PIXETJEWELRY

The Goldsmiths’ Centre has launched its first self-paced online skills course for the jewellery industry, aiming to “guide learners on how to produce high-quality videos simply using the smartphones in their pockets”. The first course, which shows how to produce “high-quality” videos on your smartphone using iDEC, has been developed in partnership with Brightest Bulb. Over the course of 10 modules, it aims to teach jewellers, silversmiths and members of the industry “how to make their own videos, with minimal cost, that tell a story and bring their jewellery brands to life”. Chris Oliver, head of professional training, said: “We’re excited to offer our UK and global audience a more flexible and convenient way of learning online with the Goldsmiths’ Centre. This new course, developed in partnership with Brightest Bulb, is accessible from anywhere and allows you to set your own schedule, guiding you on how to create high-quality videos with minimal investment. “Video has become a uni...

Independent jewellery brand Loveness Lee has launched its new AfterCare Program, a complimentary service which repairs customers’ Loveness Lee jewellery to keep materials out of landfill. As the next step in the jewellers’ sustainability journey, the AfterCare Program will see Loveness Lee’s jewellers bring the brand’s pieces “back to life should it need it”. The programme comes with every purchase at Loveness Lee and it can be utilised at any point in a customers’ purchase lifespan, and the complimentary service gives customers one refresh free of charge. Loveness Lee, the founder and creative director, said: “Our goal at Loveness Lee is to keep our pieces circulating for as long as possible and reduce any unnecessary waste that may harm our planet. “Each of our designs are handcrafted to stand the test of time whilst not causing disruption to our atmosphere so we use recycled sterling silver, lab grown gemstones and locally sourced materials. However, accidents happen and if aft...

Monica Vinader has been awarded two awards for its sustainability efforts – the Positive Luxury Award for responsible business of the Year, as well as the Queen’s Award for enterprise in sustainable development. Announced last week, Monica Vinader said it is “committed to accelerating change across the jewellery industry by taking action and constantly re-evaluating how it can do more for the planet”. The brand’s changemaking sustainability agenda is guided by the UN Global Compact and its Sustainable Development Goals. It said that “sustainability sits at the forefront of everything the brand does”, and only uses recycled and ethically-sourced materials, and works with responsible suppliers. The eponymous brand was created by Monica Vinader, who was born in San Sebastian, Spain, and studied fine arts in London. source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/204866-monica-vinader-wins-prestigious-sustainability-awards

The De Beers Group reported its rough diamond production increased by 25% to 8.9 million carats in the first quarter of 2022 (Q1). The group said this reflects a “strong” operational performance, and higher planned levels of production to meet continued demand for rough diamonds. This compares to Q1 2021 which was impacted by particularly high rainfall in Botswana and at Venetia. In Botswana, production increased by 25% to 6.2 million carats from increased processing at both Orapa and Jwaneng, as well as planned higher grades across the operations. Additionally, production in Namibia grew by 33% to half a million carats. This was reportedly driven by higher recovery from the crawler vessels, due to lower planned maintenance of the Mafuta and the early delivery of the new diamond recovery vessel, the Benguela Gem. Meanwhile, production in South Africa increased by 46% to 1.7 million carats due to the treatment of higher grade ore from the final cut of the open pit. However, product...

Vrai has unveiled its new Halo collection, consisting of new sustainable studs and necklaces. The pieces are available in a 14k solid yellow, white, or rose gold setting, and the necklaces come with a matching coloured chain. Additionally, all pieces come in round brilliant, oval, emerald, pear and princess shapes. Meanwhile, the centre stone is available in 1/4ct, 1/3ct, 1/2ct 3/4ct, 1ct and 1ct+. Vrai said the collection is named after the halo of its sustainably-created brilliants that circle a centre stone. The jewellery brand offers diamonds that are sustainably created by Diamond Foundry, which is reportedly the only diamond producer in the world certified with net zero carbon footprint. source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/204856-vrai-launches-halo-collection

Tiffany and Co has unveiled its new blue book collection Botanica, a range of contemporary jewellery. The designs of the collection aim to evoke “natural themes from Tiffany’s history, a reflection of exquisite detail and reverence for the past”. The new collection is made up of 90 pieces. Themes interwoven into the pieces aim to “reimagine floral motifs deeply rooted in the house’s heritage of creative inspiration”. Themes encapsulated within the Botanica collection include Dandelion, Orchid, Thistle, and Jean Schlumberger, the last of which is eponymously based on the late designer. Alongside the new collection, Tiffany and Co released a campaign starring actress Gal Gadot. Gadot said: “I am incredibly honoured to be a part of the new Blue Book high jewellery campaign and feel very fortunate to be able to represent the brand’s most esteemed jewellery collection during this exciting and transformative time.” source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/204853-tiffany-co-unveils-bot...

