Retro & Signed Pieces Highlight Bonham's Fall Salon Jewelry Auction

Bonhams is pleased to announce its quarterly Salon Jewelry & Watches auction on September 24 in Los Angeles, simulcast to San Francisco. The sale features an impressive selection of retro and vintage bracelets, necklaces, accessories and brooches as well as a strong selection of signed pieces by noted makers. 

Michael Larsen, Jewelry Specialist at Bonhams, says of the auction, "Recent years have proven to be the strongest in history for jewelry auctions. We are excited to begin the fall with an homage to retro and vintage inspired pieces from the mid-century and continue into the winter with cutting edge works in our Fine Jewelry sales in New York and Hong Kong."

Highlighting the September 24 auction is a strong selection of vintage brooches from the mid-century to the 1980s. Star lots include a fanciful diamond seahorse brooch that boasts a playful emerald eye (est. $5,000-7,000); an 18 karat yellow gold, onyx and citrine owl by Cartier (est. $2,000-3,000) and a retro yellow gold, diamond and tourmaline scroll clip (est. $2,000-3,000).

Additional retro pieces of note include a stylish 14 karat gold and yellow enamel compact (est. $2,500-3,000) and a stunning green tourmaline and 14 karat gold buckle bracelet, signed Lotus (est. $1,200-1,800), among others.

The illustrated auction catalog for the sale will be available online for review and purchase in the weeks preceding the sale at www.bonhams.com

San Francisco Preview: September 14-16

Los Angeles Preview: September 21-23

Auction: September 24, Los Angeles, simulcast to San Francisco

Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world's largest auctioneers of fine art and antiques. The present company was formed by the merger in November 2001 of Bonhams & Brooks and Phillips Son & Neale. In August 2002, the company acquired Butterfields, the principal firm of auctioneers on the West Coast of America. 

Today, Bonhams offers more sales than any of its rivals, through two major salerooms in London: New Bond Street and Knightsbridge; and a further three in the UK regions and Scotland. Sales are also held in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Carmel, New York and Connecticut in the USA; and Germany, France, Monaco, Hong Kong and Australia. 

Bonhams has a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 25 countries offering sales advice and appraisal services in 60 specialist areas. 

For a full listing of upcoming sales, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments go towww.bonhams.com

Review: The Gem Merchant by David Epstein

The Gem Merchant: 
How to be one; How to deal with one
The Manual On How to Buy & Sell Gemstones
Third Edition

by David Stanley Epstein

In this the third edition of Epstein's manual for gem dealers and buyers alike, he tackles the changes in the Gem Industry as well as the new Social Media Platforms.

With all of the news of synthetic diamonds, hydrothermal gems, lead glass filled ruby, it is nice to have a place to go that helps you find resources to help you look for the clues that will keep your business on track.

...and the entirely new Social Marketing is so smartly covered.  He doesn't try to detail every platform or the book would be out dated before you even get started.  Instead, David gives you the concept of selling through social platforms...BRILLIANT!

Let me walk you through a couple of the terms defined in this book.   The author starts where a gem business should start...Buying!  At some point no matter which end of transaction you call your career - everyone is a BUYER!

"A Gem Buyer Doesn't Need To Identify Stones. He or She Needs to Verify Them!"     ~ The Gem Merchant, David Stanley Epstein

Epstein arms you with the basics...what to look for, and with fabulous diagrams and color plates he explains different issues that can affect price on a gemstone.   

Color - Clarity - Cut - What Is A Meet Point - Windows - Proportions - and a variety of basics,  like the name of the different parts of a faceted gem...buyer or seller terminology can make the difference in how someone treats you.

Business Planning - it is nice to see a business guide that actually encourages even the smallest business to write up a Business Plan.  You know the saying,  if you don't know where you are going how will you know when you get there?

Determining what to purchase - what the price should be - negotiating prices and terms - and how to present your goods.

Next up and probably the chapter with the most NEW information...Marketing.  It doesn't matter where you are selling, Epstein covers everything from traditions brick & mortar Jewelry Stores to Internet Auction sites and print ads to Pay-Per-Click!

Wrapping up with buying rough and cutting, picking a cutter, commercial vs  custom faceting....and a chapter on Projections for the Jeweler with key points for educating staff and sourcing info, David Epstein has done it again!

