#AGTA Announces Winners of 2015 AGTA Spectrum Awards™

AGTA Announces Winners 

of 2015 AGTA Spectrum Awards™

The American Gem Trade Association announced the winners of the prestigious AGTA Spectrum Awards™ today. The design competition, in its 31st year, was held in New York, October 25th and 26th. The distinguished panel of judges were: Jerrold Green, of Reginald C. Miller; Myriam Gumuchian of Gumuchian; Joseph Mardkha of ColorMasters; Tim McClelland of McTiegue & McClellan; Larry Pelzel of Neiman Marcus; and Dr. Jeffrey Post, Smithsonian Institution.

“We were thrilled with the variety of entries at this year’s AGTA Spectrum Awards™ competition,” enthused Douglas K. Hucker, CEO, AGTA. “I did not envy the decisions that our judges had to make, yet I was pleased to see how carefully they deliberated over each and every decision they made, resulting in this year’s amazing list of winners,”

And the winners of the 2015 AGTA Spectrum Awards™ are….

Best of ... Winners:

Best of Show

Leon Mege, Leon Mege, Inc. - Platinum ring featuring a 4.71 ct. Paraiba Tourmaline accented with French-cut Diamonds (1.31 ctw.).

Best Use of Color

Paula Crevoshay, Crevoshay - 18K yellow gold "The Venus Bracelet" featuring freshwater baroque cultured Pearls (91.43 ctw.) accented with pink and green Tourmalines (29.32 ctw.).

Best Use of Platinum and Color

Deirdre Featherstone, Featherstone Design - Platinum "Anemone" earrings featuring Tanzanites (5.37 ctw.) accented with blue Zircons (2.88 ctw.), purple Sapphires (3.72 ctw.), tsavorite Garnets (1.67 ctw.), indigo Tourmalines (.40 ctw.) Paraiba Tourmalines (.26 ctw.) and Diamonds (.16 ctw.).

Best Use of Pearls

Naomi Sarna, Naomi Sarna Designs - 18K rose gold necklace featuring white cultured Pearls accented with pink Diamonds.

Fashion Forward Honors: 

This award recognizes the outstanding use of colored gemstone and/or cultured pearl in artful, 

trend-setting jewelry. All necklaces, earrings, bracelets or other jewelry that qualified for judging in the AGTA Spectrum Awards™ competition automatically qualified for Fashion Forward Honors judging. 

Ion Ionescu, Ionescu Design, Inc. - 18K yellow gold ring featuring a 36 ct. Turquoise accented with a 9.2mm Tahitian silver cultured Pearl, Paraiba Tourmalines (.32 ctw.) and Diamonds (.43 ctw.).

Category Winners:

AGTA Spectrum Awards™ entries were judged on the basis of overall beauty and wearability, innovative design, effective use of materials, quality of gemstones, quality of workmanship, broad-base consumer appeal and potential to generate positive publicity for natural colored gemstones. 

AGTA Cutting Edge Awards™ honor excellence and creativity in lapidary arts, including natural colored gemstones and cultured pearls, carvings, and other gem materials.  (the Cutting Edge Awards are covered in a separate post)

Bridal Wear Sponsored by The Knot:

Whether gracing the bridesmaids or donning the bride, herself, this category captures all looks coming down the aisle. Engagement rings, wedding bands, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and tiaras were considered. 

Bridal Wear - 1st Place
Deirdre Featherstone, Featherstone Design - Platinum "Anemone" earrings featuring Tanzanites (5.37 ctw.) accented with blue Zircons (2.88 ctw.), purple Sapphires (3.72 ctw.), tsavorite Garnets (1.67 ctw.), indigo Tourmalines (.40 ctw.) Paraiba Tourmalines (.26 ctw.) and Diamonds (.16 ctw.).

Bridal Wear - 2nd Place and Manufacturing Honors
Laurence Bruyninckx, Laurence Bruyninckx - 18K rose and white gold ring featuring a .80 ct. golden Beryl accented with orange Citrines, orange Sapphires and Diamonds.

Bridal Wear - 3rd Place and Platinum Honors
Michael Endlich, Pave Fine Jewelry - Platinum earrings featuring Diamond slices (7.07 ctw.) accented with Diamonds (.67 ctw.).

Bridal Wear - Honorable Mention
Bella Campbell, Campbellian - Platinum earrings featuring Aquamarines (5.61 ctw.) and grossular Garnets (3.51 ctw.) accented with Diamonds (.56 ctw.).

