How 2020 Proved That Chain Necklaces Are An Everyday Essential

 A weighty gold chain is one of the most enduring style signatures of 2020. Paired with a simple T-shirt or men’s blazer, chain necklaces have become a constant on the catwalk, on the streets and in Zoom calls. A symbol of relaxed chic, gold chains semaphore gentle fluidity and strength in one simple form. And no brand is more synonymous with the oversized gold chain than Pomellato, for whom the style has been central to the Italian fine jeweller’s DNA from its very beginning. 

Pomellato was founded by Pino Rabolini in Milan in 1967 during a period of social, cultural and political revolution. While frequenting Bar Jamaica, the city’s legendary hangout for artists and writers, Rabolini noticed that women were casting off the formal fashions and jewels of earlier generations and demanding an everyday wardrobe that worked for them and their newly liberated lifestyles.

Coming from a family of goldsmiths, Rabolini set about creating jewellery to match, foregrounding contemporary, wearable designs underpinned by Italian craftsmanship. His gourmette chain of sinuously curved links was both feminine and versatile – and, at the same time, strong enough to break through any glass ceilings its wearer might encounter. “I told myself that this was the prêt à porter of jewellery, which transforms gold into pure modernity,” he said in a 2017 book celebrating the brand’s 50th anniversary.

Chains have been a mainstay of the luxury brand ever since. “Chains are the calligraphy of Pomellato. The style remains unmistakable, even when we tell a new story with a fresh collection,” says creative director Vincenzo Castaldo. They may take the form of the “Tango” collection’s big, bold, three-dimensional links in mirror-finish gold or the more delicate form of diamond-sprinkled “Sabbia” designs, but they remain a timeless gateway to effortless elegance. Case in point: Cate Blanchett, who demonstrated their versatility at this year’s Venice Film Festival when she wore the brand’s whisper-light, rose gold Iconica bracelets by day with a blazer and a gem-set twist on the chain necklace with a dramatic midnight blue evening gown by night. 

The chain has been in and out of fashion over the decades. But, whether you are all about ’80s bling or ’90s mogul style, there is a chain out there that will speak to you. Its ability to imbue the wearer with polish and its cross-cultural appeal make it more relevant than ever. And since 2020 has been one long reminder that wardrobe staples that you will wear year in and year out are the only way forward, the chain looks like it is here to stay.

New Synthetic Diamond Growing Method Not Meant for Jewelry

 Scientists at the Australian National University (ANU) and RMIT University, also in Australia, recently sparked worldwide news coverage when they created two synthetic diamonds with a new method that uses a large amount of pressure rather than of heat.

One of the diamonds created is “the kind found on an engagement ring,” according to an ANU statement, while the other is a Lonsdaleite, a type of diamond found at the site of meteorite impacts.

However, professor Jodie Bradby of ANU’s Research School of Physics tells JCK she doesn’t believe the new method will be used to create gems.

“I don’t think our findings will impact the jewelry or diamond business,” she says via email. “We are targeting the industrial diamond market with the harder-than-diamond material. Our process does not rival the [chemical vapor deposition] technology for regular diamond growth.”

However, if commercialized, the discovery could possibly impact lab-grown diamond companies, some of which also create industrial diamonds.

Standard methods used to grow diamonds in labs require a large amount of heat, equal to that of the sun. The process uses a large amount of energy and casts doubt on some lab-diamond makers’ claims of eco-friendliness.

This new method, which was detailed in the journal Small, can grow diamonds at room temperature, but it uses a large amount of pressure—what ANU described in its statement as “equivalent to 640 African elephants on the tip of a ballet shoe.”

In the statement, Bradby compared the process to the way Superman turned coal into a diamond by crushing it in his hand.

“The twist in the story is how we apply the pressure,” said Bradby in the statement. “As well as very high pressures, we allow the carbon to also experience something called ‘shear’—which is like a twisting or sliding force. We think this allows the carbon atoms to move into place and form Lonsdaleite and regular diamond.”

