Bruce G. Weber

ACCENT/THE MAGAZINE OF LIFE’S CELEBRATIONS FALL/HOLIDAYS 2015

PROFILES

OUR PEOPLE FROM THE

RUNWAYS

GIFTS THAT SPARKLE FOR HIM AND HER

Welcome!

HOLIDAY GIFTS

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PAGE 13

t is always a thrill to have a customer tell me about how the Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels box has a special place in their family traditions.

For so many of our customers, it’s our box that they look for as a symbol of something really good to come. I’d like to think it’s because of all the care we put into choosing the right jewelry, our staff’s knowledge and helpfulness in finding the perfect gift, our heritage and good reputation in Tulsa, and the fact that we truly care. It’s a real compliment to us every time a customer says “As soon as she saw that Bruce G. Weber box, she got so excited!”

We feel blessed to have been a part of so many important moments in our clients’ lives over the past 60 years. If you have a reason to celebrate this holiday season, visit Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels and let us help you find the perfect way to mark it. Happy holidays!

Michelle Holdgrafer, Store Director

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY PAGE 10

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OYSTER PERPETUAL L ADY-DATEJUST PE ARLMASTER

rolex

oyster perpetual, datejust and pearlmaster are

速

trademarks.

CONTENTS

Fall/Holidays 2015 1700 UTICA SQUARE 918-749-1700

28 FEATURES 2 Welcome Letter

800-749-1771 BRUCEGWEBER.COM

P U B L I S H E D B Y T H E B J I FA S H I O N G R O U P PUBLISHER STU NIFOUSSI

6 Events EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

8 Who We Are: Erin Burgess 10 Caring for the Community: Joy in the Cause 12 Profile: Armenta

KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R HANS GSCHLIESSER INTERIM MANAGING EDITOR BRIAN SCOTT LIPTON

13 Gifts PROJECT MANAGER

24 From the Runways 28 Pearls: Timeless & Trendy 30 Trends: Subtly Sensual 43 Store 5a

LISA MONTEMORRA DESIGNER JEAN-NICOLE VENDITTI PRODUCTION MANAGER PEG EADIE

46 Watch News PRESIDENT AND CEO

48 Style: 5 Fall Finds 50 Perfect Gems 52 Spirits: The Fame Game

BRITTON JONES CHAIRMAN AND COO MAC BRIGHTON

Prices are subject to change without notice and may vary

BRIDAL SECTION

depending on size, quality and availability. Copyright 2015.

34 Our Customers:

Norwalk, CT 06856, 203-853-6015 • Fax: 203-852-8175;

Perfect Moments Are Made Here

Accent® is published by Business Journals, Inc, P.O. Box 5550,

Advertising Office: 1384 Broadway, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10018, 212686-4412 • Fax: 212-686-6821; All Rights Reserved. The publish-

36 Jewelry: Symbol Pleasures 38 Diamonds: Forevermark

ers accept no responsibilities for advertisers’ claims, unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the

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500

M E T E R S B E N E AT H T H E S U R FA C E

Pelagos is the fruit of more than 60 years of experience in undersea adventure coupled with TUDOR’s peerless technical development. The ultimate tool watch, it encases the first movement developed and produced by TUDOR, beginning a new era in the brand’s history.

PELAGOS® Self-winding mechanical Manufacture TUDOR MT5612 movement, officially certifi ed chronometer, non-magnetic silicon spring, approx. 70 hour power reserve. Waterproof to 500 m, 42 mm titanium and steel case. Visit tudorwatch.com and explore more. TUDOR Watch U.S.A., LLC. New York

bruce g. weber events

Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels was proud to sponsor and participate in several mainstream Tulsa events this spring and summer. Shown from left to right: the Oklahoma Wedding Show in January. The Tulsa Opera Debs spotlighted March. The Young Businessmen of Tulsa at their annual TUX Gala in early July. Tulsa’s annual White Party benefiting Family & Children’s Services highlighted the month of May. The Tulsa Wedding Show rounded out summer in August.

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Christopher Designs

PHOTOGRAPHY: BARTOSZ POTOCKI

Crisscut

c r i ss c u t e m er a l d by

c h r i s t o p h er

who we are

Erin

BURGESS Sales Associate

BY STACEY STATHULIS

S

ales associate Erin Burgess is a relative newcomer to Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels. However, she brings a decade of design and manufacturing experience to her work, as well as the designation of Graduate Gemologist (GG), which she earned from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in 2011.

Prior to joining Bruce G. Weber in February of this year, Burgess got her start in boutiques around Tulsa and Oklahoma City, where she designed and made jewelry out of gemstones and sterling silver. While in Tulsa, she enrolled at the Tulsa Technology Center in a program that taught metalsmithing and gemology.

“Although designing and making jewelry was my passion, I thought I would have a better future for myself in gemology,” says Burgess. “So I enrolled in the GIA and began working in my first retail jewelry job. From there, I spent several years working in a gem lab, buying and sorting stones.”

Burgess recalls completing her GIA coursework as a stressful time. “The Graduate Gemologist diploma program is designed to deliver a comprehensive gemology education across the entire spectrum of diamonds and colored stones,” she recalls. “This was an important milestone for me.”

While working full time in jewelry retail, Burgess completed her GG work through the GIA’s distance education program, and would travel to Dallas or St. Louis to do lab work and have one-on-one time with instructors.

“The program is divided into two segments: diamonds and colored stones. In the diamonds courses, students learn how to properly grade and identify diamonds and learn about history and mining processes,” she explains.

“The colored stone course is also divided into two parts: colored stone grading and colored stone identification. This was the most time-consuming and challenging part of the course. Students are given 500 stones to identify with a 20-stone challenge at the end in a pass/fail test. It’s amazing how many different tests are needed to properly identify a stone.”

Burgess enjoys her interactions with customers on the Bruce G. Weber sales floor. Her first thought was to become involved in jewelry appraisals, but she found she enjoyed working directly with customers—particularly bridal customers.

“I enjoy the technical aspect of selling watches, but bridal is my favorite product category to sell,” says Burgess. “I like to build a relationship with customers and really get to know them—so much so that I often give out my personal cell phone number so that customers who prefer to text can reach me

easily. And it’s fun to follow up with couples after the wedding.”