Platinum Honors: 

Once again awarded with the support of Platinum Guild International. All entries whose primary metal was platinum were eligible in this category. 

Bridal Wear - Platinum Honors
Michael Endlich, Pave Fine Jewelry - Platinum earrings featuring Diamond slices (7.07 ctw.) accented with Diamonds (.67 ctw.).

Bridal Wear - Entry Platinum Innovation
Susan Drake, Spectrum Art & Jewelry - Platinum "Tilt-A-Whirl" ring featuring a 2.06 ct. Tanzanite accented with Diamonds (1.63 ctw.).

Business/Day Wear - Platinum Honors
Phillip Dismuke, Jewelsmith - Platinum "Blooming" ring featuring a 21.40 ct. Opal accented with spessartite Garnets (1.35 ctw.) and Diamonds.

Classical - Platinum Honors
Rex McClure, Sohn & McClure Jewelers - Platinum ring featuring a 4.16 ct. Emerald accented with white Diamond baguettes (1.20 ctw.) and yellow Diamonds (.21 ctw.).

Classical - Entry Platinum Innovation
Mimi Favre, Mimi Favre Studio - Platinum "Etude d'Vert" earrings featuring tapered drops of shades of green Tourmalines (15.50 ctw.).

Evening Wear - Platinum Honors
Cara Becker Lichtenstein, My Blue Heaven - Platinum bracelet featuring multicolored Tourmalines (7.26 ctw.) accented with Diamonds (1.29 ctw.).

Men's Wear - Platinum Honors

Naomi Sarna, Naomi Sarna Designs - Platinum "His and His" rings featuring brown natural Diamonds (5.68 ctw.).

WJA Gem Diva Awards: 

Now in its third year with the Spectrum Awards with the support of WJA, awards were presented in the Bridal Wear, Evening Wear, Classical and Business/Day Wear categories. All women who 

entered the Spectrum Awards competition were eligible for this category simply by marking the check-box for Gem Diva on their entry form. 

Bridal Wear - Gem Diva Award
Suzanne Kalandjian, Suzanne Kalan - 18K white gold necklace featuring a 30mm white Topaz accented with white Diamonds (3.70 ctw.).

Business/Day Wear - Gem Diva Award
Elizabeth Garvin, Elizabeth Garvin Fine - 18K gold and sterling silver "Jewel" ring featuring a 24.6 ct. green Quartz accented with Diamonds (.23 ctw.).

Classical - Gem Diva Award
Caroline Chartuni, Caroline C - 18K white gold "Astra" ring featuring a 24.16 ct. star Sapphire accented with Diamonds (8.08 ctw.).

Evening Wear - Gem Diva Award
Maria Canale, Suna Bros. Inc. - Platinum and 20K pink gold bracelet featuring multi-colored natural Spinels (44.31 ctw.) accented with white Diamonds (6.80 ctw.) and pink Diamonds (1.00 ctw.).


Manufacturing Honors:

All designs that qualified for the Spectrum Awards competition were considered for Manufacturing Honors.  This award celebrates outstanding use of colored gemstones and cultured pearls in jewelry appropriate to be manufactured in production quantities. 

Bridal Wear - Manufacturing Honors
Laurence Bruyninckx, Laurence Bruyninckx - 18K rose and white gold ring featuring a .80 ct. golden Beryl accented with orange Citrines, orange Sapphires and Diamonds.

Business/Day Wear - Manufacturing Honors
Ryan Roberts, Ryan Roberts, Ltd. - 18K yellow gold ring featuring a 11.25 ct. Chrysocolla accented with tsavorite Garnets (.56 ctw.) and Diamonds (.62 ctw.).

Classical - Manufacturing Honors
Deirdre Featherstone, Featherstone Design - Platinum ring featuring a 5.81 ct. green Sapphire accented with Diamonds (3.87 ctw.).

Evening Wear - Manufacturing Honors
Linda Quinn, Linda Quinn Designs - 14K white gold ring featuring a 6.11 ct. pink Tourmaline accented with Diamonds (1.24 ctw.).

Business/ Day Wear:

Business/Day Wear - 1st Place
Jennifer Rabe Morin, Gregore Joailliers - 18K rose gold ring featuring carved Turquoise (29.0 ctw.) accented with Amethyst cabochons (14.0 ctw.).

