Pocketknife
inlaid with 178 dark and light blue sapphires

Today, William Henry presented its first offerings designed and created with gemstone pave settings. These new pieces represent an important step for the American brand renowned for its distinctive collections of functional jewelry. The new models, developed in partnership with jewelry designer Scott Keating, add an original and seductive message to William Henry’s existing collections, and represent a new and exclusive offering in the often overlooked world of jewelry for men.

All the patterns on William Henry’s new bejeweled models are created by hand, and hand set in pave with extensive microscopic work. The gemstones used include white, brown and black diamonds, blue and yellow sapphires, and rubies.

Initially, Scott Keating’s designs and setting work will be used on some of the brand’s most exclusive pocketknives. Later in 2012, these gem settings will be also used to create new offerings of writing instruments, money clips and golf tools, conferring a new and original appeal to the brand’s most exclusive collections.

William Henry will start selling the new pieces at the end of the first quarter of 2012, making them available online and through the brand’s network of authorized retailers in the US and abroad.

The seamless integration of classic natural materials, precious metals & gemstones, and state-of-the-art alloys is a hallmark of William Henry’s work. Today’s collections include pocketknives, writing instruments, money clips and golf tools.

Brown diamonds surround Black Lip Shell
on the Monarch pocketknife

“Our limited edition collections are always infused with a distinctive and meaningful message” – Says Matt Conable, founder and creative engine of the company. “It can be imbued in a rare and exotic material such as fossil Mammoth tooth or meteorite, or in the outstanding craftsmanship of an engraver or a koftgari artisan. The design and gem-setting artistry of Scott Keating will add a sparkling and precious new layer to our most exclusive offerings”

A Winner of multiple awards for his jewelry creations, and with customers of the caliber of Jack Nicholson and Jimmy Buffett, Scott Keating is one of the most respected independent jewelry designers in the US. Nature is probably the single most important source of inspiration for his work.

“I love the contrast between the sparkle of gems and the sheen understated look of organic and fossil materials” – Says Keating. "I find inspiration in earth metals and stones, and adding my love of jewelry making translates the work into functional art."

This shared respect for natural proportions and the use of natural organic materials make William Henry and Scott Keating perfect partners.

“I’ve always admired Scott Keating’s creations and I’m thrilled to be able to offer him our superb collections as a canvas for his beautiful work” – says Conable.

About William Henry

William Henry is an American luxury brand devoted to the vision of designing and creating superlative functional jewelry. Designer and entrepreneur Matt Conable founded the company in 1997 and is now the sole owner. Conable first established the brand creating exclusive and award-winning pocketknives, effectively transforming the archetype of all tools into a superb piece of functional jewelry for men. Today’s collections include writing instruments, money clips, and golf tools.

The seamless integration of classic natural materials, precious metals & gemstones, and state-of-the-art alloys is a hallmark of William Henry’s work. The brand creates limited editions only, and no two pieces are ever replicas. William Henry’s collections are available on its website and through a select network of authorized retailers in the US and abroad.

Source: Press Release

Jewelry Television Launches New Website

2011-12-08T18:25:00.001-08:00

Jewelry Television Launches New Website

Jewelry shopping network develops new site to make shopping experience even easier

Jewelry Television® (JTV), the largest broadcast shopping network focused exclusively on the sale of fine jewelry and gemstones, announced the launch of a new website design at http://www.jtv.com. The new site will make Jewelry Television’s already user-friendly shopping experience even easier for customers.

The new website, completed in-house by JTV’s e-commerce team, features a wider format that allows for large, high-resolution images and videos of jewelry and gemstones, enhanced graphics which are visually appealing, and clearly-labeled tabs for improved navigation. Pages of the site work intuitively and consistently, while new search capabilities allow online jewelry shoppers a way to more quickly and easily find what they are seeking.

“We are committed to providing an exceptional customer experience,” said Craig Shields, vice president of e-commerce at Jewelry Television. “The new website was designed to be informative and very simple for our customers to navigate.”

Mobile users have the option of a fully mobile enhanced web experience will all the functions and features of the full site, from the convenience of their mobile devices.