No matter the jewelry category, Burgess recognizes that customer service is the most important part of her job. Honesty and follow-up are, in her opinion, the two key factors in customer service that make a person’s experience memorable. “I enjoy helping people celebrate their special occasions,” she says.

Burgess keeps current by reading jewelry blogs and trade websites because she recognizes that styles and trends are constantly changing. “Twitter is a tool that I use daily to see what’s trending,” she adds.

When not on the sales floor at Bruce G. Weber, Burgess can be found winding down and forgetting about work (for a little while, at least) by taking yoga classes. She is also a vegetarian (from age 13) who loves animals, in particular her two “spoiled’ cats Reina and Gypsy.

Burgess, an only child, admits to being a bit spoiled herself. She grew up in Oklahoma City but has lived in Tulsa since 1997. Her parents also live in the Tulsa area and she spends a lot of quality time with them.

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caring for the community

Joy

in the cause

Providing comfort to those in need. BY STACEY STATHULIS

B

ruce G. Weber Precious Jewels supports worthy charitable organizations throughout the Tulsa area including Joy In the Cause (JITC), a 501-C3 non-profit that provides care, compassion and joy to one person at a time, especially those with life-altering illnesses and special needs.

Through the sales of Rustic Cuff sets, Bruce G. Weber directs proceeds to the organization and there are several store employees (and their families) who support Joy In The Cause by volunteering their time. The Rustic Cuff products, priced at about $130 each, are exclusive to Bruce G. Weber in the Tulsa area, making them that much more appealing for customers to purchase.

JITC founder Lisa Bain is building a dynamic organization that not only helps individuals and families, but also those on the frontlines of working with them.

“This project equips first responders, police and firemen, nurses and others, with a backpack of items for each affected child,” says Bain. “Backpacks include a special Mavis Pearl stuffed dog, a What If Monster book (teaches how to deal with fear) and plush toy. There is also a Joy In The Cause T-shirt, activities, books and crayons/pens to help children who are in need of some comfort in a difficult time of transition.”

Bain has teamed up with Briana Lunsford, an independent educational consultant with Usborne Books & More, to bring comfort to children in crisis in local communities by partnering with the Tulsa Police Department.

Bruce G. Weber sales associate Brandon Lunsford and his family volunteer with JITC. They have seen the impact that both the Kids In Crisis Project and the Purpose Project have had on families in the Tulsa area. “The Rustic Cuff products have been a big hit and everything we sell has an impact on both programs,” says Lunsford. “And the tie-in with Bruce G. Weber is already huge, and constantly growing.”

The Purpose Project is another outreach effort by JITC that focuses on an effort to connect kids to veterans and seniors to remind them that they are a valued part of the Tulsa community. In August, for example, a group of volunteers and cadets from the Tulsa Civil Air Patrol visited a local veterans center simply to spend time talking to the vets and learning from their life lessons.

For more information about Joy In The Cause, please visit joyinthecause.org.

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profile Emily Armenta’s business model may not be typical, but her company’s unique take on celebrating the beauty of women—both on the inside and out—is making its mark in the jewelry industry.

E

ARMENTA’S

fresh

APPROACH

mily Armenta comes from a family of artists and has always had a lot of support to express herself through artwork. As a result, she says, “I have been designing, sketching and working with stones ever since I was a young girl. Designing jewelry has not only been a vehicle for me to express my creativity, but also my thoughts and emotions.”

It wasn’t until she began an MBA program that she realized her passion could become a career path. “While taking an entrepreneurship class at Rice, I was given an assignment to create a fictitious Visit Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels now company and write a to see a great selection of Armenta Jewelry. business plan,” Armenta explains. “I chose to focus my project on my passion, which is designing jewelry.

I was very fortunate to have the support of the school and an amazing mentor who not only believed in me, but also gave me a chance to fulfill my dream.”

Since then, Armenta’s aesthetic has evolved and matured, and she has found deeper inspiration after reading the Spanish poetry of Fedrico Garcia Lorca, who wrote about a creative force that dwells within all of us, known as duende. He writes that duende “is a power and not a behavior; it is the struggle that one must endure to create something of greatness.” Armenta uses this principle as a starting point for her creative process.

The results are her bold, striking designs primarily made of 18K and 22K yellow gold, 18K rose gold and “midnight” oxidized sterling silver with diamonds and gemstones. Armenta mixes her own yellow and rose golds to acquire the exact color she has envisioned.

The company’s culture is equally driven by Armenta’s commitment to duende. She makes a point to hire and promote women who are talented, but not necessarily qualified in a traditional way. “I have chosen to hire women based on their passion and courage for life rather than their skill set,” says Armenta. “I hire people who have duende. I am so proud we have trained and educated every person at the studio, and they have blossomed into incredibly skilled craftspeople, each of whom are true artisans.”

“I cannot imagine outsourcing my art and missing out on the creativity that takes place every day. I am able to see firsthand how believing in duende can make the impossible a reality.”

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gifts

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Buttery rings starting at $411 Ippolita Glamazon necklace $595 John Hardy Macan cuff $1,750 Stephen Webster Murder She Wrote ring $65,000

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Kwiat Crochet bracelet $23,000 David Yurman Osetra necklace $3,200 David Yurman Osetra ring $1,850 Christopher Designs L’Amour ring with 2.30 carat internally awless center diamond $72,000

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Baume & Mericer Promesse $3,850 Tudor Ranger $2,950 Rolex Datejust Meteorite Diamond Dial $10,900 Rolex Cellini Date $17,800 Rolex Skydweller $39,550 Rolex Lady President $39,150 Baume & Mericer Limted-Edition Shelby Cobra $4,450 Tudor Glamour Date $5,400 Baume & Mericer Clifton Choronograph $3,850

L I F E

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A B O U T

M O M E N T S

C E L E B R AT I N G E L E G A N C E S I N C E 1 8 3 0

PROMESSE STEEL, 34 MM, QUARTZ 69 DIAMONDS

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Yossi Harari Helen necklace $27,401 Armenta Old World necklace $2,680 Yossi Harari Sara necklace $4,488 Armenta Old World Sculpted stack ring $990 Yossi Harari Sara ring $4,642 Yossi Harari Lilah ring $6,050 Armenta Old World stack ring $990 Armenta Old World bracelet $2,990 Yossi Harari Lilah cuff $21,791 Armenta Old World hoop earrings $1,645

This is the box

THAT, FOR OVER FORTY YEARS,

HAS REPRESENTED THE FINEST JEWELRY AND TIMEPIECES IN THE WORLD AND THE VERY BEST VALUES AVAILABLE.