Business/Day Wear - 2nd Place
Elizabeth Garvin, Elizabeth Garvin Fine - 18K gold and sterling silver "Jewel" ring featuring a 24.6 ct. green Quartz accented with Diamonds (.23 ctw.).

Business/Day Wear - 3rd Place
Heath London, Heath London Jewelry - 18K yellow gold and copper "In The Swim" earrings featuring Paraiba Tourmalines (7.11 ctw.) accented with pink Tourmalines (2.23 ctw.) and Diamonds (.80 ctw.).



Classical:

Classical - 1st Place
Leon Mege, Leon Mege, Inc. - Platinum ring featuring a 4.71 ct. Paraiba Tourmaline accented with French-cut Diamonds (1.31 ctw.).

Classical – 2nd Place
Heena Chheda, Real Gems, Inc. - 18K white gold "Ophion's Treasure" ring featuring Emeralds (6.74 ctw.) accented with Diamonds (2.19 ctw.).

Classical - 3rd Place
Evelyn Huang, China Art & Fine Jewelry, Inc. - 18K yellow and white gold "Midnight Kiss" ring featuring a 5.76 ct. unheated blue Sapphire accented with white and yellow Diamonds (1.18 ctw.), blue Sapphires (.91 ctw.) and tsavorite Garnets (.79 ctw.).


Evening Wear:

Evening Wear - 1st Place
Maria Canale, Suna Bros. Inc. - Platinum and 20K pink gold bracelet featuring multi-colored natural Spinels (44.31 ctw.) accented with white Diamonds (6.80 ctw.) and pink Diamonds (1.00 ctw.).

Evening Wear - 2nd Place
Erica Courtney, Erica Courtney, Inc. - 18K yellow gold "Milky Way" earrings featuring Opal drops (46.06 ctw.) accented with Diamonds (1.98 ctw.) and Paraiba Tourmalines (2.03 ctw.).

Evening Wear - 3rd Place
Gil, Gil Int'l - Platinum ring featuring a 6.50 ct. Alexandrite accented with Diamonds.

Evening Wear - Honorable Mention
Wendy Brandes, Wendy Brandes Jewelry - 18K pink gold "Pink Elephant & Tipsy Writer Maneater" ring featuring a pink Sapphire elephant (2.0 ctw.) accented with a Ruby and brown and white Diamonds (2.23 ctw.).

Men’s Wear:

Men's Wear - 1st Place

Dawn Muscio, D. Muscio Fine Jewelry Studio - 18K red gold and stainless steel "Pink2" cufflinks featuring pillow cut Morganites (8.74 ctw.) accented with Rubies (.87 ctw.) and Diamonds (.60 ctw.).

Men's Wear - 2nd Place

Mark Schneider, Mark Schneider Design - Platinum ring featuring a 16.73 ct. Tourmaline accented with yellow Diamonds (.67 ctw.) and tsavorite Garnets (1.02 ctw.).

Men's Wear - 3rd Place

Micheal Kanners, Michael Kanners - 18K blackened gold cufflinks featuring Tanzanites 20.06 ctw.) accented with tsavorite Garnet (6.5 ctw.).

Men's Wear - Honorable Mention

William Travis, William Travis Jewelry - 18K yellow gold and sterling silver ring featuring a 13.17 ct. Citrine.

This year's AGTA Spectrum Awards™ will be presented during the 2015 AGTA GemFair™ Tucson to be held February 3 - 8 at the Tucson Convention Center in Tucson, Arizona. Winning entries will be displayed during the show and AGTA Spectrum Awards™ recipients will be recognized during the AGTA Dinner Dance and Awards Gala. The event starts at 7:00 pm Saturday, February 7. Tickets for the gala are $100 and cocktail attire is encouraged. 

For further information on the 2015 AGTA GemFair™ Tucson or the AGTA Dinner Dance and Awards Gala, please call (800) 972-1162 or visit our website at www.agta.org. For inquiries regarding the AGTA Spectrum Awards™ competition, please contact Megan Whitmire at megan@agta.org or (800) 972-1162. 

The American Gem Trade Association is a not-for-profit Association serving the natural colored gemstone and cultured pearl industry since 1981. The AGTA serves the industry as "The Authority In Color" and has its headquarter office in Dallas, Texas.

