DG Magazine - Issue #1

We’ve often been labeled as just a team of pretty faces with a serious jewelry obsession, but who knew we could be magazine editors, ad designers, copywriters, fashion shoot stylists, models and creative directors? We’re excited about our first edition of DG Magazine because it gives us a chance to feature some of the most coveted designer collections, diamonds of the highest quality, luxury timepieces, as well as a little bit about who we are and what is most important to us.

We are honored to be a part of this flourishing community. So many things are going on around the Brazos Valley and Texas A&M University: National Championships, Health Science Center, the big move to the SEC, downtown Bryan renovation, retail and restaurant development on our very own University Drive, just to name a few.

Just as our community is experiencing so many changes, David Gardner’s is on the precipice of completing a year that, at times, felt uncertain as the recession continued but held so many wonderful surprises and occasions for celebration for the company and the DG family.We are extremely honored to have been chosen by our community as Best Jewelry Store in both Best of the Brazos and Eagle’s Readers Choice. We couldn’t have done it without the extraordinary team that is the DG family.

Let us offer our sincere gratitude to each and every one of you, our loyal clients, for your patronage and support over the years. We are only in the position we are in, celebrating our 28th year, because of our amazing staff and wonderful customers.

Blessings, Julia and David 911

welcome to David Gardner’s Magazine

Julia and David Gardner

Peridot Blossom Necklace

This 33.58ct. peridot has exceptional color: luminous green with a whisper of mint. It is one of just a few gems of this hue to be cut from an 8 kilogram lot (40,000 carats) of peridot rough from Pakistan.

Set in 18 karat gold in an otherwise all-platinum piece, the gem glows in a dazzling diamond blossom. Total weight of the diamonds in the entire piece is just shy of 10 carats.

It is a one-of-a-kind gem in a quintessential piece from

Richard Krementz Gemstones.

When you want the extraordinary...

Since 1866, we have made beautiful jewelry. No other collection features such a magnificent spectrum of one-of-a-kind gems. From alexandrite to zircon and everything in between, we select only the finest.

We have a passion for every color...and a color for every passion. What color is yours?

Richard Krementz Gemstones

We bring you the world’s most dramatic colors.®

DG jewelry stylists at work prepping for photo shoot.

Classic Tiffany displaying multi-tasking at it’s finest. How she does it all remains a mystery.

Special thanks to Miramont Country Club and Charli’s.

DG Girl and Cover Model, Sophie Hays, staying warm while photographer preps.

Several hours and a few cups of strong coffee into the day, the girls were wishing for a power nap.

Couture Creations

more than I could have ever dreamed ofspecial significance genuinely want you to feel a part of the family

DG Custom Design Process:

The labor-intensive process that each item goes through is unique and depends on the customer’s desires as well as the nature of David’s design.

1. Pleasure to Meet You

The first step in the DG custom design process involves David getting to know the customer. Many times, David asks them to go through the store and collect items they like and discuss with David what they like about each piece. This process provides David with insight on the customer’s jewelry style.

2. Show & Tell

On what is usually a second meeting, David shows sketches that he has drawn that reflect the customer’s preferences and personality. Sometimes he creates several sketches that are variations of one another so the customer has options to see.

3. Model

Once the design has been finalized, an actual size wax model is made. Depending on the design, either hand carving or a computer controlled mill is used to create the wax and if the dimensions, look and feel of the model pass David’s inspection the piece makes it to the next step in the process.

4. Breaking the Mold

The approved wax model is placed inside a flask, which is then filled with a special plaster called investment. This flask containing the wax surrounded by investment is then placed inside a kiln, which heats to over 1350 degrees in order to melt the wax away and harden the plaster. The end result is a void where the wax once was and a mold for metal to be poured insidehence the name lost wax method.

5. Casting

The metal of choice is brought to its optimal melting point of up to 3300 degrees. Then, the flask containing the mold is placed inside a crucible which uses centrifugal force to draw the liquid metal into the plaster mold.

6. Design Revealed

The flask is then temperature shocked cracking the mold. This allows the jewelers to pull away the plaster exposing the design. A jeweler carefully files away excess metal and polishes the piece to prepare it for stones to be set.

7. Stone Setting

Setting stones requires extensive training and knowledge of the molecular structure that makes up each type of stone. A simple error can crack a valuable stone that can be difficult to replace. Many times a single ring can hold hundreds of pave set diamonds, taking several days to be set.

8. A Thorough Inspection

Once stone setting is complete, each piece goes through a careful inspection by David to ensure the piece meets DG’s highest standards.

9. Anticipation

The most exciting stage in the process for the entire David Gardner’s team: This is the point when the entire store buzzes with excitement as everyone awaits the arrival of the person for whom the DG Custom piece was made. DG Insiders know that there is always an exciting project in process and know to ask what is going on in the shop.

Greatest

Average

Greatest

DAVID

of

Words can’t express how grateful we are for the inspiration and support of our families, including our DG family! We know it’s cliché, but in this case it’s also true - pictures are worth a thousand words. We’ve only captured a fraction of the countless people that have inspired us, so many, many thanks to all.

The numerous examples of sacrificial giving modeled by our parents inspire us to give back to the community.

David’s parents: Marge and Fred Gardner

Angela, Julia and David Gardner, 1977

Grandchildren bring another level of inspiration to your life! Logan, Angela, Scott, and Piper Bomar.

Proof that Dean is family – Dean and David even look alike!

Julia’s parents: Stella and Lambert Wilkes with Mae Holleman.

DG family

Through the years the faces have changed, but one thing remains the same – we couldn’t be one of America’s Coolest Stores without our amazing staff. Inspiring us for more than 13 years – John Orsted, Donna

Mushinski, Heather Hoch, and Alfonso Luna.

Alfonso Luna (center) with DG Team

Donna Mushinski on right with DG Friends

Heather Hoch and John Orsted

historical perspective

DG Girls

the rock

A diamond is formed in intense heat and pressure and under the skillful care of a diamond cutter, its full brilliance is revealed.

Dean Wile is the DG Rock. His journey to becoming the DG Rock began in his late teens when he was in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Most of us would have given up or felt sorry for ourselves during months of painful recovery and rehabilitation, but Dean worked hard and had such an amazing positive attitude that he even reached out to other patients who were struggling at the Mayo Clinic. His remarkable response to this life changing event paved the way for him to change our lives as well. Today, he continues to be the same kind of inspiration to everyone that knows him.