AND FOR GENERATION AFTER

GENERATION OF CUSTOMERS, IT’S STILL THE ONE

1700 Utica Square, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114

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918-749-1700

I

they look for.

800-749-1771

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www.brucegweber.com

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David Yurman Signature pinky ring $1,850 David Yurman Cable pinky ring $1,950 Marco Bicego Goa ring $1,930 Ippolita Lollipop earrings $1,695 Marco Bicego Lunaria necklace $6,950 Roberto Coin Cento bracelet $11,300

速ROBERTOCOIN

BLACK JADE COLLECTION

gifts

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Elizabeth Locke Demel Bee earrings $5,225 Elizabeth Locke Tiny Sicilian necklace $11,575 Elizabeth Locke Cherub with Sails pendant $3,700 Denise Roberge Toggle clasp bracelet $12,190 Elizabeth Locke link bracelet $13,775

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速ROBERTOCOIN

CENTO AND NEW BAROCCO COLLECTIONS

from the

RUNWAYS

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PENNY PREVILLE Tassel Lariat necklace $18,855 DENISE ROBERGE Pearl bracelet $14,750 and Elizabeth Locke Bangle Bracelet $8,875 IPPOLITA Glamazon hoop earrings $1,695 MICHAEL BONDANZA Fold pendant $2,650 ARMENTA Old World ring $1,600 REBECCA MINKOFF RUNWAY IMAGES COURTESY OF ACCESSORIES MAGAZINE

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ONLINE!

Introducing a new way to shop at brucegweber.com

Shop our new website from your phone, tablet, or computer to ďŹ nd the best in bridal, fashion, watches, unique gifts, and much more! Create a wishlist, or join the conversation by connecting to us on social media or following our blog.

from the

RUNWAYS

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DAVID YURMAN Hampton ring $3,950 PESAVENTO Link bracelet $730 DAVID YURMAN Renaissance Cable bracelet $3,500 ROBERTO COIN Golden Gate earrings $3,040 MARCO BICEGO Goa necklace $7,080 MAX MARA RUNWAY IMAGES COURTESY OF ACCESSORIES MAGAZINE

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Plucked from nature. Choose your color.

The colored stone jewelry jewelry collection, collection, exclusively exclusively the Diamond at Bruce G.at Weber Precious Cellar.

Jewels

pearls

TIMELESS &

TRENDY

Today’s fashion-forward pearls can be mixed with traditional styles. BY RUTH J. KATZ

THE CULTURE OF MIKIMOTO

T

The genius behind the cultured pearl was Kokichki Mikimoto. Prior to his determined experimentation over 100 years ago, pearls existed naturally, and only naturally. They are created when an “intruder” (something even as tiny as a grain of sand) enters a mollusk, and in an effort to protect itself against the invading irritant, the oyster coats it with calcium carbonate, or nacre.

Mikimoto developed a way to induce the oyster to create pearls “on demand” by introducing that irritant by hand, a laborintensive operation. Today, Mikimoto produces the world’s finest pearls in designs from classic to high-fashion.

According to Meyer Hoffman, chief operating officer, Mikimoto America, “Design and fine craftsmanship are the core principles of Mikimoto, and the classic cultured pearl strand is iconic to the brand.

Our new collection features an array of gemstones, vibrant colors, and new shapes, drawing inspiration from an imagined, magical world, exploring new and innovative ways to create jewelry that showcases the pearl, nature’s purest gem, in unexpected playful ways.”

he pearl is truly the world’s most timeless jewel. Cleopatra is said to have created a lavish repast by crushing pearls into nectar, while Coco Chanel was always awash in a sea of pearls (and is an excellent model to emulate by owning many strands, worn mix-and-match). So whatever pearls you buy today will become tomorrow’s heirlooms, as these gorgeous gems are always a solid investment.

For fall/holiday 2015, fashion-forward designers are making bold statements with pearls in fanciful ways, whether mixed with cascades of rainbow-hued gemstone briolettes, offset with semi-precious stones, like lapis or turquoise, or wrapped like a twisted rope

(a torsade) and set with staccato notes of coral or jade. Today, pearls are often accented with rondelles (bead-like “spacers”) of emeralds, rubies, sapphires or diamonds, which telegraph chic opulence alongside the snowy orb. At the other end of the spectrum, we’ve also seen pearls mixed with wood, ebony— even denim!

Still, the traditional look never feels dated.

The crowning jewel of a bride’s wedding-day finery—a single, luxe strand of pearls—remains the just-right accessory. And that same single strand—whether crafted with pearls of the same size or graduated—packs an equally strong fashion punch worn with a simple T-shirt or a red-carpet-worthy gown.

In the words of Peter Bazar, president of the Cultured Pearl Association of America (a non-profit association comprised of some 50 pearl manufacturers, wholesalers and dealers), “Pearls never go out of style and are the most appropriate jewelry for career women, socialites, politicians—any woman who wants to feel and look classy and sophisticated.”

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Four Exceptional Jewelers and a Collection of the World’s Best Brands, All Under One Umbrella.

Columbus, Ohio www.diamondcellar.com

The Woodlands, Texas www.donohos.com

Tulsa, Oklahoma www.brucegweber.com

Columbus, Ohio www.STORE5a.com

DIAMOND CELLAR HOLDINGS is a family of four of the finest jewelers in the United States.

Each store has its own unique heritage, but together they represent almost 150 years of history in the jewelry business. We’ve built our reputation on excellent service, fine craftsmanship and unwavering integrity. That’s why the world’s top jewelry and watch brands trust us. And so can you.