“The user-friendly website also allows our customers to leave reviews on their purchase or read unbiased reviews before they make the purchase,” he said. “We hope that our customers will enjoy browsing the new site and that it will enhance their experience with JTV.”

About Jewelry Television®
Jewelry Television® (JTV) is the only broadcast shopping network that focuses exclusively on the sale of fine jewelry and gemstones. The privately-held company was founded in 1993 and broadcasts high definition programming 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to over 80 million unique households in the U.S. Jewelry Television® was recently ranked the 14th largest retailer of fine jewelry in the U.S. by National Jeweler. JTV.com is the fifth largest jewelry destination on the internet according to Internet Retailer’s Top 500 Guide for 2010. For more information, visit JTV.com.

Source: Press Release via Jewelry Television

Carrie Underwood Wears "Stars of Africa Collection" at CMAs

2011-12-07T06:28:00.000-08:00

I inadvertently left the following information out of my previous post about CMA Jewelry.

Along with her 11 costume changes...co host Carrie Underwood wore pieces from the Stars of Africa Collection by Royal Asscher throughout the 45th Annual Country Music Association Awards.

In her opening skit with co host Brad Paisley she is wearing a pair of simple yet sophisticated yellow gold diamond earrings designed by Royal Asscher.

Closing the show, Carrie perfectly paired her pale green gown with Royal Asscher’s yellow gold floating diamond pendant necklace.

Not only did Carrie look gorgeous while co hosting the CMA'S, she was able to support a good cause at the same time by wearing diamonds from Royal Asscher's Stars of Africa Collection. Well known for her conscious, and cruelty free attitude towards fashion, Carrie jumped at the opportunity to support The Diamond Empowerment Fund and Royal Asscher's use of non-conflict diamonds.

Carrie Underwood wore 18kt yellow gold Affinity Link Earrings- with Royal Asscher cut Diamonds and micro pave by: Royal Asscher Diamonds (www.royalasscher.com)

...and yellow gold 18kt Stars of Africa full sapphire globe with floating diamonds necklace by:

Royal Asscher Diamonds (www.royalasscher.com)

About ROYAL ASSCHER:
Royal Asscher was established in 1854 in the Netherlands and has had a very influential presence in the diamond industry. The company cut the world's largest diamond to date, (3105 carats) and also has been awarded the title "Royal" two times from Queen Juliana of the Netherlands for being the top in the industry. Royal Asscher has provided jewelry to Royals for over a century now including Queen Elizabeth II and the Late Princess Diana.

Recently a more contemporary collection with a charitable tie-in was created called ‘Stars of Africa’. The collection represents one of the greatest innovations in the jewelry industry- floating diamonds! Diamonds which are encased in a fluid filled dome move around freely which creates an effect that is utterly mesmerizing. Royal Asscher’s beautiful modern twist on traditional diamond design is also helping to rebuild Africa, which gives each piece an underlying beauty as well. Royal Asscher refuses to work with conflict diamonds that originate from war torn countries and are unethically sourced and sold to fund warfare and civil destruction. Royal Asscher only sources diamonds from nations that are fully compliant with the Kimberly Process, an international diamond industry initiative to stop the flow of conflict diamonds.

New! Palladium Prestige Awards at 2012 AGTA Spectrum Awards™

2011-12-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

New! Palladium Prestige Awards
at the 2012 AGTA Spectrum Awards™ Collection

At the discretion of the judges, up to three winners in each category or division will be awarded trophies. Honorable Mentions may also be awarded a certificate. All entries will automatically be considered for Best of Show, Best Use of Color and Best Use of Pearls. Winners will be awarded a "Best of" trophy.

Best of Show:

Todd Reed, Todd Reed, Inc.
Palladium and 22K Yellow Gold Locket featuring Blue Moonstones, Grey Diamonds (24.51 ctw.), Blue Sapphires (17.34 ctw.) and White Diamonds (5.10 ctw.) opening to reveal a 76.03 ct. Moldavite Buddha.

Men's Wear:

Evelyn Huang, evelynH. Jewelry, Inc.
Palladium "Zultan" ring featuring a 12.54 ct. color-change diaspore accented with radiant-cut diamonds (.43 ctw.).

