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“A Newspaper Dedicated to the Southern Jewelry Industry”

King Jewelers staying in the ‘loupe’ since 1912

By Wanda Freeman

As the fifth generation takes the helm at King Jewelers, the family business embraces change with a veritable Midas touch - an instinct that has guided its successes since 1912.

King’s latest news: The flagship Aventura, Florida store, open since 2003, closed with a monthlong sentimental farewell sale in February; the Nashville, Tennessee store, opened in 2008, is the new flagship; and the Kings will maintain a South Florida presence via a business office and appointment-based concierge jewelry salon in Boca Raton. By the end of the year, the Kings expect to open an IWC Schaffhausen boutique in Nashville.

Although fourth-generation jewelers Scott and Maxine King announced their retirement recently, Maxine continues to travel between home and Nashville as the company’s head jewelry buyer while Scott has eased into a retired life. Son David manages and operates the Nashville store as well as leading the business development, and son Jono oversees the high-end watch division and South Florida’s clientele through the Boca Raton office.

“A couple of months ago,” Jono says, “we were all sitting down as a family talking, and the conversation turned to business, as it was time to decide whether to extend our lease in Aventura or for my father to retire.”

ASHI Diamonds offers retail partners personalized advantage

By Deborah Yonick

ASHI Diamonds, known for its compelling custom turnkey jewelry solutions, is debuting at the JCK Luxury Las Vegas show its latest collection of Personalized Name and Date Diamond Jewelry that will help retail jewelers attract Millennial and Gen Z consumers to their stores.

Personalized Jewelry: Created by Us, Personalized by

You™ is a program developed by ASHI to provide independent jewelers a way to grow their business by promoting one-of-a-kind custom designed keepsake diamond jewelry.

Retailers attending JCK Luxury at the Venetian Expo, May 31 to June 5, will get to preview the collection at ASHI’s booth Lux1227, including styles of diamond name necklaces, bracelets, and rings; date necklaces and

bracelets; and initial dog tags and signet rings, as well as ASHI’s many other Holiday Collections. Multiple options are available to fit every budget: Silver, 10K and 14K yellow, white, and rose gold; two font styles; and three diamond qualities. For name jewelry, two lettering sizes are offered in script and uppercase. The customer simply creates online the name/word/lettering or date/ special numbers; then chooses the type of metal, gold karat, metal color, diamond quality, font style and lettering size. Each piece is custom made.

Empowering Jewelers

To empower retail partners to be successful, ASHI provides extensive, integrated print to digital marketing support, including social media content, email blasts, high quality jewelry images, blogs, flyers, catalogs, and more, which can be found on its robust B2B website, www.ashidiamonds.com.

Please see King’s page 2 See ASHI page 22

Quality Gold previewing new HERCO products at JCK Las Vegas

By Deborah Yonick

After recently acquiring the fine gold and platinum jewelry company HERCO, Quality Gold is excited to preview at JCK Las Vegas hundreds of new brand products, in stock and its latest catalog shipping this fall. Retailers attending the show, June 2-5, will find Quality Gold in The Plumb Club, booth PC 230 at the Venetian Expo.

Quality Gold’s co-founder and CEO Michael Langhammer describes HERCO as the ideal

acquisition given its strong product offerings and distribution capabilities, and demonstrated track record of success as a family-owned business that spans 44 years - sharing a similar history with Quality Gold. COO Jason Langhammer calls it “a smart and strong addition,” accelerating the company’s growth in 18K gold and platinum.

“Our merchandising team is excited to share with buyers more than 350 new items,” Paula Garcia stated. Former director

Please see Quality page 42

Fourth generation Scott and Maxine King have passed the torch to their sons David and Jono.

KinG’S

Continued from page 1

Jono recalls a friend telling him years ago about lifelong jewelers: “He made a funny yet apt remark that the old-school generation of jewelers die with a loupe in their hand. …

“Jewelers tend to love what they do and the profound relationships they build over the years with their clients who become friends; they’re reluctant to retire. And then a major life event happens. I didn’t want that to be the tale of my parents. I told my father that I wanted him to reap the rewards of his decades of hard work. After long consideration, he agreed he paid his dues, and it was time to sit back and let his boys take over the business.”

Jono says his dad is only “pseudo retired,” because he still mentions running into someone who wants a piece of jewelry or is looking for a watch.

The King family’s business history dates to 1898, when Louis King immigrated from across the Atlantic and settled in Philadelphia, doing watch repairs before moving West in 1902 to sell goods and supplies to miners during the Gold Rush.

By 1912, he’d accumulated a great deal of gold and opened his first jewelry store. In 1930, he moved to Atlantic City and worked with son Abe and grandson Martin, who later opened stores in Miami Beach. Abe’s was the first jewelry store in Miami Beach, which was such a fashionable place in the 1930s that the Kings closed their Atlantic City store and committed full time to South Florida.

Martin brought son Scott into the business, and they developed Florida Diamond Brokers, establishing an office in Antwerp, Belgium in the 1960s. In the 1980s,

Scott relocated the Miami Beach store to Bay Harbor Islands, where David and Jono grew up; and as CEO, Scott established a luxury salon for the store’s burgeoning estate, fine jewelry, and watch collections.

Over the years, Maxine has witnessed changes in jewelry tastes corresponding with other fashions: “When I first started there were a lot of formal galas and charity events, and big diamond necklaces to go with formal gowns. Then as the years went on, there was less formal wear and people moved to a more daytimeto-nighttime attire. … I travel all over the world looking for incredible designers and collections that no one else offers.”

King has two custom design lines, the King Jewelers Private Label and KJ5, the “5” referring to five generations. Jono says the store was an early adopter of online sales, with customer response growing from tentative to fully confident in making purchases of

tens of thousands of dollars.

“We’re starting to see incredible interest in lab-grown diamonds; as the processes have been perfected, there is greater efficiency and more competition in the marketplace; prices have come down and corrected, which now makes sense,” he says, adding that King has a large selection ready to serve customers whose diamond budget may not match the carat size and quality of diamonds from the earth.

“Each of the generations have been exposed to the industry from very early ages,” says Maxine. “Martin, Scott, then Jonathan

es as little kids: “We all went to our fathers’ respective stores and started out cleaning jewelry, helping with the displays, putting jewelry into the vaults at night.”

For Maxine, getting to see her family on a daily basis, traveling the world together each year for trade shows, all while laughing and enjoying her best friends in the world has been the greatest part of her experience in the jewelry business.

“When I got out of college, Scott asked me to join the business,” she says. “I’ve been doing it for 48 years and have enjoyed every minute of it. It’s a pleasure

Editor, Bill Newnam bill@southernjewelrynews.com

Publisher, Chris Smith chris@southernjewelrynews.com

Administration

and classified advertising

Martha Osswald martha@southernjewelrynews.com

Staff Writers

Wanda Freeman

Paul Holewa

Dianna Jarrett

Deborah Yonick

Vice President Sales

Elesa B. Dillon elesa@southernjewelrynews.com

Contributing Writers

David Brown

Brad Huisken

Diana Jarrett

Mia Katrin

Chuck Koehler

Joel McFadden

Guy Pineda

Southern Jewelry News 2006 New Garden Road - Suite 208 Greensboro, NC 27410

Phone: 336-389-1950

Fax: 336-389-1952

www.southernjewelrynews.com

email: info@southernjewelrynews.com Any views or opinions presented in this publication are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Southern Jewelry News.

and David. They all went on to get their college and post-graduate degrees and ultimately landed in the family business.”

David studied pre-medicine and then switched to finance and studied banking at UPenn Wharton, while Jono graduated from law school and became an entrepreneur.

Jono says all the young Kings share common experienc-

to go to work with family every day. … I’m looking forward to a sixth generation of King Jewelers!”

Jono says both he and his brother have children, each a son and daughter.

“Having them come into the office, sit at your desk and inquire about each piece and how the business operates is truly a magical experience.”

3rd generation Martin King with parents Abe & Anne at their store in Atlantic City circa 1939.

Family business founder Louis King (r) in Salt Lake City in 1917.

2nd generation owner Abe King in 1919 when the then young store was located out west in Salt Lake City.

Your Time is Valuable... Spend it Wisely at Select.

Ritz-Carlton

August 13-14, 2023

Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino

Uncasville, CT

August 27-28, 2023

Select Jewelry Shows are “right size” trade events that run for two days, Sunday and Monday, featuring 55-65 of the most popular lines and prestigious brands.

Select Show provides jewelry store owners with comfortable, convenient, and secure venues to conduct business with nationally recognized fine jewelry designers and top-tier manufacturers.