There are countless stories that testify to Dean's selfless work ethic and positive attitude. “We will never forget the morning we received a phone call from Dean apologizing that he would be late to work,” says David Gardner. “We later found out that at the time of his phone call, Dean was driving himself to the emergency room and had already lost several pints of blood due to a broken femur.” The severity of his injury caused him to spend several months in the hospital, yet his greatest concern was getting back to work. The DG team and Dean's loyal following were honored to support him during his time of need because that is what he does for people.

It's safe to say that Dean’s least favorite place to be is the hospital, and while he loves taking care of his customers, there is no place he would rather be than on his tractor or in his shop, rebuilding one of his street rods.

“We are forever indebted to Dean,” remarks Julia, “who, through his unwavering loyalty during the early and often uncertain years, won our hearts.”

Julia and David with Dean Wile

Drama storms the scene. Making a bold statement with a dose of glam is her signature look. Wearing the latest trends effortlessly, an uptown meets downtown jewelry wardrobe that takes her

Though

from day to night.

Earrings: Roberto Coin Pallini studs, Necklace: Roberto Coin Pallini layered necklaces, Bracelets: Roberto Coin Capri Plus bangle stack in amethyst couture, yellow gold with diamonds, and ebony wood with diamonds. Watch: Rolex Daytona layered with Roberto Coin bangles, Ring: Roberto Coin Cocktail ring with rock crystal and diamonds in rose gold

Earrings: Gumuchian 3ct New Moon diamond hoops, Necklace: Mikimoto Akoya 10mm pearl strand, Bracelet: Katie Decker diamond bangle, Ring: 8ct Canary Diamond ring Watch: 26mm ladies platinum Rolex

her jewelry collection is often extensive, she prefers wearing simple pairings that give her one-of-a-kind pieces center stage. She prefers a look that is streamlined and comfortable so that each piece of jewelry tells an important story. Mikimoto Pearls add instant polish.

Four ways to accessorize your favorite black dress.

She needs her jewelry to multi-task like she does. She strikes a perfect balance – fashion forward, but professional. She has her favorite key pieces that go the distance. Her newest “go to” piece is her Katie Decker Century Tree pendant that takes her from center court to the 50 yard line. Who says diamonds can’t be casual?

She is the master of mixing. A free spirit that pulls together combinations that make us wonder why we didn’t think of that! She loves coordinating, but rarely matches, often blending edgy with feminine. The end result is a playful look that shows off her

Earrings: Diamond Hoops, Necklace: Katie Decker yellow gold and diamond century tree, Bracelets: layered diamond tennis bracelets, Watch: David Yurman Classic

Necklace: Layered Roberto Coin Ipanema necklaces with various sized semi-precious stones and DG Couture yellow gold and diamond flower pendant, Bracelets: Roberto Coin Martellato yellow gold and silver Bangle Set, Watch: Michele Deco Day Diamond rose gold watch with brown dial, Ring: Roberto Coin Martellato rose gold snake ring

personal style.

DAVID

1 Red Dress Event

The Red Dress Event at George Bush Presidential Library promoted women’s heart health awareness and celebrated DG's Mikimoto launch. Museum supporters and DG friends enjoyed viewing the famous red dresses on display with stunning Mikimoto pearls.

2 Diamond Dash

Over 1,000 Texas A&M University students and community members participated in the first David Gardner's Diamond Dash, a geo-based scavenger hunt for a $15,000 diamond engagement ring. Aggie couple Samantha Tetrick and Paul Searl won the Ritani ring, but they weren’t the only winners: participants helped raise over $2,400 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in honor of DG girl, Nicole Davenport.

3 Junior League Preview Party

David Gardner’s partnership with the Junior League of College Station has raised well over $200,000 through the years. 2011 marks 30 years of dedication to the community with the Junior League. The Charity Ball Preview party kicked off the season with special guest jewelry designer, Myriam Gumuchian.

4 Watches, Whiskey, and Wheels Men’s Event

DG went “Hog Wild” for this Rolex event including a whiskey tasting and Harley Davidson motorcycles on display. Attendees including National Championship Women’s Basketball Coach, Gary Blair (left) and National Championship Men's Golf Coach, JT Higgins (right) were treated to a private presentation by Rolex on the latest technology and future of the brand.

5 Corps Scholarship Golf Tournament

The Corps Scholarship Golf Tournament Kick Off event honored four scholarship recipients with plans to award five in the next year. The Aggie Men’s golf team and coaches joined tournament head, Don Johnson to kick off the fundraiser.

6 Young Professionals of Aggieland Event

Young Professionals of Aggieland enjoy an evening at DG's.

7 DY Trunk

Give Yourself Away and Give Yourself a Break was the theme of this year’s David Yurman Pre-Sell event. Women generously donated their new and gently used jewelry to the girls at Still Creek Boys and Girls Ranch. A transitional fashion show featured ways to wear fall fashion trends in the Texas heat.

DESIGNED FOR LIFE. CRAFTED FOR A LIFETIME. TM

Graduation Day

Thanks & Gig ‘em

Texas A&M Graduate and proud member of the Aggie family, David Gardner ’78 shares his favorite Aggie tradition and vows to keep it alive.

David Gardner proudly recalls the day he graduated from Texas A&M University as one of the most memorable moments in his life. Standing side by side with his wife, Julia and 5 year old daughter Angela, they all smiled and posed for a picture that would sit on his desk at their store more than three decades later. Countless things have changed in David’s life since that moment, yet some, including his commitment to the Aggie family remain constant.

David strongly feels that “the Aggie family is about giving what you have to Aggies who need it. I have been blessed with a successful jewelry business and plenty of experience to share.”

Center for Retailing Studies

As sponsors of the Center for Retailing Studies, Julia and David frequent Mays Business School, speaking to students interested in pursuing careers in the retail industry. While they thoroughly enjoy sharing their experience with students, both Julia and David promise they find such visits to be a valuable exchange of information.

Student Advisory Council

David Gardner’s commitment to staying relevant to and connected with Texas A&M students inspired them to create the David Gardner’s Student Advisory Council (SAC). The SAC consists of current Texas A&M students who meet monthly at David Gardner’s Jewelers to have dinner and discuss marketing initiatives going on at the store.

