Jck who's who lr by Kim Corrigan

SPECIAL Marketing Supplement

THE INDUSTRY AUTHORITY DECEMBER 2014–JANUARY 2015 • JCKONLINE.COM

WHO’S WH Candid proﬁles of jewelry's biggest brands Get an uncensored, behind-the-bench look at your favorite designers and manufacturers. Plus: What’s selling and who’s buying—our annual state-of-the-market report.

Express and celebrate

your personality

Jennifer Lopez Collection by Endless Jewelry consists of 3 different bracelets and 62 different charms. J Lo has designed all bracelets and charms, and she is excited about the outcome:

My exclusive collection with Endless Jewelry embraces the attitude of being fun and elegant at the same time. It is also about letting each woman express her personality through her jewelry. The collection will let women celebrate what is unique and beautiful about themselves

Jennifer Lopez

endlessjewelry.us facebookcom/endlessjewelry

Bracelets and charms available exclusively in fine Jewellery stores across the United States and Canada.

endlessjewelry.us facebookcom/endlessjewelry

CONTENTS December 2014–January 2015

4 Market Watch Retailers and designers are gearing up for a stellar fourth quarter. BY KRISTIN YOUNG

12 Hispanic Lessons As the Latino population grows, so does your potential customer base. BY AMANDA BALTAZAR

Yellow gold: a top trend going in to 2015 (diamond, tsavorite, and Australian opal necklace; $25,500; Michael John Jewelry; 800-404-8633; michaeljohn jewelry.com)

PROFILES

40 Mark Henry Alexandrite

18 AGTA

42 Mira Style Jewellery Co.

20 BELLARRI

44 Obaku

22 Charles & Colvard

46 Pampillonia Designs

24 Dora International

48 Parlé Jewelry Designs

26 Effy

50 Roman and Jules

28 Elisa Ilana

52 Samira by Pink Diamond

30 Endless Jewelry

54 Samuel B.

32 GN Diamond

56 Shy Creation

34 Henderson Collection

58 Swarovski

36 Jewelex New York

60 Synchrony Financial

38 Jye’s International

62 Zen Diamond

COVER: PHOTOGRAPHS BY TED MORRISON. On the cover: tassel necklace in 18k gold with Ethiopian opal and diamonds, $11,600, Goshwara, NYC, 212-937-9727, goshwara.com; ring in 18k gold with Australian Lightning Ridge opal and diamonds, $13,299, Parlé Jewelry Designs, Pocatello, Idaho, 208-233-4059, parlegems.com

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JCK DECEMBER 2014–JANUARY 2015 jckonline.com

Sooner or later, the world’s most extraordinary gems will cross paths with

RAHUL KADAKIA. Here, Christie’s Senior VP, Head of Jewelry Americas, shares priceless insight into the jewelry business and the value of an expert education.

A master eye for gems … born or made? Coming from four generations of jewelers undoubtedly piqued my interest in this great business. But one needs to constantly train their eye by looking at gems – the more you learn, the better you will be at identifying and pricing gems, as well as being an effective salesperson and well-rounded businessman. Something most people don’t know about you. GIA is what brought me to Christie’s. After studying in Santa Monica, I attended a GIA Career Fair where I had my ﬁrst interview with the company.

Ok. Deﬁnitely a story there? I started work when I was 17 and ﬁve years into it, I thought I knew pretty much everything there was to know … until I enrolled at GIA. The Institute’s meticulous training and high standards exposed me to a whole new world of expertise.

Ultimate sales edge … emotion or expertise? Jewelry is an emotional shopping experience, but expertise plays a decisive role. It’s wonderful to show people a brilliant diamond, but it means more when you can follow up with a skillful explanation of the 4Cs exempliﬁed in that particular gem.

Lean economy. Less jewelry? At the nexus of the downturn in late 2008, we sold the Wittelsbach Blue Diamond for $24 million, a world record price back then for any gem ever sold at auction. When you have great gems and jewels, the money makes itself available.

Any advice to the up and coming? Don’t lose the passion that brought you to this business, and above all, keep learning every day.

GIA gratefully acknowledges those who use our resources to further world expertise in gems. Invest in your success at WWW.GIA.EDU

MARKET WATCH

RETAILERS AND DESIGNERS ARE GEARING UP FOR A STELLAR FOURTH QUARTER

BY KRISTIN YOUNG

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Ring in platinum and 18k rose gold with 10.28 ct. oval unheated pink sapphire, 2.53 cts. t.w. square-cut diamonds, 0.51 ct. t.w. pink diamonds, and 0.5 ct. t.w. colorless melee; price on request; Robert Procop, Beverly Hills, Calif.; 310-276-6041; robertprocop.com

Ring in 18k gold with a 7.95 ct. ruby and 2.05 cts. t.w. diamonds; $20,680; Carla Amorim, Chicago; 312-305-6476; carlaamorim.com

Gemma pendant in 14k rose and white gold with diamonds and lead glass–ﬁlled ruby; $4,395; Effy, NYC; 212-944-0020; effyjewelry.com

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Heading into the holidays and the new year, ﬁne jewelers appear to be in a celebratory mood. Even though anecdotal evidence suggests that traffic at the brick-and-mortar level is on a downward trajectory, the numbers aren’t showing it. According to an informal poll of retailers across the country, either sales have shifted online or people are choosing higherticket items, making up for any decreases in volume. Many owners, even in rural areas, report sales have bounced back to prerecession levels. Economically, the United States appears to be on a more solid foundation than the rest of the world. As of press time, the U.S. unemployment rate had dropped to 5.8 percent. For the week ending Nov. 9, Americans said the economy was “excellent” or “good,” according to Gallup’s Economic Conﬁdence Index. November also marked the strongest six months of economic growth in a decade. Falling gas prices are another bonus. In short, American middle class consumers, many of whom have gotten back on their feet, are spending again. Milton Pedraza, founder and CEO of the New York City–

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based Luxury Institute, predicts that, if they haven’t done so already, more and more of the middle class will make the stretch and buy into premium and luxury brands. But there is a caveat. A recent Bain & Co. study revealed that although the luxury retail channel is growing, even wealthy consumers are on the hunt for greater value for their money. Fine jewelry is increasingly viewed as an investment that has a high resell price, which, in turn, makes the category more valuable to today’s shoppers. “Consumers have a totally different set of values these days,” Pedraza says. Value is certainly a consideration for customers of JB Hudson Jewelers. “People of wealth are not feeling the pressure anymore,” says Jeannie Joas, president and CEO of the Minneapolis store. “They’re enjoying spending money again. The guilt factor is gone.” Joas’ customers are buying the classics along with a sprinkling of trendy designs. She’s also seeing young customers snap up colored stones as engagement rings, speciﬁcally dark blue, pink, and yellow sapphires. Custom-made, one-ofa-kind items represent value to shoppers. “They’re not afraid

Kate collection ear climbers in 14k rose gold with 0.41 ct. t.w. diamonds; $980; Shy Creation, Los Angeles; 213-623-8900; shycreation.com

to spend, but they want a very fun experience and they really want to take their time and to be educated,” she says. Investing in the store experience and building and nourishing relationships with customers are critical in today’s environment. Showing growth through expansion is no longer enough. “Pretty much anywhere you are located, you have to take the stores you have and make them more efficient and effective,” Pedraza says. “Any fool can build a lot of stores; it’s the comp store sales that really matter. One of the themes for the fourth quarter is to make your store a relationship center. Any new people you get in, nurture those going forward like you’ve never done before.” Cultivating a loyal customer base is particularly important in a retail environment where competition remains ﬁerce—a dogﬁght for an ever-shrinking percentage of market share. One way to pull ahead of the pack is to polish your reputation for great customer service. Word of mouth has always been important to small businesses, but social media has increased the pressure to please the customer and thereby protect your brand.

“My wife and I work really hard, and we’re focused on customer service,” says Kevin Main, owner of Kevin Main Jewelry in San Luis Obispo, Calif., a town with 10 ﬁne jewelry stores. Forty years ago, Main adds, he made a commitment to his customers to take care of them. “On every repair, we follow up and make sure it’s been done correctly,” he says. “We train our staff to listen and make corrections without hesitation.” The single-minded focus on customer experiences appears to have paid off for Main: “We’re back to 2007 numbers, and it’s not easy to achieve that,” he says. Customer loyalty, based on trust and satisfaction, is the foundation of the repair business at The Gem Lab, in Rochester, N.Y. With nine goldsmiths sitting at the bench, the demand for repairs has been a saving grace through the tough times, according to second-generation owner Paul Cassarino. “Even if someone isn’t buying, they’re still going to ﬁx Grandma’s old pieces,” he says. To instill trust in those who drop off pieces to be repaired, Cassarino has installed tiny cameras that are normally used for laparoscopic surgery that can show the customer identifying characteristics of a diamond and also pick

CODE Words collection ring in 18k gold, spells out dearest using diamond, emerald, amethyst, ruby, emerald, sapphire, and turquoise; $1,870; Lulu Frost, NYC; 212-9650075; ashlee@ lulufrost.com; lulufrost.com

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Old World 18k gold and blackened sterling silver open-circle mesh dangle earrings with diamonds; $7,990; Armenta Collection, Houston; 832-486-9500; armentacollection.com

31-inch necklace in 18k red gold with 1.19 cts. t.w. round diamonds; $18,800; Pink Diamond Corp., Los Angeles; 800-526-8121; pinkdiamondusa.com

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up inscriptions. “Trust is everything in our business,” he says. The Gem Lab’s diamond sales have also picked up, showing a 30 percent increase over last year, Cassarino says. Buyers tend to be older (from 35 to 55 years), earn higher incomes, and be more sophisticated about diamond purchases. Halo styles, simple settings, and rose gold and yellow gold accents are selling. An average price point for an engagement setting is $1,500, and diamonds can range from $5,000 to $8,000. The arctic chill and delayed summer put a damper on business for Cornell’s Jewelers, also in Rochester. But with a strong July through September and a six-ﬁgure sale in October, president David Cornell is optimistic about sales for the holidays and beyond. “I think overall the mood here is better than it was at the beginning of the year,” he says. In a store that attracts ﬁrst-time bridal customers, purchases are price-driven. “Quality doesn’t seem to be as important,” Cornell says. “The diamonds I wouldn’t carry in the store 10 years ago, we’re carrying now.” In other categories, customers are all over the board, with some gravitating toward $400 to $800 self-purchases from fashionable brands like Alexis

JCK DECEMBER 2014–JANUARY 2015 jckonline.com

Bittar, Armenta, and Chan Luu, while others are purchasing high-profile fine jewelry brands such as John Hardy, Tacori, and Marco Bicego. Cornell’s wife, Olivia, is seeing a resurgence of yellow gold. Popular items include earrings, stacked bracelets, and layering necklaces. Thanks to a strong regional economy and the rise of small entrepreneurs in the city, the average ticket is up to about $7,000. “Average ticket is up, less volume,” Cornell says. In the meantime, jewelry designers are feeling upbeat as well. “Incredible” is how Anna Sheffield describes her designer jewelry business, now based out of her first retail store in New York City. “The store totally added to our revenue and added to the customer experience,” Sheffield says of the year-old location on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. “It’s in a space that is indicative of my interests and aesthetics and surrounded by art galleries and restaurants. The windows are playful and are a way to develop a dialogue with people.” Sheffield has added fragrance and art collaborations to the store to enhance the customer experience, and is thinking about adding new retail locations. Her clients tend to be fashion-forward and appreciate mixes of rose and yellow gold,

Jennifer Yamina necklace in 14k yellow gold with 1.69 cts. t.w. citrine and 0.22 ct. t.w. diamonds; $1,100; Dana Rebecca, Chicago; 312-7011773; danarebecca designs.com

18k yellow gold ring with 8.56 ct. topaz and 2.32 cts. t.w. diamonds; $8,800; Pampillonia Designs, Richardson, Texas; 214-503-7272; pampillonia designs.com

black gold, and odd stone combinations. Repeat business, referrals, and social media have boosted her brand, she says. Bucking the downward trend in foot traffic, the number of people walking into Louis Anthony Jewelers in Pittsburgh has been robust during the summer and into fall. “We’re looking forward to it escalating during the holidays,” says store buyer and designer Amie Guarino, the daughter of owners Lou and Veronica Guarino. “We’re expecting a strong holiday season.” Now that gold is more affordable, the jeweler is seeing interest in gold in shades of yellow, rose, and white, with selfpurchases in the $2,000 and under range. “The rose gold department has really grown in size, and people are playing with mixing yellow, rose, and white,” Guarino says. “A lot of designers are showing that look, giving the public the conﬁdence to wear mixed metals.” Bracelets and pendants are best sellers at Louis Anthony, as are long chains and short collars from brands such as David Yurman, John Hardy, and Gucci. Guarino is also testing trendy items, such as ear climbers and midi rings, from lesser-known brands, including Marli and Mrs. T. Jewels. By keeping a close watch on inventory and balancing

contemporary designs with classics, she expects the store will remain a go-to spot throughout the holidays and beyond. A major highway under construction has made it hard for people to reach Moyer Fine Jewelers in Carmel, Ind. But the project is expected to wrap up by the holidays, and buyer Karyn Tarnacki says the store is gearing up for a “record-breaking” fourth quarter. “We’re super excited about 2015 because it’s only getting better,” she says. “We’re one of the richest towns in the Midwest, gas prices are under $3—we’re going back to a time when things were good.” With consumer conﬁdence rebounding, Tarnacki says, Americans are once again investing in luxury items. “For so long, people were petriﬁed; they didn’t want to purchase what they didn’t necessarily need.” These days, Moyers customers are looking for classic diamond pieces, halo necklaces, and bangles, priced between $2,500 and $5,000. While retailers’ expectations for the future are bright, the recession continues to cast a shadow. “I’m more positive than even a year ago, and we’re back up [to prerecession levels],” Main says of his West Coast jewelry store. “But it could go the other way tomorrow.” ■

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N ATU R A L EX P R ESS ION Fearless attitude and style with an endless selection of ямБne jewelry E F F YEJFEFW YE JL ER WY. EC LR OY. MC O 1.8 M5 51.8 .AS 55 K..A ES FK FY .E F F Y I N Q UI INRQI E USI R @IEEFSF@YEJFEFW YE JL ER WY. EC LR OY. MC O M

NAT U RAL E X PRE S S ION Fearless attitude and style with an endless selection of ďŹ ne jewelry

HISPANIC LESSONS AS THE LATINO POPULATION GROWS, SO DOES YOUR POTENTIAL CUSTOMER BASE BY AMANDA BALTAZAR PHOTOGRAPH BY GREG SORENSEN STYLING BY BROOKE MAGNAGHI

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Demography may sound like a subject best left for urban planners, but it matters more to your business than you might expect. Knowing the composition of the population in your region—from people’s ages to incomes to ethnicities— can help you ﬁne-tune your marketing. This is especially true for retailers with Hispanic, or Latino, customers, because that market represents a huge opportunity for those prepared to position their stores appropriately. Hursts’ Berwyn Jewelers in Berwyn, Ill., for example, saw a dramatic uptick in the number of Hispanic customers coming through its doors in 2009. “Until that point I had not had any Spanish speakers in my store, but when I hired a Brazilian man who spoke Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish, it dramatically changed the character of the people coming in,” says Kathy Hurst, who has owned the store for more than 45 years. “It seemed that even if they were English-speaking Hispanics, they appreciated it because they felt there was someone who understood them. There was a sense of comfort.” Since then, the Brazilian employee has left and Hurst hired Domenica MavrukMartinez, a bilingual Peruvian. “If customers look Hispanic or have a Hispanic surname, she’ll speak Spanglish [a blend of English and Spanish] to them,” Hurst says. “You are respecting their background and their tradition, but you’re not treating them like an import.”