The 2023 Select Shows will be held at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Tysons Corner, VA, Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino in Uncasville, CT, and the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Dallas, TX Jewelers attending Select Shows enjoy complimentary - Breakfast, lunch, and wine & hors d’oeuvres - fun cocktail party Sunday evening and participating in the $10,000 total raffle give-away (to be spent on the buying floor)

Partial List of Select Exhibitors

KHR Jewels/Chromia M, D

King Baby D

Leslie’s Brand V, M, D

Marathon Company M

Marika Desert Gold M, D

Mark Henry D

Martha Seely V

Mason Watch Collection M

Mastoloni V, M, D

Ritz-Carlton Hotel

Dallas, TX

September 10-11, 2023

IDD USA V, M, D

IJM V, D

Imperial Pearl M

Inox M

Izi Creations V, M

Jorge Revilla M

JP Diamonds M

Kabana M, D

KC Designs V, M, D

D

Mazza Co D

MCE Jewelry D

Meira T D

Michael Jensen Designs D

Midas Chain V, M, D

Mondrian Collection V, M, D

Nava Dee by AOD V, M

Norman Covan D

Olivia B M

Oro Alexander D

Paragon Couture Grp V, M, D

PeJay Creations V, M

Peter Storm V, M, D

Picchiotti D

Prehistoric Works V, D

Presentation Box M

Prima New York V

Quality Gold V, M, D

Rachel Reid D

Rahmanim’s Import V, M

Raymond Mazza D

Reko M, D

Rembrandt Charms M

Roma Designs D

Roman + Jules V, D

Royal Chain V, M, D

Royal India USA V, M

Royal Pearl V, D

Sabrina Designs M, D

Scott Spurling M

Shah Luxury V, D

Shefi M, D

Shieler Trading V, M, D

Somerset Jewelry V, M

Supreme Jewelry V, D

Takat V, D

Toby Pomeroy V

Vahan D

Vama Creation V, M

Variety Gem Co. V, M

Vincent Peach D

William Levine V, D

Zayn Jewels M

Show Legend: V=Tysons Corner VA, M=Mohegan Sun CT, D=Dallas TX

The Retailer’s Perspective Things That Haven’t Changed

By Chuck Koehler

I’ve written many times about the countless changes that have occurred in this industry over the last several decades. One thing I haven’t written about is the things that haven’t changed As I start my 2nd 20 years writing this column, I thought I’d point some of those things out.

No, I can’t put a drop of solder on it.

This literally happened to me again a few days ago. Somebody brought in something that looked like it came from one of the Jewelry TV shows, and believe it or

not, it was broken. It was a very lightweight bracelet that had about 100 square cut gemstones that are graduated in color from one end of the rainbow to the other. They look good on TV, but they are so poorly manufactured, they just don’t last very long. This one didn’t last very long either.

To the layperson, it seems like an easy repair. Put a drop of solder on it and, like magic, it’s good as new. There’s only one problem. Solder doesn’t come in droplet form. But, there is another thing that hasn’t changed - the way I handle this type of customer.

For a job like this, I’ll quote a price of around $4,200 to repair this $295 bracelet. All while wrinkling my brow, looking at it very seriously, and talking out loud to myself about all of the steps involved in doing a repair that I have no intention of actually doing. They elected not to spend the money to have it repaired. Score!

“How do I know you’re not going to switch my diamond?”

As usual, my first thought is; ‘Switch it with what, a better one?’ Because I damned sure don’t want this one!

There are a couple of things going on here. First and foremost, everyone has heard the old ‘wives tale’ about the jeweler that switched someone’s diamond in a land far away, and a time long ago. The only problem is no one actually knows the jeweler, or the customer that made the claim.

Secondly, when someone drops off a piece of jewelry with you for any type of service or appraisal, the first thing you have to do is boil it in acid for a few days just to get the funk off of it, cause I ain’t touching that nasty thing! If that ring hasn’t been cleaned in over 20 years, then your customer has been seeing it dirty and grimy for at least 19 1/2 years. When they pick it up, it’s going to look different! If it doesn’t, you didn’t do your job correctly.

But now there is a new exception to this rule. If someone drops off a micro pavé ring that’s missing a tiny diamond or two, there is no way I’m putting it in my cleaner. That act alone is guaranteed to knock another 50 out of it. That ring goes back to the customer exactly like they dropped it off, with the exception of the two new kanardlys.

Emeralds are still a bad choice for wedding rings

The advent of the internet has ruined people forever, I’m sure of it. Young couples can now look at thousands and thousands of terrible design ideas that shouldn’t exist. Think about this; before the internet, these couples had to actually visit jewelry stores and look at in-stock merchandise. None of us carried those dumb design ideas in our stores. We, as professionals, knew they could never hold up to the rigors of everyday wear and tear that a wedding band and engagement ring are subjected to.

Have most of us fallen victim to carrying something, like slide bracelets, that didn’t work as promised? Of course we have.

But as a hard and fast rule, if we recommend and sell something, we have to stand behind it, and service that product. The internet doesn’t have to do that. And, for the record, opals suck even worse than emeralds in wedding rings!

I need this sized up one size

I’ve been sizing rings for over 40 years, and I still don’t know how big a size is, but the population at large obviously does.

“I need this ring to go up 1 size,” is something every jeweler hears about 10 times a week. So I always wonder; if I don’t know, without measuring, how can they? I don’t think, at any time in my career, that I’ve ever heard a customer say, “I need this ring to go up 2 sizes.”

While I’m thinking about it, I’ve never heard, “I need this ring to go up a size and a half,” either. Why can’t people just say, “My ring doesn’t fit anymore and I’d like for you to adjust it for me. Pretty please, with sugar on top!”

The customer is not always right

To be honest, customers are the most un-right people on the planet. I had a guy come in recently to have a ring sized. He told me exactly how the job was to be done. He also informed me that, because of all of the research that he had done, he was probably the most knowledgeable person on the planet regarding the subject of ring sizing. He also admitted that he had never actually sized a ring before. And of course, the way he insisted that the job had to be done was not even an option. He was not right!

As I stated earlier, the internet has ruined people. I’m certain that most of the information on the internet is produced by people that don’t actually work in the field they are writing about. And don’t get me started on the TV jewelry shows with their own jewelry and gemology classes.

In a jewelry shop, everyone has an opinion about how ‘not’ to do something. I’ve lost track of the number of times I’ve had another bench jeweler say:

“The jeweler I trained under told me…”

Stunningly, no one ever questioned whether that information he or she passed along was correct, or was it just an old wives tale? Heck, just stand outside of a busy mall store some Saturday and listen to what the salespeople say to the customers about the piece they are trying to sell them. You’ll just shake your head and

wonder where the heck did they get that info? I can only assume that their manager told them, because the manager before them learned it from the manager before them. It’s like that old game of telephone. Each person changes the original information just enough so that it’s no longer even close to accurate.

I don’t know what happened to it. It looked like that when I picked it up.

Customers will never give up on trying to make you honor the lifetime warranty - that you never offered - on a piece that they didn’t buy from you in the first place. But, since you worked on it once, that must imply that you are going to warrant, and repair, free of charge, anything that happens to that ring until the end of time.

I had a lady come in once with a ring that was all bent up, twisted, scratched, gouged, and the shank was broken. Apparently I had sized it a few months earlier and of course she only wears it to church on Sunday. She swore it looked like that when she picked it up. I was in a foul mood that day, so I decided to play along. I told her it was a simple repair and I’d just put a drop of solder on it and she’d be good as new.

I soldered the bottom of the ring back together, but didn’t bother to straighten, clean, or polish anything else. Once it cooled down, I took it out front and handed it to her and thanked her for bringing it to my attention and told her there was no charge. Then all hell broke loose.

It was only then that she ‘noticed’ it was all bent out of shape. I reminded her that she said it looked like that when she picked it up last time. If it was good enough then, it should be good enough now. She also noticed that it was caked in some kind of goop that I would have had to sniff to figure out what it was. I passed on that. I reminded her that she only wore it to church, and she said it looked like that when she picked it up.

This went on for a minute or so, before I finally said something to the effect of: ‘Listen, it didn’t

Please see Chuck page 14

Chuck Koehler

IFE Luxe Group now representing Italian fine jewelry brand, CHIMENTO

(NEW YORK) - IFE Lux Group has announced they are the official and exclusive sales agency of the historical Italian fine jewelry brand CHIMENTO in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Central America.

CHIMENTO was founded in 1964 by Adriano Chimento in a small goldsmith’s workshop in the renowned jewelry district of Vicenza. Since then, the family-owned company has grown to become a celebrated international brand known for its highly styled 18k gold and gem-set jewels.

Every CHIMENTO creation is characterized by a balance between know-how, creativity, and innovation in a continuous stylistic evolution that is always in step with contemporary trends but never compromises on craftsmanship, materials

quality, and wearing versatility.

CHIMENTO’s jewels mix traditional craftsmanship, contemporary design, and 21st century technology. Its creations are exquisitely Italian in taste and created for dynamic and demanding women who want their jewels to act as a precious complement to their style, yet are practical, versatile, and suited for everyday use. In addition, the fine jewelry brand vehemently adheres to the “Made-in-Italy” protocols, an industry standard recognized worldwide for exceptional quality.