She said Lonsdaleite has the potential to be 58% harder than regular diamond.

“Creating more of this rare but super useful diamond is the long-term aim of this work,” she said in the statement.

Why Jewelry Retailers Should Fall in Love With Valentine’s Day

 ACCORDING TO THE National Retail Federation, consumers plan to spend an average of $196.31 for Valentine’s Day. From a dollar amount perspective, this is one of the lower averages spent compared to other Hallmark holidays like Christmas, for which the average household spend in 2019 was $1,496.

This lower average is what stops the majority of retailers from seeing the bigger picture of why they should be promoting this holiday. Doing so will not only drive new customers, but bridal customers at that.

I hear regularly from retailers who are either not planning to promote Valentine’s Day at all, or who are going against the curve to try to sell higher price-point items, which in turn leads to an unsuccessful Valentine’s promotion. These are the most frequent objections I hear to promoting Valentine’s:

“We don’t want to waste time selling $200 items when we can be selling $4,000 engagement rings.”

“$200 items are not our store image.”

“We don’t have customers that spend only $200.”

When I hear these statements, I ask the retail jeweler two questions:

• How do you think the person that buys the $4,000 engagement ring determines which store to buy from?
• Have you considered that the image you have portrayed makes consumers feel they cannot afford to walk into your showroom?

Consider the data below, which could possibly change your mind.

• Ninety-five percent of women who receive an engagement ring received another gift of jewelry within 12 months before receiving the engagement ring.
• Even better, according to George Prout, chief marketing officer at Gems One, 14 percent of male shoppers who are attracted by a marketing program purchase an engagement ring within 12 months.

Jewelers will do well to notice the connection here and start to see the bigger picture: Promoting Valentine’s Day is a pathway to a significant increase in bridal sales and new clients.

This year, make it your goal to have in stock essential price-point merchandise under $200. Have designated showcases that are only filled with products in this price category.

Understand that Valentine’s Day is statistically speaking a lower price-point holiday, so stop going against the curve thinking you are going to sell higher price-point items and focus on what we know sells.

Fine Jewelry And Endless Love Make This Holiday Season Just Perfect

 When in doubt think fine jewelry. The trick to mastering gift-giving is generating the feeling of true togetherness and endless love. More importantly, heartfelt jewelry is what she truly wants to take her style to a total put together look while feeling content in a heartfelt place.

You may have already heard she is looking for that special piece, but with the launch of the current product offerings, the game has gone to the level. And if you don’t think she is showing it to all her girlfriends and family, think again. She wears it like a badge of honor that you have taken such sweet thought choose the right gift.

Today, when selecting a gift for that certain someone, men have so many styles of to choose from to make that gift so special. Let it be known that versatile style can be worn at the office, while runnings errands and even to having dinner with friends and co-workers.

If you wish to give a gift that is on trend I would suggest looking into layering gold chains or how to take a simple hoop into style for 2021. At present, jewelry designers and luxury brands alike are having plenty of experimentation by taking simplistic styles of yesterday and redesigning them to adhere to millennials and Gen Z respectively.

It’s always great to have multiple options for these everyday pieces, but it’s time to stand out and take the next step forward into the exciting styles racing into 2021.  

So whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or the birth of a better New Year, check out my review below that will make a special gift without burning a hole in your wallet!

Iridescent organic pearl pendant necklace with a short fit and gold-toned metallic O-ring and bar … [+] Courtesy of & Other Stories

This necklace is an elevated yet affordable rendition of the classic pearl trend.

Alexa Leigh:

The lightweight Alexa Leigh Mini Snake Necklace is 18k gold filled and can be worn separately or … [+] Courtesy of Alexa Leigh

Alexa Leigh- Alexa Leigh is a high-end jewelry line founded with the notion of creating sentimental value behind pieces with personal significance. Alexa’s vision was to cultivate a jewelry line that could be worn every day and look good at any occasion. The line offers high quality, affordable pieces, including bracelets, anklets, necklaces, rings, earrings, charms, sunglasses/mask chains and more!