Business/Day Wear:

Dawn Muscio, D. Muscio Designs

Palladium and 14K rose gold "Isis" ring featuring a 19.98 ct. buff-top chrysocolla accented with Peridots (.36 ctw.) and Diamonds (.11 ctw.).

2nd Place Business/Day Wear:

Michelle Mercaldo,
Michelle Mercaldo Contemporary Jewelry
Ring made in palladium featuring a 2.64 ct. pink sapphire accented with diamonds. (0.17 ct. t.w.).

Best Use Of Palladium & Color:

Dennis de Jonghe
Palladium pendant featuring a 16.39 ct. aquamarine accented with a 2.09 ct. moonstone, diamonds (0.26 ct. t.w.), and pearls.

Evening Wear:

Naomi Sarna, Naomi Sarna Designs
Palladium ring featuring a 35.0 ct. carved Topaz accented with Diamonds (.63 ctw.).

1st Place - Evening Wear:

Ion Ionescu,
Ionescu Design, Inc.
Palladium and black rhodium "Pillow for Dreaming" ring featuring a 36 ct. carved Labradorite accented with paraiba tourmalines (1.50 ctw.).

Bridal Wear:
Mirjam Butz-Brown, Adorn Gallery
Palladium and 14K yellow gold earrings featuring Quartz and Mother-of-Pearl accented with Diamonds (.16 ctw.) with detachable mirror-cut Amethyst drops (21.50 ctw.).

Classical:

Dennis de Jonghe
Palladium ring featuring a 16.5mm white South Sea Pearl accented
with round Diamonds (.71 ctw.).

Global Witness leaves Kimberley Process

2011-12-05T23:01:00.001-08:00

Global Witness leaves Kimberley Process

...calls for diamond trade to be held accountable

Global Witness today wrote to the Chair of the KimberleyProcess to announce its withdrawal as an official Observer. Global Witnessfirst exposed the problem of blood diamonds in 1998 and played a key role inestablishing the Kimberley Process. The KP is a government-led rough diamondcertification scheme launched in 2003, which requires member states to passnational legislation and set up an import/export control system for diamonds.Over 75 of the world's diamond producing, trading and manufacturing countriesparticipate in the scheme. Global Witness has been an official Observer in theKimberley Process since 2003 and a member of the KP Civil Society Coalition.Global Witness will continue to work with NGOs in the Civil Society Coalitionto reform the diamond sector.

Global Witness today announced that it has left the Kimberley Process, the international certification scheme established to stop the trade in blood diamonds.

The Kimberley Process’s refusal to evolve and address the clear links between diamonds, violence and tyranny has rendered it increasingly outdated, said the group. Despite intensive efforts over many years by a coalition of NGOs, the scheme’s main flaws and loopholes have not been fixed and most of the governments that run the scheme continue to show no interest in reform.

“Nearly nine years after the Kimberley Process was launched, the sad truth is that most consumers still cannot be sure where their diamonds come from, nor whether they are financing armed violence or abusive regimes” said Charmian Gooch, a Founding Director of Global Witness. “The scheme has failed three tests: it failed to deal with the trade in conflict diamonds from Côte d’Ivoire, was unwilling to take serious action in the face of blatant breaches of the rules over a number of years by Venezuela and has proved unwilling to stop diamonds fuelling corruption and violence in Zimbabwe. It has become an accomplice to diamond laundering – whereby dirty diamonds are mixed in with clean gems.”

In a shocking move, the Kimberley Process recently authorised exports from two companies operating in the controversial Marange diamond fields in Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean army seized control of the area in 2008, killing around 200 miners. Mining concessions were then granted in legally questionable circumstances to several companies, some of them associated with senior figures in Robert Mugabe’s Zanu PF party. Newspapers have reported that the Zimbabwean Central Intelligence Organisation, the state security service aligned with Mugabe whose members are accused of committing acts of violence against opposition supporters, directly benefits from off-budget diamond revenues.