The CHIMENTO family has taken up Adriano Chimento’s legacy, passing down its role as a promoter of Italian goldsmith mastery by reinterpreting its historical successes and presenting new lines of contemporary pieces.

Currently, CHIMENTO is available in selected independent jewelry retailers in the Americas with plans to make a vast expansion in this important market.

Through long-term relationships with prestigious retailers, IFE Lux Group will be working with the Chimento family to help CHIMENTO expand.

IFE Lux Group, based in Miami, FL, was founded by Anna Zordan and Dario Pastorelli in 2019. The duo have created a leading US based consulting and distribution platform for luxury and lifestyle brands. IFE Lux Group’s emphasis is on brands that reflect the culture of beauty and the excellence of the Madein-Italy reputation, with a commitment to the growth of their brand and retail partners as they advance Italy’s historical image of quality, innovation, and style.

“We select the excellency of Italian designs and style because Italy never goes out of fashion,” said Anna Zordan, COO, IFE Lux Group.

IFE Lux Group prides itself on the personalized support they offer their designer brands, combined with their long-term relationships with prestigious retailers throughout the U.S., Bermuda, Canada, Central America, and the Caribbean.

For more information about IFE Luxe Group email info@ ifeluxgroup.com or visit ifeluxgroup.com, or instagram.com/ ifeluxgroup.

Learn more about CHIMENTO at chimento.us or instagram. com/chimento_official.

LET’S GROW TOGETHER

V&A Group enters licensing agreement with Marchesa

(HOUSTON) - In an era when most companies are downsizing, V&A Group continues to not only expand, but thrive. V&A Group, an innovative industry leader and jewelry powerhouse has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with the iconic fashion brand, Marchesa. Marchesa’s elegant designs are regularly worn by A-list celebrities on the red carpet. They are sold through highend retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus nationwide.

Vinay Kotak, founder and president of V&A said, “We are looking to evolve our business from just selling product to bringing exciting collections and brands to the retail landscape.”

The recent licensing agreement with Marchesa is in line with V&A Group’s new strategy.

For more information visit vandaluxury.com, call 866-283-4367 or 713-270-4367, or email info@vandaluxury.com. View V&A Group and all their collections in person at JCK Vegas booth #15075.

About V&A Group

V&A Group was founded in 1998, and built on principles of ethics, integrity, honesty, and innovation. V&A Group is based in Houston, Texas with headquarters and manufacturing centers in Mumbai, enabling them to offer their customers quality jewelry with value pricing and on-time delivery. V&A Group are proud members of the Responsible Jewelry Council and are dedicated to utilizing the most ethical and sustainable practices.

Concept Marketing celebrating 50th anniversary

Concept Marketing is celebrating “50 Years of Happy Ears!”

Concept Marketing was founded by Larry Moore. Second generation owners, Larry’s daughters Laurie Smith and Terry Turner honor his legacy by continuing to provide quality products and service to the jewelry industry.

Started in 1973 as a jewelry marketing firm, Concept Marketing’s focus was soon steered in a different direction. After developing a nickel, allergy free, stainless steel ear piercing stud, Moore incorporated it into an innovative one step ear piercing system that quickly became popular throughout the country. When jewelers shared that some customers were having allergic reactions to other earrings after piercing, Moore identified the need for nickel allergy free earring styles that could be worn by everyone. He soon found his “niche market” in the industry, and the Concepts Earrings for Sensitive Ears line was developed.

Concepts Earrings for Sensitive Ears are proudly made in the USA using surgical grade stainless steel. Doctor tested and dermatologist recommended, Concepts Earrings are quality guaranteed and medically proven to be safe for everyone to wear. With over 2,500 styles available, Concepts Earrings are sold worldwide through hundreds of fine jewelry retailers and specialty gift shops.

Concept Marketing promotes the Concepts Earrings to retailers through their website conceptsjewelry.com and at various industry trade shows and buying groups including, JCK, RJO, SJO, AJS and CJG.

When do strong businesses focus on Acquiring and Retaining customers? Always.

Many of you were so busy that acquiring new and retaining existing customers required little to no effort.

You may not have the budget for all year round, but do not miss the Big Three where our approach is proven.

Successful Custom A Tale of Two Commitments

By Joel McFadden

They have found ‘The One’ they want to spend the rest of their life with. He asked the big question. She said yes. Now they are looking for the perfect ring to solidify the engagement.

They are a young but already successful couple. She is a doctor and he is a lawyer. Her enthusiasm was obvious. She was so excited about the whole idea of their engagement and building

a custom ring for her to cherish forever. It had to be so special and unique. She didn’t want diamonds but wanted green and red stones that didn’t look like Christmas colors.

They had done their research and were certain they wanted to work with us to design their rings. We spent a considerable amount of time talking and emailing back and forth. We looked at a lot of photos for ideas. We discussed the design elements piece by piece.

The budget was an issue for her. She wanted to keep the overall cost down. He was a little more realistic about the price and just wanted her to have the ring of her dreams. We had multiple conversations and even had a lengthy Zoom meeting to make certain the customer was comfortable with us and narrow down the details of the project.

At a gem show, we came across the perfect gemstone. A beautiful blue-green tourmaline. It was exactly the correct size, shape, color and was within the budget. We acquired the gem for the project.

She wasn’t sure from the pictures of it and we made arrangements for an in-person meeting to show her the stone. A two-hour

detour on another trip we had scheduled allowed us to bring the stone to them and let them see it for themselves.

Her nervousness seemed at first to be over excitement. She loved the gem, but just wasn’t sure about it. She loved the ring designs we had brought along also, but she just wasn’t sure about them either. She needed more time to make up her mind.

No problem, except we asked her to pay for the stone and put the deposit down on the project. She felt pressured and wasn’t sure about any of it - she just wanted to put everything on hold for now…

It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the customers’ excitement and certainty of working with you that those simple policies and procedures don’t seem as important. Asking for the deposit and getting the money before you have committed to do a bunch of the work is asking the customer to be as committed to the project as you are.

We should have known better. We should have realized the customer was just fishing. The cold feet and inability to make a firm decision on any aspect of the project, in the end, left us questioning if it was the ring design or

the whole idea of being engaged that she was questioning. Either way, we wish them both the best and updated our policy notes about when we ask for and expect the deposit to be paid.

We commit to making the best we can for our customers. It’s appropriate to ask them to demonstrate the same level of commitment to their project by paying a deposit before we invest considerable time and resources into it.

The other client is a completely different story.

I recently ran into an old friend. We’ve known each other for 30 years or more. He’s known my work in the jewelry industry and knows he can come to me to get quality work at an honest and fair price.

He got some news and was heading off to attend a wedding soon. He wanted to bring a quality gift for the bride. He didn’t call the office or come by the store but came directly to me instead. We discussed what he was looking for and I felt confident we could come up with something for him.

Right there on the spot, he tried to give me a deposit for the project. I didn’t expect a deposit from one of my dear old friends and wouldn’t accept it. I had no pricing on the project for him. My store had not processed anything on the order. My business partner did not even know anything about it.

I assured him we could make him something, but it did need to run through the store to get on the work schedule and figure out a cost. Despite that, he continued to try to give me money as a deposit. He pressed the issue until I gave him a verbal commitment to do the project for him.

CHUCK

Continued from page 6

look like that when you picked it up. If it did, you wouldn’t have accepted it and paid me for the work. It looked completely different when you picked it. Do you want to know how I know that? Because I was the one that did the work, and I was the one that handed it to you. You told me it looked beautiful. Now, if you’d like for me to repair it again, and make it beautiful again, it’s going to be $195. You obviously got your ring caught in either a bailing machine or a garbage disposal, and I’m not going to repair it for free.”

Joel McFadden

It was less than a week before the ‘Hey I want to do this’ turned into ‘I have to have this ready to deliver in 3 days!’ All of a sudden, it’s very apparent why he had been so insistent on giving me a deposit.

You see, a financial transaction equals a commitment to do business. He wanted me to be committed to getting this project done before I knew all the details of it and the incredibly short deadline to do it in.

Despite the incredible rush, we managed to come together as a team, work a couple of late nights and complete the project on time. Yet through this project, once again I am reminded, our policies and procedures are there for a reason.

Custom guru Joel McFadden is the owner of Joel McFadden Designs in Chapel Hill, NC. He developed pricing for custom jewelry and repairs for the IJO Prototype Store, opened a business which became a million-dollar store focusing on custom, was named MJSA’s first Mentor Jeweler, was the first director of the Council of Custom Jewelers, and is the creator of the Bench Jewelers Challenge. He is an industry writer and speaks at events. Available for CAD work, stone setting, and complete custom pieces for the trade. Contact Joel at MentorJeweler@gmail.com, 984-212-2217, JMDJewelry.com, Facebook and YouTube.