Atom&Matter:

Sapphire Star Station Necklace by Atom&Matter Courtesy of Atom&Matter

Atom&Matter-The Sapphire Star Station Necklace launched as part of Atom&Matter’s debut collection and is reflective of the brand’s offering of delicate, celestial-inspired pieces. The necklace is sustainably and ethically handcrafted using recycled silver, plated with either 14K yellow or rose gold vermeil, and features the highest quality white sapphire embellishments. Digital pioneer Bethany Mota launched Atom&Matter out of a desire to form a community of likeminded all linked by something tangible: jewelry, and with every purchase of the brand’s luxurious, yet accessibly priced pieces, a donation will be made to organizations dedicated to the mentorship of young women worldwide. 

Catbird:

Close-hugging pearl hoop with 10 cultured freshwater pearls and 1 x 3mm brilliant white diamond held … [+] Courtesy of Catbird

Catbird-The original close-hugging pearl hoop now shines even brighter, with a sparkling recycled diamond that shimmies and shakes, and floats almost magically.

Charles & Colvard:

14K gold stacker ring featuring moissanite accent stones. Courtesy of Charles & Colvard

Charles & Colvard—Easy and effortless, a simple stackable ring will help anyone capture one of the top trends of the season. This style features two round Forever One moissanite accent stones with a shiny 14K gold band. This is the perfect gift that is stylish and socially responsible.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and wishing you all the best in the stylish New Year ahead.

Celebrate Life With The Unique Powers Of Birthstone Jewellery

 There is something magical, almost ethereal, about an engagement ring. What can be more priceless than the moment when a little box is carefully opened, and a sparkling ring makes your beloved weak in her knees before she accepts the proposal? Throughout history, famous couples have left no stone unturned (pun intended) to find the perfect ring to announce their betrothal. Remember Princess Diana’s iconic oval blue Ceylon sapphire and diamond engagement ring? Considered to be one of the most recognisable pieces of jewellery in the world, the ring was subsequently used by Prince William to propose to Catherine (Kate) Middleton.

Fortunately, the world of jewellery and gemstones extends far beyond engagement rings and undying love. Instead of merely being of ornamental value, jewellery is now considered an accessory which reflects one’s style in a way like no other. Regular jewellery is, in fact, giving way to bespoke jewellery which embodies a person’s unique personality.

Over the years, the trend of commissioning birthstone jewellery—ornaments incorporating gems which correspond to the wearer’s birth month or zodiac sign has become quite popular. And here’s a fact: besides being a conversation starter, birthstone jewellery channel positive energies into relationships, career and educational pursuits. Celebrities internationally and closer home swear by the astral powers of these gemstones. For instance, Meghan Markle was presented with an ’eternity’ ring as an anniversary gift by Prince Harry. Notably, the bespoke ring featured the Sussex family birthstones: a sapphire, peridot and an emerald on its underside.

A Gift For Oneself

Gone are the days of acquiring jewellery via marriage or inheritance. Today’s avant-garde and stylish woman is hardly the one to wait for ceremonies. For her, every day is a milestone which deserves to be celebrated. Women are increasingly buying jewellery, particularly birthstone jewellery, for their own and their families’ well-being. They are proudly flaunting trendy, custom-made rings, earrings, bracelets or neckpieces which, in many cases, are self-designed. From the concept and designing to selecting metals and gemstones, online jewellers are providing ease of shopping and the ability to participate in the entire process. To sum it up, women are quite literally spoilt for choice.

Buying jewellery online, however, is not without risks and inconveniences. In the case of precious gems, the market is flooded with spurious products which make misleading claims about their authenticity. Many online jewellers also fall short in providing a hassle-free experience to customers. “You may boast an elaborate collection of gems and metals, but that is meaningless if it is not complemented by a great buyer experience,” explains Nitin Yadav, CEO of Gurgaon-based online jeweller GemPundit.