Petite Metro bar necklace in silver with black diamonds, Petite curb chain earrings in silver with colorless diamonds, $1,200–$2,200, David Yurman, NYC, 212-752-4255, davidyurman.com; trio of bands in silver with green amethyst and 18k gold accents, $140, Midas Chain, Bergenﬁeld, N.J., 201-244-1150, midaschain.com

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14k yellow gold cruciﬁx earrings; $99; Rand & Paseka Mfg. Co., NYC; 800-2290006; sales@ randpaseka.com; randpaseka.com

Monogram in 14k gold with 0.5 ct. t.w. diamonds; $2,967; Overnight Mountings, New Hyde Park, N.Y.; 888-7311111; overnight mountings.com

Many Hispanics were born and raised in the United States—more than ever, according to the Pew Research Center in Washington, D.C. Early this year, the organization revealed that the U.S.-born Latino population is growing at a faster rate than the immigrant population. The Hispanic market deserves attention from all retailers. It’s 53 million strong, according to Pew, and that number’s getting bigger. Right now, Latinos constitute 17 percent of the U.S. population, but that ﬁgure is expected to reach 31 percent by 2060. The Hispanic population’s growth is outpacing any other ethnic group. And the stereotypes of blue-collar Hispanic workers should soon be dissipating. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, this demographic is affluent. Hispanics had a total of $1 trillion in buying power in 2010, and that amount’s expected to skyrocket to $15 trillion by next year. Household incomes among Hispanics are impressive, to say the least. According to the Census Bureau, Hispanics earning $100,000 and more make up the income group that’s growing fastest. But you need to meet Hispanic customers on their own ground, even while they’re in your store. “Having [employees] who speak customers’ language is very important. It’s welcoming and shows you value them,” says Roberto Siewczynski, executive vice president at Catapult Marketing in Dallas. “Just saying ‘Hablo un poco de español’ helps,” says Kelly Wade, co-owner of Shetler Wade Jewelers in San Antonio. “You’re being candid and vulnerable. You may be making an idiot of yourself, and that tells them it’s okay if they make mistakes in English.” That’s just one way to ensure that Latino customers feel comfortable in your store. “A lot of Hispanic people are intimidated walking into a high-end jewelry store,” says Mavruk-Martinez of Hursts’ Berwyn. “Latinos in general want to feel like they’re in someone’s home.” Jewelry stores that don’t cater to Hispanic shoppers do so at their peril—especially independent stores. According to a 2011 report from the Jewelry Consumer Opinion Council (JCOC), 30 percent of Hispanic consumers say that’s where they prefer to shop for jewelry

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Helios partition ring in 18k yellow gold with 0.75 ct. t.w. diamonds; $7,200; Halleh, NYC; 646-3890109; halleh.com

(the top choice, for 39 percent of respondents, was department stores). And the report showed 79 percent of Hispanic consumers planned to purchase at least one item of ﬁne jewelry in the following 12 months, with a median retail price point of $250. The JCOC estimates that the Hispanic jewelry market in the United States is worth $8.7 billion— nearly six times higher than its estimate of the market in 2005.

FAMILY TIES Growing your Hispanic customer base can exponentially increase your sales because Hispanics tend to be loyal consumers and are very inﬂuenced by friends and family. “When you give Hispanics a good price and good service, you get the whole family,” says Steven Zale, chairman emeritus of Zalemark Holding Co. in Sherman Oaks, Calif., which created the Hispanic shopping network Compra Lux. This word-of-mouth referral can be strengthened by great social media campaigns. According to the Pew Research Center, 80 percent of Hispanic adults use social media, compared with 72 percent overall for the U.S. population. Yet with social media being the easiest way to reach Hispanic shoppers, most retailers do not employ Spanishlanguage advertising or marketing. “They don’t want to be marketed to as Hispanics,” says Zale. “Hispanics, especially those who are fully assimilated, don’t want to be singled out as a particular demographic.” “We have done direct marketing to that population, but we’ve found more generic advertising works overall in terms of how far the advertising dollar goes,” says Eric Shelton, president of Shelton Jewelers in Albuquerque, N.M. “Our clientele mostly speaks and reads English, so there doesn’t seem to be an issue.”

(PREVIOUS PAGE) MARKET EDITOR: JENNIFER HEEBNER. MAKEUP BY REBECCA CASCIANO AT LVA ARTISTS. HAIR BY GUSLÉNE BUBAK. MANICURE BY JOI OFFUTT FOR PAINTBOX. BLOUSE BY HAUTE HIPPIE.

BY THE NUMBERS

“Generally, Hispanics are very fashionable,” Hurst says. “We’ve made an effort to buy some fashionable things like bigger earrings, things that have a little pizzazz and are more fashion-forward.” Jewelry, Alcántara-Diaz says, “is about the enhancement of the visual appeal and how it will reinforce who [Hispanics] are.” And, she adds, “Hispanic men like that about Hispanic women—that they spend time on those little touches with their appearance.” Jewelry is a more casual purchase for Latino shoppers, says Brandon Proctor, CEO of Ice.com, adding that Hispanic shoppers are one of the fastest-growing segments of his customer base. “It’s icing or an accessory for daily wear, and customers are usually purchasing items between $100 to $500 once every couple of months.” Children’s jewelry is a signiﬁcant part of the Hispanic market. Piercing baby girls’ ears shortly after birth is fairly standard practice in many Hispanic cultures, so simple gold studs are a great opportunity for jewelry stores. Following that, there are baptisms, communions, and quinceañeras (sweet-15 celebrations)—all signiﬁcant gift-giving occasions for this demographic. They see jewelry “as something that lasts forever…something to be left to future generations,” Alcántara-Diaz says. Popular items, she adds, are gold necklaces, patron saint medallions, crosses, and delicate earrings. “It’s customary to gift children with jewelry,” she says, “and this jewelry can be an entry into a relationship with a brand.” ■

Initial pendant in 14k gold with 0.03 ct. t.w. diamonds on 16-inch chain; $495; KC Designs, NYC; 800-552-3790; kcdesignsnyc.com

AFTER PRICE, THE TOP THREE VALUE DRIVERS FOR HISPANIC FINE JEWELRY PURCHASES ARE: Style and design Quality of materials and workmanship Guarantees and warranties

Ryan Berg, market president at Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry in San Antonio, agrees: “I believe the sophisticated Spanish-speaking client understands English and will pick up English literature.” Berg says he does some targeted marketing to Hispanics, through strategic partnerships he’s formed with local Hispanic-friendly companies and hospitality services, though he declined to reveal more information. “We pool resources, ideas, and knowledge.”

59.1% 42.6% 36.9%

THE THREE MOST POPULAR COLORED GEMSTONES AMONG LATINO CONSUMERS ARE: Ruby Sapphire Emerald

21.9% 15.1% 14.9%

THE SECRET: SERVICE By all accounts, the crucial element of the shopping experience for Hispanic consumers is customer service. “Employees should be knowledgeable about your brand and product portfolio and be able to share it,” says Gabriela Alcántara-Diaz, president of Miami’s GADMarketing Communications and education chair and treasurer for AHAA, a trade organization that promotes Hispanic marketing and advertising. “And they should be culturally sensitive, understanding the role jewelry plays for this demographic and the important gift-giving occasions.” Mavruk-Martinez says the key is to show Hispanic shoppers that you genuinely care. “It’s most important to not hard close a Hispanic,” she says. “Hard closing will ensure they are done.”

TASTES & TRENDS Jewelry plays a larger role in the lives of Hispanic women compared with mainstream American customers, Alcántara-Diaz says, and high-quality gold—especially yellow gold and rose gold—dominates, as do bold styles. Hispanic women also tend to like jewelry featuring their names and showing their ties to Christianity.

Highborn collection branch earrings with pearl drop, vermeil, and CZ accents; $240; Elisa Ilana, Omaha, Neb.; 402-926-3479; elisailana.com

THE LEADING REASONS HISPANICS WEAR JEWELRY ARE: PERCENTAGE CHOOSING “ALWAYS” OR “OFTEN”

To express my personal style 58.9% To match an outﬁt/accessorize 58.6% To mark a special occasion/milestone 58.2% Because I am married I wear a wedding ring 55.3% Received jewelry as a gift 50.9% To be trendy or fashionable 45.7% To feel special 44.6% Tradition 41.6% Religious reasons 23.1% To convey wealth/status 20.2% SOURCE: JEWELRY CONSUMER OPINION COUNCIL 2011 REPORT

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SAVE the DATE one2one FEBRUARY 1, 2015

FEBRUARY 2 - 7, 2015

JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort Tucson, AZ

MAY 26 - JUNE 1, 2015 (By invitation only May 26 - May 28, 2015)

MAY 29 - JUNE 1, 2015

Four Seasons/Mandalay Bay/The DELANO Las Vegas, NV

Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino Las Vegas, NV

MAY 29 - JUNE 1, 2015 (By appointment only)

Four Seasons/Mandalay Bay/ Mandarin Oriental/The DELANO Las Vegas, NV

jckonline.com/shows

NEW YORK

JULY 26 - 28, 2015 The Waldorf Astoria New York, NY

THE

BIG ASK THE INDUSTRY’S LEADING PERSONALITIES GIVE US THE SCOOP ON THEIR BACKGROUNDS, COMPANY PHILOSOPHIES, BEST-SELLING DESIGNS, AND—AMONG OTHER PERSONAL TIDBITS—THEIR GUILTY PLEASURES

D’oro collection pendant in 14k gold with 0.72 ct. t.w. diamonds; $3,060; Effy, NYC; 212944-0020; effyjewelry.com

The first website Laura Medine, creative director and designer of Mark Henry Alexandrite, checks each morning is The Man Repeller. But she’s no misandrist. She’s just a doting mom. The popular fashion blog is the brainchild of her daughter, Leandra. More about Laura you probably didn’t know: Her guilty pleasure is corn muffins, her oldest son designs for Khai Khai Jewelry, and her favorite film is The Thomas Crown Affair. It’s amazing what you can learn about someone if you simply ask. That explains why we again assumed the role of “grand inquisitor” for our second annual Who’s Who. Take Effy founder and designer Effy Hematian: He has a penchant for Armani suits, green tea, and building his own homes (he’d be an architect if the jewelry trade hadn’t seduced him first!). Mike Bagull, vice president of luxury markets for Synchrony Financial, is addicted to AMC’s The Walking Dead; places a trip to Australia and New Zealand at the top of his bucket list; and about six months ago welcomed his first child, a boy named Ryan (with some help from his wife, Lauren, of course!). That’s just a taste of what you’ll find in the nearly two dozen profiles that make up JCK’s 2015 Who’s Who supplement. Use it as a resource to discover new vendors—and perhaps even make a few friends along the way.

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WHO’S WHO: AMERICAN GEM TRADE ASSOCIATION

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA)

AGTA SPECTRUM AWARDS™ 2015 WINNER, JOHN DYER

is an association of United States and Canadian trade professionals dedicated to promoting the

The AGTA Spectrum AwardsTM is the most important gemstone competition in the industry. Why?

long-term stability and integrity of the natural colored gemstone and cultured pearl industries.

The AGTA Spectrum AwardsTM is the premier colored gemstone and cultured pearl jewelry design competition, providing both emerging and seasoned artists with the industry’s signature platform to display their work in a competitive environment. It is also our most direct conduit to the fashion world outside our industry. Our media event for all of the approximately 500 entrants is attended by scores of editors, bloggers, and stylists who tell us it’s the go-to event to discover the most important emerging trends in jewelry.

The association pursues its goals through the combined use of educational programs, publicity, industry events, government and industry relations, and printed materials for both the trade and consumer. The AGTA is well-known in the gemstone and jewelry industries for maintaining the highest ethical standards.

AMERICAN GEM TRADE ASSOCIATION What’s in your DNA? The AGTA is the authoritative voice on colored gemstones and cultured pearls in North America. What lights your fire? Finding or developing jewelers and consumers who are just as passionate and excited about color as we are and then providing the right opportunity to bring them together. Who do you serve? We have more than 1,200 members, consisting of gemstone traders, retail jewelers, manufacturers, appraisers, and other jewelry professionals. We are a resource for the entire jewelry industry, and the established source for anyone who wants to improve their business in color. We at the AGTA are inspired to provide our members with a powerful marketplace, advocacy, education, marketing tools, and industry networking, for the purpose of growing the colored gemstone and cultured pearl business. Paparazzi sightings: You will definitely find our members in full force at AGTA GemFairTM Tucson, the most important gemstone trade show in the world. It is our members’ most significant marketplace. We are almost as large a group with our AGTA GemFairTM at the JCK Las Vegas show, followed by the Smart Show in Chicago, and the JA New York show. You can find our manufacturing and retail members in cities across the U.S. and Canada. If you watch any number of red carpet events, you’ll see our members’ jewelry adorning the celebs.

And if you’re fortunate to travel extensively, you may encounter one of our members. They’re often prowling the streets of Bangkok, crouched among the guaqueros, on a remote mountaintop in Columbia, or haggling over pearls along the Yamamotodori in Kobe, Japan in the tireless pursuit of their craft.

AGTA GemFairTM Tucson. Our consumer site, www.addmorecolortoyourlife.com, is where anyone can learn about gemstones and cultured pearls, red carpet highlights, color in fashion, and buying tips when considering gemstones for purchase. AGTA SPECTRUM AWARDS™ 2015 BEST OF SHOW, LEON MEGE

The AGTA is best known for GemFairTM Tucson. What sets it apart? The most consistent remark I get about GemFairTM Tucson from the people who attend is, “It’s my favorite show.” Sure, the exhibitors are the most reliable, most experienced, and most trustworthy dealers in our industry, but it goes well beyond that. Buyers are able to focus on one product category in an atmosphere of casual sophistication, camaraderie, and trust. They also enjoy relaxing in the beautiful Tucson weather.

What can we learn about you at your digital address? We actually have two websites! The AGTA’s industry website (www.agta.org) is where you can ﬁnd the AGTA’s Source Directory, the complete guide to locating natural colored gemstones, cultured pearls, and support service suppliers. It’s also a helpful, go-to source for essential gemstone information and cost-effective education modules for retail employees, stock photography, information about membership perks, and registration information about our crown jewel, the

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What’s something you wish more people knew about you? AGTA members can interact with one another about professional development, industry trends, marketing tips and more via the AGTA’s exclusive Facebook community. They can post offers to buy and sell, ask advice from colleagues and experts in their ﬁelds, search for difficult to ﬁnd items, etc. All of this occurs in a closed community of AGTA members, kind of like a virtual GemFair.