Then, the best thing happened. She said, “Maybe I’ll just get a few estimates from some other jewelers first.” Score!!!

Write to me if you think of something that hasn’t changed that I missed.

Chuck is the owner of Anthony Jewelers in Nashville, TN. Chuck also owns CMK Co., a wholesale trade shop that specializes in custom jewelry and repair services to the jewelry industry nationwide. If you would like to contact Chuck or need a speaker or instructor for your next conference/event he can be reached at 615-354-6361, www.CMKcompany.com or send e-mail to info@ southernjewelrynews.com.

5 fun, powerful hacks to try using AI Unleash the power of artificial intelligence

By Mia Katrin

The future is here. It’s the next big wave, revolutionizing life - like the computer revolution, the internet and the iPhone. You know how you rely on Siri and Alexa to help you? AI is like this, but on steroids.

You’re already using AI. It’s embedded in your online searches, social media algorithms, your smart phone, GPS car navigation systems, security systems, facial recognition, and more. But ChatGPT, a user friendly open-source version of AI, is recently widely available for all to use. And it’s free! It’s already revolutionizing

business and all aspects of personal life. Many programs are already incorporating AI, including the search engine Bing.

When ChatGPT was launched on November 30, 2022 by Open AI, it reached an estimated 100 million active users within 2 months, making it the fastest growing consumer application in history. It took TikTok 9 months to reach this goal, and Instagram 2.5 years.

Will you be an early adopter? Get a competitive edge. It’s your powerful ally. 5 powerful top hacks to try below. Try it and have fun!

TIP: Go to chat.openai.com.

Cas-Ker Stereo Gemscope

Where it says “Send a message,” type in your prompt. This is your question, your request. Be specific. The more targeted and specific your prompt, the more useful your answer will be. You can ask ChatGPT to provide the answer from a certain perspective, like “answer like you’re talking to a 5th grader” or “answer as a marketing/PR expert.” You can start out using ChatGPT like a search engine, or like you’re asking Siri a question, but it’s capable of much more.

Create a marketing campaign. Stuck for new promotional or advertising ideas? Briefly describe your business and ask

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ChatGPT for fresh ideas and suggestions. Be specific. “Give 5 ideas for a marketing campaign for Mother’s Day, a Designer Trunk Show, or the Holidays.”

Not exactly what you had in mind? Ask ChatGPT to refine according to your market, your store, or the type of advertising you’re most interested in (online, social media, print).

Generate 10 Tag Lines. Boost your creativity! Ask ChatGPT for fresh ideas. Example prompt: “Give 10 names for a store specializing in selling diamond engagement rings.” One ChatGPT answer: “Love Rocks.” Example follow up prompt:

Mia Katrin

“Give 10 tag lines for the business Love Rocks.” One ChatGPT answer: “Diamonds That Rock Your World.”

Try canva.com for graphic design. It’s a simple, easy to use design platform with templates that is already incorporating AI. Design ads, flyers, social media posts, signs and posters. Get creative! Has a free basic level.

Let ChatGPT be your personal assistant. It can manage your schedule by scheduling meetings and sending reminders, organize and respond to emails, plan your travel and book tickets, conduct research, manage your social media by creating content and scheduling posts, do administrative tasks such as data entry, document preparation and invoicing, even do personal errands. Ask ChatGPT how it can help you!

Meet your new copywriter. Need help writing documents, such as emails, letters, press releases, ads, even procedures and policies for your store? Ask ChatGPT. Make your prompts as specific as possible. “Write a press release to send out to local area magazines, radio and TV stations, announcing our 10th anniversary celebration and specials.”

TIP: When you receive your answer from ChatGPT, which takes just a few seconds, you can ask a follow up question, like “explain your first point in more detail,” or “summarize your response”. It will remember your original question. If you want to start a new thread, open again and start a new prompt.

TIP: The better your prompt, the better your response will be. You can ask ChatGPT to rewrite your prompt for you and make it better!

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Mia Katrin is an award-winning jewelry designer featured in over 100 stores nationally. To become a Jewel Couture LLC retailer, contact www.jeweljewel. com, 828-406-1105 or mia@jeweljewel.com. A recognized industry spokesperson, Mia also writes for several jewelry magazines and frequently is an invited speaker at major national trade events. She recently launched a new marketing agency to help you sell online, TheJewelersMarketer.com.

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Continued from page 1

Jewelers who participate in ASHI’s Personalized Jewelry program also receive a complimentary ecommerce responsive microsite that can be easily embedded on their own store website.

This B2C microsite can be customized with the jeweler’s name, logo, store information, and retail markups, integrated email system, digital coupons, and integrated shopping cart with PayPal and order by phone options.

Customers select their desired style and metal type, diamond quality, and font size. After entering desired name/date, the system generates a preview of the custom style. Pricing is available once all fields are selected.

High-quality images in three-view angles, and features like Virtual Try-On help convert web browsers into buyers.

ASHI has also created a point-of-sale display with silver alloy samples of various designs and styles for retailers to engage with in store.

Retailer Advantage

Founded by brothers and business partners Sanjay Pandya & Rajeev Pandya in New York City nearly 40 years ago, ASHI is a fully integrated jewelry company with manufacturing facilities in the U.S., China, and India. The company - servicing more than 1,000 independent retail jewelers in North America - is known for its innovative merchandising programs like I Do Bridal, Lovebright, Fusion Diamonds, Diamond Basics, Petite Collection, and other collections of fine diamond and precious gemstone bridal and fashion jewelry.

ASHI created its Personalized Jewelry program to fill a void for independent jewelers, enabling them to provide custommade, Personalized Diamond Jewelry to their customers. “The industry has seen the trend for customization in the diamond bridal ring category take off in the last 10 years,” Sanjay says, “but not many suppliers offer independents this capability in fashion diamond jewelry.”

“Most jewelers don’t have a supplier that can easily create

Personalized Diamond Name

and Date Jewelry,” says Rajeev. “ASHI’s Personalized Jewelry program brings into the store those consumers that typically would go to a B2C online store for such items.”

Personalized keepsake styles like name and date jewelry offer a compelling opportunity for independent retail jewelers to connect with younger consumers, provide a custom design experience, and get shoppers through their doors for both gift and self-purchases in this category.

While the majority of the research is done online - which is why the customized Personalized microsite is so important - Rajeev cites that over 95% of the independent retailers’ sales still happen in physical stores.

Name jewelry, in particular, is a trend that has been used throughout history to symbolize power and status. Today, it remains a popular way to express individuality, as well as keep loved ones close, shares Rajeev. “Many people wear their own names or the names of loved ones.”

As the economy is softening and the pendulum post pandemic is swinging from jewelry back to travel and leisure, jewelers have

an opportunity with customization to differentiate their brand, capitalize on the design experience and strong trend for personalization, and introduce new customers to their store.

To learn more visit ASHI Diamonds at Luxury/JCK Las Vegas, booth LUX1227, May 31 to June 5, visit www.ashidiamonds. com or call at 800-622-ASHI.

Ashi Personalized Jewelry Point of Sale Display.

Personalized Jewelry microwebsite landing page mockup.

Industry Events

Hardrock Summit to return to Denver in September 2023

(DENVER) - Hardrock

Summit will return to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, CO for its 3rd edition from September 15 - 18, 2023. Featuring an estimated 250 exhibitors who are among the best fine gem, jewelry and mineral companies in the world, the fair will continue to provide a next-level experience to the Denver Gem & Mineral Show schedule.

The overwhelmingly positive feedback that Hardrock Summit co-founders Christoph Keilmann and Wolter Mehring received from last year’s mineral and gemstone exhibitors reaffirmed Denver as an ideal choice for visitors from throughout the US and many other countries. In addition, the show’s time slot in September has proven to be the perfect moment for buying, sourcing, and trading for all portions of the industry, from silversmiths to bench jewelers, and high-end jewelry designers and manufacturers to all levels of mineral collectors.

With an extensive array of offerings from raw and cut gemstones to entry-level and high-end minerals, Hardrock Summit will once again be a popular event for the mineral and jewelry industries in the fall season.

Organizers reported they experienced high demand for booth space during the recent Tucson gem shows and expect the 2023 Hardrock Summit will be better than ever for the finest gemstones, jewelry, and mineral specimens in the fall. “With its European flair, Hardrock Summit is exactly what the American market needs: a well-organized, upmarket, and sophisticated arena for the mineral and the gem world communities,” says Ian Bruce of Crystal Classics.

Hardrock Summit is also seeing major interest from mineral and gemstone associations and is proud to host the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) for the third time, making the AGTA GemFair™ Denver AGTA’s third

hub in 2023 after the association’s presence in Tucson and Las Vegas. “AGTA is thrilled to be participating for our third year with the Hardrock Summit. Denver provides an exciting venue for our exhibitors and buyers to network before the holiday selling season,” says John W. Ford, Sr., CEO of AGTA.