The Official Jeweler of Aggie Athletics

Several years ago, David Gardner’s Jewelers was offered the opportunity to be The Official Jeweler of Aggie Athletics and jumped at the chance. “It seemed like such a natural partnership and we were honored that they even considered asking us” remembers David.

Partnerships

As the Gardner’s involvement in the community was already an integral component of their philosophy, partnering with student organizations was a natural progression. We have been privileged to work with hundreds of student groups who positively impact our community in so many ways and these partnerships have become a highlight for our entire staff.

“Every time we meet with the SAC we dig deep into a current project we’re working on at the store. By the end of the meeting we’ve written pages and pages of notes with invaluable insight.”

“We can’t imagine what our store would be like without the energy that the students bring us.”

David, Julia & Angela on

A&M

A&M Cross Pendandt by Arista

This elegant pendant represents the wearer’s alma mater and faith. It is a beautifully symbolic piece of two important things to Aggie women.

KD Diamond Century Tree

This show stopping yellow gold and diamond medallion by rising jewelry designer, Katie Decker ‘10, features the timeless A&M tradition and symbol of love: The Century Tree. This pendant is also available in silver and gold without diamonds.

Garnet Dangle Earrings by Arista

These silver and garnet dangle earrings by Arista are a versatile addition to the Aggie woman’s wardrobe, taking her from day to night.

KD Silver Scroll Ring & Earrings

Commissioned by David Gardner’s Jewelers, Katie Decker ’10 designs a line of classic A&M pieces for women like this A&M pendant and earrings with feminine scrolling.

Logo Bracelet with Garnet by Arista

This sterling silver and yellow gold bracelet features a garnet stone in the shade of maroon every Aggie knows making it a perfect staple to complete any look

Michele Tahitian Jelly Bean in Maroon

Michele brings playful luxury to the Aggie fan with their maroon

Tahitian Jelly Bean. This watch features a chronograph movement and sporty strap and bezel to complete a game day look for the most stylish of Aggies.

Aggie Spirit

Generations of jewelry aficionados continue to patronize the original maker of the cultured pearl

Mikimoto, one of the world’s original luxury brands, remains highly sought-after today because of its ability to combine old-world tradition and craftsmanship with contemporary design. It is this articulate balance between convention and innovation that continually draws jewelry lovers from around the world of every age group to Mikimoto’s cultured pearl creations.

In 1893, Kokichi Mikimoto created the world’s first cultured pearl. So prized were these pearls that, before long, he had opened a store in Tokyo’s Ginza shopping district, establishing one of the world’s original luxury brands. Stores in Paris, London and New York soon followed, and since then, the brand has been selling the finest cultured pearls to the

world’s most glamorous women. Today, this 118-year-old jewelry brand is captivating a whole new generation of jewelry lovers, while at the same time maintaining the confidence and admiration of generations of women who grew up with the knowledge that owning a strand of Mikimoto cultured pearls means owning the very best.

What is it that is so alluring about this brand that it appeals equally to fashionable twenty-something women as well as those with more classic tastes?

“Today, Mikimoto is as much a modern jewelry company as it

Golden South Sea Pearl and diamond ring in 18k yellow gold.

White South Sea cultured pearl necklace with signature ball clasp, in 18k gold.

is a traditional pearl house,” Says Meyer Hoffman, COO of Mikimoto America. “Because of that, we consistently introduce new collections. Of course, we always have the classics, the simple and timeless white Akoya cultured pearl jewelry, but over the years, we have evolved as an important brand for accessorizing contemporary wardrobes.”

A look at Mikimoto’s latest styles reveals why the brand appeals to women of every age: each collection reflects current trends in fine jewelry:

LONGER LENGTHS: The newest look in Mikimoto cultured pearl necklaces is a collection of longer strands, ranging in length from 32 inches to an astounding 100 inches long. These versatile, longer strands make a captivating fashion statement when worn alone or layered with another piece of jewelry. Taking the classic beauty of a traditional choker to a whole new level, these necklaces add glamour to any occasion.

BLACK SOUTH SEA CULTURED PEARLS: Because of their breathtaking natural hues, Mikimoto’s Black South Sea cultured pearls are considered by fashion mavens and connoisseurs alike to be among the most distinctive of all gems. With their exotic origins and mysterious color palette, these pearls are versatile must-haves for anyone looking to make an edgy fashion statement. In direct contrast to the classic, feminine elegance of white pearls, Black South Seas are pearls with attitude, lending an air of confidence to the modern women who don them. Day or night, from the boardroom to the runway, Black South Sea cultured pearls are always appropriate.

BAROQUE SOUTH SEA CULTURED PEARLS: The natural beauty of Mikimoto’s Baroque South Sea cultured pearls is derived from their superb luster and beautifully asymmetric silhouettes. The unique, organic shapes of these cultured pearls make them a constant marvel to behold and a true fashion statement. Each jewel, seemingly the polar opposite to the traditional view of pearl jewelry, is a conversation piece. Baroque Couture is an exclusive collection of one-of-a-kind Mikimoto jewelry designed around the distinctive shape and size of each pearl. Nature determines the setting and Mikimoto designers fulfill each pearl’s destiny.

GOLDEN SOUTH SEA CULTURED PEARLS: This is the rarest of all the South Sea colors and these pearls are especially prized because of their exclusivity and unique tones, ranging from champagne color to a deep golden hue.

TWIST: Twist is a collection of organic, free-form designs utilizing South Sea cultured pearls. These jewels are intended to showcase the pearl from all angles, and Mikimoto craftsmen meticulously set and individually fit each pearl to accomplish this objective. Twist is easy-to-wear 18k gold jewelry, featuring white, black or golden South Sea cultured pearls, some accented with diamonds.

PEARLS IN MOTION™: In this collection, a patented mechanism gives the wearer the ability to reposition each pearl along the chain, creating an infinite number of looks, from a single necklace to a lariat or even a single long strand.

Mikimoto designs classics. Despite the many new collections introduced every year, the company still produces pieces that were designed 20 years ago. Mikimoto’s longstanding reputation for quality is key to this continuing cachet.

Mikimoto black South Sea multi-colored pearl strand.

Pearls in Motion collection in 18k white gold.