We hear gemstone artists dig you. Why? Because they are the artists, and we DOUGLAS K. HUCKER, CEO

are their muse. Artists come to the GemFair, look at a baroque pearl, and see a dancing dragon! They give it life with their skill and creative wizardry. They labor furiously to prepare their new creation for the AGTA Spectrum AwardsTM, they win, they ﬁnd a perfect home for their piece, and then they begin the love affair all over again.

What’s a fun fact about CEO Douglas Hucker that most people don’t know? As a senior in high school,

AGTA SPECTRUM AWARDS™ 2015 PHOTO SHOOT

Doug won the Best Actor award for playing George Antrobus in Thornton Wilder’s The Skin of Our Teeth.

retailers manufacturers cultured pearl dealers colored gemstone dealers colored diamond dealers industry professionals estate jewelers educators

If you are looking for a professional organization that actively advances and promotes long-term stability and integrity in the natural colored gemstone and cultured pearl industries as well as help you expand your business by increasing your profits, then look at AGTA. You will come to rely on profitable business relationships with the trusted AGTA Members. Call 800-972-1162 or go online at www.agta.org.

WHO’S WHO: BELLARRI

As a true jewelry artist, BELLARRI brings you into a world beyond fashion.… A world where each breathtaking creation becomes a “timeless masterpiece of design.” It is the feminine and whimsical inﬂuences in art and life from which Bellarri derives her inspiration and passion. The true essence of her designs are meant to depict her personal truth that “romance and dreams are alive in the heart of all women.” Bellarri lives by her philosophy that “true artists are not redundant. They embrace their individuality and engage their passion to create vibrant and meaningful expressions in art.”

TANGO COLLECTION

TUSCANY COLLECTION

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: All of my award-winning designs, of course, but this year I am extremely proud of our Tuscany and Tango collections, which feature sleek and contemporary designs with magniﬁcent cutting techniques and intricate detail on the gemstones. These collections showcase the most innovative and advanced layers of faceting within a channel setting. The ﬁnished product is simply breathtaking!

BELLARRI: For the Woman Who Desires to Be “Simply Exceptional” Number of years in the biz: 36. Number of employees: Over 250 across continents.

Number of locations: Headquarters in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Do you manufacture in the USA? We have our factory in Scottsdale and abroad. Elevator pitch on your company: The BELLARRI name is synonymous with luxury, elegance, and cutting-edge design. As a true leader in high-fashion color gemstone jewelry, we continually push the envelope by utilizing extraordinary and challenging cutting and setting techniques, which bring out the natural beauty of the gemstones within our designs. The BELLARRI brand has enormous breadth and depth in design and color gemstones to personify the individual style of every collector, making color gemstone jewelry the fashion statement and necessity it is today.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? Continuing the tradition of remaining a “true design house.” To maintain the integrity of a brand, the ﬁgurehead must be the inherent actual designer who sets the standards for the brand with everything being done in-house versus outsourcing. A true artist has a style and a vision that are fundamentally intrinsic in the brand identity. As CEO/ Artist, my designs represent my vision, my

heart, and my soul. We know exactly who we are, and we don’t try to emulate anyone. A true design house leaves its own mark and creates its own legacy. We start with the sketch and rendering and bring every piece to life. Current product offerings: Fashionforward 18k and gemstone collections.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Designing fabulous clothing!

Family and pets: Loving husband, three children, and three gorgeous grandchildren. Jewelry you’re wearing right now: My Valentina collection in luscious champagne and smoky quartz.

What jewelry are you best known for? Creating an architectural labyrinth in design like our award-winning Circle of Love, Ms. Genevieve, Marietta, and Mademoiselle collections.

VALENTINA COLLECTION

CIRCLE OF LOVE PENDANT

Describe your personal style: Dramatic, sophisticated, and timeless.

Five items on your desk right now:

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: A true artist should capture the

My iPhone, fresh ﬂowers, a sketch pad, a cup of green tea, and a picture of my parents to remind me of who I am. Favorite music: Andrea Bocelli. I love romantic music. Guilty pleasure: Hot cappuccino and irresistible chocolates. How do you unwind? With a good book. What’s on your bucket list? More award-winning designs and travel. I’ve traveled extensively around the world— would love to continue. Favorite movie: I love the classics—I like to keep romance and dreams alive.

eyes, the soul, and the heart with every creation. My designs are visions that come from the heart; as such, I create with every collector in mind.

First piece of jewelry you designed: Waterfall ring.

Your best-selling piece of jewelry: Mosaic collection.

BELLARRI AND HER HUSBAND BARRIE ADLEMAN

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Dare to dream! Worst piece of advice: Play it safe and follow the masses.

First job ever: I have always been an artist.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? Pursuing my dream… hard work and perseverance.

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MOSAIC COLLECTION

Who would play you in your life story? Someone young and sexy! Personal motto: Always maintain personal integrity in everything you do.

Biggest joy in your life: My family.

From playing drums in the early 70’s with a touring James Brown to his current role at the helm of Charles & Colvard®, Randy McCullough was and continues to be a trendsetter. He’s turned his passionate creative energy into what has become a multi-decade career within the diamond and ﬁne-jewelry industries. Randy and his team continue to push boundaries using their proprietary technology to create uniquely beautiful gems by selecting the best natural raw materials and capitalizing on mineral growing methods that respect and protect the earth.

RANDY MCCULLOUGH WITH A MOISSANITE STONE WEIGHING MORE THAN 300 CARATS

Current product offerings: Forever Brilliant® and Classic Moissanite™ gemstones; moissanite jewelry containing Forever Brilliant® and Classic Moissanite™ gemstones; the Survivor Collection™ for cancer survivors; and two direct-sales companies: Lulu Avenue™ and Moissanite.com.

CHARLES & COLVARD, LTD.: Number of years in the biz: 42. Number of employees: 75+. Do you manufacture in the USA? Yes. Elevator pitch on your company:

boon for us, because the designers and customers in these niche businesses love alternative gems.

Charles & Colvard is the sole source for moissanite. After years of innovation, researchers patented a process for creating pure silicon carbide in a high-tech lab in North Carolina. The result: a gem with brilliance and beauty that surpasses all other gems at a fraction of the cost.

our imagination. Innovation will take us places we haven’t yet imagined. There is nothing we won’t be able to create that currently exists only in nature.

There are very few retailers who are embracing technology, but they need to pick up the pace. I’m surprised at how poor the websites are of most retailers after the huge success of Blue Nile. What needs improvement? Embracing change. Our product is a great example: There is an enormous opportunity for jewelers to increase their diamond semimount sales and proﬁts by utilizing Forever Brilliant® loose gems. Most have signiﬁcant inventories of branded semi-mounts. A typical consumer is credit worthy around $4,000 to $5,000, a combination that’s achievable using a Forever Brilliant® center stone. This provides an opportunity to close the sale and acquire customers while offering them a future trade-in toward a diamond center stone.

Where do you see the jewelry industry 10 years from now? The

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: My father always said, “You have

jewelry industry right now is like the music industry was a decade ago: stuck in tradition and afraid of innovation, though the world is changing at lightning speed. In our industry, businesses like Etsy are popping up to meet the needs of consumers who are ignored by retailers that don’t value the way they see the world. It’s a

two feet: One will always be in the present, it’s up to you whether you put your other foot in the past or the future!”

What jewelry are you best known for: Forever Brilliant®, a ﬁner grade of moissanite and up to four shades whiter than Classic Moissanite™, which provides affordable luxury with a gem that’s more brilliant than any other.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? The only thing limiting us is

What is the industry doing right?

What advice would you offer someone who wants to break into the business? Go with a company that embraces today’s customers and how they shop, because that’s the successful business model of the future.

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Discovering Brilliant Opportunities Ahead

Describe your personal style: As a serial entrepreneur, I like to build a team of creative thinkers and problem solvers and encourage them to create new opportunities.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Playing golf and running a Dalmatian rescue organization—I’m passionate about rescue animals. Family and pets: Jan and I have our second Dalmatian, a rescue named Lexi.

Jewelry you’re wearing right now: Wedding band and a very special bracelet.

Five items on your desk right now: iPhone, wife’s picture, pen collection, DCA Past Chairman award, daily to-do list. Exercise regimen: Long walks. Favorite pastime: Golf. Guilty pleasure: Ice cream! What’s on your bucket list? Restore a 1967 Corvette. Book you’re reading: I’m reading two. Walter Isaacson’s biography on Steve Jobs, which is beyond inspiring, and A Dog’s Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron, which conﬁrms my belief that my dog is smarter than me. Preferred news source: CNN and Fox. I like having both perspectives. Personal motto: Treat people the way you wish to be treated. Biggest joy in your life: Waking up. I am blessed with an amazing family, friends, and work that I love.

PICTURE FRAME: © SAGECREATIVE/DREAMSTIME.COM; ICE CREAM AND STRAWBERRY: © MILLAFEDOTOVA | DREAMSTIME.COM

WHO’S WHO: CHARLES & COLVARD, LTD.

T H E R E ’S A C U S TO M E R F O R B OT H .

$9,873

$4,939

TACORI ® HANDCRAFTED DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING,

FOREVER BRILLIANT ® CENTER TACORI ® HANDCRAFTED DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING,

D I D YO U WA L K A S A L E TO D AY ? DESIGNER RINGS ARE IN GREAT DEMAND. GROOM CAN AFFORD THEM. You’ve made a signiﬁcant investment in Designer inventory like ®

Tacori , Verragio , Simon G , Scott Kay and others. Why not maximize your turn and your gross margin? By all means, make the diamond sale when possible, but for that couple with a tight budget (and credit line), oﬀer the Forever Brilliant® Moissanite center stone she’ll feel good about for a lifetime.

G E M STO N E S P I C T U R E D I N S E T T I N G S A R E FO R I L LUST R AT I V E P U R P O S E S O N LY.

charlesandcolvard.com | sales@charlesandcolvard.com

FOREVER BRILLIANT ® GEMSTONES AVAILABLE AT

Eddie Akdemir started Dora in 1994 with the intention of distributing high-quality wedding rings made affordable through the utilization of innovative systems. Their unique high-tech production system coupled with meticulous hand ﬁnishing allows them to produce designs previously impossible. Today Dora continues to craft rings for discriminating couples beginning their lives together, whether it’s an exquisite engagement ring to express their commitment or a superbly designed wedding ring to commemorate their marriage. Eddie and his team are proud to be in an industry that contributes to people’s happiness.

DORA INTERNATIONAL: Jewelry to Last a Lifetime weekends. We miss our Labrador Sparky, who passed away last year.

Number of years in the biz: 35. Number of employees: 85. Number of locations: Two: corporate

for perfection. That way, even if we don’t achieve it, the result is the best it can be.

headquarters in Pine Brook, N.J., and a factory in Istanbul.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: We design for young couples who

The only piece of jewelry I wear is my wedding band.

Do you manufacture in the USA? No. Elevator pitch on your company: Dora

appreciate quality and want a unique or custom design. First job ever: 1983, New York City, apprentice in my cousin’s gold-chain factory (Olef Creations).

Five items on your desk right now:

is guided by a mission and vision to design, manufacture, and distribute a full range of innovative, high-quality, affordable bridal rings to those jewelry professionals that demand superior products and service. We are truly a worldwide manufacturer with distribution in more than 20 countries. We are able to service both the smallest retail store and large retail chains and still provide individualized service. We can customize any of our rings or produce a ring to a customer’s speciﬁcations. We are known for unsurpassed ﬂexibility, consistent reliability, and the quality of our products. Dora pledges a lifelong commitment with every ring sold. Each of our rings comes with a lifetime warranty.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? I would like to see young couples enjoying designing their own wedding rings in Dora “Wedding Rings Only” shops. Current product offerings: Over 10,000 styles of men’s and ladies’ wedding, anniversary, and engagement rings.

What jewelry are you best known for? “Design your own.”

Describe your personal style: We strive

Jewelry you’re wearing right now:

Laptop, camera, ring prototypes, loupe, family photo. Exercise regimen: Cycling at 6 in the morning. Favorite pastime: Attending my wife’s never-ending social events. Guilty pleasure: Pleasures don’t make me feel guilty.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? Every summer since I was 11 years old I worked in my cousin’s small shop, where they created handmade jewelry.

First website you check every day (not your own!): Bloomberg. How do you unwind? My own cocktails

First piece of jewelry you designed: 1983, New York City, a 14 karat gold and silver diamond-cut handmade chain.

with pistachios and jazz. Superstitious? No.

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: My own wedding ring, which

What’s on your bucket list? I’d love to

was also the ﬁrst ring Dora ever produced.

travel to the South Pole.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Keep it simple. Worst piece of advice: Produce low-end

Henry Kissinger.

jewelry to reach more people.

people.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Can’t

What are you watching on TV?

imagine doing anything that didn’t involve jewelry. Family and pets: For my wife Sue and me, our daughters and son are the center of our lives. We enjoy taking family vacations and winding down for a movie night on

Favorite movie: The Godfather. Who would play you in your life story? Jack Nicholson. Personal motto: Be yourself, don’t follow,

Book you’re reading: World Order by Preferred news source: Internet and

National Geographic and the E! channel.

and enjoy if you are being followed.

Biggest joy in your life: My kids’ accomplishments and success. JACK NICHOLSON

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MOUNTAIN BIKE: © STEAMROLLER/DREAMSTIME.COM; ANTARCTICA LANDSAPE © MARCANDRELETOURNEUX/DREAMSTIME.COM; JACK NICHOLSON © MARKWATERS/DREAMSTIME.COM

WHO’S WHO: DORA INTERNATIONAL

WHO’S WHO: EFFY

A former electrical engineer who was encouraged by a good friend to unleash his creativity into designing and producing jewelry, Effy Hematian opened his business in 1979 when he came to the United States. His designs are as personal and elegant as his favorite Armani suits, from a classic three-stone ring to his signature leopard designs that have been translated into brooches, rings, necklaces, and bracelets. He insists on keeping most of his manufacturing base in New York, where he can oversee each piece every step of the way. Because jewelry is an emotional purchase, he takes pride in being part of a special moment in his customers’ lives.

EFFY: Endless Ways to Express Yourself Number of years in the biz: 36. Number of locations: Effy Jewelry

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: Everyone knows that the

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? I would be

is now sold in more than 4,000 retail locations worldwide.

leopard is my favorite animal. My signature collection is designed around the leopard, and it is my favorite collection.

Jewelry you’re wearing right now:

Do you manufacture in the USA? All of the styles are designed in New York, and a majority of manufacturing is done in the United States.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Competition is healthy.

Effy Jewelry is about superior design, craftsmanship, and quality.