Furthermore, Hardrock Summit will host the Denver Gem and Mineral Show (DGMS) again, strengthening the show’s commitment to continue the tradition of the long-running club and cater to a diverse field of mineral collectors.

“We would like to thank our exhibitors and all attendees for their support over the last two years and are excited to enter a new phase with Hardrock Summit’s 3rd edition,” states Christoph Keilmann, co-founder of Hardrock Summit.

With its expected line-up of top exhibitors from around the world, Hardrock Summit expects to once again be the top U.S. market platform in the fall season for the finest gemstones, jewelry and mineral specimens.

For more information, please visit hardrocksummit.com.

Register at hardrocksummit. com/tickets.

Select Show adds Ritz Carlton in Tysons Corner, VA to Fall venue lineup

Select Jewelry Show has added the Ritz Carlton hotel in Tysons Corner, Virginia to their 2023 schedule. Tysons Corner, a short distance from downtown

run for two days, Sunday and Monday, and feature 55-65 popular lines and prestigious brands in the convenience of an easily accessible show. Complimentary

Washington, DC, is convenient to more jewelers in the WashingtonArlington-Alexandria, DC-VAMD-WV market area. The Select Show in Tysons Corner will be August 13-14, 2023.

Select Jewelry Shows are “right size” regional trade events that bring fine jewelry designers and top-tier manufacturers to leading markets to meet with better jewelers in a comfortable and secure venue. The Select Shows

breakfast and lunch, and a cocktail party are available to all attendees.

This year’s Select Show Fall schedule includes the Ritz-Carlton in Tysons Corner, VA - August 13-14; The Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino in CT - August 27-28; and The Ritz-Carlton in Dallas, TX - Sept 10-11.

To attend a Select Show register online at www.selectjewelryshow.com.

NCJA raises $10K for Victory Junction

The North Carolina Jewelers Association (NCJA) held their ROCK SOLID educational event in conjunction with the Southeastern Jewelers Organization (SJO) Jewelry Show, at the beautiful Ballantyne Resort in Charlotte, NC earlier this year.

Stores throughout the southeast were welcomed to experience jewelry shopping, education, fun and friendship.

Enthusiastic jewelers were presented a two part education seminar on Sunday morning. The seminar was led by the best, recently departed Kate Peterson of Performance Concepts along with Terry Chandler of Diamond Council of America.

The NCJA hosted a Live Auction Event Sunday night to raise money for Victory Junction. Victory Junction is a Richard Petty family camp created for kids with disabilities. The auction was led by Petty’s private auctioneer.

Attendees had fun outbidding one another for Petty memorabilia, as well as dozens of other donations - including a dinner and fun evening at Rays on the River in Atlanta, donated by esteemed sales reps, Steve Summerlin, Tom Schlotman and Dennis Williams. The lucky winner will join them at the next Atlanta Jewelry Show.

After all was said and done, over $10K was raised for the kids.

Petty was thrilled to accept the check at a presentation held at his Petty Garage. NCJA Board members Oz Hefner and Heather Lewis attended.

Applied Marketing 101 The View from Surat

By George Prout

As I write this, I’m sitting in seat 15A on a Thai Airways 787 Dreamliner bound for Bangkok from Mumbai. The flight left at the ungodly scheduled time of 2:40 AM, clearly demonstrating that Asian culture has a totally different view of the impact of sleep deprivation on mood and performance. Oh well, at least my phone isn’t ringing at altitude, and I have a chance to tell you about my trip to Surat, possibly the most interesting trip I’ve ever taken.

My journey began six days ago, with a flight to Mumbai in order to spend several days with two factories in SEEPZ, the Special Enterprise zone where jewelry that’s shipped directly out of India receives a favorable tax status. Several colleagues and I then took the 4-hour drive to Surat, to visit the largest Lab Grown Diamond (LGD) Laboratory in the world.

With a metro population exceeding 8 million people, Surat is the second largest city in Gujarat province, and is forecast to experience the highest population growth of any city in the world during the next decade. Ninety percent of the world’s diamonds are processed here, making this the diamond polishing capital of the world.

The Surat trip allowed me to also visit the world’s largest office building (yes, bigger than the Pentagon!), which will provide a new home to 4500 diamond trading offices. The Surat Diamond Bourse building is unbelievably massive, triggering a memory of the building at Cape Kennedy where the huge Saturn 5 rockets that transported astronauts to the moon were assembled. There is no question that once this place gets up and running, it’s going to be the epicenter of the global diamond market.

As you might imagine, the recent extraordinary growth in global LGD sales has sent shock waves through the community here. Diamond people at the highest levels tend to be pretty conservative, and there’s been resistance not just to LGD as a product, but to the whole notion of the potentially tectonic shift in consumer preference regarding LGD vs mined diamonds.

Remember, these folks are global experts in the diamond business, and they did not see Lab coming, and I think they are now mystified as well as horrified by how LGD may impact their long-standing dominance in the diamond world. The scenario reminds me of a similar case of “Expert Error Syndrome” that occurred in the computer business over 40 years ago.

At the time, the undisputed king of computational devices was IBM, as they produced the extraordinary mainframes and semi-conductors that dominated the computing landscape in the ‘60s and ‘70s. In a classic case of confirmation bias, they viewed the initial personal computing machines produced by companies like Apple as “toys” that appealed only to a select bunch of geeky nerds, possessing very limited real-world applications.

But then in 1977, a new upgraded version called the Apple 2 was released, and Apple began selling it to a broader audience. And then a year later, a Harvard MBA student named Dan Bricklin and Bob Frankston, a skilled software programmer, began working on a piece of software that was to revolutionize the world of finance and accounting.

They created the first spreadsheet, called Visicalc, which instantly provided the accounting capacity to replace 20 manhours of weekly work with just 15 minutes of data manipulation. Visicalc, running on the Apple 2 Personal Computer, completely changed the computational game, and represented a massive threat to IBM’s dominance.

IBM responded by launching its first Personal Computer, developed in record time, with an expectation that they would sell 400,000 “PCs” over the lifetime of the product. Of course, their expectations were ridiculously low, as they actually sold nearly that many in just the first 12 months.

They had failed to recognize the revolution that was taking place around them, as an entire ecosystem of PC manufacturers like Compaq, Dell, and HP entered the space and invented an entirely new consumption paradigm. The Personal Computer became one of the biggest hits in the history of consumer products, spawning a revolution that continues to this day.

IBM’s senior management blew it by failing to properly recognize the incipient consumer demand for Personal Computers, but their focus as a company was already shifting from hardware to technology services, so in retrospect it’s unclear that they would have been able to fend off the huge competition that was to come from the upstart hardware manufacturers.

But in this context, what should we make of the large diamond entities who have chosen only to dabble in LGD, rather than aggressively staking out sufficient productive capacity to create defensible levels of future market share?

I suspect that they have made an error of great strategic significance, basing this evaluation on the fact that just as IBM failed to react properly to the incipient demand for Personal Computers, allowing multiple players to gain a foothold in what is now a trillion-dollar business, similarly the huge diamond companies who could have ramped up LGD production in a massive way have instead chosen to play a game of wait and see, allowing aggressive new players to leapfrog them, both in capacity as well as technological proficiency. Because while the old guard companies were moving in slow motion, things have been happening at light speed in Surat that will redefine the Lab Grown space, as I saw with my own eyes during the past several days.

What I saw in Surat was mind blowing. As I visited a series of new Laboratory complexes that have sprung up in just the past six months, I saw not hundreds, but thousands of machines being built and installed, creating an ultimate annual production capacity that will be measured in millions of carats.

One of my colleagues calculated that in just one afternoon, while inspecting this massive new diamond growing initiative, we walked over 4 miles review-

ing the new equipment, as we traversed the nearly 2 million square feet of space that will ultimately be taken up when the installations have been completed by year’s end. And the space for yet another 2,000 machines has already been allocated for 2024.

There are two fundamental forces at play here. One is the undeniable fact that in LGD, scale matters, and players who can ramp up productive capacity at exponential rates will ultimately possess an enormous competitive advantage over their competitors who can’t. Second, just as new technologies that allowed for the production of personal computers and cell phones created entirely new consumer product categories with trillion-dollar revenue streams, it’s my strongly held view that the diamond business is no longer a zero-sum game, in which increasing LGD demand will serve only to cannibalize mined diamond sales. Entirely new ways for using diamonds in consumer-centric applications will provide an opportunity to lift the current level of global diamond sales, estimated at about 85 billion dollars, to heretofore unimaginable heights, perhaps even exceeding 250 billion dollars, as consumers gravitate towards diamond jewelry at the expense of other luxury verticals. All of this will create a new, incredibly robust, sustainable diamond business that will ultimately be seen as the beginning of a new, extraordinarily profitable age in the jewelry business.