“Over the last decade, elections in Zimbabwe have been associated with the brutal intimidation of voters. Orchestrating this kind of violence costs a lot of money. As the country approaches another election there is a very high risk of Zanu PF hardliners employing these tactics once more and using Marange diamonds to foot the bill. The Kimberley Process’s refusal to confront this reality is an outrage,” Gooch continued.

“Consumers should not buy Marange diamonds, and industry should not supply them,” said Gooch. “All existing contracts in the Marange fields should be cancelled and retendered with terms of reference which reflect international best practice on revenue sharing, transparency, oversight by and protection of the affected communities.”

The diamond industry should be required to demonstrate that the diamonds it sells are not fuelling abuses – by complying with international standards on minerals supply chain controls, including independent third party audits and regular public disclosure. Governments must show leadership by putting these standards into law.

“Consumers have a right to know what they’re buying, and what was done to obtain it,” added Gooch. “The diamond industry must finally take responsibility for its supply chains and prove that the stones it sells are clean.”

Source: Global Witness Press Release

For an informed decision, here are some information resources regarding the Kimberley Process:

Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kimberley_Process_Certification_Scheme

KP Website - http://www.kimberleyprocess.com/

Global Witness - http://www.globalwitness.org/

Rob Bates - Industry Blog on JCK - http://www.jckonline.com/blogs/cutting-remarks

Global Witness- Why We Are Leaving The KP

2011-12-05T22:49:00.001-08:00

Why we are leaving the Kimberley Process

...a message from Global Witness Founding Director Charmian Gooch

The diamond trader looked me in the eye and said "If I don't buy them somebody else will". He was talking about blood diamonds from Angola, Sierra Leone and elsewhere. It was 1997 and I was sitting in a cramped and anonymous office in Antwerp. I had just returned from investigations in Angola that revealed the awful truth that diamonds were funding and fuelling conflict and the world didn't appear to realise there was a problem. Millions of people were caught up in the horror of this protracted war, with many hundreds of thousands dead, maimed, or homeless.

Following more research and investigations in Europe, Africa and America, Global Witness launched a campaign to alert the world to what was happening in late 1998. We questioned the accepted view that this was just how the diamond trade worked, and challenged governments, the United Nations and the industry to face up to responsibilities and do something about it.

There was a swift response and recognition of the problem from all involved and mass media coverage internationally. An increasing number of other campaigning groups took up the issue and the Kimberley Process (KP) - a global scheme designed to break the links between diamonds and conflict - was negotiated and then launched at the start of 2003.

The diamond-fuelled wars came to an end for a range of reasons, and countries put in place systems and structures to control the trade in rough diamonds. So that should have been deemed a success, right? Sadly not. Global Witness and a coalition of NGOs - the Kimberley Process Civil Society Coalition - have pushed continuously to make the KP work. However, the shameful truth is the governments just won't hold each to account.

For its part, the diamond industry avoided regulation at the time the Kimberley Process was set up by undertaking to deliver a meaningful supply chain control scheme. But nine years on, the industry's 'system of warranties' lacks independent verification. The fact is that most consumers still cannot be sure where their diamonds come from, or whether they are financing armed violence or abusive regimes.

The world has moved on but the Kimberley Process remains stuck in time. Ever more insular, the KP has spent the past few years lurching from one shoddy compromise to the next in a manner that strips away its integrity and undermines its earlier achievements. The KP has failed to deal with the trade in conflict diamonds from Côte d'Ivoire, breaches of the rules by Venezuela and diamonds fuelling corruption and state-sponsored violence in Zimbabwe.

Most recently, the decision to endorse unlimited diamond exports from named companies in the Marange region of Zimbabwe - the scene of mass killings by the national army - has turned an international conflict prevention mechanism into a cynical corporate accreditation scheme.

We now have to recognise that this scheme, begun with so many good intentions, has done much that is useful but ultimately has failed to deliver. It has proved beyond doubt that voluntary schemes are not going to cut it in a multi-polar world where companies and countries compete for mineral resources.

The Kimberley Process's refusal to evolve and address the clear links between diamonds, violence and tyranny has rendered it increasingly outdated. It is time for the diamond sector to start complying with international standards on minerals supply chain controls, including independent third party audits and regular public disclosure. Governments must show leadership by putting these standards into law.