A. Jaffe Alex Woo Armenta Assael Pearls Astley Clarke Baume & Mercier Bell & Ross Bovet Breitling Cartier Charles Krypell Christian Bauer Christine Cooper Hill Christopher Designs Corum David Yurman

Denise Robergé Elizabeth Locke Forevermark Girard Perregaux Goldman Diana Graf von Faber-Castell Hermès Ippolita Jaeger-LeCoultre JB Star John Hardy Jonathan Birnbach Kwiat Lagos Luminox Marco Bicego

Memoire Michael Bondanza Michele Mikimoto Montegrappa Nikos Koulis Officine Panerai Orbita Patek Philippe Penny Preville Pesavento Precision Set Raymond Weil Ritani Robert Procop Roberto Coin

Roberto Coin Cento Rolex Rustic Cuff Scott Kay Soho Stephen Webster SUWA Swiss Army Tacori Tag Heuer Tara Pearls Tudor Tuum William Henry Studio Yoko London Yossi Harari

trends

Subtly

sensual

Fall is a season of peek-a-boo metals, natural gem hues, and body-skimming shapes.

BY LORRAINE DEPASQUE

W

ith long, bodygliding necklaces and earrings, gems in nude and nature-inspired hues, and open-work metals that are tastefully suggestive, it’s a jewelry season that’s all about effortless elegance. There’s a sexiness, too, but it’s subtle. “Fashion right now is very focused on ethereal loveliness,” says David Wolfe, creative director of international forecasting agency The Doneger Group, in New York City. “We’re in a sort of backlash movement, with an almost refreshing return to innocence. Fashion and accessories have lots of lacy looks, pastry-icing colors, and plenty of sweetness and light.”

Jewelry blogger Monica Stephenson of iDazzle has seen signs of this lighter mood since the beginning of the year, when she attended fine

jewelry’s VicenzaOro fair in Vicenza, Italy. As website editor of the Contemporary Jewelry Design Group (CJDG), she noted, “Many of the jewelry shapes are distilled down to their essence, simplified and stylized. There are lots of lyrical shapes, like scrolls, open-work and lacy filigree.” As for the notable trending motifs, “Nature rules. Butterflies, flowers, and leaves,” she specified.

What else is new? Says Stephenson: “Negative space is everywhere, with cutouts and open-work in every conceivable pattern. So your skin becomes part of the design, revealed where the jewelry becomes undone.”

Consider adding a few of these contemporary “space-y” styles, starting with a bangle bracelet, ring, or collar necklace.

THAT 70s SHOW IS BACK Everything old is new again. For example, chokers certainly hark back to the 1970s, according to Wolfe. “We’re definitely revisiting the 1970s in fashion,” he notes. “There’s so much fringe—long, short, color, silk—any kind of fringe.” In stores this year, you’ve spotted it on many of those everyday cool-again hobo handbags, right? “Now, it’s hit the jewelry world in a big way, too,” says Edelstein. “There are sexy, swingy, fringy details in all kinds of designs, from simple earrings to major necklaces.

We’re talking tassels, full sweeps and micro-drapes in metal and in stones.

It’s fun and flirty, and the movement is eye-catching.”

Speaking of eye-catching, gems this season aren’t as bold and bright as in cool-weather months in the recent past. Nonetheless, they are a feast for the eyes, particularly because many of the on-trend hues also evoke that fashion-fun era of singers Stevie Nicks, Cher and Donna Summer. “Lots of 1970s colors are being revived, like browns, yellows, caramels and neutrals,” says Wolfe. “So this fall and winter, the same neutrals that you saw in spring, which were light, have now gone dark.

They’re getting pops of color with sunshine yellows and all different blues.” In jewelry, lots of luxe brands have added brown diamonds to their designs and, as in clothing, there are often monochromatic mixes of cream, cognac and champagne.

From top: Marco Bicego 18K gold Goa necklace; Penny Preville diamond and rose gold ring; Roberto Coin Tanaquilla gold earrings with brown diamonds

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With a soft color palette so in-vogue, be sure to add something in opal to your jewelry wardrobe. The gem that exploded onto the fashion scene last year just keeps getting more popular. The whole spectrum of blues, in fact, is something to think about this season. In addition to opal, ask your jeweler to show you some new designs in blue chalcedony, labradorite, blue quartz, aquamarine, Larimar, blue zircon, tanzanite or blue sapphire.

Pretty-in-pink stones are also spotlighted in many new collections, especially morganite and pink sapphire. And now’s the time to ask about the different peachy shades—try light orange sapphire or peach moonstone—which are reminiscent of the 1970s sun-kissed oranges.

THE TOP THREE NECKLACES Wolfe calls the current fashion mood we’re in “one of gentle modernism— Xanax-to-wear. Cool, calm and collected. Relaxed, sublime simplicity.” So how do you keep this easygoing mindset front and center during your jewelry shopping this season? Well, there are three must-have necklaces for an au courant look: Y-necklaces, long station chains and short ‘n’ slim chokers/collars.

“Layering has also reached new lengths,” Stephenson noted on her blog, while previewing luxury collections at the Italian show. “I saw new mid-length necklaces, but they were almost always layered, worn with shorter and longer lengths.” Longer chains with stations, often very inventive and asymmetrical, are also important,” she said, “They’re very versatile—when doubled up, your look completely changes.”

On her blog Cindy’s TrendTracker, Cindy Edelstein, president of the

Fashion right now is very focused on ethereal loveliness. Lots of lacy looks, pastry-icing colors, and plenty of sweetness and light.” —David Wolfe Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, talked about shorter necklaces, saying, “Fashion is definitely ripe for the choker. Maybe it’s a thing that comes and goes with rising hemlines and dipping cleavage.”

SLENDER, SEXY AND SOMETIMES STACKED Despite what Wolfe calls “a pretty fashion period in time, not dominatrix and leathery,” the newest jewelry often manages to call attention to various body parts. As iDazzle’s Stephenson explains, popular designs with negative-space openness allow your skin to show through. Beyond that, however, shapes themselves are super-sensual. Ultra-long Ynecklaces dip daringly downward toward plunging necklines, while lengthy matchstick-thin stiletto earrings slightly and suggestively swing from the lobe, ending just above the shoulder.

If you decide on a great pair of stilettos, Edelstein recommends that “You might want to also think about adding a single stud or ear climber or cuff on just one ear.” Indeed, that’s one fashion-forward way to “layer” earrings. And because jewelry, in general, is about slender silhouettes this year, stacking everything is more popular than ever. Quite simply, it’s one of those years when the more you pile on, the more on-trend you’ll look.