It is hard to improve on a good thing, but if you don't already have a copy of The Gem Merchant on your reference shelf  you need to pick this up.  If you have an earlier edition - this new book is worth the cost to replace it!


Description on Amazon:
The Manual on How to Buy and Sell Gems is the sub-title. That is exactly what this book is. The Secrets of 5000 years, which were constantly used to beguile the uninitiate are revealed here. The book clearly lays out in interesting easy to follow language with entertaining stories what to expect when buying or selling gemstones. The scope covers how jewelers should buy from a gem merchant, and how to research, plan, execute and adjust a gem business.

Previous editions have helped thousands avoid painful losses and increase their gains while trading gemstones. This edition Is more step by step with a business planning chapter and an expanded marketing chapter. Other improvements have also been made.

It could be said that this is the worst book on the topic, or that it is definitely the best. There is no other. For those who have an interest in the romance and profit of the gem trade, this book is a must.

Winner - Singapore Jewellery Design Award 2012

Singapore Jewellery Design Award 2012 was one of the highlights of Singapore International Jewellery Show 2012 (SIJS 2012) held at Marina Bay Sands on July 12,2012.

Sponsored by Singapore Jewellers Association, SIJS was a platform for students to showcase their talent by presenting their respective winning designs were transformed into a real jewelry.  The competition was fierce with more than 1000 design entries.

The Theme for SJDA 2012 was divided into three Categories, From Category A “Earrings to wear for gala Dinner”, Category B “Men’s Jewellery for gala dinner” and Category C “ Rings for couple”. A lot of jewellers from various parts of the world took part in the jewellery exhibition held during the same occasion.  Interesting and creative designs attracted the attention of the guests at the event.

Category A “Earrings For A Dinner Gala”

The Earrings inspired from Koi Fish designed by Chong Jian Fei, second runner up from Category A ,Chin Jewellery Art Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He said that Koi Fish is a sign of peace so he decided to use it for his designs.

(Left) Weng Yiping from Nanyang Polytechnic Singapore is first runner up from Category A . She did a research on Chinese culture and noticed that fan is a always related to Chinese culture in many ways and that paved way to the creation of her earring design that is a symbol of oriental culture.

A Dragon and Phoenix theme Earring was submitted by Winnie Wong ,winner of Category A, from Chin Jewelry Art Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She said that based on Chinese belief the dragon is representing Men for their bravery, luck and wealth while Phoenix is for Women representing boldness and beauty.

Category B “Men’s Jewellery For Dinner Gala ”

Deng Dong Biao, 2nd runner up for Category B, from Panyu Polytechnic, China has worked on an Ancient Architecture Ring, which is a symbol of vigour ,vitality and lifestyle

(Left) Category B Winner, Ho Man Ki is from Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education (Lee Wai Lee) Hong Kong. She presented her creation of Diamond cufflinks set, with black, brown and white diamonds in 750 black gold. Ho Man Ki added that she is really excited to accept the award because this is the first time she received an award from a jewellery design competition.

Category C “ Rings for Couple”

Liu Shu Jin ,the 1st runner up of both category B and Category C from Panyu Polytechnic, China showed up with his detachable casing set embedded with garnet rubies and diamonds in 750 white and yellow gold , Liu Shu Jin said he was inspired by a building in shanghai and he used it on his design and another detachable couple ring in white and rose gold .

Category C, 2nd Runner-up Michelle Doho from Raffles Design Institute, Singapore presented her oriental inspired “Chopstick Ring” which is a couple ring made of copper. She said every time she thinks of China food comes to her mind. The chopstick represents Men ,and the ball or rice, represent the women.

(Left) A Chinese and modern culture inspired Ring was designed by Cherie Ting, winner of Category C from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Singapore.She is the top scorer of SJDA 2012 and the proud winner of IPAD. Her ring features a unique yet simple design and according to the Chinese character ‘xi’ represents happiness in Chinese culture and when both the rings are joined together it creates double happiness and that is commonly seen in Chinese weddings.

For those who are interested in Joining SJDA 2013:- the competition is currently open for Students .Registration and submission of design started from July 12 up to October 12, 2012. Visithttp://www.sjda.sg for more information.