What do you want to invest in this Akshaya Tritiya? Growing up, we all have had those conversations with our parents and elders about saving and investing for an unforeseen financial crisis in the future. And something I have heard the most from my parents is “Invest in Gold”, I am sure you are nodding your head. There are various options, too, like Market Shares, Bonds, Mutual Funds, SIP, Digital Currency, and Gold when it comes to investments. But for generations, gold has been the preferred option for many households. There are many ways to decide what form of investment best serves you. As easy as it is today, information is just a few clicks and a read away to get all the investment you need. If you decide to invest in gold or diamonds, the easiest and quickest is gold bars or coins. But by adding diamond and gold jewellery to the mix, you get yourself an asset to enhance and add to your jewellery collection simultaneously. Diamond or Gold – Which is a better investment option? Th...

Turquoise Mountain will launch a fine jewellery collection in collaboration with goldsmiths in Yangon, Myanmar for London craft week 2022. Together, they have created a collection “inspired by Myanmar’s rich cultural and natural heritage – blending traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics for international buyers and designers”. Within the new collection are three capsule lines; Kyani, Padonmar and Kumudra. The lines are made using different traditional methods, including lost wax casting to make beads, and filigree to render intricate flower motifs. The launch will take place from 11am – 7pm on 11 May at objet d’emotion showroom in Central London, each piece in the new collection will be on display and available to order at the event. source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/204849-turquoise-mountain-to-launch-new-collection-at-london-craft-week

Jewellery brand Unique and Co has bolstered its male offering this spring with the launch of a new collection comprising rings for men. The rings comprise materials such as stainless steel, titanium and tungsten carbide, and feature “interesting” plating combinations as well as wood or shell inlay. The jeweller said it has added further rings following an “incredible” year last year, with “strong” demand for men’s jewellery, particularly for wedding seasons.   Daniel Ozel, founder and director of Unique and Co, said: “We had an incredible last year with our men’s collections and in particular the ring category. There is strong demand for men’s jewellery and especially affordable, but well-made and interesting men’s rings. “Demand seems to be very high right now in time for wedding seasons as many of our rings are bought as a cheaper alternative as wedding rings, but also as a general style accessory.” source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/204844-unique-co-expands-mens-col...

How to Layer Necklaces Like a Style Icon Layering necklaces gives a stylish and effortlessly chic detail to any outfit. Here’s how to layer necklaces like a style icon. Keyword(s): layer necklaces         Do you want to layer necklaces like a fashionista? Are you worried it'll look more like a tangled mess than a stylish masterpiece? We're here to help make your necklace style choices even easier. Layering necklaces is a fun way to create a gorgeous fashion statement, but it's also easy to overdo it. That's why we've put together this simple guide that'll make all your necklace dreams come true. Find out more down below! Choose an Intended Style The first place to start is with your intentions. What kind of style do you want to achieve? Do you want your necklaces to pop with personality or show off sophistication? Once you know what you're trying to accomplish with your accessories, you'll have a better time picking out the right necklaces for...

So-le Studio, the jewellery brand founded by Maria Sole Ferragamo, has announced the launch of a new set of designs created from upcycled leather. This expands its existing core collection, continuing on from So-le Studio’s launch in October 2020. Included in the new collection is the Luce piece, a simple ear cuff and what the studio describes as “the most minimalist piece from SO-LE Studio leather collection”. Also included is the bracelets Lolita and Athena, and the earrings Loie. So-le Studio said its mission is to “transform leftover materials such as leather and brass into unique jewellery, amulets, and armours for all generations”. Creative Director Ferragama said: “I see a beautiful energy in the contrast of combining these fun party jewellery pieces with a simple everyday look, there’s a playfulness to them, they adapt to your mood and your day. “This time, I looked at ferns and other natural shapes but always seeing in them the movement and the geometry first and combinin...

Graff, the multinational jeweller based in London, has launched its ‘Graffabulous’ collection and campaign, comprising over 80 pieces of high jewellery, each of which are reportedly one of a kind. The jeweller said the campaign offers “one of the greatest selections of precious stones to feature in a single high jewellery collection”. It comprises more than 3,600 carats of gemstones, 1,877 carats of white diamonds, 678 carats of yellow diamonds, 616 carats of sapphires, 414 carats of emeralds, 101 carats of rubies, 20 high jewellery necklaces and 25 high jewellery rings. Contemporary motifs which were first seen in the Graff’s Tribal collection have also been expanded upon within the Graffabulous collection, with custom cut diamonds to realise these arrangements of stones in three-dimension. Additionally, the Graffabulous campaign features a reimagining of women in ancient mythology. source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/204837-graff-launches-high-jewellery-collection-and-glo...