From top: Ivanka Trump Y-necklace in 18K white gold; Penny Preville diamond and gold stiletto earrings; Penny Preville double opal and white gold bangle bracelet

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BIG

When it comes to important purchases, we know savvy shoppers appreciate financing options. We are pleased to provide the Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels Credit Card, one more way we can help make your dreams come true.

CREDIT CARD BENEFITS INCLUDE: • No annual fee • Special event offers • Instant credit available • Exclusive cardholder promotions

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• See store for details

bridal section

our customers

Matt Allen and Ali Hensley

Matt Allen and Ali Hensley

Matt Allen and Ali Hensley

Matt Holman and fiancée Sarah

Brian Stanart and fiancée Veronika

Matt Holman and fiancée Sarah

Matt Holman and fiancée Sarah Brian Stanart and fiancée Veronika

Proposed with their dog, Oscar, at the University of Arkansas

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Matt and Kelsey Lewis Photo by Ruth Reese

Kevin Young and Neda Ashkar

Adam Pleskach and Jocelyn Berry Photo by Drew Fisher

PERFECT MOMENTS AR E M A D E Daniel Barlow and Kelsie Simmons

Here.

Matt and Kelsey Lewis Photo by Ruth Reese

Michael Brother, Tracy Spears, Rosemary Harris and Chase Delozier

Rosemary Harris Photo by Amy Herndon

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JEWELRY

BY JULIANNE PEPITONE

2 8 0 0 B . C . E . : The Egyptians are the first to sport rings, which are made of hemp or reeds like their Neanderthal predecessors’. Over time, they move to iron, and then to gold or silver wire. These rings are worn on the third finger of the left hand, which is erroneously thought to contain the vena amoris: a “vein of love” that runs directly to the heart.

A N C I E N T R O M E : Wives are presented with two wedding rings: an iron piece meant to be worn at home while performing housework, and a gold version to show off wealth when visiting town. The rings are either attached to small keys or feature a key engraved into the band, meant to symbolize that the husband owns his wife.

14 7 7 : The inventive Archduke Maximillian of Austria commissions one of the first recorded diamond engagement rings for Mary of Burgundy, sparking a trend among European royals.

symbol pleasures

17 0 0 S : Sentimental Europeans are partial to “poesy” or “posy” rings, which are engraved with romantic rhyming verses to be presented to a lover. Meanwhile, in colonial New England, the demure Puritans opt for a humble betrothal thimble rather than a lavish piece of jewelry—but many women cut off the tops of the thimbles and wear them as rings anyway.

WEDDING RINGS AND BANDS

18 0 0 S : The Victorian era brings the “dearest” ring, a stonestudded band with gems that “spell” out the endearment: Diamond, Emerald, Amethyst, Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire and Topaz.

B R I D A L

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18 8 8 : Cecil John Rhodes and his investors form De Beers Consolidated Mines, Ltd., which moves quickly to try to control the world’s growing diamond supply.

19 4 7 : De Beers launches the now-iconic “A Diamond is Forever” campaign, dreamed up by advertising agency N. W. Ayer.

(It was recently reinstated.)

19 6 5 : A whopping 80 percent of American engaged couples now choose a diamond ring to mark their betrothal.

2 0 1 5 : In recent years, ring trends have become more varied, says Gizzi, noting that more couples discuss the engagement ring before the betrothal, with women often choosing their own style, or shopping as a couple. Colorful stones like rubies and aquamarines are gaining in popularity, with or without diamonds.

S E C T I O N

ISTOCK

Wedding jewelry has changed immensely since Neanderthals painted cave glyphs, but the idea of an unbroken circle has continued to resonate with couples throughout the eras. As Amanda Gizzi, spokesperson for Jewelers of America, notes: “Traditions have evolved so much over time. But when you boil down what goes into a ceremony, a ring remains the ultimate symbol of union and never-ending love.”

But boy, has that simple symbol changed over time!

Ancient texts indicate that a caveman supposedly tied braided pieces of grass or reeds to his wife’s ankles, wrist or waist, possibly to keep her spirit from escaping her body.

Over the past 5,000 years, here’s what has happened to show how men and women remain “tied together” for all time.

the history of rings

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Forevermark diamonds only come from sources that are committed to the highest business, social and environmental standards.

Not only are they conflict-free, but they actively benefit the people, communities and countries from which they originate. Each and every partner must meet the Forevermark Integrity Requirements, a groundbreaking set of rigorous standards for the diamond industry. The world’s leading independent auditor, Société Générale de Surveillance (SGS), continually inspects and monitors every Forevermark partner to ensure compliance with these standards. This ongoing

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Once the responsibly mined stones arrive at The Forevermark Diamond Institute in Antwerp, Belgium, expert gemologists assess each one according to the most rigorous criteria in the industry. The diamonds are then beautifully cut and crafted, using skill and artistry passed down through generations by a select group of master craftsmen called Forevermark Diamantaires.

After a polished stone is deemed worthy of the designation, the Forevermark icon and a unique identification number are inscribed on its table facet. Ultimately, less than one percent of the world’s diamonds are eligible to bear this inscription.

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38

the internal quality of a diamond in any way. The Forevermark icon inscribed on each diamond is simply a promise that the diamond has been carefully selected to meet Forevermark’s standards of beauty, rarity and responsibility.

The expert gemologists then personally approve each exclusive Forevermark Diamond Grading Report—about the shape and size of a passport—with meticulous attention to detail.

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REGISTRY

BY ELISE DIAMANTINI

the perfect present

Wedding presents may be one of the best parts of getting married, but preparing your gift registry can seem like a Herculean task. Fortunately, the days of managing multiple gift registries and receiving (and returning) unwanted gifts are a thing of the past, thanks to modern websites like Zola, which now allow couples to create personalized registries on one website from any retail store. As Zola’s Allison Davis explains, “Today’s couples aren’t just getting married.

They’re also moving, working and have busy schedules, which is why all-encompassing one-stop-shop wedding registries are more sought after than ever.”

Group Gifting: More couples are registering for big-ticket items like furniture, televisions or bicycles, allowing guests to contribute how much they like towards that gift.