When Roberto Coin began to design and produce jewelry in 1977 on behalf of some of the most prestigious international brands of fine jewelry, he found himself quickly becoming one of the most sought-after designers in the business. He eventually launched his own brand in 1996, and has never looked back. Coin’s quirky yet elegant style, combined with the highest standards of craftsmanship, not to mention his winning personality and warmth, have brought him loyal admirers from around the world.

The secret to Coin’s success goes beyond talent; this man genuinely loves and understands the particular aesthetic of fine jewelry. “For me, it is more than high karat gold and sparkling diamonds,” he says. “Luxury is a complicated challenge in this more complicated world. Every person has his own idea of what luxury really means. In the end, it might be as simple as doing whatever you want, whenever you want, as long as it pleases you and all the people that you care about.”

18k yellow, rose, and white gold pave diamond twist ring.

CapriPlus bangles in 18k yellow gold with diamonds and Ebony Wood with Cognac diamonds.

“I have no doubts whatsoever that the future belongs to culture and style.”

Pallini three-strand necklace and drop earrings, in 18k yellow gold.

Teardrop shape CapriPlus necklace with pave diamonds in 18k yellow gold.

Among his latest creations – for people who wear “what they want” – is a line of eye-popping rings in the Haute Couture collection that are set with tone-on-tone gemstones in shades of green (peridot, tsavorite), red (tourmaline, pink sapphire), (citrine and topaz) and blue sapphire.

Coin’s home may be in a gold region, but the master jeweler draws upon a broad range of other precious materials, some of which he popularized in modern fine jewelry wardrobes, including enamel, black sapphire, pearls and his impressive proprietary round brilliant diamond cut, the Cento. This special cut boasts 100 facets, nearly double the number found in traditional round brilliant diamonds. The Cento diamond is set into exclusive bridal and fashion jewelry collections.

Whether wearing a formal design with high-quality diamonds or a playful high-jewelry scorpion, Roberto Coin’s greatest wish, in keeping with his philosophy of life, is that it be worn with pleasure.

Martellato bangle set in 18k yellow gold and silver.

In keeping with his extraordinary sense of whimsy, Coin has also designed a collection of Octopus-motif rings, which playfully cling to the finger in shades of brown diamonds, colorless diamonds and black sapphire. A scorpion bangle and earring collection in Coin’s trademark peach gold, set with colorless and black diamonds, rounds out this year’s collection of creatures!

Coin’s home is in Vicenza, Italy, the heart of the country’s gold jewelry production, but Coin’s interest in jewelry extends far beyond the borders of the medieval piazzas of Vicenza. His mastery extends from his world view of design, often inspired by the arts.

“I have no doubts whatsoever that the future belongs to culture and style,” he says. When he designs his jewelry, he imagines how his clientele would be dressed “in their different ways of living” and goes from there. “The result always points to style,” he says.

Oval rock crystal and diamond cocktail ring in 18k rose gold.

36” Jaipur Color necklace in 18k hand-engraved gold with mixed semi-precious colored stones.

Marco Bicego’s jewelry is the very definition of modern luxury: it embraces the values of old-world craftsmanship and blends them with the principles of everyday, modern style

IfIf you grow up, as Marco Bicego did, surrounded by precious gems and metals, there is a natural substance to the desire to create beautiful jewelry. Bicego learned the craft of jewelry making at the side of his father, Guiseppe, who had a manufacturing studio in their hometown of Trissino, in Italy’s jewelry-making Veneto region. Since launching his own brand, only nine years ago, Bicego’s

signature style – plenty of color and meticulously worked gold surfaces – has become internationally recognized.

Bicego’s appreciation for the beauty of finished gold surfaces lies at the heart of his collection. While many jewelry makers are letting small gemstones or minerals replace gold surfaces, due to the rising cost of gold, Bicego refuses to abandon his trademarkstyle.

The presence of glorious gold surfaces in his collections makes him especially unique today. “Gold is our primary raw material at Marco Bicego,” he says. “The entire line is crafted from 18k yellow and white gold. We will always design using gold, as it is intrinsic to our brand DNA and my personal goldsmithing heritage.” That heritage dictates that each piece is hand-tooled and hand-chiseled, with at least ten specialists working on every piece.

Colored stones are also an important part of the Bicego style. “In many of my collections, I work with semi-precious stones, including the Paradise and Jaipur collections. Usually they feature an assortment of citrines, amethyst, tourmalines and peridot. This year I’m also incorporating sapphires, emeralds and lapis as the evolution of color is very important to Marco Bicego.”

Wearability is also essential. “Our jewelry is meant to be worn every day – not saved in the jewelry box for that special occasion. I love seeing how my clients interpret the Marco Bicego style, and how they layer pieces.” For example, he wanted the gold Jaipur bangle, introduced last year and now a classic, to be wearable and relaxed, so he designed the gold to be flexible. “A woman can wear it all day without knowing it is even on her wrist,” he says, adding, “our flexible bangles can be easily

stacked and still comfortable – the more the better.”

When asked if he believes gold jewelry is an investment, Bicego replies yes but that, above all, it is an investment in personal style. “All fine jewelry is an investment, but I strive to create pieces that women can use every day and wear from the beach to a cocktail party. It’s what I like to call ‘everyday luxury’ – minimalist and clean-lined design. Our customers definitely see gold as an investment, but it’s also important to remember the element of craftsmanship. We create in Italy, and our artisans are trained in a way that blends old-world Italian hand craftsmanship with tradition, passion and imagination.”

Ultimately, Bicego says, “we encourage our customers to buy what they love and what they feel great in.” The collection travels easily from day into night; it’s collectible, stackable and versatile, and many of the collections can be mixed and matched with others. “Our customers know that if they purchase something from our Siviglia collection, for example, they could come back in a few months or next season and work a new piece from the Jaipur collection into their wardrobes,” says Bicego. Customers therefore tend to become collectors, with each new collection representing an opportunity to build a wardrobe of quality, stylish jewelry.

“Our jewelry is meant to be worn everyday–not saved in the jewelry box for that special occasion.

I love seeing how my clients interpret the Marco Bicego style, and how they layer pieces.”

Marco Bicego

Jaipur Color concentric earrings in 18k hand-engraved gold with mixed semiprecious colored stones.