#AGTA Announces the 2015 AGTA Spectrum Awards™ Judges

AGTA Announces the 

2015 AGTA Spectrum Awards™ Judges

”Each year, we strive to seat a unique panel of judges for the AGTA Spectrum Awards™, and we hit the mark this year!” said Douglas K. Hucker, AGTA CEO. “This distinguished group is uniquely qualified with their expertise and passion for colored gemstones and pearls, and we are excited to see the results of their hard work!”

The American Gem Trade Association is excited to announce its panel of judges for the 2015 AGTA Spectrum Awards™. The expert panel of judges all hail from different facets of the jewelry industry, and will meet in October to judge the world‐renown colored gemstone and cultured pearl jewelry competition, along with the AGTA Cutting Edge Awards™, which features loose colored gemstones. 

This year’s judges are:
Jerrold Green, Lapidarist, Reginald C. Miller

The tenets of Green's mentor, Reginald Miller, remain the hallmarks of his business today, “When someone submits material to you, regardless of its quality, treat it with respect and them with respect…and above all: your word is everything.” While the tools of his trade have expanded to include high‐end Apple computers, Green still spends hours of each day hunched over his lapidary table, painstakingly carving precious stones so that every facet will catch the light. Today, gemologists, importers and collectors from all over the world come to him bearing treasures and seeking his advice.

Myriam Gumuchian, Vice President & Director of Sales, Gumuchian

Alongside her, mother Anita, and her sister, Patricia, they work together to carry on a family legacy that originated over 100 years ago in Istanbul with the sales of exceptional colored stones and fancy diamond imports.  In 1979, the Gumuchian brand was created by Anita

and her daughters, Myriam and Patricia.  Myriam was the first woman appointed chair of the Jewelry Information Center, where she held the position for two years. The commitment for excellence has not gone unnoticed, rewarding Gumuchian with several design awards, most recently the “Award for Best International Emerging Brand” of the year from the Armenian Jewelry Association

Joseph Mardkha, Manufacturer, ColorMasters Precious Jewelry

In 1981, Joseph Mardkha founded ColorMasters Gem Corp. and traveled the world seeking to build relationships with stone dealers and cutters overseas.  Quickly, he established

ColorMasters as an essential source for fine precious gems and the company became a valuable asset to some of the world’s best designers, retailers, and jewelry manufacturers.  Today, ColorMasters specializes in each and every aspect of high end jewelry design, product development, and manufacturing while maintaining social responsibility.

Tim McClelland, Master Jeweler and Designer, McTiegue & McClelland

Tim McClelland grew up in family of artists and at an early age was struck by the versatility and permanence of metal as a vehicle for his ideas. All of McTeigue & McClelland’s jewelry is made under the direction of Tim McClelland the old fashioned way ‐ one piece at a time.  In 2011, McTeigue & McClelland made the decision to sell exclusively to their own clientele.  McTeigue & McClelland started to get noticed by the international fashion press. Pieces from their collections became de‐rigeur for magazines surveying the best in jewelry, including Town & Country, Robb Report, W Magazine, Elle, Martha Stewart, The New York Times and more.  McTeigue & McClelland, in Tim and Walter’s words has one mission ‐ “To make the most beautiful jewelry imaginable.”

Larry Pelzel, Retailer, Neiman Marcus

Larry has worked in the high‐end luxury jewelry industry for over 34 years.  Starting as the Sales Associate in Precious Jewels, he worked up Neiman's ladder to his current position of Vice President and Divisional Merchandise Manager, Precious Jewels. From Neiman Marcus’ flagship store in Dallas, he oversees all aspects of the Precious Jewels Division from buying to the renowned in‐house Design Studio to promotions and advertising.  In 2012, Pelzel was inducted into The Retailer Jewelers’ “Hall of Fame” by National Jeweler.  

Dr. Jeffrey E. Post, Curator, U.S. Nat'l Gem & Mineral Col., Smithsonian Inst.

Jeffrey joined the Dept. of Mineral Sciences at the Smithsonian Institution in 1984, from 1989 to 1994, he was Chair. of the Dept. of Mineral Sciences, and, since 1991 has served as Curator of the U.S. National Gem and Mineral Collection. Dr. Post served as the lead Curator for the Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems and Minerals that opened in 1997.  His areas of research interest include mineralogy, gemology, geochemistry, crystallography, and electron microscopy.  He has published more than 75 scientific articles in these fields.