Tech Savvy: “Couples are opting for gadgets such as e-book readers, Apple TVs, Mophie juice packs, Nest Learning Thermostats and digital cameras,” explains WeddingWire’s senior editorial associate, Caitlin Zentgraf Krebs.

Honeymoon and Home Funds: Instead of giving a cash gift, guests can help the happy couple save for their honeymoon or the purchase of a home. It’s a more creative way of giving a monetary gift because guests can choose what they’re contributing to. Another option is if the couple is honeymooning in Anguilla (for example), guests might buy them a relaxing couple’s massage at their hotel or a candlelit beach dinner.

New Ways to Entertain: “Couples are moving beyond traditional gifts like china and crystal and opting for things that they will be able to enjoy more frequently in their newlywed life, like camping tents and picnic baskets,” says Zola’s Davis.

Experiential Gifts: Some couples are registering for fun, experiential gifts like cooking classes, wine tastings or rock climbing sessions, depending on their interests, rather than things that might end up gathering dust in the hall closet.

The Gift of Time: It’s the one thing a couple never has enough of: time together. And what better gift for a bride or groom than a beautiful watch to track it with?

NEED TO KNOW Zola shares its best advice for couples who are getting started on creating their registries.

Register Early: Guests will likely want to purchase gifts for prewedding events (e.g. engagement parties, showers), so having a registry early on is beneficial for everyone.

Number of Gifts: The number of presents you should register for is based on the number of guests invited to your wedding. Use the Zola Registry Planner to determine how many gifts you should register for. (That said, it’s always better to over-register than under-register.) Gifts should also be chosen across a range of price points so that you don’t force your guests into a situation where there are no items that they can afford.

Make Your Registry Personal: It should be just as special as your big day! Customize your registry and make it beautiful with notes, special collections, pictures and even a custom URL. Let Guests Know How to Find Your Registry:Your friends and family will definitely want to know where you are registered, so don’t feel rude about getting the word out! First, tell your family and wedding party where you have registered (tactfully, of course), and allow them to spread the word for you. Also, include your registry on your wedding website, or if you feel comfortable, you can even put it on your bridal shower invitations or save-the-date cards.

B R I D A L

40

S E C T I O N

IMAGES COURTESY OF ZOLA

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PLANNING

modern love

WEDDING PLANNING APPS AND BLOGS ARE BECOMING A BRIDE’S BEST FRIEND.

depending on how you look at it, the fun or

TOP TIPS

the stress of planning the big day begins. Like

WeddingWire’s senior editorial

most other things, modern-day wedding

associate, Caitlin Zentgraf Krebs,

planning has gone online. In a survey

shares her secrets for staying

conducted by Mashable and theknot.com, 89

calm and organized while

percent of people said they used wedding

planning your big day.

planning apps to make checklists, look for

Relax: Take a step back from the

gowns,

Congratulations! You’re engaged. Now,

track

stress and remember to keep

countdowns. Of those respondents, 70

stay

organized

and

calm, cool and collected. We

percent started creating Pinterest boards

suggest regularly exercising,

before they even got engaged and 51 percent

eating healthy meals and

became “more realistic with their pins after

squeezing in the spa for a

they got engaged.” Clearly, the need for

mani/pedi. After all, you need your

online organization has become an essential

bling to shine!

part of the process for those planning their

Delegate: Your family and

upcoming nuptials.

friends are there to help. Feel free

There’s no shortage of online wedding

to give them a handful of tasks to

planning tools either. Sites like Pinterest,

conquer from your ever-growing

WeddingWire, Lover.ly and The Knot all offer

to-do list.

unique ways for couples to manage their to-

Have a Plan B: Resist the urge

do lists, keep track of inspirational images

to check the weather every hour

and ideas, host registries and create personal websites, among other things. WeddingWire even launched

on the hour for rain. It will simply

a WedSocial app to help guests stay informed of all the details regarding the couple’s special day. Pinterest has also

cause you more stress. However,

become an essential part of planning because it allows users to bookmark inspirational images, videos and ideas

that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t

on a personal page and/or share with others.

have a Plan B. Have Fun: The entire planning

And while online planning tools aren’t replacing traditional wedding planners, they are acting as

process allows you to get those

supplemental guides. These sites can help brides find

creative juices flowing. There’s no

local vendors, follow experts and be creative. It seems

judgment in having a Pinterest

like the ideas are endless online; the hardest part won’t

inspiration board! Your wedding is

be finding inspiration, but making decisions to narrow

supposed to be a reflection of

down what you really want.

your relationship, right?

Savor It: From the engagement

WeddingWire’s senior editorial associate, Caitlin Zentgraf Krebs, says current wedding trends include

party to the goodbye BBQ, you’ll

laser-cut

feel the love when surrounded by

invitations,

greenery

arrangements,

(especially seeded eucalyptus and succulents), rose

all your family and friends. Be

gold jewelry, temporary tattoos as favors and of

sure to take a moment to step

course, Ed Sheeran’s Thinking Out Loud song for the

back and soak it all in.

first dance.

B R I D A L

42

S E C T I O N

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Art Deco Hinged Diamond Ring Ruby Band David Yurman Large Cuff Pre-owned David Yurman diamond Cable cuff in sterling silver. Sale Price $1,350, Compare to $2,500

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Pre-owned Art Deco milgrain diamond ring crafted in 14K white gold. Sale Price $1,975, Compare to $4,650

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WATCHNEWS

BY BRIAN SCOTT LIPTON

There’s always something new in the wide world of watches, from timepieces that commemorate special occasions in history to state-of-the-art technological innovations to books and blogs that let us know more about what we wear on our wrists.

THE WRITE STUFF

Watch connoisseurs who are seeking the most up-todate information on what to wear on their wrists are turning more frequently to the internet to increase their knowledge. Among the most popular sites is hodinkee.com, an eight-year-old online magazine whose popular features include Hands On, which provides all the skinny on the newest watches. Another favorite is watchanish.com, a three-year-old blog that is known not only for its smart text, but also for its super-sharp photography taken all over the world.

Co-founder Anish Bratt gears the writing to both aspirational men and those who are already immersed in the wide world of watches. Meanwhile highly informational site watchreport.com keeps buyers and enthusiasts up on the latest news in the industry, while watchville.com aggregates content from all the relevant blogs and websites.