2013 Trends Revealed By JIC At Fine Jewelry Preview

Jewelry Information Center Unveils 2013 Trends  at Fine Jewelry Preview Over 100 Pieces of Jewelry Showcased to Leading Consumer Publications

Jewelry Information Center, the consumer education arm of Jewelers of America (JA), unveiled jewelry trends for 2013, at its Annual Fine Jewelry Preview on Tuesday, July 31, in New York. Over 100 pieces of jewelry were on display to leading fashion and accessories editors from magazines like InStyle, Lucky, Robb Report, Marie Claire, Veranda, W Magazine, Brides and Condé Nast Traveler. The jewelry trends featured included: statement necklaces; shoulder-sweeping colored gemstone earrings; unique colored gemstones, like boulder opals, watermelon tourmaline and rough-cut quartz; sterling silver jewelry; big and bold pearls; beyond-bridal platinum. "The jewelry showcased at the Fine Jewelry Preview gives editors a sneak peek at the must-have jewelry styles for the year to come. Shoppers can find these styles at the reputable jewelry stores of Jewelers of America members and can always get trend inspiration at our website, JIC.org," says Amanda Gizzi, Jewelers of America Director of Communications. The event was held in conjunction with partners American Gem Trade Association, Cultured Pearl Association of America, Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, Platinum Guild International and the Silver Promotion Service. The Jewelers of America Supplier Members featured at the Fine Jewelry Preview included: Alex Woo, Alexandra Mor, Art Jeweller, Bree Richey Designs, C.J. Recht, Claudia Endler, Gumuchian, Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry, Jemily, Jewels of Ocean, Just Jules, K. Brunini, Kamari Silver, Mark Patterson, Mattioli, Mijou Jewelry, Orlanda Olsen, Pamela Huizenga, Pancis Gems, Stuller, Suzy Landa, Syna Jewels and ZAIKEN Jewelry.   Jewelers of America (JA) is the national trade association for businesses serving the fine jewelry retail marketplace, with the primary purpose of improving consumer confidence in the jewelry industry. JA's consumer education arm, Jewelry Information Center (JIC), provides public relations and marketing services on behalf of the fine jewelry and watch industry. JIC's website, www.JIC.org, is the online source for fine jewelry and watch information, trends and shopping tips. Visitwww.jewelers.org and www.JIC.org for more information.

Source:   GLOBE NEWSWIRE  Aug. 10, 2012 

Sometimes It Is All About The LUCK!

Everyone needs a lucky charm sometimes, and a keepsake in the form of delicate jewelry is the perfect way to keep yours close.

 Lucky charms come in so many forms, and everyone finds their kismet somewhere. 

Whether you go for the classic evil eye, four-leaf clover or horseshoe or opt for dreamcatchers, angel wings or stars, luck is in the eye of the beholder. 

And for those looking to marry their luck with a bit of edge, there are also fleur di lis, horns and the of-the-moment charm bracelets. 

Finding your good fortune has never been easier than donning jewelry with a hint of meaning, making the rest of 2012 and the years to come fortuitious, yeilding away any negative spirits. 

These charms also make amazing gifts for family and friends, and with the holidays just around the corner, provide a perfect option to get your holiday shopping done early.

Offering an array of price points, there is truly something for everyone.

Jewelry featured from Hellmuth, KumKum, Kabana, Katerina Maxine, Le Vian, Misaki, Sethi Couture, Sutra and Vahan. 

De Beers To Start Diamond Sorting In Botswana

De Beers CEO Philippe Mellier (L), Bank of Botswana Gov. Linah Mohohlo (C)
and Diamond Trading Company CEO Varda Shine (AFP, Monirul Bhuiyan)

GABORONE — The world's leading producer of diamonds De Beers on Tuesday began rough stone sorting in Botswana, a first step in its transfer from London to Gaborone.

Rough stone sorting or aggregation operations have been based in London for nearly 80 years.

De Beers chief executive officer Philippe Mellier told reporters here it was the first step in a process that should be complete by the end of 2013.

Mellier said the move would transform Botswana into a leading international centre, with about $6 billion worth of diamonds expected to flow through the country.

He added that the diamond market remained challenging in the short term, but was nonetheless an exciting time for Botswana to build on its rightful position as a leading diamond producing country.