If someone is trying to compete with you, take it as a compliment. Worst piece of advice: Compromise quality to bring down prices.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? We want to continue to grow as

Where do you see the jewelry industry 10 years from now? The

a recognized global brand and to be among the top U.S. jewelry manufacturers.

consumer will continue to become better educated and be attracted to trusted brands that offer better value and quality. First job ever: I started to work when I was 14, installing electrical wiring into new homes.

Elevator pitch on your company:

What jewelry are you best known for? We are trendsetters in the fashion jewelry market with hundreds of exclusive new designs created every year. Describe your personal style: I pay attention to every detail when I dress. I prefer Armani suits for their impeccable ﬁt and handiwork.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: I am constantly observing the natural world around me for inspiration, and I get inspired just as much on a sunny day as on a cloudy day. First piece of jewelry you designed: I still remember the style number: 126, which is a three-stone ring, an oval diamond center with two round diamonds on the side and a split shank. It is still available in our line.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? I was an electrical engineer when I moved to the United States in 1979. I had a passion for design, and my good friend encouraged me to go into jewelry manufacturing. He knew how meticulous I am and that I would bring a unique technique and vision to the industry.

What advice would you offer someone who wants to break into the business? Have passion and occupy your mind with your business 24 hours a day.

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an architect. I’m wearing an Effy leopard pin and a 35-ct. sapphire cabochon ring set in white gold with two oval diamonds on the side.

Five items on your desk right now: Sketches, watercolors, crystal panthers, silver and wax models to approve, and always a pot of green tea. Exercise regimen: A half hour on the treadmill every day and 40 minutes of walking to and from the office from the train station. Favorite pastime: Travel to fashion centers around the world. Guilty pleasure: Shopping for suits and shirts.

What keeps you up at night? Dreaming about new designs. How do you unwind? I can’t unwind, I’m always thinking about the next project. Superstitious? Never. What’s on your bucket list? Thank God, I am fortunate to have accomplished what I have wanted to in my lifetime.

Who would play you in your life story? He would have to study my character for a while, but perhaps Brad Pitt would be a good choice. Personal motto: Have passion in everything you do. Biggest joy in your life: My wife, my children, and my grandchildren.

N ATU R A L EX P R ESS ION Fearless attitude and style with an endless selection of ďŹ ne jewelry E F F Y J E W E L R Y. C O M

1.8 5 5 . A S K . E F F Y

I N Q U I R I E S @ E F F Y J E W E L R Y. C O M

2nd YEAR

If she’s not golfing, cooking, or sharing a glass of wine with a friend, you’ll find entrepreneur Laurie Langdon busily planning her next collection of jewelry. Her start in the industry was quite by accident, however, today Elisa Ilana—the most colorful name in jewelry—is on the cutting edge of new jewelry trends. Her wholesale business continues to flourish, and her new collection, Beneath the Moon, a venture with Galatea, has been a phenomenal success. With a personality as colorful as her collections, Laurie simply can’t get enough bling. Her favorite quote: “I have too much jewelry— said no woman…ever!” LAURIE LANGDON (IN WHITE), WITH ALLIE, RACHEL AND BO OF MULBERRY LANE

ELISA ILANA: The Most Colorful Name in Jewelry Number of years in the biz: 18. Number of employees: 50 to 60. Elevator pitch: “The most colorful name in jewelry.” Elisa Ilana Jewelry is always on the cutting edge of new trends. Whether it’s classic or sophisticated, on the catwalks of NYC or L.A., Elisa Ilana Jewelry can outﬁt you for any event or occasion. Current product offerings: My designs represent the innate beauty of the woman and the gemstones.

What’s new and exciting at Elisa Ilana this year? Our ﬁrst few years in the wholesale business have been a fabulous experience. A big thank you to all of our wonderful new accounts! Our new venture with Galatea has been a phenomenal success. The chance to use Chi’s beautiful pearls in my “Beneath the Moon” collection, has been an honor and incredibly exciting. Our new spring 2015 collection was just released in December.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? Our goal is to be in a realistic percentage of all ﬁne jewelry stores, highend boutiques, and galleries worldwide.

Describe your personal style: Trendsetting and fashion-forward, the word diva has been used a few times…sometimes I’m just a sweatshirt and jeans kind of girl. I love all fashion from vintage to couture.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: Architecture in a word, is my

Advice you’d offer someone who wants to break into the business?

passion: intricate old-world styles, symbols, and textures.

Think for yourself, be innovative, don’t listen to the haters, and believe in yourself! First job ever: A lifeguard at a private country club. Family and pets: I’m happily single. I have a 35-year-old son named Adam, four parrots—Reggie, Gabby, Sadi, and Raﬁ, a 17-year-old cat named Wicket, six siblings, and lots of extended family.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: My father taught me that if things seem jumbled and you are confused—hold tight, you are about to learn something new. This has helped me to stay grounded, especially in times when I’m feeling unsure of myself. Worst piece of advice: Always follow the rules. If I had followed the rules, Elisa Ilana Jewelry would not exist.

Jewelry you’re wearing right now: Obviously, Elisa Ilana and Vahan.

Five items on your desk right now:

How did you get started in the jewelry business? Quite by accident.

An old-style Rolodex (my lifeline), computer, stacks of industry and fashion magazines, my notebook, and reading glasses. Exercise regimen: Pilates. Favorite pastime: I love to play golf. How do you unwind? A glass of wine and good conversation with friends. Superstitious? Yes, I believe what goes around comes around. Book you’re reading: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. What are you watching on TV? The Voice, Blacklist, and I’m patiently waiting for the new season of Game of Thrones. Personal motto: Under promise and over deliver.

I was a stockbroker until 1990. I needed something creative to help me learn how to breathe again. My Mom had a strand of garnets given to her from her grandmother’s wedding. I cut the necklace apart and designed four keepsake heirlooms for Mom to give to her daughters. I started buying gemstones and designing jewelry. I was hooked immediately—I started a new chapter and a new business.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? I’d be a chef. I love to cook!

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BENEATH THE MOON COLLECTION

CHEF HAT AND UTENSILS: © MICHAEL FLIPPO/DREAMSTIME.COM

WHO’S WHO: ELISA ILANA

“Often, it’s the little things in life that make a big difference. In our world it’s the right bracelet, the perfect charm, or the combination that says it all. Showing the world or keeping it your own little secret; it’s your life and your choice. We can be our best only when we allow ourselves to appreciate what makes us feel good, what makes us smile. I want to enjoy life and I want everybody around me to do the same. That’s the spirit of Endless. Be you. Feel good. Care, share, and color your life!” Your best-selling piece of jewelry: —JESPER NIELSEN, FOUNDER AND CEO

Jennifer Lopez collection by Endless Jewelry.

ENDLESS JEWELRY: Color Your Life! Number of years in the biz: 11. Number of employees: Worldwide it’s

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: I have to say the entire

in the hundreds.

collection of Endless. It’s my baby, and I am extremely proud of the line.

Number of locations: We are now in more than 3,300 locations in 18 countries.

Do you manufacture in the USA? No. Elevator pitch on your company: By combining a colorful range of quality leather bracelets and classic charms with solid marketing and distribution, Endless Jewelry is destined to be the next super brand of the jewelry business. We have seen that the demand is there and together with our partners, we build to grow and to last.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? The leading jewelry brand in our range of products.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Everything is possible. It is, if you dare and keep on going. Worst piece of advice: Let’s wait and see.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? I contacted Pandora and told them that I could make their brand huge in other parts of the world besides Denmark.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Selling it. Family and pets: I do everything with

Current product offerings: Besides our products and general marketing, we provide an extremely strong marketing toolbox for all our partners, including POS material, advertising, and sales events.

my family, including Endless Jewelry. Family and friends mean the world to me.

What jewelry are you best known for? Quality pieces at affordable prices and

I travel most the time and don’t have an office. But I always carry my phone, my iPad, my credit card, and my car keys. Songs on your playlist: It changes often, but I always have Bruce Springsteen, David Guetta, Calvin Harris, and Jennifer Lopez on my playlist. Exercise regimen: I actually just hired a personal trainer and exercise twice a day. Seems like the more energy I use, the more I end up having.

a wide variety of colors.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: My inspiration comes from life and all the great designs out there. Naturally, I’m inspired by the product lines I’ve worked with myself, but Endless is in its nature unique.

Jewelry you’re wearing right now: A Breitling watch.

Five items on your desk right now:

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Favorite pastime: Endless Jewelry. If you really want to make it big, you have got to love what you do and sacriﬁce everything else. I truly love my life. Guilty pleasure: I absolutely love a good party with friends and partners. First website you check every day (not your own!): Facebook. I am very active and open in regards to all I do. Follow me on facebook.com/endlessjesper—I promise you, it’s never boring. How do you unwind? I didn’t used to, but now I actually unwind by exercising. What’s on your bucket list? I have promised my family I wouldn’t tell. Preferred news source: The Internet. Since I’m always on the road, I’m always online. What are you watching on TV? I rarely do, but when I’m not watching live with business partners, I do watch FC Barcelona and Team Saxo Bank bicycling on TV. Favorite movie: Anything with Jennifer Lopez. She’s amazing!

Who would play you in your life story? Ha ha. I would not ask that of anybody. Really.

Personal motto: Everything is possible. Or simply, “Yes.”

Biggest joy in your life: Working and creating a super brand together with my family and key partners.

LAPTOP: © AEOLOS/DREAMSTIME.COM

WHO’S WHO: ENDLESS JEWELRY

Colour your life endlessjewelry.us facebookcom/endlessjewelry

GN Diamond was built on passion, professionalism, and a strong work ethic instilled in him by his father, says CEO Asaf Herskovitz. Here, employees are an extension of the family, caring individuals who listen to clients’ needs. While many wholesalers have chosen to list their diamonds on Internet sites, GN Diamond remains loyal to its retailers, continually striving to help them gain market share. Its unique attributes are its willingness and ability to adapt quickly to market ﬂuctuations. GN Diamond constantly works to improve its business practices and to provide the best customer service in the industry.

GN DIAMOND: Number of years in the biz: 15. Number of employees: 57. Number of locations: Two. Do you manufacture in the USA? Yes: the United States, Israel, and Sri Lanka. Elevator pitch on your company: We take pride in helping our retail partners grow their business. We do so by having one of the largest diamond inventories in the industry, offering direct cutters pricing and market research that will help increase their store’s foot traffic. This, coupled with our cutting-edge training and highlights of the latest trends in the market, makes us the preferred loose diamond wholesaler for independent retailers.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? Two and a half times the size we are today.

Current product offerings: EGL USA

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: Diamond hexagon chopsticks, 110 carats total weight, that sold for 1.2 million dollars.

The Preferred Loose Diamond Wholesaler for Independent Retailers

First piece of jewelry you designed:

music.

Your best-selling piece of jewelry:

Exercise regimen: Lift weights three

Diamond studs.

days a week, cardio one day.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Reinvest aggressively in your

Favorite pastime: Hanging out with my children.

Guilty pleasure: A nice bottle of wine. First website you check every day (not your own!): The Wall Street Journal. How do you unwind? I work out. Superstitious? Absolutely! I never use

business.

Worst piece of advice: Investing in something you do not understand.

First job ever: Newspaper boy. How did you get started in the jewelry business? Our company

red pens!

What’s on your bucket list? Visiting

started in Israel. We have been cutting and polishing diamonds for 45 years now. Every two weeks, my father, Zvi, and his partner would come over to America to sell to other wholesalers located in every major city. I took over the business 15 years ago and as the business changed, we chose to only serve the independent retailers.

and GIA loose diamonds. Bridal, diamond studs from one-quarter to 10 carats, fancy yellows, three-stone rings, diamond solitaires, and one-of-a-kind pieces.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Stock

What jewelry are you best known for? Loose diamonds featuring GIA and

beautiful children, and a goldﬁsh.

EGL USA, diamond solitaires, and diamond studs at all different price points. Describe your personal style: Ever changing.

On your playlist: Pearl Jam and club

A fancy yellow one-of-a-kind ring.

New Zealand.

Book you’re reading: Jack by Jack Welch.

Preferred news source: Business Insider. What are you watching on TV? The Blacklist.

Favorite movie: Back to the Future. Who would play you in your life story? Jeremy Piven. Personal motto: “I believe.” Biggest joy in your life: My marriage

market or real estate.

Family and pets: Beautiful wife, two

to my college sweetheart and birth of my two daughters, partnered with my strong passion for my family business.

Jewelry you’re wearing right now: Wedding band and watch.

Five items on your desk right now: Computer, phone, picture of family, hand sanitizer, and diamonds.

BACK TO THE FUTURE

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DUMBBELL WEIGHTS: © HOMYDESIGN/DREAMSTIME.COM; BOTTLE OF RED WINE WITH BLUE GRAPE CLUSTER: © JOZSEF SZASZ-FABIAN/DREAMSTIME.COM; BACK TO THE FUTURE: MOVIEPOSTERDB.COM

WHO’S WHO: GN DIAMOND

As Lecil Henderson’s mother said, “If you want to be a jewelry designer, then design jewelry that women want to wear every day.” She often lamented over her larger wrists and the difficulty in finding a bracelet that fit well. With this in mind, Lecil developed the Venetian Euro Flex bracelet, which allows a bracelet to be made in any length or width. The line offers various textures in numerous shades of 18k gold, and their new Firenze 18K/Enamel Collection can match any color. The company finds nothing more gratifying than offering jewelry that truly fits today’s woman. Each piece is a handcrafted work of art.

HENDERSON COLLECTION BY LECIL Number of years in the biz: 30. Number of employees: 34. Do you manufacture in the USA? Yes and abroad.

Elevator pitch on your company: All of our jewelry is made by hand and is covered by our lifetime guarantee.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? I see our company as a streamlined boutique design and manufacturing ﬁrm that offers a range of collections along with highly integrated marketing and in-store event programs. Current product offerings: 18K Venetian Euro-Flex Collection, 18K/SS Firenze Enamel Collection, and Luca by Lecil.

What jewelry are you best known for?

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Make jewelry that is

Jewelry you’re wearing right now:

comfortable and easy to wear and that can be made to ﬁt anyone. If you follow that premise, women will want your jewelry. Worst piece of advice: That I should get into the bridal business. I am delighted that I did not take that advice, as there are plenty of talented designers in that area. I will always stay with fashion!

Five items on your desk right now:

What keeps you up at night?

What advice would you offer someone who wants to break into the business? Make sure you

inspiration, especially regarding the styling of jewelry.

First piece of jewelry you designed: Large Electroform earrings for my mother.

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: My Venetian Euro-Flex Bracelet design.

Your best-selling piece of jewelry: Bangle bracelets.

Five songs on your playlist: “Piano Man,” “Cat’s in the Cradle,” “Viva la Vida,” Pachelbel’s “Canon,” “Levon.” Exercise regimen: Balance between weight lifting and cardio at my local Y. Favorite pastime: Relaxing round of golf with my boys. Guilty pleasure: Piece of my mother’s Boston cream pie. How do you unwind? Playing golf with my boys, driving auto cross, snow skiing. Superstitious? Not really, but I like even numbers. What’s on your bucket list? Learning to ﬂy, skiing the Alps with my daughter, and playing Saint Andrews with my sons. Book you’re reading: Steve Jobs’ biography.

national sales manager for an old New England company, and he allowed me the opportunity to work with him during the summer. My ﬁrst job ever was carrying his sample bags.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing?