Source: Global Witness Press Release

For an informed decision, here are some information resources regarding the Kimberly Process:

Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kimberley_Process_Certification_Scheme

KP Website - http://www.kimberleyprocess.com/

Global Witness - http://www.globalwitness.org/

Rob Bates - Industry Blog on JCK - http://www.jckonline.com/blogs/cutting-remarks

WDC's Thoughts On Global Witness' Decision To Leave KP

2011-12-05T22:28:00.001-08:00

The World Diamond Council expresses its regret at the announcement by Global Witness that it is leaving the Kimberley Process, and calls upon the organization's leadership to reconsider its position.

The World Diamond Council has always felt that progress in the campaign to end the trade in conflict diamonds will come through dialogue and engagement, and in this respect feels that the decision by Global Witness to walk away from the table will be counterproductive.

Global Witness' withdrawal from the Kimberley Process is regrettable, particularly given the important progress that has been made in addressing the concerns they raise.

In spite of the organization's absence at November's Kimberley Process Plenary Meeting in Kinshasa, an agreement was reached by all governments, including Canada, the European Union, the United States and Australia, to continue to hold the Zimbabwegovernment to account and to allow only exports from those operations in Marange that have demonstrated compliance.

With regard to the Ivory Coast, which has been suspended from the KP for several years, the Kimberley Process, with the active participation of the diamond industry, has been working closely and effectively with UN agencies to identify diamonds from that country and establish remote monitoring of its diamond mining activity. And even now, with peace being restored to the Ivory Coast, the KP continues to work with these parties to ensure that procedures are in place and compliance is achieved, before it is allowed back into the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.

Venezuela, which also is suspended from the Kimberley Process, has been given untilDecember 20 to provide the documents and data required, or it will be "removed from the list of KP participants."

While the rate of progress is sometimes slower than desired, the Kimberley Process has proven over the years that it is effective and does have teeth. Legal exports from the Marange region of Zimbabwe were effectively held up for two years, before it was decided that the situation at certain mines has improved to the point that monitored exports could proceed. Indeed, while boycotts against Zimbabwe have almost all proven ineffective, the KP was the only organization able to report actual progress in getting the government to change its approach.

"The overriding goal of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme has been to protect the integrity of the diamond, so that it properly contributes to bettering the lives of ordinary people living in the areas in which it is mined and processed. The system is not perfect, and is in need of constant review. However, you cannot contribute to the process if you are no longer engaged," said Eli Izhakoff, WDC President.

Source: WDC Press Release

For an informed decision, here are some information resources regarding the Kimberly Process:

Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kimberley_Process_Certification_Scheme

KP Website - http://www.kimberleyprocess.com/

Global Witness - http://www.globalwitness.org/

Rob Bates - Industry Blog on JCK - http://www.jckonline.com/blogs/cutting-remarks

Deadline for the MJSA 21st Annual Vision Awards

2011-12-05T07:06:00.000-08:00

Deadline for the 21st Annual MJSA Vision Awards Competition

coming up on December 15, 2011!

Every year, the association celebrates outstanding talent in the field of jewelry design with our MJSA Vision Awards competition. The winning designers and students represent the future of the jewelry manufacturing industry--and the Vision Awards competition showcases their creativity and boosts their careers.

Julie Buckareff, 2nd Pl. Professional 2011

MJSA ensures the Vision Award winners receive the recognition they deserve by promoting their triumph through the industry's leading publications, which in 2012 will include Instore, Metalsmith, and the association's own MJSA Journal. In addition, their winning entries will be on display for thousands of buyers and exhibitors during the annual MJSA ExpoNew York, the largest and oldest trade show in the U.S. dedicated to the design and manufacture of jewelry, which will be heldMarch 11-13, 2012. Other prizes include gift certificates of up to $500 (courtesy of Rio Grande), cash awards, book libraries, and, for student winners, scholarships up to $1,000.

2012 AWARD CATEGORIES
Design ExcellenceHonors designs that exhibit exceptional creativity, craftsmanship, and marketability.