Botswana and De Beers in September 2011 signed a 10-year deal to move its rough stone sorting and trading division from London to Gaborone.

"By shifting the center of gravity of the diamond world here, we are bringing in more economic activity, more skills and more broad-based business opportunities to the country," said Ponatshego Kedikilwe, vice president and minister of minerals, energy and water resources for Botswana."   via FOX Business

Since it started mining diamonds in the early 1970s, Debswana -- a company equally owned by Botswana's government and De Beers -- has been selling its diamonds exclusively to De Beers, who in turn shipped the diamonds to London for sale to customers.

Under the deal, Botswana will for the first time directly sell 10 percent of gem stones manufactured locally while De Beers will also increase the value of diamonds it makes available to manufacturing companies in the country to $800 million a year from the current $550 million.

For more on this story go to:  http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jwTHJnki0poI-l2tw-vCX0YG_WHA?docId=CNG.0138cf07e03569d8ad546125417823e6.d01

JCK TORONTO OPENS WITH SOLID ATTENDANCE - UPBEAT ATMOSPHERE

JCK TORONTO OPENS WITH SOLID ATTENDANCE AND UPBEAT ATMOSPHERE

Networking, Education and Social Events Are Focus

JCK Toronto 2012, Canada's premier jewellery event, opened yesterday with a healthy start. The Show, organized by JCK Events and supported by the Canadian Jewellers Association, features over 150 jewellery brands and manufacturers and primarily serves retailers from the Ontario region of Canada.

JCK Events, along with supporter CJA, orchestrates JCK Toronto, providing the Canadian jewellery market with its largest buying event. Day 1 of JCK Toronto 2012 illustrated this with heavy foot traffic, strong interest in buying and attendance at the Show's various networking and educational events.

Sunday's educational program included a diamond mining exposé, an informed discussion on the advantages of selling palladium and a session dedicated to hiring practices and tips. Future seminars will feature important topics such as social media and crafting with palladium.

The Show's industry event this evening will welcome retailers and exhibitors, amid a myriad of activities: recipients of the CJA Chairman's Award will be honored, an 'Athlete Meet & Greet' will feature important players in Canadian sports and ELLE Jewelry will sponsor a fashion show highlighting their newest jewellery looks.

"Creating a dynamic show experience is becoming increasingly more important in our industry," said John Tierney of JCK Events. "It is our goal to provide value and an atmosphere of learning and socializing alongside the business transactions. The feedback from show-goers on Sunday was a positive affirmation of that initiative and we are looking forward to a great industry event tonight and a strong finish to the show."

Raffi D. from Adler Jewelry Wholesale, Toronto, ON, commenting on the experience of exhibiting for the first time, expressed an appreciation for such efforts, "We are new to the show this year and could not be happier at the end of Day 1. We met new contacts and wrote orders in addition to attending the seminar on mining and are gearing up for a fun night of socializing and networking. There is clearly no shortage of opportunities to take advantage of, so we feel great about the investment."

JCK Toronto will run through August 14th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto, Canada.

ABOUT JCK EVENTS:

JCK is a trusted partner connecting jewelry retailers and manufacturers/suppliers with trends, news, products, education and partners to build business. Whether attending face-to-face events, building inventory with online and onsite sourcing or obtaining authoritative news and insights from JCK, the leading industry magazine in print & online, JCK offers a suite of tools, events and information to deliver sound solutions, innovative opportunities and essential information. Mark your calendars as JCK Events presents its portfolio of upcoming buying opportunities:

-	JCK Toronto: August 12 - 14 - Toronto, Canada, Metro Toronto Convention Centre - South Hall
-	LUXURY Privé Panama: October 22 - 24 - Panama City, Panama, Westin Playa Bonita
-	LUXURY and Elite Enclave: May 28 - 30, by invitation only, and then continues as the events open their doors to all JCK retailers Friday, May 31 - Monday, June 3 - Four Seasons, Mandalay Bay, THEhotel
-	Swiss Watch: May 31 - June 3 - Mandalay Bay, THEhotel, Mandarin Oriental
-	JCK Las Vegas: May 31 - June 3 - Mandalay Bay Convention Center
-	LUXURY Privé New York: July 29 - July 31 - New York, The Pierre Hotel - Fifth Avenue Photo Credit: JCK Events Facbook Page