Thushi Jewellery – The Tradition, The Style, The Elegance Every region has its own unique culture and an array of artistic signatures, which influences the uniqueness of jewellery. The City of Kolhapur, which lies in the western part of Maharashtra, is famous for the Traditional Marathi Jewellery design of Thushi and Kolhapuri Saaj. The Beauty of ‘Thushi’ is hidden behind the small intricate beads of gold strung together beautifully in a systematic interconnected pattern with a back dori along with a tassel at the end that can be adjusted as per the comfort of the wearer. Thushi is loosely translated as ‘Tightly looped’. Thushi was initially worn by royalties, later made popular and accessible to everyone in Maharashtra. Candere has Thushi products in 100+ varieties. Thushi Jewellery is also available in Bangles and Earring styles. Candere’s famous Thushi designs include the Priyak Thushi Kyra Gold Necklace, Nidhra Thushi Kyra Gold Necklace, Marala Thushi Kyra Gold Bangle, Omakri Thush...

The British Academy of Jewellery has announced the culmination of its collaboration with Lewis Malka and the London Diamond Bourse. BAJ design and manufacturing diploma students were challenged to design and make a ring inspired by the concept of cultural identity. The pieces were wax carved and cast in silver, with many featuring set stones. Four students were awarded prizes for their designs. Lewis Malka presented the awards to four students, Daniela Nanii, Inti Yeung, Kate Bell, and Thea Taylor, at a recent event and pop-up exhibition in London. The four winners were awarded the ‘Lewis Malka Award for Engagement Ring Excellence’ and received a copy of Lewis Malka’s book ‘The Engagement Ring’. The winners will also receive one-on-one sessions with the jeweller at the London Diamond Bourse, where their work will also be exhibited. Malka said: “It was a pleasure to be involved in this wonderful project. The work the BAJ does is fabulous. There are some truly inspirational and talen...

Luxury British Jewellery company, Lily Blanche, has announced that it is launching its new jewellery collection today, featuring genuine carnelian earrings and rings. The collection comprises carnelian gemstones crafted in sterling silver, 18 carat gold, rose gold and white gold vermeil. The jewellers said each stone has been carefully selected” for their meaning and special properties. This new collection is an expansion of the existing Luminous Gemstone Collection that Lily Blanche offers. Carnelian is reportedly known as the sunset stone, believed to promote joy and happiness. Lily Blanche said Carnelian’s bright orange hues make it a “jewellery box essential” this summer. Gillian Crawford, Lily Blanche designer, said: “Carnelian has been a popular gemstone since Roman times and its brilliant orange hues, combined with its reputation for happiness and positive energy, make it the perfect choice for summer when the world is opening up again and travel to the sun is possible....

London-based fine jewellery brand The Alkemistry is set to launch a new in-store experience and collection, The Auric collection. In what the brand called “the first of its kind”, customers can have their aura read, and afterwards, a personalised piece of jewellery will be created using their aura colours. The jeweller will launch the Auric collection and instore readings launch on 26 April 2022, and each piece uses 18ct gold interwoven with thread, to create a unique bracelet or necklace. For added luxury, customers can add diamonds or gold pear drops. The Alkemistry will also be offering standalone Aura readings, which will be priced at £35 for one reading, or £50 for two. Kirstie Gibbs, founder and creative director, said: “Meaningful jewellery is at the heart of everything we do, as is offering unique in-store experiences. The Auric collection is a perfect way to incorporate these brand values. “The idea for this collection is something we have been working on for a while, it ...

Sustainable jewellery brand, Renné Jewellery, has unveiled two new ring collections: Iota and Zeta. The first of the two new rings, Iota, was designed to be “small but mighty” with bright colours designed to be stacked alongside each other.  The second ring style, Zeta, refers to the sixth letter of the Greek alphabet and brings together six semi-precious stones on a silver band that can be stacked with other ring styles.   Each stone included within the two ring designs have been carefully curated and chosen with its spiritual properties in mind, from Chrysoprase, Amethyst, Labradorite and Clear Quartz. Renné Jewellery said there is an “abundance” of colourways to choose from, based on customers’ personal style or beliefs. Renné is a mother-daughter duo, founded by Helen and Annie Rennison in 2021, and the jewellery is designed and handmade at their in-house studio in Darlington. The sustainable brand predominantly uses ethically sourced, 100% recycled sterling silver ...

Houlden has announced that Dipples, the Norwich based luxury jewellery retailer, has joined the Houlden Group as its newest member. Established in 1878, Dipples are the only fifth-generation family jewellers located in East Anglia. Chris Ellis, managing director of Dipples, said: “We are thrilled to be joining the Houlden group. It is a fantastic opportunity, and we look forward to working with our new friends and colleagues within the Houlden family. “For 140 years Dipples has been one of East Anglia’s leading Jewellers, and as the fifth generation to run the shop it is my duty to ensure its continued prosperity and retain its position as a premier jeweller. I see joining Houlden as a very positive step and am very excited for this next chapter in Dipples’ history.” Houlden chief executive Helen Haddow said: “I warmly welcome the Dipples team on behalf of all at Houlden. Our community has established an enviable culture and are open, supportive, and willing to share. “Everyone ha...