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: My mother was the original

Marble globe, handcrafted pen collection, favorite picture of my family, father’s old clock, grandfather’s watch.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? My father was a

Euro-Flex Venetian Diamond Bracelets. Describe your personal style: Relaxed and intently focused. Worrying about all of our special orders being delivered in a timely manner.

A Swiss watch.

Practicing law.

have an extremely sound business plan with solid ﬁnancial backing as well as a unique product. You need to reconﬁrm with yourself that you are willing to put in the personal sweat equity to make your business plan work. Knowledge that owning a business is more akin to running a marathon. It takes time and commitment to succeed. Family and pets: Wife and three children (2 boys, 1 girl). I love dogs!

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Preferred news source: Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal.

What are you watching on TV? House of Cards, NCIS, CSI. Favorite movie: Gladiator.

LECIL WITH DIANE GOULSTON DURING AN IN STORE EVENT AT SUMMERWIND JEWELERS

Who would play you in your life story? Mark Harmon. Personal motto: Be yourself! Biggest joy in your life: My children.

GOLF CLUBS AND BAG: © NERTHUZ/DREAMSTIME.COM

WHO’S WHO: HENDERSON COLLECTION BY LECIL

WHO’S WHO: JEWELEX NEW YORK LTD.

Jewelex is a diamond manufacturing company that has been in operation since 1966. In 1994, it started manufacturing fine diamond jewelry. Procuring conflict-free diamonds from the Diamond Trading Company and other major mines from across the world is its number one priority. Jewelex stays current with today’s trends, using innovative technologies to create exquisite bridal and fashion jewelry. Its mission is to provide customized marketing support and services designed to meet today’s ever-changing market. The companies global offices allow it to service clients on five continents.

FROM THE ORIANA COUTURE® LACE COLLECTION, THIS IMPRESSIVE HALO STYLE BRIDAL ENGAGEMENT RING IS MASTERFULLY HANDCRAFTED WITH INTRICATE SIDE LACE SWIRLS AND DIAMONDS ATUL KOTHARI, PRESIDENT

JEWELEX NEW YORK LTD. options in one piece so she won’t have to decide between two things of equal beauty. And while fashion is one of our fortes, we are presently developing new bridal collections that we will launch in February 2015 that are truly singular and elegant and not offered by other bridal manufacturers.

“Exellence, innovation, integrity and care—our core values are our foundation.”

Elevator pitch on your company:

Your best-selling piece of jewelry:

—ATUL KOTHARI, PRESIDENT

Jewelex is a quality-driven company focusing on adding value to our client’s business. We have earned our reputation as a passionate and innovative manufacturer making unique jewelry perfect for every celebration. Current product offerings: Branded and non-branded bridal jewelry; classic styles that include solitaire earrings, basic and innovative bands, contour rings, eternity rings; full line of diamond fashion jewelry.

At Jewelex we have a very comprehensive Diamond Eternity Ring program. We offer a custom display to help the consumer focus on the variety of styles and all the diamond weights that are available.

Number of years in the biz: 36 years in New York City, and the Jewelex Group will celebrate 50 years in 2015. Number of employees: 40 in the New York office, approximately 3,500 globally. Number of locations: Nine. Do you manufacture in the USA? Yes.

What jewelry are you best known for? Diamond bridal and fashion jewelry. Describe your personal style: Organized, perfection-driven, caring, and loving.

What’s new at Jewelex this year? We have always been industry leaders in diamond fashion jewelry. This year is no exception. Our innovative designs include new bold gold organic forms and intricate ﬁligree work with diamonds. Many exciting convertible and reversible jewelry collections will offer the consumer multiple

Describe your company’s core values: Excellence, innovation, integrity

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Real estate THE KOTHARI FAMILY: SAHELI KOTHARI, SAHIL KOTHARI, JANAVI KOTHARI, ATUL KOTHARI, AND MRS. PRITI KOTHARI SEATED IN THE CENTER

or stock investor.

Jewelry you’re wearing right now: Ring and watch.

Five items on your desk right now:

and care—our core values are our foundation!

Computer, telephone, statues of deities, awards, hourglass.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: Organic forms found in nature and

First website you check every day (not your own!): Tiffany’s. Family: My wife Priti, son Sahil, daughter-

architectural forms that lend themselves to jewelry design. That is what makes the design process unique and exciting. What keeps you up at night? Ideas for the launch of our next new collection.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: I have received great wisdom from my father; he has always inspired and motivated me to build an impeccable reputation and bond with the family.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? It was a simple transition from diamond manufacturer to diamond jewelry manufacturer.

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ORIANA COUTURE® BRIDAL LINE COMES WITH A CUSTOM IN-CASE DISPLAY AND IMAGE-ENHANCING MARKETING SUPPORT

in-law Janavi, daughter Saheli, and of course my extended family back in India. Exercise regimen: Jogging and yoga. Favorite pastime: Trying out different international cuisines and singing. How do you unwind? Meditation. What’s on your bucket list? To visit as many places in the world as possible. Personal motto: Charity. Biggest joy in your life: Creating good memories and spreading joy and happiness.

2nd YEAR

WHO’S WHO: JYE’S INTERNATIONAL

Designer/marketing director Jennifer Chang has come a long way from the 5th grade teaching assistant job that began her career. After learning the pearl business from relatives some 30 years ago, she ventured out on her own and created a company that produces classic yet fashionable jewelry aimed at today’s woman. Her appreciation for nature and delicate artwork is evident in the clean elegance of her diamond and gemstone designs. The business was also built by her determination. As she says, “I’m a Taurus; I never take no for an answer.”

ROSE-CUT DIAMOND BANGLES IN 18K WHITE, YELLOW, AND ROSE GOLD THAT YOU CAN WEAR INDIVIDUALLY OR TOGETHER

JYE’S INTERNATIONAL INC. San Francisco, Hong Kong, and China.

yet fashion-forward.

We started selling much ﬁner pearls, and then eventually, designing jewelry.

Do you manufacture in the USA? Yes!

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: I love gathering ideas from

Where do you see your company in 10 years? Pursuing ﬁne gems for the

natural scenery, ﬂowers, wood, art—open your eyes and you will see something nobody else does.

savvy luxury clientele and making the Jye Luxury Collection affordable by scaling down in size without compromising quality and workmanship.

Number of locations: Three:

The design and production of our ﬁrst piece were done in the U.S. However, for us to be competitive in the market, the majority of the production is done overseas. Elevator pitch: We are the essence of timeless design. Current product offerings: 18k gold and platinum diamond jewelry, ﬁne gems with top-notch G color, and VS/VVS clarity premium-cut diamonds.

What’s new and exciting at Jye’s this year? In an effort to strengthen our brand presence, we’re investing in consumer advertising. You’ll see our ad campaigns running in United Airlines’ Inﬂight magazine, Hemispheres, and Town & Country. I’m also excited to announce our launch into social media. Jye’s is now active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. In addition, we’ve expanded the ranks of our sales team to better serve our retailers and keep our service quality on par with our merchandise.

What jewelry are you best known for? The Susie collection, which features our shared-prong earrings with a special twist.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Designing clothing or learning how to play the piano and violin.

Describe your personal style: Classic,

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Aim high! If other people can do

Five things on my desk right now: Millimeter gauge, industry magazines, sketchpad, various loose stones, and a protractor.

it, why can’t I?

First job ever: Fifth grade teaching assistant.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? It all started with my journey from Taiwan and being educated in the United States. I was born to a large, rather poor family, and my father could not allocate the resources for me to attend college. However, that did not deter me; I did extremely well in school, and took up teaching assistant duties to make some extra money. I got a master’s in urban and regional planning but could not get a green card or a job in my ﬁeld. So I began helping out relatives in the pearl trade as a translator, developing regional accounts as their English-speaking liaison. I was there less than a year, but grew their sales tenfold. I made a lot of friends through the trade—jewelers who urged me to start my own business. I began as a wholesale broker for pearls, selling door-to-door in the Bay Area. With the help of my smart geologist husband, the business only grew.

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18K WHITE AND YELLOW GOLDSTATEMENT RING WITH ROSE CUT DIAMONDS

ROSE-CUT DIAMOND COCKTAIL EARRINGS IN 18K WHITE GOLD

First website you check everyday: Either JCK, Instore, National Jeweler, or Centurion. Whichever one comes up in my inbox first. Guilty pleasure: Sudoku. It’s a great mental workout, but it’s very easy for me to lose track of time figuring out the puzzles. Family and pets: Married to my husband Charles, a geologist from Stanford University, who is an integral part of the business. We have four wonderful children that I’m proud of. Preferred news source: NPR and CNN Biggest joy in your life: Receiving a scholarship to the University of Iowa’s graduate program. I had only $2,000 in my pocket when I came to the United States— all the money I had saved after finishing college in Taiwan, where I attended classes at night and worked during the day. Personal motto: Always strive for excellence.

Mark Henry is one of the world’s premier jewelry brands specializing in alexandrite. With the unique ability to change color from mossy green to raspberry red, alexandrite is considered one of the rarest and most exotic gemstones on earth. Designer and creative director, Laura Medine, loves the thrill and challenge of ﬁnding the perfect alexandrite. It’s what drew her to working with the stone and what truly differentiates her line. Born to a family of stone traders and married to a jeweler, Laura has seen the magical effect jewelry has on its wearer. She feels every woman should have the opportunity to feel this magic.

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: Golden rutilated quartz pendant with diamonds and a large, beautiful alexandrite.

MARK HENRY ALEXANDRITE: Number of years in the biz: 12. Number of employees: 20. Number of locations: 50. Do you manufacture in the USA? Yes, in New York City and our facilities in the Far East.

Elevator pitch on your company: By utilizing only the ﬁnest-quality gems and 18k distinctive designs, Mark Henry has secured its place as the alexandrite authority. Collectors enjoy a complimentary certiﬁcate of authenticity available with every piece, appraisal, and lifetime service guarantee.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? We anticipate a growing knowledge of the rare and unusual alexandrite stone and look forward to developing friendships and business partnerships with fashion-forward jewelry stores worldwide. Current product offerings: 18 karat yellow, white, and rose gold bracelets, rings, pendants, and necklaces, with a special emphasis on earrings. Retailers enjoy beautiful custom Mark Henry displays for their alexandrite collection.

What jewelry are you best known for? Designing with rare gems as a whole. Alexandrites along with unique Brazilian rutilated quartz and rainbow moonstones, all set in 18 karat gold.

Describe your personal style: Effortless chic.

industry through her writing on Man Repeller. My second-oldest son will graduate from Babson College in 2015. My youngest son just started college this year.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: Every stone is unique. I try to harmonize the beauty of nature with the ﬁnal design to complement and showcase each stone in the most alluring way.

Jewelry you’re wearing right now:

First piece of jewelry you designed: Moonstone ring with ﬁligree gold work, diamonds, and alexandrite.

Your best-selling piece of jewelry: Star and Crescent Moon rings accented with glowing moonstones. Also, our Angel Wing pendants (one of my favorites!). Both styles are great price points.

STAR AND CRESCENT MOON RINGS ACCENTED WITH GLOWING MOONSTONES

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Always use the best gems and

How did you get started in the jewelry business? I grew up in a family of jewelers, and I married a jeweler. I’ve always been surrounded by jewelry!

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? A stylist. I

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Layers of my best-selling Angel Wing pendants on different lengths of chains. Five songs on your playlist: Andrea Bocelli and some country. Favorite pastime: Yoga and going to vineyards. Guilty pleasure: Corn muffins.

First website you check every day (not your own!): Man Repeller. How do you unwind? Running on the treadmill and watching the E! Channel. Superstitious? Yes. I believe certain items bring good luck when you wear them. I wear my Angel Wing pendant every day. What’s on your bucket list? A yoga retreat with my sisters and closest friends at a spiritual and wellness center in Yellowstone or Sedona. Book you’re reading: The Bridges of Madison County by Robert James Waller. Preferred news source: Daily email newsletter The Skimm. Favorite movie: The Thomas Crown Affair.

materials, and make sure all colors are in harmony. Worst piece of advice: To follow the rules of design by the book. First job ever: Sorting diamonds for my dad.

am drawn to putting together things that make a woman feel good, whether clothing or jewelry. Family and pets: Blessed with four children. My oldest son is the ﬁnejewelry designer for Khai Khai Jewelry. My daughter is inﬂuential in the fashion

One in a Million

Who would play you in your life story? Kristin Davis. Personal motto: Smile at life, life will smile back at you.

Biggest joy in your life: To have my THE THOMAS CROWN AFFAIR

entire family under one roof as often as I can.

CORN MUFFIN: © KELPFISH/DREAMSTIME.COM; THE THOMAS CROWN AFFAIR: MOVIEPOSTERDB.COM

WHO’S WHO: MARK HENRY ALEXANDRITE

Mira Style Jewellery Co. specializes in diamond jewelry set in gold and platinum. Its jewelry is designed for consumers who pursue perfection and real style in life. Each item is a manifesto of traditional skill and modern technology. From the selection and polishing of the diamond to stone-setting and ﬁnal ﬁnishing, all steps are meticulously carried out to achieve the best luster of every diamond. Quality products, competitive prices, on-time delivery, and excellent customer service is why Mira Style has already gained a reputable name in the worldwide market.

(FROM LEFT TO RIGHT) K. H. CHEUNG, DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION; RAY WONG, PRESIDENT AND CHAIRMAN OF OPERATIONS; MICHAEL CHOW, DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING

MIRA STYLE JEWELLERY CO. LTD. Number of years in the biz: 15. Number of employees: 342. Number of locations: Three: New York,

Describe your personal style: Kind,

Puma design ring.

Five items on your desk right now:

Los Angeles, and Hong Kong.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: We’re inspired by fashion and

Do you manufacture in the USA? We

architectural design.

manufacture in China.

First piece of jewelry you designed:

Elevator pitch on your company: We

A pearl ring.

are a manufacturer and exporter of ﬁne jewelry. We provide elegant, innovative, and fashion-forward designs to meet the needs of today’s customers. We specialize in diamond mountings with our staff of highly trained craftsmen. Our market ventures across the globe: Europe, Southeast Asia, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Japan, and the United States.

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: Our Eternity diamond ring series. Your best-selling piece of jewelry:

Where do you see your company in 10 years? We expect to put more resources into diversifying our sales channels. We see a great potential in online sales, in fact, we currently have an e-store to sell jewelry and plan to invest further over the next 10 years. Current product offerings: We offer 18k gold and platinum ﬁne jewelry, diamond, pearl, and bridal jewelry. We specialize in all types of rings including engagement, band, diamond, colored stone, and fashion.

What jewelry are you best known for? Diamond jewelry and engagement ring mountings.

Jewelry you’re wearing right now:

friendly, accessible, and creative.

Brilliant-cut round diamond and baguette diamond ring.