It’s going to be a wild ride. Just make sure you’re on the right horse.

Class dismissed!

George Prout is about to celebrate his 50th year in the jewelry business, having sold his first engagement ring as a 17 year-old sales associate working at Kay Jewelers in 1974. In each of the past 4 decades, he has worked for companies that rose to top three status nationally in sales volume to Independent Jewelry stores, and is Divisional President of JB Bhanderi, the largest Lab Grown Diamond Grower in the world.

George Prout

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The Story Behind the Stone Ancient Provenance

By Diana Jarrett

Watching the major auctions is a great way to keep tabs on modern collectors’ desirability for certain jewelry and gemstones. It also helps put a dollar value on the escalation or descent of certain color diamonds and gemstones over time.

Take fancy color diamonds for instance. We might conclude that a savvy collector’s appetite for rare color diamonds have hit an all-time pinnacle. But it probably hasn’t happened yet. Pink diamonds for example are currently in high demand. Aside from their splendid beauty, pundits predict that there could be as few as 500 of these scarce beauties yet to be pulled from the earth.

Primeval Gems as Storytellers

Ancient jewels, irrespective of the intrinsic value of the stones and metals, hold sway with collectors for different reasons altogether. Each piece of antique jewelry opens a window into earlier civilizations and reveal what was important to each society.

One of the most prolific jewelry making eras that is fortunately preserved was the early

Roman culture. Much of their initial culture was actually borrowed from the Greeks, but over time they developed their own distinct ethos. It was reflected in their art, literature of course, and their architectural glory - like those amphitheaters for blood thirsty sport-games that entertained its citizens.

With Roman literature developing since the 3rd century BC, they painted a picture of what life was like for their society. So potent was their influence that modern civilization still borrows from ancient Roman society and

still adores their gemstones and jewels.

Watch the Auctions

We can catch a glimpse of this enduring love for the primeval civilization from a recent auction in Great Britain. When a 2,000 year old Roman garnet ring came up for auction, it surprised even the auctioneers with its final hammer price.

Meaningful Carving

The archaic gold ring featured an intaglio centerpiece. As a carved gemstone, its depiction is cut into the flat top surface of the oval garnet. Were it a cameo,

the stone would feature a raised carving that comes out from the base of the stone. Intaglio rings were thought to be signature devices for the wearer. The intaglio stone portion of the ring could be pressed against a piece of hot wax leaving a unique ‘signature’ impression to seal official correspondence or documents.

The representation on this ring, a right facing male portrait is thought to be that of Caesar Augustus who ruled Rome from 27BC to 14AD, a vital era in Roman history. This integral figure of ancient Roman culture reigned when the Roman Empire dominated the globe for over a thousand years.

What’s it Worth?

For this sale, Fellows Auctioneers in Birmingham England, put a rather modest pre-sale esti-

collection. So we can assume that it had been in a family for over a century.

Those Were the Days

The ring was “thought to have been acquired during a ‘Grand Tour’ to Italy in the 19th century,” said a source familiar with the sale. During the 19th century, it was a popular activity for aristocrats and society’s elite to embark on these “Grand Tours” throughout much of Europe and the Far East. In doing so, the wealthy brought back immense hordes of trophies to show where they’d been and also to reflect their cultivated taste. These types of tours often lasted 9 months or longer.

So in this case, the beauty of the garnet carving is only eclipsed by its ancient provenance and the mysterious journey it took to arrive on the auction block in the

mate on the ring of between £150 - £200 or roughly $186 - $248 US.

So when an unexpected bidding war erupted, the entire room went wild. The winning bidder (who remained anonymous) paid approximately 600 times its resale estimate, a rarity even with highly publicized jewelry auctions today.

The ring sold for an impressive £117K or about $146K US. While the auction house is mum on who put the ring up for sale, it did not come from an archaeological site but rather from a private

21st century. If stones could talk.

Award winning trade journalist and gemologist Diana Jarrett is a Registered Master Valuer Appraiser and a member of the Association of Independent Jewellery Valuers (AIJV). She’s a popular speaker at conferences and trade shows. Jarrett writes for trade and consumer publications, online outlets, her blog: Color-n-Ice, and www.jewelrywebsitedesigners.com. Contact her at diana@dianajarrett.com, visit her website at www.dianajarrett.com, and follow her on Facebook and Twitter (Loupey).

Diana Jarrett

2,000 year old Roman intaglio ring. Photo Fellows Auctioneers

The Forum was one of many of Augustus Caesar’s architectural triumphs.

Auction in progress. Photo Fellows Auctioneers

Furry Friends on the Job!

One of our previous Furry Friends, Zoey June Bug March, has a sister! Introducing Jewel Lulu Bug March. Like her sister, Jewel is a Blue Lacy that works with her humans Richard and Monique March at March Jewelers in Hurst, Texas. The 1-yearold Jewel loves to be at work and greet customers. She also enjoys playing football and chasing her big sister. There’s nothing more important than family.

Say hello to our Feathered Friend, Harley! Harley, a White Capped Pionus Parrot, is the number one attraction at Jewelry Repair Services of Midlothian in Midlothian, Virginia. Yes, he can talk, but Harley only talks to people who bring him fast food. He will tell people he loves them for French fries. Thomas Glover is Harley’s human. His sister found Harley eating acorns on her back porch in 2015. She walked out, he ew to her, and Thomas had a new employee. They’ve had parrots in the shop since they opened in 1993. Harley has a knack for nding money - then chewing on it. Thomas has had many strange looks at the bank depositing shredded cash. Visitors always ask, “Where is the bird?” He’s not con ned in a cage so you never know when he’ll show up or what he might do next.

FFDo you have a furry friend that helps out in your store? Tell us about it and send a picture to bill@southernjewelrynews.com.

Introducing Riley! Riley works as the head of customer relations and mascot at Jewelry of Joy in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. He has been working alongside his human and store owner Joy Badders for the last 13 years. As a lifelong employee of Jewelry of Joy, Riley takes his job seriously by calming the husbands of the shopping ladies. He also entertains children and does an excellent job disposing of all snacks in purses and bags.

Another industry icon taken too soon Tony Marciano 1961 - 2023

In the early morning of Sunday, April 30th, 2023, Antonino “Tony” Marciano passed away at 61-years-old. He left an indelible mark on the jewelry industry, with a career spanning almost 40 years. His legacy and unwavering spirit will be everlasting in the hearts and minds of those privileged to work with him.

“Tony M,” as he was known in the industry, was a larger-thanlife figure. Born on May 30th, 1961, Tony grew up in Paramus, NJ and found his love for wrestling at Paramus High School. He was the first member of the Marciano family to graduate college and was a proud alumnus of Southern Connecticut State University.

After graduating, Tony began his career in the jewelry industry working for his cousins at their family business, Michael Anthony Jewelers, in Mt. Vernon, NY. Starting in product control, he eventually rose to become the Senior Vice President of Sales. It was in these formative years that Tony established lifelong friendships with colleagues and customers alike.

In April 1998, Tony made a major life change when he purchased partial ownership of Metal Marketplace International in Philadelphia. Relocating his family to Southern New Jersey, Tony built on the relationships he had made at Michael Anthony and ingrained himself with the local jewelry community.

Never one to be idle, Tony was searching for new horizons in July 2007, and found them by working for CG Creations in Spring Valley, NY. Shortly after, Tony found his next and final adventure at Quality Gold in April 2008.

As Senior Vice President of Sales at Quality Gold, Tony brought a fresh vision to the sales department. By utilizing a customer-focused strategy to implement a vast sales force, Tony connected their talents with an established strong product infrastructure to better connect customers with Quality Gold. While he was very proud of what he created, Tony always credited his success to the team that had stuck by his side over his 40 years in the industry. His approach to customer relationships was the gold standard of not just being another vendor, but also becoming a strategic partner and trusted advisor to jewelers across the country.

Tony’s unique personality connected him with everyone fortunate to interact with him. His bright smile and charm will be forever missed. His passion for the jewelry industry and his customers inspired his colleagues to strive to be their very best in both their professional and personal lives. It’s a testament to him that many on his sales team worked with him for 20+ years over multiple companies.

Tony is survived by his loving and devoted wife of over 38 years, AnnaMarie; his adoring children Amber Vigna and her

husband Michael, and Giovanni Marciano and his wife Victoria; and a grandchild on the way. He also leaves a legion of family, friends, and cherished colleagues who will remember his zest for life and the boundless wisdom he imparted to them.

To honor Tony M, his family asks everyone to make a concentrated effort to spend time with their families, hug their loved ones close, eat well, exercise to maintain good health, and remember our friend and shining star for his boundless pursuit to make the world a brighter place.

Tony Marciano

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“I would absolutely recommend Marsden Brothers because they know what they are doing. The formulas were dead on . . . absolutely dead on! They know the psychology and how effective it is. It was a pleasure working with everyone.