The AGTA Spectrum Awards™ is the world’s premier colored gemstone and pearl jewelry design competition. The AGTA Cutting Edge Awards™ honor loose colored gemstones in everything from Classic Gemstones to one‐of‐a‐kind Carvings, Phenomenal Gemstones to amazing Pairs and Suites. The competition is open to U.S. and Canadian designers and cutters.

Photos from top - 2014 Award Winners:

Gem Diva Award - Business/Day Wear: Annie Fensterstock - Port Washington, NY

22K yellow gold and 18K white, pink, and yellow gold locket featuring a boulder Opal accented with white, pink and yellow Diamonds (2.55 ctw.).

3rd Place - Phenomenal - Jean-Noel Soni, Top Notch Faceting - San Francisco, CA

24.12 ct. color-change Garnet.

Best of Show and 1st Place Classical:  James Currens - J.W. Currens, Inc. - New York, NY

Platinum "Tropical Storm" ring featuring a 22.10 ct. Emerald accented with Diamonds (11.47 ctw.).

1st Place Bridal Wear and Best Use of Pearls - Anil Maloo, Baggins, Inc. - Los Angeles, CA

18K white gold drop earrings featuring 32 Japanese Akoya cultured Pearls accented with round brilliant Diamonds (4.43 ctw.).

1st Place Innovative Faceting - Stephen M. Avery - Lakewood, CO

32.68 ct. "Tsunami" Aquamarine.

2nd Place - Bridal Wear - Erica Courtney, Erica Courtney, Inc. - Los Angeles, CA

18K yellow gold "Something Blue" earrings featuring blue Opal drops (29.99 ctw.) accented with Aquamarines (5.03 ctw.), grey Sapphires (.43 ctw.) and Diamonds (1.10 ctw.).

Diane Flora Membership and Education Manager at AGTA

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) 

Names Diane Flora

Membership and Education Manager

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) announced today that Diane Flora was named the Membership and Education Manager. She began her new role July 29.

Prior to joining AGTA, Flora was the Director of Education at the American Gem Society (AGS) for over 10 years, where she planned, directed, and coordinated the educational programs for the Society. And previous to AGS, she was an instructor for the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), teaching classes in gemology including diamonds, color gemstones, and pearls.

“Diane comes to AGTA with a wealth of industry knowledge and experience,” says Douglas Hucker, AGTA CEO. “Education is a core value that we, at AGTA, hold in the highest regard.  As we continue to focus on the importance of our Member benefits and grow our membership base we are thrilled to have someone of Diane’s stature on board!”

Flora earned her Graduate Gemology diploma from the GIA in 1979 and the prestigious title of Certified Gemologist Appraiser, AGS, in 1992. In her role as Membership and Education Manager she will be responsible for member growth and focus on the enhancement and promotion of the benefits of membership in the AGTA.

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) is an association of United States and Canadian trade professionals dedicated to promoting the long term stability and integrity of the natural colored gemstone and Cultured Pearl industries. 

The Association pursues its goals through the combined use of educational programs, publicity, industry events, government and industry relations, and printed materials for both the trade and consumer. The AGTA is well-known in the gemstone and jewelry industries for maintaining the highest ethical standards.

Michael O'Connor Predicts Golden Globes Jewelry Trends

GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS JEWELRY TREND PREDICTIONS

FROM LEADING STYLE EXPERT

Michael O’Connor Hosts Jewelry Style Event for Show Nominees and Presenters

Los Angeles, CA (January 7, 2013) –This week Michael O’Connor, leading style expert and host of MovieStyle with Michael O’Connor on Reelz Channel,will host StyleLab’s jewelry event for Golden Globe Award nominees, presenters and stylists at a private venue in Los Angeles. O’Connor has curated a selection of one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces from world-renowned designers for celebrities to borrow for the red carpet. From ornate cuff bracelets to black diamond cufflinks, O’Connor will accessorize Hollywood’s leading stars with the most exquisite, highest quality jewelry.

O’Connor sees an overall fascination with colored gemstones and intricate designs this year – both modern and vintage styles. As the Golden Globe Awards quickly approach, O’Connor offers the following trend predictions:

Emerald Green

It’s the Pantone Color of the Year and gorgeous on red heads like Amy Adams – so expect to see a lot of emerald green on the red carpet. A breathtaking pair of tassel earrings from Abellan New York includes over 71 carats of emeralds that will make everyone green with envy. Beverly Hills designer Dena Kemp will unveil a one-of-a-kind emerald cocktail ring surrounded by diamonds. Trendsetting jewelry brand Just Jules will highlight a pair of rose-cut diamond and emerald slice chandelier earrings that will make a major statement. We will also see emeralds featured in a captivating necklace by Takat. This $145,000 design includes over 85 carats of Zambian emeralds in pear and oval cabochon cuts, and more than 15 carats of diamonds, all set in platinum and 18k yellow gold.