18K WHITE GOLD YELLOW FLOWER RING SET WITH BRILLIANT ROUND WHITE AND YELLOW DIAMONDS

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: To be the best and successful in

Preferred news source: Local news. What are you watching on TV? Top Gear.

Favorite movie: Amadeus. Personal motto: Appreciate the

What advice would you offer someone who wants to break into the business? Suggest they have good

strengths of others.

Biggest joy in your life: Combining

skills and expertise in sales and online sales as well. First job ever: Messenger for a jewelry company.

work with pleasure. 18K WHITE GOLD RING SET WITH 1 CT. CENTER STONE, BRILLIANT ROUND AND TAPERED BAGUETTE DIAMONDS

How did you get started in the jewelry business? I started out in the jewelry business with two of my colleagues Michael Chow and K. H. Cheung; having common interests and goals in this industry.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Probably an

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First website you check every day (not your own!): Kitco.com. How do you unwind? Smoking cigars and driving my motorbike.

the jewelry industry one must completely understand the whole jewelry business operation—sales, marketing, and the front office.

insurance agent.

Notebook, Blu-ray player, skin care product, sunglasses, and aromatherapy oils. Favorite music: Classical, mood, pop, and folk. Exercise regimen: Yes, daily. Favorite pastime: Driving my motorbike. Guilty pleasure: Smoking.

18K WHITE GOLD DANGLE EARRINGS SET WITH BRILLIANT ROUND DIAMONDS, ASSCHER SHAPE AND HALF-MOON CUT DIAMONDS

MOTORBIKE © ANDRESR/DREAMSTIME.COM

WHO’S WHO: MIRA STYLE JEWELLERY CO. LTD.

WHO’S WHO: OBAKU

A fusion of the Danish and Oriental worlds, Obaku Denmark is the expression of timeless minimalistic design. Every Obaku watch is part of a story of harmony and sophisticated styling—a clean and elegant look unique to the brand. Scott Marsh is responsible for growing the U.S. and Caribbean markets. From the moment you meet Scott you can feel the love and passion he carries for the Obaku brand, the industry, but most importantly his customers. Love, harmony, and commitment are three simple words their company lives by. They love their customers and consider them to be part of their Obaku family.

MODEL V157 DESIGNED BY CHRISTIAN MIKKELSEN FEATURES A 38 MM STAINLESS STEEL CASE AND MESH BRACELET

MODEL V129 DESIGNED BY LAU LIENGARD RUGE FEATURES A 26 MM CASE IN IP ROSE GOLD AND A SLENDER ITALIAN LEATHER STRAP

Best-selling watch: Within the U.S. AND CARIBBEAN DIRECTOR SCOTT MARSH AND HIS WIFE ADRIANA

women’s collection: models V129, V146, V149, V158, and V168, within the men’s collection: models V153, V157, and V171.

OBAKU: Feel the Moment of Love, Balance, and Commitment Number of years in biz: 10. Number of locations: The watches are

us—we strive to provide the best customer care possible.

distributed in more than 70 countries.

Are there challenges to covering the U.S. and Caribbean markets?

Where are your watches designed? Our watches are designed in Denmark by Christian Mikkelsen and Lau Liengärd Ruge. Current product offering: Beautiful simplistic Danish-designed watches that are sophisticated, elegant, ultra slim, lightweight and affordable for the average consumer.

What’s new and exciting at Obaku this year? We’ve had great success this year in building the U.S. and Caribbean markets. Since September we’ve opened 50 new accounts, including Bloomingdale’s. We are looking forward to opening at least three times as many in 2015.

To what do you attribute your recent success? We all work together to build a strong brand that is starting to be well recognized in the U.S. market and internationally. The quality will last the test of time, and the presentation speaks for itself. Our great designs look much more expensive than their price tag, making them quite affordable for the average individual. And we can’t forget our customers! We love our customers. They are the most important members of our Obaku family. We appreciate their business, and therefore customer service is extremely important to

It’s been a very educational and gratifying experience. Every region is unique, and each retailer has different challenges, therefore it’s important to listen to their opinions and tailor a program that will support their needs. Only through listening to their needs and providing custom solutions can we continue to grow our brand. Suggested retail price: We offer highquality watches that are affordable in the $99–$275 retail price range. New introductions this year: We introduce new products two to three times a year. We have a new collection with great sporty models featuring carbon ﬁber dials for men and elegant models for women, that are inspired by Italian design. Your favorite watch: Has to be V157GMCBMC. I am a big guy, and it is one of our larger men’s watches featuring a 43 mm diameter case. It has a good size and the curvature on the lugs wraps nicely around the wrist for a comfortable ﬁt. My wife, Adriana, loves the V129LXVIRO, a petite feminine rose-gold-colored ladies watch with a case that is 26 mm in diameter. It has a vibrant orange textured strap that is quite unique and adds some great color, complementing the rose gold.

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How is working for Obaku? It’s been fantastic. The directors of operation Johannes Arvin from Denmark, his daughter Henriette, and Catherine Chan from Hong Kong have been a great support in getting the U.S. operation up and running. Allan Jensen, Hayley Ma, Jesper Keogh, and all the team in Hong Kong and Denmark continue to provide great support as we grow the U.S. operation. In the U.S. office we are really proud to be part of this big family. MODEL V168 FEATURES STAINLESS STEEL AND IP YELLOW GOLD 28 MM CASE WITH ORIGINAL ITALIAN LEATHER IMITATION OF IVORY CROC STRAP

Where do you see the business in 10 years: We see Obaku being an entry price point watch brand in high-end department stores, independent jewelry stores, and boutiques across the globe. Our ultimate goal is to become a well-known and internationally recognized brand. We look to further continue advertising in well-known publications, catalogs, and online media.

One takeaway about the Obaku brand: Obaku has a great multicultural history, a strong brand identity, and a beautiful unique look with an affordable price.

“I ﬁrst found Obaku at the JCK Las Vegas Show last May and have been selling them ever since. The sleek and sophisticated designs appeal to a large market, and the medium price point is unintimidating. The line has been very well received in my store, and I’m continually hearing that the display case is eye catching from the street and visually enhances my boutique. I’m thrilled to be working with Obaku and to have the support of the entire U.S.-based Obaku team!” —Zia Sachedina, Owner, ZIA Boutique Inc., Savannah, Ga.

feel the moment V158 Ladies / V171 Gents D A N I S H W AT C H D E S I G N B Y C H R I S T I A N M I K K E L S E N

WWW.OBAKU.COM WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OBAKUUS

See us at the following shows: Atlanta Jewelry Show - Basel World - Chicago SMART Show - JCK Las Vegas - Atlanta Jewelry Show - JIS Miami Show

Custom and private-brand jewelry production is the expertise and sole focus of Pampillonia Designs, Inc. “Our 70 jewelers manufacture items for some of the most important and finest names in the industry. The goal is to increase customers’ profits while making their operational life easier,” says president Chris Pampillonia. The company does not manufacture, promote, or sell its own collection. Their focus is on their customers’ objectives— collaborating on improvements and or new designs as required. Their business continues to grow at a dynamic rate, which they attribute to their customers finding value in the service they provide.

PAMPILLONIA DESIGNS: Number of years in the biz: 20. Number of employees: 70. Do you manufacture in the USA? Yes. Current product offerings: Private branding, production, and custom manufacturing.

What jewelry are you best known for? We originally established our name with our Animal line. While we still produce our animals upon request, we have grown our manufacturing business into a turnkey custom and production shop (3,000 to 10,000 pieces a month). There are very few things we cannot do. Even if we have not done it before, we’ll ﬁgure out a way!

Why should retailers consider Pampillonia? Retailers are coming to the realization that while promoting a myriad of popular “brands,” they have neglected their most important and proﬁtable one, their own name. The smart retailer uses their private brand identity to establish separation from their competition and to establish market position. Controlling production will help manage inventory and control costs, resulting in greater margins and proﬁts.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? Continuing to manufacture

Five items on your desk right now: My grandfather’s goldsmith hammer, a loupe, opal inlay turtle figurine, and finished client projects ready for a final QA. Five songs on your playlist: Any song by Johnny Cash. Favorite pastime: Fishing—ocean, lake, river—does not matter where. Guilty pleasure: Blue Bell mint chocolate chip ice cream. How do you unwind? Playing golf and spending time with my family. Superstitious? Not at all. I believe we make our own luck. What’s on your bucket list? To drive over 200 mph and to visit Sicily, where my family is from. Preferred news source: Fox and CNN. I like to hear both sides. What are you watching on TV? House of Cards.

for top private brands and names in the industry by staying current with technological advances while still producing ﬁnely crafted hand-ﬁnished products.

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: I redesigned a ring that my great-grandfather made in the early 1920s to ﬁt one of my grandmother’s diamonds. She wears it every day.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Trust in God. First job ever: Mowing lawns. How did you get started in the jewelry business? My family started in the jewelry business six generations ago in Sicily. My parents opened Pampillonia Designs when I was 12. I was immediately interested in all facets of the business and would help out whenever I could, but officially started working full-time at age 20.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? I honestly could not imagine being in any other industry. Family and pets: Daughter Sophia, age 5, and son Luca, age 2. Jewelry you’re wearing right now: An 18k yellow gold and emerald cross pendant.

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Custom and Private Label Manufacturing

STEVE CARELL

Who would play you in your life story? Steve Carell. Personal motto: Live life day to day. Biggest joy: My kids!

WHO’S WHO’S WHO: WHO: SHREE PAMPILLONIA RAMKRISHNA DESIGNS EXPORTS

The Perfect Platform for your Custom Production.

Pampillonia specializes in special order manufacturing.

(800) 836-4071

The company was founded in 1973 under the name Idaho Opal and Gem Corp. In 1991, they incorporated the brand name Parlé Jewelry Designs. Today, Parlé is a prominent presence in the colored-gemstone jewelry world, while being located in Pocatello, Idaho. A family business, Parlé is owned by Frank and Sue Farnsworth along with their son, Jonathan, and his wife, Brecken. Working and playing in Smile Capital, USA—it’s illegal to not smile in Pocatello—has given Parlé a fresh perspective on classic design, and this fun family is wowing the jewelry world with its spectacular gems and award-winning designs.

Your best-selling piece of jewelry: Our Wave pendant. It won a JCK Jewelers’ Choice Award in 2008 and has been a best seller ever since.

PARLÉ JEWELRY DESIGNS: Stones That Speak! Number of years in the biz: 42. Number of employees: 25. Do you manufacture in the USA? Yes! Elevator pitch on your company: Parlé means to speak, and that sentiment encompasses our whole product line. When we buy a gemstone or design a piece of jewelry it has to speak to us in terms of beauty, rarity, and value. We strive to be a great source for all your colored-gemstone needs from price point to luxury and everything in between.

Jewelry you’re most proud of: Our JCK Jewelers’ Choice Award winners—it’s one of the best award competitions in the industry because jewelers are voting. We’ve won every year since the beginning with 2014 being our biggest win yet with three ﬁrst-place and three second-place winners. Fingers crossed for 2015! Why Pocatello, Idaho? Why not! The scenery is beautiful, there is no traffic, AARP rated it one of the top 10 places to retire, and Idaho is the Gem State, after all.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? Our goal is to be the

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Jonathan: My dad always tells

independent jewelers’ No. 1 supplier of ﬁne colored gemstone jewelry. Current product offerings: We have a range of products that include our Color Celebration Collection, which features 14 of our best-selling trio sets in three feet of showcase with more than 800 different customizable combinations, and our 18k Luxury Collection, which showcases handselected colored gemstones from all over the world.

me, “We are not in the jewelry business, we are in the relationship business.” First job ever: Frank: Driving a delivery truck at 14 for my father’s food brokerage. Sue: Assembling jewelry on the living room ﬂoor when we were Idaho Opal and Gem. Jonathan: Selling Cutco Knives, I was one of the best. Thanks for buying all those knives, Dad! Brecken: Lab technician. I researched mating behavior in mice.

What jewelry are you best known for? We are best known for our unique

How did you get started in the jewelry business? Frank: Mining

and beautiful Australian opal jewelry.

Idaho opal as a summer job in college.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: We are inspired by motion, not

Jonathan: I started by sorting opal for my dad at 5 years old. Brecken: Before

physical movement of the piece but a ﬂow and relationship between the setting and gemstones.

I could work for Parlé I needed industry experience, so I got my start behind the counter at Molinelli’s Jewelers in Pocatello.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Brecken: I would be a lawyer. I love a good argument.

Jonathan: I would be a ski bum, supported by my lawyer wife! Frank: I would be ﬁshing!

Jewelry you’re wearing right now: Jonathan: Every Farnsworth wears an opal and a ruby. The opal because it’s where our business started, and the ruby because it shows how far our business has come. Favorite pastime: Skiing, we ski every weekend we are not at a trade show. How do you unwind? Frank: A glass of wine and barbecuing. Jonathan: Playing with my dog, Mazee. Brecken: Pilates. Sue: Walking.

What’s on your bucket list? As a family we would love to travel to Spain and the Galápagos Islands. Favorite movie: Sue: Gone With the Wind. Brecken: The Goonies.

Who would play you in your life story? Frank: Clint Eastwood. Brecken: Kristen Wiig. Jonathan: A young Tom Hanks. Sue: Meryl Streep. Personal motto: Brecken: “Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.” —Steve Jobs Biggest joy in your life: Working in an industry where we get to be with family and our clients are our best friends. CLINT EASTWOOD

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WHO’S WHO: PARLÉ JEWELRY DESIGNS

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A tendency for rule-breaking – as well as an appreciation of Shakespeare and the classics—were two qualities that encouraged brothers Shawn and David Hematian to launch Roman+Jules, a branded collection of diamond engagement rings aimed at today’s generation. Already successful for 16 years with First Image Design, the brothers decided the time was right to create a romantic, contemporary collection aimed at a generation that is rethinking its lifestyle. Roman+Jules offers stylish diamond rings blending yellow and white diamonds that are sure to appeal to individuals who want to express their love in a totally modern way.

PERFECT FOR THE GIRL WHO LOVES VINTAGE. NECKLACE FEATURES A BEAUTIFUL NATURALLY COLORED YELLOW DIAMOND AT THE CENTER WITH BOTH WHITE AND YELLOW GOLD ACCENTS.

DAVID AND SHAWN HEMATIAN

ROMAN+JULES: Modern Love Rewritten Number of years in the biz: 16 short years!

Number of employees: We have 29 partners on this amazing ride. Number of locations: We kicked off at Luxury in Las Vegas last May and have opened 50 doors since!

How do you design your product? David: It all comes back to a story. I think of each piece in terms of where it will ﬁt in the narrative, who will wear it, and where it will go.

Elevator pitch on your company: Roman+Jules is rocking the industry, redeﬁning what a generation thinks about when it gets engaged, and every moment thereafter. We grew First Image Design from the ground up, and through our work found that we can respond to the needs of a clientele that wants something different than Grandma’s ring. Grandma’s awesome, but there’s room for another chapter in the engagement story. Roman+Jules is written in brilliant yellow and breathtaking white diamonds. Our designs are unique, with exceptional appeal, truly the climax of any modern love story.