HISTORY LESSON

Few books live up to their titles as accurately as Rolex: History, Icons and Record-Breaking Models, the lavishly illustrated new tome by Mara Cappelletti and Osvaldo Patrizzi. This stunning 152-page volume, published by the Antique Collectors Club, not only delves into the heritage of the beloved Geneva-based watch company, but also includes technical information on the brand, numerous pages devoted to such timeless timepieces as the Oyster Perpetual, the Explorer, the Submariner and the Daytona, and an entire section on vintage Rolexes that fetched jaw-dropping prices in the auction market. It’s the next best thing to actually owning a Rolex…or adding another one to your collection.

46

RACE RELATIONS

OPEN AND SHUT CASE

Fifty years after automotive legend Carroll Shelby won the 1965 FIA International Championship of GT Manufacturers in his iconic A.C. Cobra, achieving a victory that would change the course of international racing forever, history is being made again.

Baume & Mercier, in association with the Carroll Shelby Company, is marking this milestone by releasing a limited edition of Capeland Shelby Cobra timepieces.

These special watches are inspired by the vintage 1948 mono-push-piece chronograph found in the Baume & Mercier museum, and feature retro accents, classic lines, chronograph and tachymeter functions, a polished and satin-finished case and specially crafted hands featuring the Cobra logo. On your mark, get set, buy!

There’s no question you know what you’re getting when you purchase Officine Panerai’s new specialedition watch, the Radiomir 1940 3 Days GMT Oro Rosso, because the back of the timepiece’s case is open, revealing the movement. The front of the watch is equally smart, thanks to a 47mm cushion case which is made entirely of 5Npt red gold, a brown dial treated with a satiné soleil finish which catches the light, and the characteristic Panerai “sandwich” dial, which is formed of two superimposed discs. Moreover, the arrow-shaped central hand of the main dial can be used to indicate a second time zone, for those wearers who are caught between two worlds.

RAISING THE FLAG There’s an old saying that suggests if you want something done right, you must do it yourself. Tudor Watch U.S.A. is taking that sentiment to heart by introducing in-house manufacture movements to two of its most popular models: the Tudor Pelagos, a chronometer-based timepiece, which also now features a blue colorway for the dial and bezel, and the Tudor North Flag, which features a selfwinding mechanical movement with bidirectional rotor system, power reserve indicator, and a 70-hour power reserve. These up-to-the-second timepieces are definite must-haves for this year’s “in” crowd.

47

style

5 Fall Finds Menswear is having a moment. The New York Times just launched a dedicated Men’s Style Section, #Menswear has become a household hashtag, and growth in men’s clothing sales has reportedly outpaced women’s wear. So if you haven’t updated your closet in a while, the time is now. We’ve made it easy by highlighting the top five trends for fall 2015. Here’s what you need now. BY ELISE DIAMANTINI

2.

1.

THE SWEATER Whether chunky or lightweight, turtleneck or crew, sweaters are in season for fall. Have fun with this staple by layering one over a button-down shirt or under a sportcoat, or buy a statement sweater to be worn alone. You can never go wrong with luxurious cashmere sweaters like this gorgeous textured crewneck made by the popular contemporary brand Vince.

THE BOLD ACCESSORY A simple way to spice up your everyday suit is by adding colorful

accessories like interesting cuff links, a knit tie or colorful socks. We particularly love these links from the vintage collection by Deakin & Francis, a British company now in its seventh generation.

4.

THE PUFFER JACKET The puffer jacket is the “It” outerwear piece for

3.

fall. It’s time to get rid of that big, bulky jacket because new slimmer styles will keep you current and warm. Canada Goose is an authentic brand that fuses fashion with function, offering waterproof, breathable down fabrics in trimmer, more modern silhouettes.

THE “NEW BLUE” SUIT

If you didn’t know, suits are now slim (not skinny) and the “new blue” is the right hue.

Celebrities like Ryan Gosling and David Beckham have been seen sporting this shade of blue because it’s fresh and versatile.

(Pair it with black or brown shoes.)We love this style from Hickey Freeman, especially since it’s made in America.

5.

THE JOGGER PANT

This trend is your excuse to wear sweatpants in public. The only catch: they have to be tailored. No loose, baggy sweats from your college days here. We’re talking slim, sophisticated styles like this pair from Relwen, worn with sleek sneakers or boots.

48

Service A

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PERFECTGEMS

EXPLORE THE LITTLE LUXURIES THE WORLD HAS TO OFFER.

BY DONALD CHARLES RICHARDSON

THE PERFECT BLACK DRESS

Artist Alex Katz remains fascinated by the little black dress. His Black Dress project was first created as a series of paintings done on door panels, depicting standing women in the classic fashion design. He recently revealed his Black Dress, A Suite of New Prints at the Mary Ryan Gallery in New York City. This exhibition centered around nine original screen prints, each rendered at a monumental size of 80 x 30 inches, which mimic the size of the paintings. These prints follow Katz’s signature style of exploring portraiture and monochromatic elements. Among the series’ fans is noted fashion designer Calvin Klein, who wrote: “Alex Katz’s Black Dress series is… modern and wonderful… And despite their apparent simplicity, they’re extremely expressive and perfectly capture the essence of his subjects. You can’t help but notice these women, these beautiful enigmas drawn in bold and certain strokes. You wonder who they are, how they live, what they feel, just exactly what they have going on.”

GRANDE VINO

Whenever you feel the need to celebrate a truly special occasion, open a bottle of Rocca di Frassinello Baffonero Maremma Toscana. This rare merlot (only 3,000 bottles were produced) takes the name of the vineyard in which the grapes are cultivated. Produced from the first vines to be planted at Rocca di Frassinello, Baffonero, the wine is fermented using natural yeasts in stainless steel for 15 days at a controlled temperature. It is then aged 14 months, followed by 12 months of bottle refinement. This fresh and truly impressive wine is an intense ruby red and the bouquet is concentrated dark fruit notes, including blackberry and blueberry. Fresh and full, it’s an ideal accompaniment to a variety of meats or aged cheeses. And good news: the makers even suggest it as a meditation wine.