Petra Diamonds Limited has announced its revenues grew by 33% year-on-year in the three months ending 31 March 2022 (Q3), from $106m (£811.71m) to $140.6m (£107.66m). Additionally, revenues increased 43% year-on-year in the nine months to 31 March 2022 (YTD) from $284.2m (£217.63m) to $405.4m (£310.44m). Petra said the growth was driven by “strong” prices achieved in the fourth tender in March 2022, with like-for-like prices up 37.6% compared to the preceding tender in December 2021. Additionally, the sale of one Exceptional Stone in Q3 – a 157.88ct Type IIa white stone from Cullinan – contribited $5.5m (£​​4.21m), with Exceptional Stones sales contributing $83.3m (£63.78m) YTD. However, notwithstanding the revenue increase, the number of carats sold were down by 31% in Q3 and 16% YTD, given that there was only one sales tender in Q3. Petra said it expects “some pull back” in diamond prices from the elevated March tender levels due to the economic impact of the war in Ukraine, a...

TH March, the UK specialist jewellery insurance broker, is celebrating its 135th anniversary with an updated brand and an enhanced offering “to meet its customers’ changing needs”. Founded in 1887 by the son of a Hatton Garden diamond merchant, the firm made its name providing specialist jewellery and watch cover for individuals and businesses and now provides a growing portfolio of commercial and personal insurance products and financial planning advice. TH March is the appointed broker to many of the trade jewellery organisations, including the National Association of Jewellers, the National Pawnbrokers Association, the Company of Master Jewellers and the Giftware Association. With a head office in London, TH March also has offices in Plymouth, Birmingham, Manchester, Sevenoaks and Glasgow and employs more than 120 staff. Neil McFarlane, CEO of TH March, said: “From small beginnings, we have grown to become the jewellery sector’s leading insurance broker. As we celebrate our 135...

The De Beers Group has announced its rough diamond sales dropped 13% in the period from 28 March to 12 April (cycle three) from $652m (£500.26m) in the second sales quarter to $565m (£433.51m). However, this is still up 25% year-on-year compared to $450m (£345.2m) in the third cycle of 2021. The group said the fall in sales is due to the restrictions on the movement of people and products in various jurisdictions around the globe.  Consequently, De Beers has reportedly continued to implement a “more flexible approach” to rough diamond sales during the third sales cycle of 2022, with the Global Sightholder Sales and Auctions event extended beyond its normal week-long duration.   Bruce Cleaver, CEO of De Beers Group, said: “On the back of robust demand for rough diamonds in 2021 and jewellery sales in the first quarter of 2022, and reflecting continued year-on-year growth in consumer demand for diamond jewellery, demand for De Beers Group rough diamonds remained strong in t...

Laings has signed a 15-year lease to take over a landmark B-listed building in Scotland, which is set to become the family-run jeweller’s new UK flagship location. A planning application submitted to Glasgow City Council highlighted Laings’ proposal to revitalise Rowan House, a 19th century retail and office development on Glasgow’s Buchanan Street. The independent jeweller’s £5m investment plan will see “significant updates” made to the iconic 34,468 sq ft outlet space. Currently occupying the second and third floor office space, owned by Royal London, Laings is now set to transform the full stone-built five-storey building, with key elements of the expansion plan set to build on the workspaces for its growing team of craftspeople and “enhance the overall retail experience”. Glasgow has been home to Laings since it was established in 1840, with the company offering a selection of luxury jewellery across its three showrooms within Glasgow’s Argyll Arcade. Stuart McDowell, managing ...

H&T has launched a new range of jewellery where 100% of the profits will be donated to FareShare in order to help tackle the fight against hunger and food waste. The jewellery comprises brand-new necklaces and bracelets, including a 9ct gold ‘hope’ necklace in a heart shape design. It comes with a matching bracelet in 9ct gold with a star design featuring the ‘hope’ message (Helping Other People Eat). The range is now on sale in all H&T Pawnbrokers stores as well as online. The partnership between H&T and FareShare began in February 2021 with the goal of providing at least 200,000 meals through donations from the company and employees in a year. Overall, H&T managed to exceed that target with a total of 292,741, which is something the company said it is looking to replicate in 2022. Sarah Buck, H&T director of retail, said: “We’re delighted to be able to further support FareShare through this range of bracelets and necklaces. We hope these pieces will bring m...