What do you say to people who claim they can’t sell yellows? Buy our White Label! Just kidding . . . the key to selling yellows is merchandising. Most stores simply have 4–5 yellow rings and think that’s enough. You need to give

clients more options, show them beauty in many forms.

David: Giants’ wide receiver. ’Nuff said. Five songs on your playlist: Shawn:

Why do you love yellow diamonds? Shawn: They defy what’s expected in

The Roman+Jules theme song—tell me you’ve heard it?! And, well, anything from The Karate Kid soundtrack. David: Enya’s early works. I mean the garage tapes, stuff you’ve got to really search for. Just kidding—well, except on rainy days. Guilty pleasure: Shawn: Red wine and bubble baths, without the bubbles. David: Twinkies. End of story. How do you unwind? Shawn: This is not a Karate Kid thing, I promise. I just got into kickboxing, and I’ve been going at least three times a week. David: Ask Shawn

such a brilliant way. If you’re wearing yellow you’ve decided what’s beautiful for yourself—you’re an original. David: Fancy yellow diamonds are nearly as rare as pinks, yet they cost a fraction of the price. They are undervalued, because traditionally, the demand for them was quite low. In the past few years, we have seen a huge increase in demand. Celebrities can’t get enough. With prices on the rise, this beautiful stone is set to be an excellent investment.

WHITE LABEL SINGLE PAVE HALO SOLITAIRE ENGAGEMENT RING

First website you check every day (not your own!): Shawn: Facebook, to

Where do you see your company in 10 years? Just like every generation has a

know what’s going on in my world outside of work. David: Instagram is my drug.

soundtrack, we will be its jewelry, helping to deﬁne what love looks like in every era.

What’s on your bucket list? Shawn: Parachuting and getting Rihanna

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Shawn: Someone once told

to perform at a Roman+Jules party. David: Getting Rihanna to perform at my birthday party.

me that you’ve got a choice in how you see things, positive or negative, and what you choose is ultimately what you’ll get—it’s the only way results happen. David: Never stop building. Worst piece of advice: Shawn: Socks are good for two days. David told me that. David: Just listen to your brother.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? Shawn: Clearly, standing in for Ralph Macchio.

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Who would play you in your life story? Shawn: Brad Pitt, said every man ever! David: I don’t know who’d play me,

RALPH MACCHIO

but Scarlett Johansson would deﬁnitely be a love interest. Biggest joy in your life: Shawn: My kids—just had number 5! David: My kids and my work. They’re what makes every day incredible.

WHO’S WHO: ROMAN+JULES

Sam and Vera Azemoon started Pink Diamond back in 1978 in a small storefront in downtown Los Angeles, and it has since grown into one of the best-known names in the industry. Following in her parents’ footsteps, Samira, their daughter, began to develop a passion for the arts at a young age. Raised in the jewelry industry, her love for diamonds and colored stones has become a love affair for the ages. Personally selecting each of the stones, and with her expert understanding of them, she creates beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces. SAMIRA AZEMOON

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: A hand-carved Tanzanite earring that won the 2014 JCK Jewelers’ Choice Award for Best Earring Design.

SAMIRA BY PINK DIAMOND ®

Number of years in the biz: 37. Elevator pitch on your company: I design for the modern woman, with the idea that jewelry should be beautiful and unique, as are all women. My jewelry designs make women feel excited, feminine, and powerful!

Where do you see your company in 10 years? I hope that Samira will be a name that people will recognize and want within the industry and fashion worlds.

What jewelry are you best known for? One-of-a-kind earrings. Describe your personal style: I’d have to say my personal style is unique and comfortable. I don’t tend to follow current trends, I create my own.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: I’m inspired by everything around me; I highly admire the beauty of nature. When I buy stones I choose the ones that are the most unique and the most beautifully colored and, in turn, their beauty inspires each design.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Try to learn something new every day. —Sam Azemoon

How did you get started in the jewelry business: My dad was always interested in diamonds, coins, stamps, etc. As a child he would buy and sell rare coins and other odds and ends. When he came to the States he began buying and selling gold, found out about the GIA, and the rest

is history. I grew up around diamonds. As a child I would crawl around the floor of his office collecting stones in the carpet and charging him a dollar a stone. I’d also travel with my dad to trade shows, and sometimes end up asleep under the showcases, but I learned so much watching my dad at these shows. In college I worked as a personal shopper for Nordstrom. I spent my time dressing women that needed help finding their own personal style and also finding clothing that was flattering to their bodies. That was the best job any young girl could have asked for. Before I started college my dad asked me to attend GIA, and I agreed. When I got to GIA I realized how much I really liked the industry and came to realize that it would be a shame not to take over the business from my parents, who had worked so hard to create it. Pink Diamond has since become an amazing company and very well-known with in the industry. After I graduated from GIA, I joined Pink Diamond as the first in-house designer. Then I trademarked myself and began designing my line. Now, almost a decade later, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? My sister and I have a few projects in mind within the fashion and beauty industries. So when I’m not doing jewelry, I’ll be designing a fashion and beauty line.

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Jewelry you’re wearing right now: Black diamond halo studs, a vintage yellow gold Rolex Presidential watch, diamond tennis bracelet stacked with small yellow and rose gold bracelets, and yellow and rose gold layered Diamonds by the Yard.

Five items on your desk right now: Sketch pad, sketching pencils, my iPhone 5, a diamond scale, and water. Exercise regimen: I try to get to the gym two to three times a week (when I’m in town!), but my favorite workout is boxing. Five songs on your playlist: “My Melody” and “Am I Wrong” by Nico & Vinz, a Rodrigo y Gabriela album (they are the most amazing Spanish guitarists!), “Make It to Me” by Sam Smith, and many of his other songs as well. Guilty pleasure: Dark chocolate. Favorite pastime: Cooking and trying out new foods and recipes. How do you unwind? A glass of good white wine, Dr. Loosen Blue Slate Riesling being one of my favorites, and catching up with TV shows. What’s on your bucket list? To build a fashion and beauty empire and legacy. Book you’re reading: The Bible. Favorite movie: The Holiday. Personal motto: Never give up. Biggest joy in your life: My family. My parents are my heroes, and my sisters are my best friends.

WHO’S WHO: SAMIRA ® by PINK DIAMOND

1-800-526-8121 P I N K D IA M O N DU S A . C OM

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: LUIS MAYA

MODEL: SEANDIZ SHADKHAST

WHO’S WHO: SAMUEL BEHNAM

Award-winning designer Samuel Behnam brings more than 30 years of jewelry experience to his collection, which showcases the best of Balinese artisanship in handmade jewelry of sterling silver with accents of 18-karat gold, diamonds and gemstones. His focus is on using century-old techniques and quality craftsmanship to bring his innovative designs to life. A true artist, Behnam loves painting and draws inspiration for his jewelry from his world travels and his love of art, color, and nature.

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: A butterﬂy design cuff that expresses my love for nature and a mixed tourmaline cuff that shows my love for color. Both designs won JCK Jewelers’ Choice Awards, so I’m very proud of these designs.

SAMUEL AND NEDA BEHNAM

SAMUEL B.: Designing the Dream, Collecting the Rare Number of years in the biz: 30. Number of locations you have: My corporate office is in New York and my factory is in Bali, Indonesia. Current product offerings: I offer a variety of collections. Royal Bali® is my signature collection consisting of bold gemstones. Imperial Men’s® has a timeless assortment of cufflinks, rings, bracelets, pendants, and pens suited for every man. Perfect Combinations® offers the perfect harmony of sterling silver and 18k gold accents. Diamanti® is my classic line of sterling silver, 18k gold jewelry, and diamonds. Simply Charming® consists of inspirational pieces. Micro Mosaic® takes fragments of gemstones and pieces them together to create wearable art.

is a 15-year breast cancer survivor, and we’ve worked together to launch a ribbon collection where we donate proceeds to cancer research. I also have a patriotic collection where a portion of proceeds are donated to Jewelers for Veterans. It’s such a great feeling to be able to do what I love and be able to give back at the same time. Why Bali? In Bali, art is their life and life is their art. The Balinese have a rich artistic tradition that I admire, so much that I’ve entrusted my inspirations in the talented hands of the Balinese artisans, craftsman, and silversmiths.

First job ever: I worked for an antique rug dealer.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? I started as a gemstone dealer and importer, and my love of color made me continue in this business.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? I love SAM’S PAINTING

also a jewelry designer; my son Mathew, who is currently in law school; my daughter Nicole, who works in the fashion industry; and our Shih Tzu Frappucino.

CANCER RIBBON PENDANT

Five items on your desk right now:

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: Learning about different cultures and discovering renowned art during my travels has opened my eyes and inspired many of my designs.

MULTIGEMSTONE RING SAMUEL BEHNAM SORTING STONES IN BALI

What’s new and exciting this year at Samuel B.? I’ve been recognized as a Designer of Distinction by the Silver Promotion Service in their Savor Silver Program.

painting, I would be an artist.

Family and pets: My wife Neda, who is

Where do you see the jewelry industry 10 years from now? I hope that we can bring back the lost art of jewelry making. By using century-old techniques and talented silversmiths, we can create a unique balance of old and new!

Where do you see your company in 10 years? I would like to expand on my

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Do good, and good will come

charitable jewelry collections. My wife Neda

to you.

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A picture of my family, my sketchbook, a Balinese treasure box with my favorite gemstones, my favorite handmade Balinese pen, and my Designer of Distinction plaque. Five songs on your playlist: “Con Te Partiro” by Andrea Bocelli, “Let It Be” by The Beatles, “Piano Man” by Billy Joel, “Respect” by Arethra Franklin, “Mamma Mia” by ABBA. Jewelry you’re wearing right now: My wedding band and a sterling silver braided bracelet. Guilty pleasure: Eating.

First website you check every day (not your own!): Pinterest and JCKonline. What’s on your bucket list? To see the 7 wonders of the world.

What are you watching on TV? The Voice and The Big Bang Theory. SLEEPING BEAUTY TURQUOISE EARRINGS

Favorite movie: Forrest Gump and The Blues Brothers.

IMPERIAL BALI MENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COLLECTION â&#x201E;¢

6$08(/% Â&#x2021; INFO@SAMUELB.COM

www.samuelb.com

2014 FINALIST

WHO’S WHO: SHY CREATION

When you work with Shy Creation, you’re not just getting trusted expertise, you’re joining the Shy Creation family. Brothers Shy and David Dayan, and sister Kathy, owners and designers, are energetic siblings who embody their jewelry designs: classic, stylish, and fun. They are passionate about their jewelry and take pride in continually offering new, fresh, and exciting designs. Tired of one piece? They’ll exchange it at anytime for something that keeps you passionate and your jewelry selection current. “Quality goods at incredible prices that grow their clients’ businesses” is the Shy company mission. SHY, KATHY, AND DAVID DAYAN

SHY CREATION: From the Ordinary to the Extraordinary Number of years in the biz: 21. Number of employees: 11. Elevator pitch on your company: From the ordinary to the extraordinary: with an extensive selection of designs, Shy Creation is your one stop shop for ﬁne diamond jewelry. Current product offerings: We have several different jewelry collections; bridal, colored diamonds, Manno, Glittara, Lumina, Art Deco, Kate…all of which use precious metals and precious stones.

Describe your personal style: David: Sexy, stylish. Kathy: Edgy, chic. Shy: Conservative. First piece of jewelry you designed: Handmade men’s gold bracelet.

Your best-selling piece of jewelry: Diamond ring from our Manno men’s collection—it’s the perfect men’s ring.

WHITE AND CHAMPAGNE DIAMOND MEN’S RING FROM THE MANNO COLLECTION

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Kathy: “Don’t be afraid of anything.” I was a very shy child, and my grandmother would always encourage me to get out of my comfort zone. She’s a very fearless woman, I aspire to her courage. David: “Don’t take no for an answer.”

Worst piece of advice: David: “If you ask for something three times and you don’t get it, just forget about it and move on.” This was the advice I was given when pursuing my wife. I asked her out for two years, probably more than 200 times, before she agreed to go on a date with me. We are happily married with two boys. Shy: “When in Rome do as the Romans.” I am who I am. I never agreed with that saying.

BRACELET FROM THE GLITTARA COLLECTION

Jewelry you’re wearing right now: David: Two-tone Rolex Daytona and

How did you get started in the jewelry business? Shy: We come from a long line of jewelers. I envisioned myself succeeding in this industry, so at the age of 16, I opened my own jewelry company.

KATHY WEARING THE KATE COLLECTION

my matching two-tone Manno white and champagne diamond ring. Kathy: Decked in our Kate collection.

Five songs on your playlist: Kathy: What’s not?! I’m always listening to music!

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? David:

Exercise regimen: David and Shy:

My dream was always to be an actor and work in film. I am enamored by the cinema inema and spent much of my childhood watching ching movies as well as making my own short ort films with fellow classmates. Shy: I’d d be in a political office, working with world ld leaders to tackle today’s world conflicts cts and edging toward world peace. Family and pets: David: My wife, Eden, who is the love of my life and my best friend, and two boys who keep me up all night. J Shy: My wonderful wife and two boys, my most precious creations. J

How do you unwind? David: Watching TV— Shark Tank. Shy: Playing with my kids. What’s on your bucket list? David: Travel the world. Shy: Diving in the Red Sea. Book you’re reading: Shy: Big Dog…

Climbing the stairs to our office. J

Little Dog by Dr. Seuss, my son makes me read it to him three times a night. J PAVÉ BAR RINGS FROM THE KATE COLLECTION

Cotillard—she’s simply incredible. Personal motto: Shy: Enjoy what you do.

Biggest joy in your life: David and Shy: Family. LARIAT NECKLACE FROM THE KATE COLLECTION

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Who would play you in your life story? David: Adam Sandler—he’s funny and has a great personality. Shy: Russell Crowe—he’s complex. Kathy: Marion

2012, 2013, 2014

WHO’S WHO: SWAROVSKI GEMSTONES BUSINESS

Swarovski has a long and treasured philosophy of inspirational and innovative excellence. Over a century ago, Daniel Swarovski, inventor,

Celebrating 50 years in the business in 2015!

entrepreneur, and visionary, pioneered precision-cutting technology for jewelry stones and founded his enterprise based on his principles of uncompromising creativity, technological excellence, and social values. Swarovski today, in

STEPHEN F. KAHLER, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT GLOBAL SALES OPERATIONS, SWAROVSKI GEMSTONES BUSINESS

addition to crystal, is synonymous with premium

In his leadership role at Swarovski Gemstones™, Stephen oversees the development of exciting new projects that expand Swarovski’s global reach.

quality in precision-cut genuine gemstones, marcasite along with zirconia, and synthetic stones.