Drop Earrings and Vintage Pendants

While chandelier earrings are a classic, the latest styles are drops in all shapes and sizes. Bellarri’s linear drop earrings include over 26 carats of amethyst and diamonds. Jewelry By Gail’s “Staircase to Royalty” linear drop earrings also feature amethyst, however hers include a long vine-swirl French wire design, making them perfect for the lovely French actress Marion Cotillard. American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) designer Campbellian’s Bella Campbell designed a pair of round drop earrings that feature royal blue moonstones surrounded by diamonds. Since all of these baubles will draw attention to the jawbone, they will look perfect with plum colored lips! Be on the lookout for the return of pendant necklaces. Trendsetting stars like Sienna Miller or Zooey Deschanel will fall in love with AGTA’s My Blue Heaven designer Cara Lichtenstein’s black enamel pendant brooch set in platinum, featuring a 41 carat black opal accented with white diamonds…very vintage-inspired.

Cuff Bracelets

Whether they are worn as the sole piece of jewelry or stacked on both arms, cuffs remain in vogue on the red carpet. We’ll see more intricate metalwork like Canadian designer Mark Lash’s flexible mesh bangle bracelet with a diamond clasp, set in yellow gold. Silver Promotion Service (SPS) designer Slane will feature a sterling silver cuff bracelet with a sequence of ribbed and smooth rows along a diamond studded hinged closure. SPS designer Thistle & Bee’s thick sterling silver cuff looks like a stunning piece of modern art.

Men’s Jewelry

Hollywood’s most stylish men including Hugh Jackman, Bradley Cooper and Leonardo DiCaprio understand the importance of modern men’s jewelry. Traditional square cufflinks and chains are taking a backseat to styles with interesting patterns and materials. Designer Edward Mirell launched a cufflink and bracelet collection featuring black diamonds, textured leather, and cable. 

Fashion Designer Kevan Hall’s 2013 Spring Collection Presented by AGTA

Fashion Designer Kevan Hall’s 2013 

Spring Collection Presented by AGTA

Los Angeles-based designer Kevan Hall unveiled his Spring 2013 collection December 5th with an intimate runway production at his atelier, presented by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA), harkening back to the salon presentations of the 1950’s.  Celebrities including Estelle, Teri Hatcher, who made it a mother-daughter date night with daughter Emerson Rose Tenney, Virginia Madsen, Mayim Bialik, Alfre Woodard, Twilight’s Christian Serratos and more were in attendance to take in the drama on the runway.  

Front row (from left to right): Erica Courtney, Alfre Woodard (True Blood), Annika Marks (The Sessions), Virginia Madsen (The Magic of Belle Isle), Teri Hatcher (Desperate Housewives), Emerson Rose Tenney, Mayim Bialik (Big Bang Theory).

Known for his modern take on glamour, Hall’s Spring 2013 collection derives inspiration from the strong colors of Fauve landscapes.  Ribbons and bows co-exist with structured silhouettes, accented with patent leather, creating an exuberant collection aimed at awakening the senses and returning to a feminine moment in fashion.  The runway presentation consisted of ready-to-wear as well as red carpet-worthy eveningwear and culminated in a passage of bridal gowns from Kevan Hall’s new White Label collection. The designer, who once helmed iconic fashion house Halston, has enjoyed success as a perennial Red Carpet favorite, dressing many of Hollywood’s leading ladies including Katherine Heigl, Vanessa Williams, Jordin Sparks, Debra Messing, First Lady Michelle Obama plus countless others.

The show was presented by The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) Collection™ featuring fine jewelry by Erica Courtney, Baggins, Mark Schneider Designs, Somewhere in the Rainbow Collection and Yael Designs. “With Kevan’s obvious love of color in his designs, we thought this was a great opportunity to promote colored gemstones and pearls,” stated Douglas K. Hucker, AGTA’s CEO.  “We were able to bring together a wide variety of jewelry to accessorize Kevan’s looks from a group of AGTA Member designers, all of whom have won multiple AGTA Spectrum Awards™.”