The story of gold

is almost as old as the story of mankind –whether used for adornment, gifting or worship, it has always been highly valued. Today’s trends give us even more cause to adore

this precious metal.

byHEDDA SCHUPAK

Martellato ring by Roberto Coin, in 18k yellow gold.

Gold jewelry trends today

range from the avant-garde to bohemian and romantic. Even as runway fashion veers from bold eighties-style color to flowing, feminine, nouveau-hippie dresses to fall’s decidedly grown-up, ladylike restraint, the trends for gold are equally diverse.

According to the World Gold Council, the following seven categories, as chosen by top fashion editors, represent the jewelry trends for this fall:

1. Architectural influences:

These are highly structured pieces, with geometric shapes, angles and sculptural designs. They exude a look of being highly tailored and are perfect to pair with a skirt and jacket or a sophisticated sheath dress. This look is driven by the look of grown-up elegance that infuses fall fashions.

2. Organic:

This look is at the other end of the spectrum from the architectural style, including pieces with soft, fluid lines. These pieces are uncontrived and often nature-inspired, just right for channeling your inner flower child in a flowing maxi dress or piling on with fall’s new flared jeans. They tie into the “Boho Chic” trend in fashion.

Textured gold necklace by Marco Bicego.

3. Bold cuffs and rings:

The cuff and the cocktail ring have been prominent jewelry staples for a few seasons, and are becoming increasingly more elaborate. These chunky, eyecatching pieces demand attention and are good accompaniments to simple, structured silhouettes like a pencil skirt or sheath dress, yet they’re strong enough to stand up to a more dramatic jacket or sleeve.

4. Statement earrings:

These stand-alone pieces are designed for maximum impact, keeping the focus on the face. No necklace needed – simply don a pair of drop earrings and get on with your busy day!

Lattice ring by David Yurman, in 18k yellow gold with diamonds.

5. Symbolic:

Gold has symbolized the secrets of civilizations over the centuries, and today’s designs are no different. Meaningful and representative designs may bear hidden messages, secret meanings, or talismans – or even just a simple “with all my love” engraved inside a wedding band. Religious symbols, initials, family crests, or even a name necklace fit this trend as well.

6. Small and delicate:

The dainty design is the perfect finishing touch for more elaborate or ornate fashion outfits. Smaller pieces are also an excellent proportion for petite women who might feel overpowered by bolder designs. Lastly, it’s a budget-friendly way to stay on trend.

7. Tri-colored gold:

Long a favorite of the Italian goldsmiths, the combination of yellow, pink and white gold in single pieces is making a strong comeback. The great advantage of tri-colored gold pieces is that they are always guaranteed to match the single-colored gold pieces in your jewelry wardrobe. It’s a classic way to add a unifying element to mix and match jewelry.

(Gold naturally is a rich deep yellow, but alloying it with white metals such as silver, palladium, manganese, or nickel produces white gold. Alloying it with copper produces rose gold.)

Within these seven categories

are sub-trends, that include textured surfaces and airy, cut-out designs and blackened gold (oxidizing it produces a matte gray or blackened surface).

If bright and shiny isn’t your style, textured gold keeps the look understated. Hammered finishes add a touch of rugged or ancient inspiration, while soft satin or brushed finishes are the ultimate in quiet classic.

Rose gold, meanwhile, has enjoyed a tremendous surge in popularity in recent seasons, even for non-precious fashion jewelry and watches. It’s especially striking when combined with colored gems or accents of white gold or diamond.

Finally, the rising price of gold has driven designers to find new ways to create quality jewelry using less metal. One is through the use of negative space in design, where what isn’t there is just as important as what is. This trend is expressed in cutout motifs,

lace-like details, and other open, airy creations. Another way is through the use of technology such as electroforming to keep big and bold pieces light and comfortable. Electroforming is like the precious metal equivalent of a papier-mache mask: instead of paper strips on a balloon, a mandrel in the shape of the finished jewelry piece is formed from wax and dipped into a gold electrolyte bath. The inner form is then melted away, leaving only the outer gold shell.

Throughout the centuries, gold has been fought over, celebrated, and worshipped. Its price per ounce may be approaching a record high, but man’s – and woman’s – desire to own it has not diminished by a single ounce.

18k rose, white and yellow gold Primavera bangles by Roberto Coin.

Diamond and yellow gold Century Tree by Katie Decker layered with yellow gold A&M logo chain.

18k gold oval mobile earrings with turquoise briolette.

Midnight, Manhattan and the world of jewelry design according to David Yurman, the quintessential American designer

dDavid Yurman is one of America’s best-loved jewelry designers. This is perhaps because he has his finger on the pulse of what women are looking for today in jewelry. “I think what our loyal collectors are looking for are innovation and quality,” says Yurman. “We live by our brand promise — creating jewelry with quality materials and artisanal workmanship — yet we’re constantly evolving, with designs that are both classic and modern in feel.”

This quest for modernity makes Yurman more a leader than a follower of important trends. The emerging preference for the look of blackened metals, for example, “has been an organic evolution of our collections,” says Yurman. “Blackening was a technique I learned while working as a sculptor in my early years. I’ve worked with blackened metals now for over 30 years, and oxidized darkened silver for the past decade, when I launched the Midnight Ice Collection. In 2009, I introduced Midnight Mélange, which I created for the opening of the David Yurman Boutique at Printemps, in Paris. When you look at the heritage of our brand, you can see I’ve always been fascinated by the contrast of black metal with white diamonds, black diamonds and moonstones.”

His current collections include the Midnight Mélange collection of bangles made of blackened silver and set with diamonds, cocktail rings with silver, blackened silver, onyx, moonstone and other faceted gemstones; and a collection of long necklaces that, like the bangles, can be worn solo or in multiple layers, with stations of colored-gemstones and/or engraved gold beads.

Gold and silver cable motif cuffs, with smoky quartz, citrine and diamonds.

Yurman’s signature motif is the cable design, a Celtic motif first used in the sixth century. It is the thread that runs through his collections, and is part of what makes his pieces so collectible. The motif, according to Yurman, was inspired as much by the Brooklyn Bridge as it was by the symbolism of the Scottish Highlands. “I wanted to turn a raw and common element like cable into something refined,” he says. “For me, urban environments are a source of inspiration.”