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Why starting SEO earlier in the year will benefit your jewelry store

By Guy Pineda

Are you ready to sparkle and shine in the world of online jewelry sales? One key element to making that happen is starting your SEO efforts as soon as possible. You might be wondering, why the rush? But let me tell you, starting it ahead of time is like jumping on a treasure hunt. You’ll have more time to see results and outshine your competitors before the busy holiday shopping season.

Think of it this way; you can

target any occasion that people might want to buy something for their loved ones - like a pair of earrings or a ring - within the whole year and optimize your website for the long-term and climb up the search engine rankings. This means when shoppers are searching for the perfect piece of jewelry, your store will be one of the first they see. So, put on your thinking crown and dive into the dazzling world of SEO and how it can benefit your jewelry store.

What is SEO and why is it important today?

SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization, which is the process of optimizing a website to improve its ranking and visibility on search engine results pages (SERPs). The goal of SEO is to increase the quantity and quality of organic traffic to a website from search engines like Google, Bing, or Yahoo.

SEO is crucial for businesses in today’s digital world, as it can significantly impact the online

visibility and credibility of a website. Here are a few recent statistics from ahrefs.com that demonstrate the importance of SEO:

1. 68% of online experiences begin with a search engine.

2. The top three Google search results get 54.4% of all clicks.

3. 92.96% of global traffic comes from Google Search, Google Images, and Google Maps.

4. 60% of marketers say that inbound (SEO, blog content, etc.)

Guy Pineda

is their highest quality source of leads.

5. There are an estimated 3.5 billion searches on Google each day.

These statistics highlight the significance of a strong SEO strategy and the importance of appearing on the first page of search results. By implementing effective SEO tactics, businesses can improve their online visibility, credibility, and ultimately, drive more leads and sales.

Reasons you need to start doing SEO now

1. Get ahead of the competition: If you’re one of the first jewelry stores to start optimizing before the busy season, you’ll have a head start on your competition. This can give you a significant advantage in ranking for popular keywords. When your competitors are still trying to catch up, you’ll be ahead of the game and can maintain your position for a long time.

2. Target specific holidays and events: Target specific holidays and events throughout the year. Start your SEO efforts now. You’ll be able to target and begin long preparation for the Christmas season. Numerous jewelry companies can anticipate making 20% of their yearly sales in December, according to Forbes. Not a surprise given that one in four consumers plans to offer jewelry as a Christmas present. Jewelry is and continues to be a very popular Christmas gift choice. Start your SEO early to increase your visibility and drive more sales during significant shopping periods.

3. You’ll be able to make adjustments: SEO is an ongoing process, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your progress and make adjustments as needed. Starting your SEO today will give you plenty of time to make necessary changes before the busy season hits. You’ll be able to track your progress, identify what’s working and what’s not, and make changes accordingly. This will help you to make your SEO strategy even more effective.

Please see Pineda page 38

Stuller Bridal 2023 - 2024 catalog now available

All-in-one resource for everything bridal

(LAFAYETTE, La.)Stuller has announced the release of its newest catalog: Bridal 2023 - 2024, a comprehensive resource for offering the latest engagement ring and wedding band styles.

With 800 pages of on-trend and core styles, this new edition of the catalog highlights bestsellers and new, customizable options for endless possibilities. From engagement rings to wedding bands and classic styles to modern-day trends, this resource allows jewelers to create special designs for their customers using their choice of natural or labgrown diamonds.

Some of the features include:

• More than 600 new styles.

• Flexible 3C designs that allow you to customize stone type, shape, size, and metal quality.

• New Scan to Shop QR codes for quick, easy access to your favorite products on Stuller.com.

“Our research shows that consumer-driven desire for custom bridal styles is on the rise,” says Alex Stuller, senior bridal director. “Because of this, we’ve expanded our selection of on-trend, flexible 3C designs, which allow jewelers to easily create unique engagement rings and bands their customers will cherish for a lifetime.”

Learn more about Bridal 2023 - 2024 at Stuller.com/BridalCatalog.

What’s New

Rembrandt Charms launches Fingerprint and Custom Engraved Charm Collection

(BUFFALO, N.Y.) - Rembrandt Charms is excited to announce the launch of their Fingerprint and Custom Engraved Charm Collection. This new collection offers customers the opportunity to create a one-of-akind charm that is uniquely personal.

The Fingerprint and Custom Engraved Charm Collection is made using the latest laser engraving technology, capturing the intricate details of a person’s fingerprint, writing, drawing, logo, and more. Each charm is cast in sterling silver, gold plate, 10 and 14 karat yellow gold and 14 karat white gold. Charms can be further customized by engraving a special message, name, date, etc., on the other side of the charm.

“We are thrilled to offer this new collection to our retail jewelers and their charm collectors,” said Eric Lux, President of Rembrandt Charms. “Charms represent the most sentimental moments in one’s life and we wanted to offer our loyal charm collectors the opportunity to truly create a one-of-a-kind charm.

During our soft launch, feedback was extremely positive from our retail jewelers and their charm collectors, sports teams, schools, and organizations which received these charms. Retail jewelers stated these charms were most commonly attached to our charm bracelets and necklaces.”

manufacturer of charm and charm bracelet jewelry. Rembrandt Charms merchandise is manufactured in the United States and Canada, comes with a Lifetime Warranty, and is sold exclusively through authorized Retail Jewelers.

For more information, call 800-828-7840 or visit RembrandtCharms.com. Pineda

For over 50 years, Rembrandt Charms has been a leading

Continued from page 36

4. You’ll be able to build authority: Search engines love authoritative websites, and by starting your SEO now, you’ll have more time to build your website’s authority. You can do this by creating high-quality content, building backlinks, and engaging with your audience. By building your website’s authority, you’ll be able to improve your search engine rankings and attract more customers to your store.

In conclusion, starting your SEO efforts early in the year is like getting the first pick of the glittering gems at the jewelry store. By giving yourself more time to see results, getting ahead of the competition, targeting spe-

cific holidays and events, optimizing your website for the long term, and climbing up the search engine rankings, your jewelry store will shine brighter than the rest. So, don’t wait any longer.

Start working on your SEO efforts today and watch your jewelry store sparkle and attract more customers than ever before!

Guy Pineda, CEO of Jewelry Store Marketers, has owned an award winning digital agency for the past 15 years and has been working in the jewelry industry for close to 30 years. Jewelry Store Marketers is niche agency that helps jewelry stores get more appointments and increase sales through Local SEO, Digital Marketing, Website Development, Social Media, Videos and more. Learn more at jewelrystoremarketers.com.

Rembrandt Charms® introduces custom Shop-In-Shop displays

(BUFFALO, N.Y.) - Rembrandt Charms reports demand for charms continues to soar for retail jewelers throughout North America. Retail jewelers can now expand their charm collection with a Rembrandt Charms ShopIn-Shop to better serve their loyal charm collectors.

A Rembrandt Charms ShopIn-Shop is designed to complement each retail jewelry store while creating an inviting area for charm collectors to view Rembrandt’s extensive Charm Collection.

“Thank you so much to you and your team! The Shop-InShop looks amazing and I’m excited about our partnership!” stated Brendan Wrenn, owner of 25 Silver Boutique, with two stores located in Lake George, New York and a third store in Albany, New York.

“While we have implemented many Shop-In-Shops throughout our company’s history, we are thrilled that today more of our retail jewelers are requesting this magnificent presentation,” said Eric Lux, President of Rembrandt Charms. “Charms represent the most sentimental moments in one’s life and the joy that comes

with selecting your charms will last a lifetime.”

For over 50 years, Rembrandt Charms has remained the leading manufacturer of charm and charm bracelet jewelry. Rembrandt Charms merchandise is manufactured in the United States and Canada, comes with a lifetime warranty, and is sold exclusively through authorized retail jewelers. Rembrandt Charms provides

Essential Lab Grown Diamonds announces new Jewelry Basics Collection

(NEW YORK) - Essential Lab Grown Diamonds, one of the largest loose lab grown diamond wholesalers in the United States has proudly announced their new Jewelry Basic Collection.

hoop earrings, semi-mounts and bridals like classic solitaire rings, five-stone rings and seven-stone rings.

Vinit and Aakash Jobanputra, owners of Essential Lab Grown Diamonds, believe their cost-effective pricing approach should not be confined to loose diamonds, but also encompass finished jewelry. This simplifies the buying process for retailers by making decision-making easier and enhances and streamlines the process.

retail jewelers with a BusinessBuilding-Charm-Program, which includes inventory-controlled charm displays, marketing support, store listing on a Retail Locator, and much more.

For more information on a Shop-In-Shop presentation or the Business-Building-CharmProgram, contact Rembrandt Charms at 800-828-7840 or rembrandtcharms.com.