The AGTA Collection (from left to right): Adam Graham (AGTA), Amandla Stenberg (Hunger Games), Erica Courtney (Erica Courtney, Inc.), Jacqueline Emerson (Hunger Games), Yehouda Saketkhou (Yael Designs), Anil Maloo (Baggins Pearls), and Mark Schneider (Mark Schneider Designs).

It was an evening of fun and fabulous fashion - but we were thinking that we would like to see the Jewelry Designers take the spotlight.  We didn't forget Erica Courtney check out the feature on Erica at the event - you can find that here.

Here are a few of the Red Carpet Jewelry looks from the evening...

Somewhere in the Rainbow Collection  -   Scottsdale, AZ                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Matched pair of cushion cut smoky topaz equaling a total of 30ct. Surrounded with 384 bead set white diamonds equaling 1.95ct. 6 round brilliant cut head set diamonds equal a total of.36ct. White gold is finished in black rhodium.

Anil Maloo Baggins, Inc.  -   Los Angeles, CA                                                                                                                                                                                                                 14K white gold earrings featuring 8.5mm Akoya Pearls, 9mm white South Sea Pearls, 10-11mm Tahitian Pearls and accented with Diamonds (2.42 ctw.).  These were this year’s Best Use of Pearl winners in the Spectrum Competition

Yehouda Saketkhou - Yael Designs - San Francisco, CA Pacifica tanzanite (10.15 ctw) and diamond (5.29 ctw.) earrings

Mark Schneider  -  Mark Schneider Design  -  Long Beach , CA                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Platinum earrings featuring 8 freshwater Pearls accented with Diamonds (.30 ctw.). 
Platinum Entry Innovation in Business/Day Wear at the Spectrum Awards this year.

Thanks for paying attention to the jewels for a moment and now, the 2013 Spring Collection from Atelier Kevan Hall...

Kevan Hall Spring 2013 AGTA

OR - click here to go to YouTube for live footage of the amazing looks and stunning jewelry on the runway!

The AGTA Collection™ participates in many events throughout the year.  Upcoming 2013 events include the Golden Globes, the Academy Awards®, the AGS Conclave, the JIC Annual Jewelry Preview and the Primetime Emmys.  All AGTA Members are eligible to participate.  If you would like more information on participating in the AGTA Collection, please contact Adam Graham (adam@agta.org) or Danielle Pelletiere (Danielle@agta.org) at the AGTA office – 214-742-4367.

#JewelWKLV - AGTA Gemfair Las Vegas

Equatorian Imports features Red Beryl
and  stunning Cats-Eye Tourmaline!
Booth  - #AGTA404

AGTA Gemfair Las Vegas


This one is for all my GEMMY Friends!!!  You know I stopped in as soon as the doors opened - this is the show that I am so excited to see!   You have gone on Gemfair trips with me in Tucson before...but I have to say the Las Vegas venue is just as big with so many vendors!!!  ....and busy - busy - busy!


There were some vendors that were still setting up - an issue throughout the event on the 30th & 31st - flights from the Pennsylvania and Texas areas were either being cancelled or delayed...but they were there for the Opening!  ...can'r keep a good Gem down!


This show has everything you have come to expect from an AGTA show and more!  


I think that there are a couple good thing that have come from our economic issues - first and foremost...it is GREAT to see the attention on hand cut and faceted gem cutters...and in this show " Made in the USA"  is getting special attention!  Just a few of the represented brands are  Jewels from the Woods - AGTA222; John Dyer - AGTA1204 and Tom Trozzo - AGTA506 (Photo is from Tom Trozzo - just under 500 carats of hand-cut Amethyst!)





...and secondly, the use of gems that were never before in the Luxury or Fine Jeweler's Lexicon!  these goodies can include (pun intended) diamond slices - rose cut (flat back) diamonds and colored stones - quartz with everything but the kitchen sink in it and druzy everywhere!



(Photos: Left from Lakhi Gems - Cognac and Rose Cut Diamonds and Below: from Rare Earth Mining #AGTA427 - Druzy coated in Precious Metals)



There are of course the traditional Gems with the big three (Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire) heavily represented and the non - traditional Rare stones - Paraiba and Mozambique Tourmaline shown from Pala International  in Booth #AGTA514.