In fact, Yurman’s fall advertising campaign, shot by world-class photographer Peter Lindbergh, is called “Born in New York,” and “conveys the energy of the city where my wife and muse, Sybil and I were both born,” says Yurman. “It was shot in locations throughout Manhattan, where we continue to live and work, and conveys the vibrancy and spirit of our new collections. It’s a departure from our St. Barth’s campaign, and we’re very excited about it — it’s some of Peter’s best work,” says Yurman.

Yurman, who trained as a sculptor, began to apply his talent for three-dimensional art to the creation of belt buckles and, eventually, jewelry, which he originally made for Sybil, a painter. Today, Yurman’s family-owned and operated enterprise is one of the largest privately owned jewelry companies in America. Sybil is his partner in the business, and son Evan is in charge of the men’s collections and timepieces. After 30 years, Yurman, 67, has become nearly as famous as the ambassadors in his advertising campaigns, including Kate Moss, Amber Valetta and Natalia Vodianova. Yurman works out of a 58,000 sq.-ft. corporate head office and studio in Tribeca and recently opened a 2,000-sq.ft. showroom, the David Yurman Townhouse, on Madison Avenue. His jewelry is sold through fine retailers throughout the U.S.

Yurman’s signature motif is the cable design, a celtic motif first used in the sixth century.

36” sterling silver, black onyx, and hematite Elements necklace.

Sterling silver Cordelia necklace with cable ring clasp.

FASHION

IfIf you own a simple strand of white round pearls and matching studs, that’s a great start, but pearl jewelry design has come a long way in the past few years, with as many exciting options as there are in diamond jewelry.

Color is one element that is adding a whole new dimension to pearl design. According to Adriane Broili, designer and fashion trend forecaster at The Doneger Group, “We’re see-

ing a lot of pearl jewelry on the runways , but they’re the more warmed-up pearls – peaches, pinks, creams and golds. They especially look good with the clothes, which also are not stark white, but instead, more white-washed and especially beautiful when accented with accessories in light creamy colors, like pearls.”

Another popular look this year is black Tahitian South Sea pearls set in either white metal or darker rhodium-plated white metal. If you wear a lot of black, this is a good jew-

byLORRAINE DEPASQUE

Above: Three row Paradise necklace by Marco Bicego in 18k hand-engraved gold with mixed pearls and semi-precious colored stones.

Below: Assorted bangles from Marco Bicego’s Africa Pearl collection in 18k yellow gold.

elry accessory. They also work with grays and whites because, although these cultured pearls are typically referred to as Tahitian black pearls, they range from light gray to dark gunmetal gray, often with bluish, peacock-green and eggplant-purple overtones.

Wearing pearl jewelry that matches the various shades of cultured pearls to the different shades of metal has an easy-on-the-eyes effect, much like pairing teal pants with a cobalt camisole with an azure scarf. “One of the strongest trends we’re seeing is contemporary pearl pieces with other colored gemstones in the same palette,” says Kathy Grenier, marketing and public relations director of the Cultured Pearl Association of America. A dark gray Tahitian pearl set alongside black diamonds or black sapphires, for example, is a bold, contemporary look.

“Jewelry right now is so much about color,” says Cindy Edelstein, president of the Jewelers Resource Bureau, a niche marketing firm specializing in the fine designer jewelry sector, “and since bold brights and soft pastels are both in vogue, any pearl colors you happen to like will be in fashion. It’s just such a perfect time for pearls!”

Edelstein adds that “I feel every woman should have at least one long pearl necklace that’s versatile enough to double- or triple-wrap, but I also think that owning a distinctive pearl bangle is key – for stacking on the arm with other gemstone and metal bracelets. “Layer and mix some of the pearl pieces that you buy with jewelry you already own – and not just other pearls you have, but gold, platinum and silver pieces.”

Whether baroque or round, “Every pearl has a heartbeat and a thumbprint,” says Grenier. “They’re exotic and rare. Sometimes a pearl may take up to five years to harvest and, when it is harvested and brought to life and finally becomes jewelry, it’s a celebration.”

Mikimoto Tempo earrings with Akoya pearls in 18K yellow gold.

Mikimoto black South Sea multi-colored pearl strand.

Surgeon of Time

Gardner’s Own Jerry Zerbe

Why choose an Official Rolex Jeweler?

The purchase of a Rolex Timepiece is an important decision. Only an Official Rolex Jeweler can guarantee the authenticity of your Rolex watch so you can be confident in the full value of your investment.

David Gardner's offers an opportunity for you to protect your investment in your Rolex watch and to maintain its impeccable standards of timekeeping. David Gardner's also guarantees the use of only genuine Rolex replacement parts and factory trained expertise.

There are many reasons to have your Rolex serviced with David Gardner's. One of them is that we staff our service department with world-class talent! Jerry Zerbe is one of the best. Only a limited number of Rolex jewelers are fortunate enough to have a certified Rolex technician located in their store. With over twenty years of experience, the Rolex service center in Dallas considers Jerry to be one of the finest Rolex technicians in the state of Texas. You can be assured that your valuable investment is in the hands of a highly-skilled and trusted professional.

David

I MAGINE THE PLACES THEY WILL GO .

THE ORIGINATOR OF CULTURED PEARLS. SINCE 1893.

Gumuchian

Designed by women, for women

Carousel necklace has over 11 carats of diamonds, set in 18k white gold.

Gumuchian is truly a family affair, going back to its origins in Istanbul, then to Antwerp and finally to New York. The family’s matriarch, Anita Gumuchian, designer and expert in coloured stone acquisitions, is joined by her daughers Myriam Gumuchian Schreiber, president of Marketing and Sales, and Patricia Gumuchian Grayson, president of Product Development and Manufacturing. Together this talented trio has created a brand with a superb reputation for innovation, originality, quality, and customer service. In terms of innovation and originality, Gumuchian has made three major contributions to the jewelry industry. First is the pioneering three-prong setting where the stones sit tight against each other. Second is the Captiva collection, the first to set diamonds in the shank of the ring as well as on top. The third is Twinset, where tiny diamonds are carefully set into the prongs holding the larger stones. Gumuchian was also one of the first to use platinum in its bridal lines in the 1970s. And the innovation continues. This year the talented trio is introducing “Lady G.” Crafted in diamonds and yellow and white gold with the same Gumuchian concern for high quality and unique design, it comes at a more affordable price point. With a tagline “Style Is Everything,” Lady G is inspired by glass window motifs found in different cultures, and comes in long chain necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and pendants, all with slightly different designs.