The total number of pieces hallmarked in 2022 Q1 is the highest in 11 years, with total pieces climbing 109.1% to 2,597,104 total pieces from 1,242,326 seen in the same period in 2021, according to the latest figures from the Birmingham Assay office. It comes after the total number of pieces hallmarked in March rose from 493,423 to 922,645, up 87%. Gold hallmarked pieces in March 2022 rose 79.5% from 214,697 to 388,986, in line with its Q1 2022 79.5% rise from 559,932 to 1,004,826. Meanwhile, silver also saw a significant rise in March, with 500,639 pieces representing a 90.4% rise on the 262,923 seen in 2021. This takes its total in Q1 to 1,499,299 so far, up 135.2% from 637,557. Platinum hallmarked pieces also climbed 109.7% in March, in line with its 106.9% Q1 rise. Only palladium saw a decline of -22.8%, however this remains 25.2% above the previous year. source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/204751-pieces-hallmarked-in-q1-reaches-11-year-high

The LVMH Group has recorded a 29% year-on-year surge in revenues from €13.95bn (£11.62bn) to €18bn (£14.99bn) in the first quarter of 2022 (Q1 FY22), and a 23% rise in organic revenue. LVMH said this was achieved against a backdrop of continued disruption from the health crisis and marked by ongoing events in Ukraine. The Watches and Jewellery business group in particular reported revenue growth of 24% in Q1 FY22 and organic revenue growth of 19% compared to the same period of 2021, increasing from €1.88bn (£1.56bn) to €2.33bn (£19.46bn). Overall, Tiffany and Co had an “excellent” start to the year, primarily driven by growth in the United States, and the new Knot collection was reportedly successful. At Bulgari, the Serpenti line, high jewellery and watch collections were the main drivers of growth, and Chaumet and Fred had an excellent performance in the quarter.  The United States and Europe achieved double-digit revenue growth, and Asia continued to grow over the quarter ...

Christie’s has announced that The red cross diamond is up for sale,with part of the sale revenue to be donated to the international committee of the Red Cross. The jewel is a yellow, cushion-shaped diamond of 205.07 carats and marks only the third time in over 100 years that Christie’s will present the stone. The original rough stone was found in 1901 in a De Beers South African mine and is said to have weighed some 375 carats. On 10 April 1918, the stone was first offered for sale at Christie’s London by the Diamond Syndicate in aid of the British Red Cross Society and the Order of St John, in the Red Cross auction. The entire sale raised £50,000 (approximately £3m+ today) and The Red Cross diamond, the top lot of the auction, achieved £10,000 (approximately £600,000+ today) and was purchased by London firm S.J. Phillips. François Curiel, chairman of Christie’s Europe and head of the luxury department, said: present this extraordinary canary yellow diamond of 205.07 carats. “This...

Inhorgenta Munich has reported “strong” and international participation in a “challenging” time as 17,285 visitors from 79 countries attended the latest show, with international visitors growing to 40%. Overall, the event, which took place from 8 April to 11 April 2022, saw 732 exhibitors from 33 countries, remaining stable at 45%. The German trade show hailed a “successful” new start after a two-year pause due to the pandemic. After Germany, the top 10 visitor countries were Austria, Switzerland, Netherlands, Italy, Czech Republic, Belgium, Great Britain and Ireland, Spain, Denmark, and Hungary. Additionally, for the first time, visitors came from Brazil, Malta, and Vietnam. New exhibitors included jewellery brands such as Thomas Sabo, Fabergé, Frieden, and Giovanni Raspini. Klaus Dittrich, chairman and CEO of Messe München, said: “After a compulsory break of two years due to the pandemic and the postponement to April, Inhorgenta Munich has convincingly reaffirmed its position a...

Olivia Burton is the British accessories brand founded in 2012 which is a celebration of originality and dedication. The brand’s design team look to vintage styles, fashion trends and all things nature for inspiration. Renowned for designing collectable pieces that tell a story, the Spring Summer 2022 Sparkle Butterfly collection does not disappoint, with ethereal butterfly-silhouette jewellery signifying new beginnings and transformation. Combining marquise crystals with iridescent pearls, these elevated pieces serve as shining reminders of beauty in change. The campaign supporting the range blurs the line between reality and make-believe. Working with the creative agency owned by world-renowned photographer John Rankin and brought to life by fashion photographer Tom Brannigan, the campaign creates a world where imagination and reality overlap. Interested in becoming a stockist? Contact the Movado Group at jewellery-uk@movadogroup.com source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/2046...

Boodles has announced the launch of its new ‘Travel’ collection, inspired by former chairman Anthony Wainwright’s travels in 1962. The collection focuses on Wainwright’s journey when he visited 10 cities across the world over 16 days, buying diamonds, pearls and precious gemstones. Boodles said that the collection will include “a selection of one-of-a-kind rings with some of the most extraordinary gemstones we have ever shown”. Rebecca Hawkins, Boodles head of design, said: “It was lovely to be able to look back at the places Anthony visited, with a view towards taking them as inspiration for pieces. Some had real personal meaning to me. Japan is a country I love: it’s a place I spent time in on my honeymoon. So it became a kind of springboard for one design. “Anthony went to Kobe and Tokyo, but Kyoto was the place that I remembered most fondly. When I was thinking about my design for the ring, I heard that a wonderful emerald had recently become available and that unique tone of g...