A superlative experience, coupled with genuine, lab-certified products with great finishing, has become the hallmark of GemPundit. When customers peruse their vast catalogue of gemstones and precious metals, an extremely helpful and experienced team is always at hand for assistance. “These days, customers are very discerning. They aspire to wear clothes and accessories that epitomise who they are. Wearing customised jewellery embellished with special gems such as birthstones is a great expression of that individuality,” adds Yadav. Not surprisingly, GemPundit presents its customers with unparalleled services to fulfil those aspirations.

The sophisticated process of custom jewellery at Gempundit has opened a new world for customers to explore the delights of designing and buying bespoke jewellery. Prospective buyers first upload a personalised design image or drawing, following which the in-house team of GemPundit contacts them to discuss more details, including gemstone options and pricing. Upon mutual agreement, 3D CAD designs are shared for approval before crafting the jewellery. Prior to shipping, photos or videos are shared for final approval. Such an interactive process, besides being unique, leaves no scope for surprises.

Want to stand out from the crowd and make a dazzling statement? Our say: wear a unique, off piece of jewellery adorned with your birthstone, and let the stunning accessory speak for itself. Every gem will have a meaning, and every piece of jewellery will reflect a part of you. As George Eliot famously said, “These gems have life in them: their colours speak, say what words fail off.”

2021 Diamond Awards include new Crisis Management Award

 Entries are open for the most prestigious annual credit union industry marketing competition. The 35 categories of Diamond Awards recognize and reward creative excellence and outstanding results in credit union marketing.

A new category for Diamond Awards in 2021 is Crisis Management Diamond Award. It pays tribute to marketing campaigns to support members, raise awareness and respond throughout the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

“The awards that were given for 2020 honored such creativity,” said Amy McGraw, Chair, Diamond Awards and VP Marketing/Chief Experience Officer, Tropical Financial CU. “We are excited to shine the 2021 spotlight on more of that fantastic work that is being done.”

January 15, 2021 is the entry deadline for Diamond Awards. But if you enter before December 21, 2020, you can take advantage of early bird pricing on entry fees.

Nominations are also being accepted for the following awards, for which only CUNA Marketing and Business Development Council members are eligible:

• Marketing Professional of the Year Award
• Business Development Professional of the Year Award
• Lifetime Achievement Award
• Rising Star Award
• Excellence in Marketing & Business Development Award

Nomination deadlines for the five CUNA Marketing & Business Development Council awards listed above vary.

Gems, jewellery exports can now be couriered globally

 Gems and jewellery exporters have been permitted to send their goods across the globe to their buyers using the convenience of cost effective and reliable courier services.

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued a circular clarifying that extant regulations do not restrict exports of gems and jewellery through the courier mode and such restrictions only apply to imports.

This would mean that gems and jewellery exports could be done through courier services following all other regulations in place for such exports.

Doubts had arisen over use of courier services for exports as Regulation 2(2)(a)(iv) of the Courier Imports and Exports (Electronic Declaration and Processing) Regulations, 2010 places a restriction on imports of precious and semi-precious stones, gold or silver in any form, through courier.

The Regulation 2(2) (a) (iv) reads as “These regulations shall not apply to the following imported goods requiring testing of samples thereof or reference to the relevant statutory authorities or to experts before their clearance, namely precious and semi-precious stones, gold or silver in any form”.

Thus, the restriction imposed by Regulation 2(2)(a)(iv) on gems and jewellery is applicable only on their imports, CBIC has clarified.

Earlier, the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council represented before CBIC seeking clarification on whether gems and jewellery is allowed to be exported through courier under the Courier Imports and Exports (Electronic Declaration and Processing) Regulations, 2010 as also the Courier Imports and Exports (Clearance) Regulations, 1998.