And, when it comes to quality, the mother-daughters team takes a hands-on approach. They inspect each piece — hand-made in their New York ateliers with unparalleled care and craftsmanship using the latest technology — to ensure that it meets the Gumuchian standard.

Our buyers at David Gardner’s Jewelers are not the only ones to recognize the trio’s talents. Award-winning Gumuchian jewelry has been seen on the Red Carpet and the Big and Small Screens, adorning celebrities such as Gisele Bundchen, Mariah Carey, Stacy London, Felicity Huffman, and Tatum O’Neill, among others. ©2011, International Jewlery Couture — Europa Star

AWARDS:

Women’s Jewelry Association Excellence in Design Award, 1995

Diamond Promotion Service Right Hand Ring Award, 2004 Couture Town & Country Awards, 1998, 2000 and 2004. Jeweler’s Choice Award, 2008

Lady Di Ring featuring 11.21ct oval Sapphire surrounded by 3 carats of diamonds, in platinum.

Twinset 3 stone platinum engagement ring.

Signature New Moon diamond hoops, in platinum.

“We have a French aesthetic to our jewelry. We learned our trade from French designers, who are very particular about the way they finish their jewelry.”

— Myriam Gumuchian

18kt yellow gold 1.5 inch Ivy hoop earring.

From the time she first played dress up in her mother's jewelry box , Katie Decker has had a love of jewelry. Although an artist since childhood, it was not until she was a sophomore in college that she began designing. Fittingly, the first piece Katie designed was a pearl pendant for her mother. Now named the "Ivy" pearl pendant, the original piece is still a stand out in the rapidly growing collection.

At just 23-years-old, and inspired by her travels and studies at Texas A&M, Katie has developed a beautiful collection for women of all ages and is now one of the industry’s rising stars in fine jewelry. Her fresh, youthful approach and eye for detail is reflected in her intricate designs. She strikes a balance between classic and contemporary; her designs evoke a timeless sophistication suitable for passing down through the generations. Using the highest quality materials, she melds diamonds, semi-precious stones and pearls with unique, playful designs available in 18k white, yellow and rose gold.

Ladylike glamour takes a front seat in Decker’s collection. Feminine, intricate pieces mix, match and layer for looks that can transform a woman from day to night.

With a special heirloom-like feel, the collection blends whimsical design and modern elegance with a vintage spirit. Katie Decker’s jewelry transcends the boundaries of ageless glamour. Her collection can now be found from Houston to New York City and will soon be on red carpets everywhere.

18kt yellow gold Elizabeth cuff with 2.2 cts diamonds.

18kt yellow gold Vine earrings with black onyx and 1.09 cts diamonds.

18kt

.47 cts diamonds.

18kt yellow gold Flower pearl pendant with South Sea pearl and .55 cts diamonds.

18kt yellow gold Tulip pendant with 1.6 cts diamonds.

18kt yellow gold Vine ring with black onyx and .36 cts diamonds.

yellow gold Ivy pearl pendant with Tahitian pearl and

The Rolex Submariner Oyster Perpetual is arguably the most iconic watch in the world, but this should not lead anyone to believe that Rolex is all about style and status without substance. Although the brand’s watches are widely imitated, they are rarely measured up to. Take the new Oyster Perpetual Date Just II, newly released in the a long-awaited stainless steel version. It is made not just of any kind of steel but tough, 904L steel. How tough? You could be frozen, beaten, submerged in 1,000 feet of seawater, incinerated or shot at, and your watch would survive, even if you didn’t. The bezel is Cerachrom, a patented high-tech ceramic that is developed in-house by Rolex from a single block of corrosionresistant ceramic. In fact, Rolex manufactures all of the materials in this watch at its facility in Switzerland, where it also alloys and refines its own gold – called Rolesor – and manufactures its own dials and movements. All Rolex watches are

certified by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronometres (COSC), which tests each watch and movement for waterresistance, durability and accuracy.

Another recent introduction, the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, created a stir among collectors when it was released. The Cosmo Daytona was originally introduced in 1963 and has not been updated since 2000, when it received a new, column-wheel movement. New in the latest model, sure to become a collector’s item, is a proprietary cerachrom bezel and a high-tech parachrom hairspring, allowing elapsed time to be measured to 1/8th of a second.

Lady Datejust in white gold, with appliqued floral motif.

The new Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona.

There is plenty of substance behind the flash of the world’s most recognizable watch brand

The exclusive world of

The visibility of Rolex as the world’s most recognizable status watch for men should not overshadow the brand’s recent innovations in the ladies’ segment.

Rolex’s new Datejust collection is a perfect example of how the brand has both remained on the forefront of innovation and yet retained its iconic look – including signature elements of the line such as logo crown, Cyclops date window with magnifying lens and distinctive case and bracelet design. All of these elements can be found on the new Ladies’ Datejust. New, ultra-feminine elements include applied floral motifs, gypsy-set diamonds on the bezels and color options that include purple or green dials. In short, this year Rolex has introduced one of the most decorative ladies’ collections on the market.

The applied floral motifs on the dials are produced using an electroforming technique involving a deposition of either rhodium, yellow gold or pink gold over a pattern created from a metal plate. The flowers, aside from identifying the watch unquestionably as a ladies’ style, add dimension and volume to the dial. The PVD technique used to color the flowers as well as the purple dial (available on rose or white gold models) and the olive green dial (available on the yellow gold model) are exclusive to Rolex and patented.

The brand’s gem setting is also performed in-house. The bezels on the new Datejust are set with 24 diamonds that are gypsy-set or 46 diamonds in a single row, and the Roman numeral at 6 o’clock are also diamond set. All setting takes place at Rolex’s Chêne-Bourg site, located in the eastern part of the canton of Geneva – one of four Rolex manufacturing sites in Switzerland. This facility is home to the brand’s in-house gemology department and houses all Rolex activities linked to dial creation and manufacture, including jewelry and gem setting.

The

Lady Datejust in steel and Everose Rolesor, with gypsy set diamonds on the bezel.

The iconic Rolex Submariner Oyster Perpetual.