Gross domestic product (GDP) slowed in the UK as the economy only saw 0.1% growth in February, down from a growth rate of 0.8% in January. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), services grew by 0.2% and was the main contributor to February’s growth in GDP, although this was partially offset by production which fell by 0.6%, and construction which fell by 0.1%. The services growth was mainly driven by tourism-related industries with increases in both travel agency, tour operator and other reservation service and related activities growing 33.1% on the month. Accommodation also grew 23%, and services is now 2.1% above its pre-coronavirus level. Overall, consumer-facing services (retail trade, food and beverage activities, travel and entertainment) are now 5.2% below pre-coronavirus levels, while all other services are 4% above. Meanwhile, output in consumer-facing services grew by 0.7% in February 2022, following a 2% growth in January. The February increase was mai...

Do you remember trying to purchase a piece of jewellery like a pair of earrings or a necklace perhaps, but you had to compromise with the given design, colour, karat and even the diamond quality. Has that ever happened to you? It sure does happen to many of us since we all have unique individual styles and fashion preferences. So we look for jewellery that sings to the tunes of our style statement. In the ever-increasing pace of our daily lives, we all want things at the touch of a button or at a single tap of our finger, isn’t it? Well, now the same is possible with your fine jewellery shopping, with the limitations of customizing your jewellery being a thing of the past. We brings the resolution to this need with our CUSTOMIZATION to your personalized jewellery designs the way you want, at a single tap of your finger. You can now match your jewellery with your style and pocket without compromising your choices. With just one tap, you can modify the Gold Purity, Metal colour, and Diam...

The Titan Company revealed sales for its jewellery segment dropped 4% year-on-year in the fourth quarter (Q4) of FY22 amid the “sharp” rise in gold prices and sentiment impact following the external geo-political conflict from Russia. The plain jewellery category reportedly “bore the brunt” of gold volatility in March 2022, leading to a slight decline for the quarter, although sales clocked in high single digit growth, thereby partially cushioning the impact. While walk-ins saw minor decline, the customer conversions and ticket sizes grew marginally for the quarter compared to the same period last year. Overall, the business saw “subdued activity” in its top cities due to the Omicron wave in January 2022, a “very strong resurgence” in February 2022, and a further drop in customer purchases in March 2022. Golden Harvest enrolments also witnessed double digit growth rates. Store expansions continued as per plan with the commissioning of seven new stores in the Tanishq jewellery bran...

Gemfields has announced the establishment of Gemdustry Limited as an industry-owned vehicle to back GemCloud, a technology gateway that the company said “has the potential to play a central role in shaping the future of the coloured gemstone sector”. As a result of the establishment of Gemdustry, GemCloud Group gets one new (non-controlling) ‘anchor’ investor which is owned by a number of coloured gemstone industry participants, allowing GemCloud Group to retain its independence and neutrality while benefiting from Gemfields said it believes that an “independent, trusted online marketplace for cut and polished coloured gemstones, supported by a cross-section of coloured gemstone industry participants, is a logical step in the ongoing growth and development of the industry”. Algy Strutt, manager of new projects at Gemfields, said: “Gemfields is delighted to support GemCloud, an exciting platform for the coloured gemstone industry, boosting access to and for buyers and sellers. Partie...

Vrai has launched its Blossom collection comprising necklaces and studs to celebrate spring. The Vrai Blossom necklace features five sustainably-created marquise diamonds which form a spring flower in bloom, which match the Blossom Studs to create a matching jewellery for a “spring look”. The pieces are available in 14k recycled yellow, white, or rose gold settings and the necklace comes with a matching chain. The studs’ 14k recycled solid gold setting with push back closure holds each diamond petal securely in place. Vrai said: “Inspire strength through world-positive change with timeless yet contemporary jewellery created by the power of the Columbia River in America’s beautiful Pacific West. “Vrai-created diamonds are not only distinguished for their impeccable craftsmanship but also for their provenance of guaranteed origin, ensuring complete transparency for the ethical customer.” source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/204638-vrai-launches-blossom-collection

Jeweller Kay Bradley has unveiled the Fabergé Yorkshire Rose Egg Surprise Locket, designed in collaboration with the iconic jewellery house, at a showcase event to launch Fabergé’s arrival at her York store. York hosted a gala at Castle Howard to reveal the Fabergé 18k gold Yorkshire Rose egg pendant and celebrate Fabergé’s arrival in York, with Bradley’s store on Low Petergate the exclusive stockist in the city. Bradley also announced plans to expand the Fabergé Yorkshire Rose collection to include drop earrings, a matching pendant, a bangle and matching ring. She also said she hopes to commission an exclusive, one-of-a-kind, Fabergé Yorkshire Rose Imperial Egg Objet in the future, which will be handcrafted by Fabergé workmasters. She said: “There are few words as evocative as Fabergé – it is a word synonymous with absolute luxury and love, and epitomises the finest of design and craftsmanship. It’s also wonderful that the Fabergé family is still involved in the business, includin...