SWAROVSKI Genuine Gemstones and Created Stones Number of years in the biz: For me, 22. Swarovski is celebrating 120 years in 2015. The company was founded by the entrepreneur and visionary Daniel Swarovski in 1895 in the village of Wattens, Tyrol, Austria and is still run by his descendants. Originally dedicated to precision-cut crystal, Swarovski started to expand its product assortment to genuine gemstones in 1965 and added synthetic stones in 1976. Today, the company is synonymous with precision, creativity, quality, and the virtuous handling of light— for and in ﬁne, bridge, and fashion jewelry; fashion; accessories; architecture; lighting; and design. Number of locations: The Swarovski Gemstones business is headquartered in Wattens, Austria, with U.S. branches in Cranston, R.I., and New York City. In addition, we have a global network of sales offices that supplies customers around the world with our stones. Do you manufacture in the USA? All our genuine gemstones and created stones are cut and polished in our own factories in Austria, which operate according to the highest social and ecological standards.

Elevator pitch on your company: We are a reliable, accessible, and reputable business partner that, through our premium offering of stones, supports our customers’ efforts to create the most beautiful jewelry, watches, eyewear,

consumer electronics, and other products. We can supply large quantities of the most precisely cut stones made from the purest raw materials and additionally support our customers with a wide range of services, inspiration, and knowledge. Current product offerings: We offer a balanced selection of genuine gemstones and created stones. Swarovski’s created stones—synthetic corundum, synthetic spinel, Alpinite castable, and zirconia— are of the highest quality available and replicate the ﬁnest of nature’s stones. They are all crafted in exquisite rich colors with unmatched brilliance. Leading this range of beautiful created stones is the Swarovski Zirconia collection. Every single stone features a microscopic laserengraved quality seal that guarantees authenticity and origin. Our genuine gemstones—sapphire, rhodolite, peridot, amethyst, citrine, black spinel, topaz, and marcasite—demonstrate Swarovski’s ongoing commitment to reveal and enhance the individual characteristics of each natural stone through the artistry of precision cutting. Every Swarovski Genuine Gemstone or Created Stone has perfect proportions, which makes these stones simple to match and quick and easy to set, minimizing any possible pitfalls of chipping or wastage. Each year we

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launch a range of new, innovative cuts and colors.

How did you get started in the business? I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1990 and also attended the Program for Management Development at Harvard Business School. I began my jewelry career at Swarovski headquarters in Wattens, Austria in 1993 with the intention of building my international business skills. However, with each new challenge, my passion for the gem and jewelry business developed into a ﬂourishing career. I love this business!

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Admit your mistakes and learn from them.

Five items on your desk: Picture of my

STEPHEN KAHLER RUNNING THE NEW YORK CITY MARATHON IN 2014

family, stack of unsorted business cards, cup of coffee, Harvard Business Review, iPhone/iPad. Exercise regimen: Boot camp on Monday and running an hour three to four times a week.

First website you check every day (not your own!): The Wall Street Journal. What’s on your bucket list? Running the 4 Deserts Race.

Accomplishment your most proud of: Instrumental in setting the foundation for what would quickly evolve into the world’s leading distributor of precision-cut genuine gemstones and created stones.

SWAROVSKI GENUINE GEMSTONES & CREATED STONES

A unique, balanced selection of products made from the purest raw materials. Each stone is crafted to the strictest standards for quality, color, size, and shape, TGƃ GEVKPI C EQPUKUVGPE[ CPF SWCNKV[ WPNKMG CP[ QVJGT DTCPF QP VJG OCTMGV and an unsurpassed creative vitality. SIGNITY US / SIGNITY AMERICAS LTD. / 1 KENNEY DRIVE / CRANSTON RI 02920 / USA T +1 800 444 0480 / OFFICE.AMERICA@SIGNITY.COM WWW.SWAROVSKI-GEMSTONES.COM

Synchrony Financial (NYSE: SYF), formerly GE Capital Retail Finance, is one of the premier consumer financial services companies in the United States. Its roots in consumer finance trace back to 1932, and today it is the largest provider of private-label credit cards in the United States. Its consumer financing program is designed by professionals from the jewelry industry who understand your business. Heading the Luxury segment are Mike Bagull, vice president of sales, and Shelly Schulz, marketing lead, whose equal parts of inspiration and expertise are key in offering consumer financing solutions for independent retail jewelers.

MIKE BAGULL, VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

SHELLY SCHULZ, MARKETING LEAD

SYNCHRONY FINANCIAL Number of years in biz: 80+ years of retail heritage.

Current product offerings: Consumer financing program for jewelry retailers to offer their customers. Elevator pitch: Synchrony Financial brings new meaning to the word partnership. We provide financing solutions to our partners’ customers. Our flexible terms help to make consumer’s purchases more affordable, which in turn improves loyalty and increases average transactions for the retailer. Nothing gets us more excited than building relationships that drive results. Our success depends on our partners’ success.

Mike Bagull Vice President, Luxury Markets Number of years in the biz: 14. I recently joined Synchrony Financial, heading our luxury sales team. For the prior 13 years, I was senior vice president at Ultra Diamonds and also a longtime client of Synchrony/GE Capital. After spending almost a year assisting in the integration of Ultra into Sterling, I accepted this position.

Accomplishment your most proud of: In addition to helping our partners grow their business through our bestin-class consumer ﬁnancing platform, I have already been able to help them in other areas of their business based on my experience in a larger, vertical retail environment—a value-add I’m thrilled to be able to provide.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? I joined Ultra Diamonds in 2000 as director of credit.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Always listen to both sides of the story.

Family and pets: Wife Lauren, sixmonth-old son Ryan, and a 10-year-old ﬂat-coated Retriever Lucy. Exercise regimen: Running. Favorite pastime: With a 6-month-old— it’s family time. Guilty pleasure: Addicted to The Walking Dead on AMC—binging on that. What’s on your bucket list? Australia and New Zealand trip. Jewelry you’re wearing right now: Omega watch.

Preferred news source: CNN. Personal motto: Work hard, play hard. Biggest joy in your life: Deﬁnitely family and even more so now with the addition of Ryan.

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Shelly Schulz Marketing Lead, Luxury Markets Number of years in the biz: 13. I’m responsible for driving industry growth with multichannel/multi-segment strategies through market research and analysis. I’ve held cross-functional roles within the company, including leading acquisition efforts across all industries. My family, who were German master watchmakers, came to the U.S. and opened their own jewelry business in 1923, and now it spans three generations.

How did you get started in the jewelry business? With GE Capital. Ironically, I married a jeweler, so now I am in the business forever!

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Intelligent people get the facts versus just believing everything they hear. Family and pets: Husband, 18-monthold son, and two Siberian huskies. Exercise regimen: Running 4–5 times a week. Favorite pastime: Walking my dogs, annual hikes in the Smoky Mountains. Jewelry you’re wearing: Jye’s International, Baume & Mercier, and a wedding set designed by my husband. How do you unwind? Running, dancing, and music. What’s on your bucket list? Bora Bora again, teaching my son to cook, learning to speak Italian. Personal motto: No fear—close your eyes and jump.

PIGGY BANK: © KIDSADA MANCHINDA/DREAMSTIME.COM, PASSPORT: © RED/DREAMSTIME.COM; RUNNING SHOES: © DARREN BRODE/DREAMSTIME.COM

WHO’S WHO: SYNCHRONY FINANCIAL

YOUR CUSTOMERS

OUR FINANCING Synchrony Financial, formerly GE Capital Retail Finance, is bringing new meaning to the word partnership. We offer credit and ﬁnancing solutions to our partners’ customers, including small and independent retailers like Jewelers of America members. With over 80 years of retail heritage, we have the products, services and industry expertise to help our partners improve customer loyalty and increase average transaction sizes. Find out what Synchrony Financial can do for your luxury business at SynchronyBusiness.com/luxury or 1-855-433-3772. Engage with us.

WHO’S WHO: ZEN DIAMOND

Zen Diamond is Turkey’s leading diamond brand and is recognized for its expertise in the design, production, and sale of diamond jewelry. Owned and operated by Emil Güzelis, CEO, the company is one of the largest diamond jewelry manufacturers in Europe and the Middle East. In fact, for the past seven years, Zen Diamond has been Turkey’s leading exporter of diamond jewelry, and it is the only brand in that country that has its own diamond grading lab. Zen Diamond is the exclusive Turkish partner for Forevermark diamonds and is also the only licensed jewelry producer worldwide for the National Geographic Society. EMIL GÜZELIS, CEO

ZEN DIAMOND Number of years in the biz: 34. How did you get started in the jewelry business? I’ve been working in this business since I was 6 and am the third generation of a family who has been in the jewelry business since the 1890s. My family entered the diamond jewelry business in 1980, and I opened my ﬁrst store in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul in 1987, at the age of 19. I was the youngest owner in the whole bazaar. In 1998, I went out on my own and founded my own atelier and started exporting wholesale. Number of employees: 250. Number of locations: We have wholesale offices in Dubai, the UAE, the United States, and Germany. We have 50 stores including locations in Kuwait, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi.

Do you manufacture in the USA? We manufacture in Istanbul.

Elevator pitch on your company: Our vision is to be the favorite and the most reliable diamond jewelry brand. We want to make every woman’s diamond dreams come true.

Where do you see your company in 10 years? Being Turkey’s largest diamond jewelry retailer and exporter, and developing the retail and wholesale chain throughout the world.

Where do you see the jewelry industry 10 years from now? Trends will change more rapidly than ever

before. New product design, production, and distribution will need to be faster. We expect the demand for smaller, more affordable diamond jewelry to increase with a younger generation now purchasing. Accordingly, new types of shopping will emerge. Current product offerings: Zen Diamond offers the largest range of diamond jewelry in Turkey. Our collections include the classics like solitaires and wedding bands and precious colored stone and other diamond jewels that can be worn both day and night. We also produce diamond accessories for men such as watches, tie clips, cufflinks, pens, wallets, and belts.

Describe the inspiration for your jewelry: Our customers’ dreams and the happiness of women wearing Zen jewelry.

Single piece of jewelry you’re most proud of: A necklace we created in collaboration with Burhan Dogançay, one of the most important pioneers of Turkish modern art, whose drawings are exhibited around the world. One of his paintings was transformed into a medallion, and he himself worked on this piece, and all the colors of the painting were reﬂected with diamonds, rubies, and sapphires. This unique handmade piece was sold by sealed tender, and all the income was donated by Zen Diamond. Your best-selling piece of jewelry: It differs according to the market. The United

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States prefers bigger pieces with diamonds and colored stones. In Turkey and Europe, classics, like solitaires and wedding bands, are favored.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Make your hobby your business, and you’ll never get tired.

What advice would you offer someone who wants to break into the business? One should enter the business with an invention and always offer something new or different than the competition.

If you weren’t designing jewelry, what would you be doing? It would have to be something related to women— something that makes them happy. Family and pets: Married with two sons, and a cat.

Jewelry you’re wearing right now: Zen-branded diamond watch, bracelet, and wedding ring. Exercise regimen: Running, skiing, and waterskiing. Favorite pastime: Shopping in different sectors, seeing what’s out there. Guilty pleasure: Chocolate.

First website you check every day (not your own!): www.cnbce.com Preferred news source: Internet. Personal motto: Always be hardworking and energetic.

Biggest joy in your life: My family and my business.

WHO’S WHO 2015 AD INDEX

AD INDEX AGTA .........................................pg. 18-19 Website: agta.org Email: info@agta.org Toll-Free: 800-972-1162

JCK Events...................................... pg. 16 Website: jckonline.com/shows Email: inquiry@jck.reedexpo.com Toll-Free: 800-257-3626

Samira for Pink Diamond ............ pg. 52-53 Website: pinkdiamondusa.com Email: samira@pinkdiamondusa.com Toll-Free: 800-526-8121

BELLARRI ................................. pg. 20-21 Website: bellarri.com Email: customerservice@bellarri.com Toll-Free: 800-255-0192

Jewelex...................................... pg. 36-37 Website: jewelexgroup.com Email: jewelry.us@jewelrygroup.com Phone: 800-208-9999

Samuel B. ..................................pg. 54-55 Website: samuelb.com Email: info@samuelb.com Toll-Free: 855-SAMUELB

Charles & Colvard ....................... pg. 22-23 Website: charlesandcolvard.com Email: sales@charlesandcolvard.com Toll-Free: 800-210-4367

Jye’s International ......................pg. 38-39 Website: jyescorp.com Email: jyescorp@gmail.com Phone: 415-621-8880

Shy Creation ..............................pg. 56-57 Website: shycreation.com Email: info@shycreation.com Toll-Free: 800-606-1749

Dora International ......................pg. 24-25 Website: dorarings.com Email: usasales@dorainternational.com Toll-Free: 866-DORA-NYC

Laura Medine ............................ pg. 40-41 Website: lauramedine.com Email: inquiry@lauramedine.com Phone: 212-986-5700

Swarovski Gemstones ................ pg. 58-59 Website: swarovski-gemstones.com Email: office.america@signity.com Toll-Free: 800-444-0480

EFFY ................................pg. 10-11, 26-27 Website: effyjewelry.com Email: inquiries@effyjewelry.com Toll-Free: 855-ASK-EFFY

Mark Henry .............................................. ..................... pg. 40-41, Inside Back Cover Website: markhenryjewelry.com Email: info@markhenryj.com Phone: 212-986-5700

Synchrony Financial ....................pg. 60-61 Website: synchronybusiness.com/luxury Toll-Free: 855-433-3772

Elisa Ilana ................ pg. 28-29, Back Cover Website: elisailana.com Email: customerservice@elisailana.com Phone: 402-926-3479

Mira Style ................................. pg. 42-43 Website: estore.mirastyle.com Email: info@mirastyle.com Phone: 213-622-5233

Endless Jewelry ........................................ .......................... pg. Cover Gatefold, 30-31 Website: endlessjewelry.us Email: us@endlessjewelry.us Toll-Free: 855-665-8555

Obaku ...................................... pg. 44-45 Website: obaku.com Email: us@obaku.com Phone: 704-899-5250

GN Diamond .............................. pg. 32-33 Website: gndiamond.com Email: sales@gndiamond.com Toll-Free: 800-724-8810

Pampillonia Designs .................. pg. 46-47 Website: pampilloniadesigns.com Email: info@pampilloniadesigns.com Toll-Free: 800-836-4071

GIA ..................................................pg. 3 Website: gia.edu Email: marketing@gia.edu Toll-Free: 800-421-7250

Parlé Gems ...............................pg. 48-49 Website: parlegems.com Email: parlegems@parlegems.com Toll-Free: 800-635-9800

Henderson Collection ..................pg. 34-35 Website: wlhlimited.com Email: generalinfo@wlhlimited.com Phone: 800-605-3035

Roman + Jules by First Image Design ......... ................................................. pg. 50-51 Website: romanandjules.com Phone: 516-498-8282

Zen Diamond .............................pg. 62-63 Website: zendiamond.com Email: usa@zendiamond.com

This company index is published as a convenience and not as part of the Who’s Who Contract. Every care has been taken to index companies correctly. No allowance will be made for errors due to spelling, incorrect page numbers, or failure to insert or include information. S64 ◆ JCK DECEMBER 2014–JANUARY 2015 jckonline.com