Rolex Yachtmaster II.

how to buy a

Diamonds come in a dizzying array of sizes, quality grades and price ranges, so it’s important to be armed with a few tips about how to evaluate the options. Any diamond purchase begins with understanding the 4Cs: carat weight, clarity, color and cut. Each of these factors, alone and combined has an impact on a diamond’s value.

Carat: Obviously, the larger the diamond, the higher the price, as they are valued primarily on carat size. Larger diamonds are more rare than smaller ones and therefore the price per carat rises exponentially with the size of the diamond.

Clarity: This refers to the presence of flaws within a diamond. Marks on the surface are called blemishes. Internal marks are called inclusions. The amount, type, size and placement of these imperfections can diminish a diamond’s value. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) clarity scale, the industry standard, contains 11 grades: Flawless (FL), Internally Flawless (IF), Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2), Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2), Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2), and Included (I1, I2 and I3).

Color: The closer a diamond is to being colorless, the higher the grade. GIA’s color grading scale for diamonds, the industry standard, starts with the letter “D” (color-

less) and continues with increasing presence of color to the letter Z.

Cut: Some experts believe cut has the biggest impact on a diamond’s beauty. Cut reflects the quality of a stone’s proportions, symmetry and polish, which combine to create the ideal combination of light return, sparkle and fire — of course, there is no single ideal set of proportions, but certain minimum standards of excellence regarding a stone’s roundness, depth, width, uniformity of facets and quality of finish are considered when assigning a cut grade. The American Gem Society (AGS) diamond cut grading system ranks round brilliant stones (the most common cut) on a scale from 0-10, where 0 is “ideal” and 10 is “poor.” The GIA diamond cut grading system ranks cut for round brilliant diamonds on the following scale: “excellent,” “very good,” “good,” “fair” and “poor.” Ideal or excellent cuts reflect

most or all of the light that enters a diamond back to the eye; therefore, they are considered top-of-the-line, and will command the highest pricess. A poorly cut diamond is one in which its proportions cause light to be reflected out through the sides or bottom (pavilion) of the stone.

What makes the issue of “cut” so controversial is that different types of cuts — the number and arrangement of facets — affect a diamond in ways that become quite subjective. One cut might produce more sparkle or “scintillation” than light return, and some people prefer that. Or another cut might create fire — that is, it returns the light in a way that produces a spectrum of color, and although light return is usually highly valued according to most grading systems, some people prefer fire. This is the variable that factors in when it comes to branded diamonds. Hearts on Fire and Lazare Kaplan, for example, cut their diamonds to certain standards of excellence and to achieve certain effects.

Although diamonds are graded by very strict standards, each one is unique, and the only way to truly compare two stones is to look at them side by side. If you consult a jeweler you trust, you should have no trouble finding the diamond of your dreams — one with the size and quality you desire, in a price range you can afford.

Your proposal is the most intimate conversation you’ll ever have.

Win Big

Nita & Jim Anderson

Contest: DG Design Studio Giveaway

Winnings: A Custom DG Engagement Ring

Nita and Jim Anderson won the hearts of DG facebook fans with their video entry to win a custom engagement ring designed by David Gardner. Fans followed the DG couple through each step of the custom design process including voting for their favorite sketch.

Jeanene Smith Contest: DG Ring Makeover Contest

Winnings: $6,000 DG Ring Upgrade

When Jeanene Smith and her husband first said “I do” they exchanged a simple set of gold bands with an $80 price tag. After 25 years of marriage, Jeanene Smith won a stunning custom engagement ring designed by David Gardner in the DG Ring Makeover Contest. DG facebook fans were even involved in selecting David’s final design for the ring.

Taylor & Kameron Allison: Contest: Ritani Real Moments

Winnings: Feature in National Ad Campaign & Diamond Pendant

The Ritani Real Moments contest sought out to find actual couples who purchased Ritani engagement rings to feature in their national ad campaign. Winners and DG customers, Taylor and Kameron Allison were featured in multiple national ads for Ritani and were congratulated with a David Gardner’s Jewelers billboard along highway 6.

Enrika Olivarez Contest: DG Memories Photo Contest

Winnings: $1,000 David Gardner’s Shopping Spree & Feature in DG Magazine

In celebration of the Ritani Real Moments campaign, David Gardner’s hosted its own photo contest for the best DG Memory. Enrika Olivarez brought in the most votes and took home the grand prize with a picture of when her fiancé, Daniel Hinojosa proposed to her under the Century Tree.

Like us on facebook and follow us on twitter for the latest jewelry news & trends, DG behind the scenes information and the chance to win like these lucky fans:

A diamond engagement ring has served as a classic symbol of one’s commitment to love another person since the 15th century.

Over the past 25 years, jewelry from David Gardner’s has come to represent a similar vow. Our commitment to you.

Education

Julia and David Gardner firmly believe that having an extensive knowledge of jewelry is a fundamental component of the DG experience.

“The industry offers extensive training opportunities on all topics relating to jewelry and taking advantage of them is something we strive to do,” shares Julia.

The DG staff attends an average of five off site multi-day educational seminars per year, in addition to bi-monthly in store training from brand representatives from all over the United States.

“Jewelry education is something that our entire staff takes very seriously. Fortunately, our team has such a genuine passion for jewelry that they take advantage of every opportunity to learn more about it.”

Ethics

In1992, David Gardner’s Jewelers was extended membership into the American Gem Society (AGS) which consists of the nation’s top 5% of jewelers, appraisers, designers and suppliers. In order to be awarded membership, jewelers must demonstrate a strong commitment and corresponding effort to adhere to AGS standards including a dedication to ethics, knowledge and consumer protection.

“We pride ourselves on offering a luxury experience while offering fair and competitive prices to our customers.”

Service

Every aspect of the store’s business is fully encompassed in Julia and David’s commitment to provide superior customer service.

Customers in search of an engagement ring are offered an extensive selection of settings and diamonds in all shapes and sizes at competitive prices. They are carefully guided by a trained diamond expert through what can be a daunting task for many people. Our staff helps them select the ideal ring based on their unique style, budget and countless other variables.

For many jewelry stores, the customer service experience is over once the ring is purchased, but recently David changed that. In an effort to constantly improve the DG service experience, another commitment from David Gardner’s Jewelers was created and named DG Love.

“DG Love is a program that we developed to offer our bridal customer an added sense of protection and trust in us long after they’ve made their purchase. It’s our way of promising to take care of you and that is what we strive to do for all our customers.”