Tiffany and Co has announced it will launch the next chapter of its ‘Vision and Virtuosity’ exhibition in the Saatchi Gallery, bringing over 400 objects from the House’s archives to London from 10 June to 19 August 2022. Marking the jeweller’s 150th anniversary in London, the exhibition will take visitors through Tiffany and Co’s history, including archival high jewellery designs, Tiffany’s famed window displays and its recently acquired Empire Diamond of over 80 carats to “important relics of popular culture”, such as the original script from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Each of the exhibition’s seven chapters will explore separate themes that are “central” to Tiffany’s brand. Guests can explore founder Charles Lewis Tiffany’s legacy and experience the works of some of the House’s creative forces, such as Jean Schlumberger and Elsa Peretti. The third chapter of the exhibition is devoted to the annual Blue Book high jewellery collection, while the fourth room is centred on Tiffany’s her...

There can be no doubt that the world is under enormous environmental and social pressure, and we all need to act now to reduce our collective impact and protect the planet for future generations. I believe this change will come if we each take personal responsibility for our actions and do what we can to make a difference. We have noticed that it is also increasingly a key consideration for customers across the whole industry, which is so motivating to see – they want to be able to make sustainable choices when buying jewellery, just as they can with the food they eat and the transport they take. They want to do more but need brands to take the lead and be fully transparent without greenwashing. So, we all know we need to act, but the challenge is where to start? Navigating what is truly meaningful in terms of sustainability is a tough area to understand, even for companies with dedicated sustainability experts, let alone for smaller businesses and customers on the outside. There ar...

The Royal Mint’s newly launched lifestyle brand, 886, has unveiled its debut line of in-house fine jewellery with a unisex collection which uses gold recovered from electronic waste. Designed by creative director Dominic Jones, the debut collection features classic hoop earrings, T-bar chains, bands, studs, traditional signet rings and cuffs. Each of the genderless pieces are available in 18ct solid gold, 9ct solid gold, sterling and britannia silver in a variety of different widths and weights. Additionally, the 886 collection’s “minimalistic” cuff is engraved on the underside with a poem dedicated to gold or silver, and the brand said that future collections will continue to feature verse by celebrated British poets and contemporary wordsmiths. Meanwhile, 886 is reportedly the first luxury jewellery brand to use 100% recovered gold sourced from discarded electronic waste. The Royal Mint has partnered with Canadian clean technology firm, Excir, to extract pure gold from discarded...

Jewellery design platform Motley, which focused on selling and promoting independent jewellery, has announced it will cease operating. The news was announced by co-owners Cecily Motley and Ilana Lever in an open letter, who said that “the small margins and punishing payment terms which retailers work to meant we would have had to either reduce the quality of our pieces or hike up our prices.” Its last day for international orders will be 19 April 2022, and 5 May for UK orders. Motley and Lever said: “”Against a backdrop of increased inflation and consumer uncertainty, times have been very tough for small businesses. In order to keep our prices fair and accessible, we had to use lower-costing marketing channels than the traditional ones big companies use. For a long time, this was paid adverts on Facebook and Instagram. “However, last year Apple made some changes which meant that Facebook marketing was far less effective. Then, Facebook put up their prices. This made our marketing u...

Footfall fell by 22.9% compared to 2019 in the non-food sector across the UK, although footfall is up 9.9% compared to the previous month due to “unseasonably warm weather”. According to Ipsos Retail Performance, the retail sector performed the strongest at -14.9% compared to pre-Covid levels, while footfall on the high street fell -23.1% and shopping centres fell -23.6%. Overall, towns outperformed cities by 8.3% as footfall dropped -26.7% within cities but -18.4% in towns. The best performing region was Northern England where store visits were down by -18.6%, followed by London and the South East at -22%. Meanwhile, Scotland and Northern Ireland were the worst performing regions with footfall dropping -24.7%. Oliver Hillier, senior retail analyst at Ipsos Retail Performance, said: “Despite footfall still being down by -22.9% compared to 2019, the unseasonably warm weather had a positive impact on footfall across the UK, with footfall up 9.9% compared to the previous month. “H...