Visionary Technical SolutionHonors designs in which specific technical challenges--such as combining two non-complementary metals--were overcome to take the piece from concept to completion.

Laser Distinction
Sponsored by LaserStar Technologies Corp.

Recognizes entries in which the design relied upon the use of a laser.

Gold Distinction
Sponsored by Hoover & Strong

Recognizes entries that include a minimum of 75% of a karat gold alloy in the design.

Palladium Distinction
Sponsored by Palladium Alliance International

Recognizes entries that include a minimum of 75% of the design metal(s) in 950 palladium.

Platinum Distinction
Sponsored by Platinum Guild International

Recognizes entries that include a minimum of 75% of the design metal(s) in either 90% or 95% platinum.

Custom Design Distinction
Sponsored by TechForm Advanced Casting

Honors designs that met a client's request for a custom designed piece and the challenges encountered during the design process and how they were overcome.

Future of the Industry Award

Sponsored by MJSA Education Foundation

Recognizes the work of students in jewelry-related programs who exhibit exceptional design talent and creativity.

Click here to learn more about this year's competition and find out how to enter NOW! Or visit the Career Center at mjsa.org.

Thank you to our 2012 sponsors:

General Sponsor:

Laser Distinction:

Gold Distinction:

Palladium Distinction:

Platinum Distinction:

Custom Design Distinction:

Future of the Industry:

Media Sponsors:

Celebrity Jewel: November Roundup

2011-12-04T08:34:00.000-08:00

This is a collection of various events in November. You will see a lot of events coming up to the Academy Awards...

Archie Panjabi at "39th International Emmy Awards" in New York on November 21st:

Cushion-cut diamond drop earrings on a french wire, set in platinum by Chopard (5 carats)
Platinum and diamond line bracelet by Chopard (44 carats)
Platinum and diamond cocktail ring by Chopard (6 carats)

Audrina Patridge at "2011 American Music Awards" in Los Angeles on November 20th:

Platinum and diamond bracelets by Kwiat

Neil Lane at Jennifer Lopez's After Party by Fiat:

Looking dashing in a Giorgio Armani suit, Jeweler to the Stars Neil Lane arrives at the Jennifer Lopez After Party presented by Fiat.

I thought it would be fun to show the Jeweler on the Red Carpet for a change!

Jennifer Lopez in Neil Lane at her own After Party by Fiat:

Diamond, white topaz and platinum large drop earrings
Multiple diamond and platinum cocktail rings

Jennifer Lopez accepting her award at the "2011 American Music Awards" in Los Angeles:

10 stacked platinum and diamond cocktail rings by Neil Lane

Camilla Belle at "Chopard's Official Re-Opening in South Coast Plaza" on November 15th in Orange County

Platinum cocktail ring with rose-cut diamonds (15 carats) by Chopard

Kate Walsh at "GQ's Men of the Year Party" on November 17th in Los Angeles

Platinum chandelier earrings with diamonds and emerald by Neil Lane
Platinum and diamond bracelet by Neil Lane
Platinum and emerald cocktail ring by Neil Lane

Penelope Ann Miller in Neil Lane Jewelry at The Premiere of The Artist:

in an Art Deco Style 10 carat diamond and platinum brooch

Megan Fox in Neil Lane Jewelry at The Vertu Constellation Launch Party

Moscow, Russia – November 15 2011 - Wearing:

Amethyst studs
gold and white topaz long chains
amethyst cocktail ring

Neil Lane Jewelry at the Premiere of
“The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1”
Los Angeles, CA: – November 14, 2011

Kristen Stewart:

Large diamond, sapphire and platinum cocktail ring

Nikki Reed:

Green diamond and gold cocktail ring
Julia Jones:

Diamond and platinum earrings
diamond and platinum cocktail ring

Andrea Riseborough in Neil Lane Jewelry at the Hollywood Style Awards

West Hollywood, CA – November 13 2011 - Wearing:

Diamond and platinum watch bracelet

Diamond and platinum stud earrings

Michelle Williams at the New York premiere of "My Week with Marilyn" on November 13th:

-Platinum, diamond and pearl bracelets from the 1920's by Fred Leighton

Nicole Richie at the "2011 MOCA Gala" on November 12th in Los Angeles:

-Platinum and diamond cluster earrings (15 carats) by Chopard

-Platinum and rose cut diamond ring (14 carats) by Chopard

Dita Von Teese at the “Cinema Italian Style Awards” on November 11th in Los Angeles:

-Platinum and ruby earrings by Bvlgari

Uma Thurman at “LACMA’s Art and Film Gala” in Los Angeles on November 5th:

-Platinum and diamond chandelier earrings by Chopard

(22 carats, featuring oval and round cut diamonds)

Reese Witherspoon at "LACMA's Art and Film Gala" in Los Angeles on November 5th:

-Platinum and diamond "Corolle" earrings by Van Cleef & Arpels

-Estate platinum and diamond bracelet by Van Cleef & Arpels

-Estate platinum bracelet with diamonds and onyx circa 1922 by Van Cleef & Arpels

Jennifer Lopez at "Glamour's Women of the Year Awards" in New York on November 7th:

-Platinum and round diamond ear studs (5 carats) by Harry Winston

-Platinum and diamond cluster ring by Harry Winston

Jessica Alba at the “21st Annual Glamour Women of the Year Awards” on November 7th in New York:

Platinum and black diamond studs by Neil Lane
Platinum ring with black and white diamonds by Neil Lane

Nicole Kidman at “59th Annual BMI Country Awards” on November 8th in Nashville:

Vintage platinum earrings with jade by Fred Leighton

The Daily Jewel

Daily Jewel Sponsors Crowd Jewel Competition

Royal Asscher and CoutureLab Support Seven Bar Foundation

GIA Museum Spotlights Rare Book Collection

Celebrity Jewel: Kwiat on the Red Carpet

Celebrity Jewel: Platinum at the 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards

新年快乐 Happy Chinese New Year!

Howard Rubin, Inventor of GemDialogue, Passes Away

DIAMOND EMPOWERMENT FUND’S FIRST ANNUAL GOOD AWARDS!

Celebrity Jewel: At the Critics Choice Awards

Gem Fling - Consumer Search Engine for Jewelry

New Board at MJSA!

MJSA Elects New Board Directors,Re-elects Officers

MJSA Elects New Board Directors,Re-elects Officers

Free Appraisals - Consign Now!

Mastercut Diamond Jubilee Jewellery Competition

Mastercut Diamond Jubilee jewellery competition to launch at Spring Fair 2012

Celebrity Jewel: Bulgari's Mission Possible!

GIA Launches 4Cs iPad App in Simplified Chinese

Sotheby's Announces Valuation Days...

Royal Jewel: Princess Charlène of Monaco Stellar In Montblanc

Skinner Fine Jewelry Auction Brings $4.7 Million

Designer Jewel: Duncan Stevens, Opulence - Men!

MOST VALUABLE PRIVATE JEWELRY COLLECTION SOLD AT AUCTION

Christie's First of the Elizabeth Taylor Auctions - $115,932,000

Sotheby's Dec 7th Results...$30.4 million!

Celebrity Jewel: Celebrities Abound at the UNICEF Ball in Los Angeles...

Lapponia's "Art of Expression"

Press Views New 2012 Offering by William Henry - Bejewelled Function

William Henry Adds New Bejeweled Creations to Its Offerings of Functional Jewelry.

Exclusive new pieces integrate fine jewelry adornments and offer a new distinctive choice to men looking for an important personality statement.

Jewelry Television Launches New Website

Jewelry Television Launches New Website

Jewelry shopping network develops new site to make shopping experience even easier

Carrie Underwood Wears "Stars of Africa Collection" at CMAs

New! Palladium Prestige Awards at 2012 AGTA Spectrum Awards™

Global Witness leaves Kimberley Process

Global Witness- Why We Are Leaving The KP

WDC's Thoughts On Global Witness' Decision To Leave KP

Deadline for the MJSA 21st Annual Vision Awards

Celebrity Jewel: November Roundup

MJSA Elects New Board Directors,
Re-elects Officers

MJSA Elects New Board Directors,
Re-elects Officers