50

EXOTIC INDULGENCES

If you want to experience the far corners of the world in ultimate opulence, the Asia Transpacific Journeys team specializes in customized itineraries built from scratch around a traveler’s interests. Perhaps you’d like to tour Australia’s renowned Barossa Valley vineyards with an expert sommelier? Would you prefer to plunge into Indonesia’s natural beauty and culture aboard your own luxurious single-cabin yacht, which provides complete privacy along with the services of a personal chef, massage therapist, snorkeling expert and personal concierge? Why not board the Sanctuary Ananda luxury riverboat in Mandalay for a four-night cruise down the Irrawaddy to Bagan? Or maybe go to Cambodia, where you can cap off a visit to Angkor with a stay at the Song Saa Private Island resort, located on Cambodia’s pristine Koh Rong archipelago, a deserted oasis of virgin rainforests, tropical reefs and glistening white beaches.

STATING THE FACTS

This fall and winter, The San Francisco Wine School is offering a three-day intensive “edu-vacation” for serious wine lovers who want the chance to learn about California wines (California produces roughly 90 percent of U.S. wine). The school’s founder David Glancy, one of only 12 people in the world to hold both a Master Sommelier diploma and a Certified Wine Educator credential, created this program because he believes that all lovers of California wine should know the whole story of the state’s diverse range of climates, grape varietals and wine styles.

Those who don’t have the full three days to spare but are visiting the San Francisco Bay Area for vacation or work can attend any part of a SFWS professional wine program as a single-class workshop and still take part in a truly elite experience.

KODIAK MOMENT

ADRIANA LO

If you’ve always wanted to get up close and personal with a bear, Natural Habitat Adventures (Nat Hab) can fulfill your fantasy. The company recently chartered a vessel, which it rechristened M/V Natural Habitat Ursus (Latin for bear), and is preparing to take guests as close as is safely possible to the largest coastal grizzlies in the world. This new adventure, Alaska’s Coastal Grizzlies: Kodiak to Katmai, takes place in the spring and summer, and these photofocused departures are led by a naturalist guide who is also a professional photographer. While it’s not uncommon to find massive grizzlies in great numbers, there are only eight guests on each exploit, so get your reservation in early.

51

spirits Coco Chanel There are two different cocktails named for the famous designer. The first is an unlikely, but delicious, blend of gin, cream and Kahlua. The second is a Lillet-driven libation, variations of which are served at Betony in New York, as well as the Beaufort Bar inside the Savoy Hotel in London (where Mme. Chanel often spent time), as one of their four Character Cocktails. * 1.5 oz vodka * .5 oz Lillet Blanc * .5 oz red wine and blackberry syrup reduction * Moët & Chandon 2004 Vintage Champagne In a mixing glass, add vodka, Lillet and red wine reduction. Add ice, stir well and strain into a flute glass. Top with Champagne.

Hemingway Daiquiri

The

Ernest Hemingway reportedly earned the moniker “Papa Doble” after downing 16 double daiquiris in one (very long) sitting. After being diagnosed, not surprisingly, with diabetes, he came up with his own version replacing some of the sweetener with grapefruit juice and reducing the alcohol. Consider visiting one of his Cuban haunts, still in business, like La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana. * 1.75 oz Caña Brava Rum * .75 oz Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur * 1 oz fresh lime juice * .75 oz fresh grapefruit juice * .25 oz simple syrup Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake very well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lime wheel and maraschino cherry. If you prefer daiquiris frozen, that’s okay: so did Papa.

F AME game

Delirium: AKA The Bill Murray In 1917, the Waldorf-Astoria honored comic genius Charlie Chaplin with an eponymous cocktail. In 2015, Sweetwater Social, a vintage-themed craft cocktail bar with a relaxed vibe in New York’s Greenwich Village, offers up a drink celebrating contemporary clown king Bill Murray. “Now don’t tell anyone you saw me.” * .75 oz Elijah Craig Bourbon * .75 oz Ron Zacapa Rum * .75 oz Laphroaig Scotch Single Malt * .33 oz Demerara Coffee Syrup (or .25 oz maple syrup) * 4 drops Bittermens Mole Bitters Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass. Add ice and stir until wellchilled. Strain into a rocks glass with one large ice cube. Garnish with three coffee beans.

Celebrity-themed drinks go way beyond the Shirley Temple.

BY ROBERT HAYNES-PETERSON

Blood & Sand

C

elebrity-themed cocktails have been popular nearly as long as there have been cocktails. In the 1882 Bartender’s Manual by legendary barman Harry Johnson, historic punches are named after British notables who popularized them in the 18th and 19th centuries. Likewise, the Negroni is named after its alleged inventor Count Camille Negroni, and the Royal Highball—a signature blend of Champagne, cognac and strawberry juice created at the Ritz Hotel in Paris—was named in honor of Spain’s King Alfonso XII. Since the silent film era, however, the trend for naming drinks after entertainers has been something of a mainstay that continues to this day. Not every muse will inspire long-lived cocktails. (The “Taylor Swifte” at Jockey Hollow Bar in New Jersey, for example, may not be around by the time you read this.) Here, however, are a few libations still listed on select menus, along with a couple of new “classics,” that show promise for staying power.

52

This drink was named for the famed Rudolph Valentino film and first documented in The Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930. Now, New York’s vintage-influenced Astor Room, situated in the historic Kaufman Astoria Studios, is the perfect spot to order it: Rudy shot several films here (and ate lunch in this same location). * 1 oz blended Scotch whisky * .75 oz sweet vermouth * .75 oz Cherry Heering Liqueur * .75 oz fresh orange juice Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Add ice, shake very well and strain into a coupe or cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

The Edison The Edison Downtown Bar in Los Angeles has long been one of the foremost craft cocktail lounges in the country. Located in a building that housed the city’s first private power-plant, the bar (and this drink) “celebrates an era of invention and imagination.” This drink effortlessly melds historic ingredients with contemporary technique. * 1.5 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon * .5 oz pear-infused cognac * .5 oz fresh lemon juice * .25 oz honey syrup In a cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients. Add ice, shake well and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon wheel or flamed lemon peel.

BRUCE G. WEBER ACCENT THE MAGAZINE OF LIFE’S CELEBRATIONS

FALL/HOLIDAYS 2015