Pearls are showing NO sign of letting up - a classic that is VERY much on trend today!  ...and with over a dozen pearl vendors on the floor there is something for every shopper.  Betty Sue King of King's Ransom Pearls says that the hot items for her are her strands of "Comet" Pearls, her "Magic Metallics" and just look at the color in the baroques in front of her...King's Ransom is in Booth #AGTA411

Jewelry Week Las Vegas: AGTA GemFair™ at the JCK Show

AGTA GemFair™ at the JCK Las Vegas Show
Location:  2012 AGTA GemFair™ at the JCK Las Vegas Show is located in the South Pacific and Islander Ballrooms in the Mandalay Bay Convention Center.

HOURS
Thursday, May 31, 2012: 9:30am-6:00pm
Friday, June 1, 2012: 9:30am - 6:00pm
Saturday, June 2, 2012: 9:30am - 6:00pm
Sunday, June 3, 2012: 9:30am - 6:00pm
Monday, June 4, 2012: 9:30am - 4:00pm

Jewelry professionals can't afford to miss the AGTA GemFair™ at the JCK Show in Las Vegas. With over 200 exhibitors offering a comprehensive selection of natural colored gemstones, cultured pearls and colored gemstone jewelry that defines color trends. The AGTA GemFair™ opens one day before the main JCK show and closes the same day as the main JCK show. Because the AGTA is an Association dedicated to maintaining the highest ethical standards among its members and within the industry, you can shop the AGTA GemFair™ with complete confidence.

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) is an association of United States and Canadian trade professionals dedicated to promoting the long term stability and integrity of the natural colored gemstone and Cultured Pearl industries. The Association pursues its goals through the combined use of educational programs, publicity, industry events, government and industry relations, and printed materials for both the trade and consumer. The AGTA is well-known in the gemstone and jewelry industries for maintaining the highest
ethical standards. 

For information, vendor lists and more: http://www.xpopress.com/LV-AGTA-show-schedule.html

What Influences Me...

James Miller - the master at work from Orchid Galleries

I am always getting the question - where do you find all this great inspiration?  How do you find something new to write?    Aside from being on every mailing list in the Industry...these are the Influencers in my life and my go - to websites.

...for the Jewelry Designer and Learner in me:
       Ganoksin  - this is so much more than the Ganoksin Library of Archived Design Articles.  Their latest addition is a section called BenchTube - if you learn easier by seeing it - this is for you!  Videos on everything from beginning soldering to hinges to stone setting. Or draw inspiration and find new Designer talent in the Orchid Galleries. Blog posts from hundreds of voices in the Artisan, Lapidary and Retail Jeweler arenas are available on the Orchid Blogs.  The Orchid Forum gives you the ear of close to 10,000 working Jewelers and Lapidaries around the world. Have you ever wondered how other Bench Jewelers work?  you have to check out the BenchExchange project!  BTW - this amazing knowledge base in offered without fees and operates on donation and advertising ONLY.  So donate today or purchase from Advertisers on the site (and let them know you found them on Ganoksin)

Carol Holaday from Orchid Galleries

      Jewelry Making Daily - the new daily newsletter from Interweave - this pulls together all the best from their publications and tutorials - jewelry making techniques from Beads to Wire and, my favorite, Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist.



...for the Tool and Equipement need in me:
      MJSA - from their new products announcements to their coverage and clear instructions for implementing new Government Requirements - to the always informational techniques covered in their magazine.  BTW - did you know that MJSA has an "Artisan Jeweler" level of membership?

...to feed my need for Beautiful Shiny Objects:
      JCKOnline - this magazine sets the standard for the Jewelry Industry, with news and marketing information for the Retail Jeweler.  But, what I draw from are the great Cutting Remarks blog by Rob Bates (this whole Kimberley Process thing has me confused and Rob helps me sort out the details).  My latest favorite at JCKOnline is the great behind the scenes posts by Jennifer Heebner on her Style 360 blog.  Whether it is a pictorial of outtakes from a cover shoot, shots of submissions for articles or her great coverage of venues like the recent Jewelry Show in India...she feeds my need for something gorgeous everyday.

Adrean Bloomard from Orchid Galleries 

...for the Gem Geek in me:
     AGTA - the American Gem Trade Assoc. - the website is filled with information for professionals and for customers alike...and their new e-Prism Newsletter collects some of the best information from the Internet and provides it to subscribers.

I get great information from Industry contacts, blogs (yep your blog may be influential), Google Alerts (for those of you who can't figure out how I found you) and press releases - if you want to inspire me - email me !