The Responsible Jewellery Council has opened the second round of public consultation on the update of the RJC code of practices, closing on 29 April. The update will aim to address points of mining, precious metals, coloured gemstones, and laboratories. RJC is also exploring expanding the coloured gemstone material scope. In 2021, RJC started the process of updating the Responsible Jewellery Council code of practices 2019 standard. The update is being conducted as per the ISEAL standard setting code and procedures. RJC said it “welcomes comments from any stakeholders on the COP in general and/or specific provisions or amendments”. The COP standard is mandatory for all RJC members who handle diamonds, coloured gemstones, gold, silver and platinum group metals (PGM). The standard and the standard setting process is publicly available to provide guidance to interested parties who are non RJC members. The RJC standard is applicable to all industry members spanning the global jeweller...

The Great Frog has announced a collaboration with The Rolling Stones which will launch exclusive handmade jewellery pieces on 8 April 2022. This collaboration with the band’s fashion and lifestyle brand, RS No.9 Carnaby, will see the pieces launch at the global flagship store. The collection is inspired by the original artwork from The Rolling Stones’ album, Beggars Banquet, originally released in 1968, with references from the album cover’s graphics. Pieces from the collaboration include the Beggars Banquet Defaced Skull Ring, a skull design with engraved details from the original Beggars Banquet album cover, and the Rolling Stones Tongue Signet Ring featuring a golden twist on the “iconic” Rolling Stones tongue design. Additionally, the Rolling Stones I.D Bracelet is a chunky chain featuring engravings from the album cover, including a unique clasp mechanism with the tongue logo, opened by pressing on the tongue. Each item is made from Hallmarked British 925 sterling silver and...

Ben Massey, current director of marketing and communications at the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ), has been appointed to the new position of principal officer with immediate effect as he transitions to CEO in 2023. Following the departure of previous CEO Simon Forrester in 2020, the NAJ underwent a management restructuring with the formation of a senior management team supported by the National Committee board. Massey will now transition to principal officer leading the delivery of the Association’s budget and “ensuring structures, processes, and controls contribute to the ongoing success of the NAJ and its strategic plans”. NAJ president David Doyle said: “On behalf of the National Committee, I would like to recognise Marie, Scott, and Ben’s fantastic work in leading the NAJ through the pandemic and internal structural changes. “The Senior Management Team has taken the lead, not only developing a new strategy for the Association but expanding membership and delivering re...

Sif Jakobs Jewellery has unveiled its summer 2022 collection with the launch of two new pearl collections, Adria and Padua, and a “twist” into its Ellera collection. The newest collection, Adria, comprises piccolo earrings, a piccolo necklace and ring, pendolo earrings, creolo medio earrings, and a lungo necklace. All items are available in 925 silver with handpicked freshwater pearls and cubic zirconia, with rhodium or 18k gold plating. Additionally, the Padua collection includes grande earrings, medio earrings, a ring, and cinque necklace. The handpicked freshwater pearls in this collection come with natural shades of white and a hint of lavender, and all pieces are available with rhodium or 18k gold plating. Meanwhile, the Ellera collection is a replica of Sif Jacob’s “bestselling” Ellera hoops “with a twist,” now available as a two in one earring, available with rhodium or 18k gold plating. Sif Jacobs said: “My fascination with pearls started as a crush and now I have complete...

The Responsible Jewellery Council’s (RJC) executive director, Iris Van der Veken, has reportedly resigned from her role following the organisation’s handling of Alrosa’s membership during the Russia-Ukraine war. According to Rapaport News , Van der Veken handed in her resignation letter to the board of directors on Wednesday (30 March) as she was “dissatisfied” with the body’s failure to suspend Russian miner Alrosa. Alrosa voluntarily stepped down from the position of vice-chair of RJC, temporarily leaving the board of directors on 3 March. The announcement comes as Van der Veken celebrated her three-year anniversary at the RJC this week. It also comes after Pandora announced its decision to leave the RJC over its failure to suspend Russian companies’ membership. Alexander Lacik, Pandora CEO, said: “We are shocked and saddened by the unprovoked attack on Ukraine, and our thoughts go to the people of Ukraine, who are victims of this senseless act of military aggression. “The wa...

Lebrusan Studio has called on the jewellery industry to join in taking an active stance against Russian conflict diamonds. The global diamond industry is worth tens of billions of dollars, and Russia – the world’s leading diamond producer – accounts for around 30% of that market. The majority of Russian diamonds come from Alrosa, the industry’s largest diamond mining company. A third of Alrosa’s shareholding is directly owned by the Russian state, whilst another third is owned by regional governments. Russian diamonds generate roughly $5.2bn (£4.3m) in revenue for the national government of Russia per year. Lebrusan said it believes that the US should “revisit its sanction on Russian diamonds, halting the flow of Russian diamonds altogether and ensuring that the Russian government bears the brunt of this blockade”. It has also urged the UK government to “consider following suit, diminishing the opportunities for British jewellers and consumers alike to contribute – whether knowingl...