GN Diamond increases loose, lab grown diamond inventory by 50%

GN Diamond has announced they have increased their loose, lab grown diamond inventory to over 9,000 diamonds with sizes ranging from ¾ ct to over 20 cts. This inventory includes many hard-to-find shapes like pears, radiants, hearts, emeralds and marquise. Rounds, ovals and cushions continue to be the most popular.

In addition GN has increased their offerings in colored lab grown diamonds. “Retailers will find beautiful bubblicous pinks, forest greens, and sky-blue colors in a variety of sizes and shapes,” said Asaf Herskovitz, GN Diamond CEO. “These various colors have been very well received by jewelers allowing for an abundance of creativity when making finished jewelry for pendants, rings, bracelets and earrings.”

The launch of a new classic solitaire pendant line featuring lab diamonds from 1 ct to 3 cts has also been introduced by GN. All the popular shapes are set on an adjustable white gold chain with a jump ring and lobster claw clasp. “These pendants have an exceptional price point to attract consumers of all ages - ideal for graduation gifts, wedding or engagement gifts, push presents, etc.,” Asaf added.

This increase in inventory has also increased GN’s inventory of lab diamond studs from 1 cttw to 8 cttw. Many of the studs come with a certification and are set in 3 prong or 4 prong white gold.

For more ways to see how GN Diamond is helping retailers increase foot traffic, please visit www. gndiamond.com or email sales@gndiamond.com or call 800-724-8810. GN offers free overnight shipping, even on Saturdays.

The newly launched Jewelry Basic Collection features a range of classic and timeless styles at affordable lab grown prices. The line includes basic fashion designs such as stud earrings, tennis bracelets, necklaces, inside-out

Vinit Jobanputra established Essential Lab Grown Diamonds in 2021, starting with loose diamonds as the primary business. In the past year, Aakash Jobanputra expanded the company’s operations into lab-grown finished jewelry, leading to increased ex-

posure to new business channels and growth avenues.

For more information or to request a catalog, call 212-7647841, email sales@elgdiamonds. com or visit sanghavisolitaire. com/Home/DailySpecial.

AUGUST 26-27, 2023

PRE-SHOW EDUCATION: FRIDAY, AUGUST 25

COBB GALLERIA CENTRE, ATLANTA

PRODUCTS & TRENDS.

CONNECTIONS AND COMMUNITY.

CONVENIENT AND TIMELY.

UNMATCHED SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY.

AJS Fall is the traditional buying show that you’ve come to trust. It’s the one-stop resource for all the products and services a jewelry business needs.

Raymond Mazza

QUaLiTY

Continued from page 1

of sourcing and merchandising for HERCO for 15 years, Garcia joined Quality Gold as the HERCO brand sales manager, where she will continue to be active in building and shaping the brand.

“We have added geometric earrings, on trend bangles, and elevated bracelet and necklace sets,” she describes. “There are bold yellow gold pieces and new two-tone and tri-color products. The gold and platinum chain assortments are growing. We have added a new collection of solid link and men’s bracelets.”

Those familiar with the brand should know that HERCO product quality and vendors are not changing, Garcia underscores. “The ability to special order products to desired specifications has been HERCO’s specialty and remains a service the brand continues to provide. Customers can get their preferred links, metals, and millimeter widths as they have in years past.” Email info@qgold. com or call 800-354-9833 Option 3 for special order needs.

Quality Gold customers unfamiliar with HERCO will find exquisite craftsmanship and impressive details as brand signatures. “The brand uses unique findings, natural diamond accents, and stylish links with hidden clasps, and HERCO products have substantial weights,” Garcia

describes. “A wide assortment of 18K, 22K, 24K gold and platinum styles broadens the Quality Gold product portfolio.”

Gold and platinum products with multiple diamond stations are active Garcia says. Blank mountings are in stock and made to order. Station styles contain natural-mined diamonds in G-H, VS2-VS1 range. Pieces are set and shipped rapidly upon order. She encourages jewelers to schedule an appointment to view the latest HERCO brand products during JCK by emailing paula@ qgold.com or calling 513-8812445.

“Many of the targets have been family owned without a transition plan; many times we’re the only suitor.” He said that fiscal year 2022 was Quality Gold’s best ever in terms of adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization).

Itelman said in a statement that he has “complete confidence that the long-lasting HERCO reputation is in good hands with Quality Gold,” which “has a strong relationship with independent jewelers and a plan for HERCO to live on,” an important caveat for him in its sale. HERCO’s fiscal year ending Dec.

Supplier Synergies

The acquisition of HERCO, with the retirement of President Reuven Itelman, is the latest in a series of savvy acquisitions for Quality Gold, acquiring last year the 85-year-old, family-operated men’s jewelry brand IB Goodman.

Jewelers attending JCK this year also will see 250 new styles of lab-grown diamond rings by IB Goodman, which Quality Gold describes as “perfect for the distinguished man who wants fashionable options.”

Michael Langhammer said at a conference earlier this year that Quality Gold is “highly selective but strategic” in its acquisitions.

31, 2022 generated more than $25 million in revenues (unaudited). The brand’s product range includes 14K, 18K, 22K, 24K and platinum, and is defined by unique findings, natural diamond accents, stylish links with hidden clasps, and substantial solid styles, with special order capabilities.

Founded in 1979, Quality Gold operates within the United States, Canada and India. More than 165,000 jewelry and gift products are available to ship same day. Quality Gold actively serves more than 15,000 retailers across the United States, its territories, and Canada. For more information, visit www.qgold.com.

Jewelry shown above: Necklace 18VENE16YD18, Bracelet 18VEBR17YD8, Earrings 18ILEA67Y

Jewelry marketing lessons for growth

By André Savoie

This time of year, I hear from many jewelers who want to talk about how to hit their goals for the rest of the year. It’s even more interesting this year, given how last year ended up going. Many jewelers reported having down years. Meanwhile, others held steady or even grew.

These differences didn’t happen because of random chance. There’s a specific reason these businesses succeeded while others didn’t: they focused on their marketing. There are plenty of ways to do this, but we’re going to share three surefire tips that we know get results for jewelers.

#1 - Build Your Audience

Throughout the Year

You may have heard this advice before, but do you really understand WHY it’s so important?

The reality is the majority of sales, especially from big events during the holiday season, come from what we call your “warm” audiences. Warm audiences are your past clients, email lists, social followers, and website visitors - people who know your brand and have already bought from you.

This past year, we ran a Black Friday promo for one of our clients. Their business sold

around $20k in products on an ad spend of $2500.

Seems like great numbers, right?

But if you break them down, you’ll find that nearly $17k of the sales came from their warm audiences. Only $3k came from nonconnected customers.

These results are typical of many campaigns we run. Don’t rely on one-time buyers for your revenue, warm audiences are what produce big results.

Lesson learned: If you want a massive return on ad spend, build your audience throughout the year.

#2 - Train Your Warm Audiences

As much as people crave surprises, customers like to know what to expect. If your brand has an annual sale or event like Black Friday, you’ll want to keep things consistent, and it’s likely your customers will buy every year.

On the flip side, here’s something interesting: our best clients never run sales. They run special events, but they never have sales or even discounts on their products. Yet they manage to sell big numbers.

It may seem counterintuitive, but what this strategy does is train their client base to not expect or wait for a sale during the year. Instead, they emphasize their competitive pricing positioning at all times.

Then, during peak times like the holiday season or Valentine’s Day, they offer things like new merchandise or customized shopping experiences. They know their warm audience, so they’re able to offer things that have big value to those audiences, much more so than a discount.

Since people who follow their brand aren’t expecting a discount, it doesn’t influence their

midamericajewelrynews.com

buying decision. And the client protects their profit margins by not discounting in the first place.

Lesson learned: Train your audience to not expect sales. Instead, offer specialized events and products during peak seasons.

#3 - Don’t Get Overly Focused on Channel Attribution

While everyone wants to know what their best-performing marketing channels are, I caution you not to get hung up on the ROI from any one channel. Instead, keep a close eye on the bottom line.

Today’s marketing attribution models are flawed despite all the advances in technology. Plus, the iOS and privacy laws have made direct channel attribution even trickier. Throw in branded advertising like radio or TV, and it’s anyone’s guess which marketing channel gets credit for store traffic or sales.

Take, for example, the client I mentioned earlier - the one who ran the Black Friday promo. $2,500 was spent on social media ads. The direct, attributable sales of $20,000 were from Facebook and Instagram.

However, the client recorded $120,000 in total sales over the weekend.

The client used a mix of tactics, including organic social media, emphasizing the special offer on their website, and email marketing. But can we be 100% sure that only $20k of their $120k haul came from the social ads? We don’t think so.

Watch the bottom-line numbers to evaluate how your campaigns are performing. You’ll be glad you did.

Lesson learned: Don’t get hung up on one advertising channel. Instead, focus on your bottom line.

Summary

Many jewelers watch their competitors run sales during the holidays, and they can’t help but wonder if those campaigns are working better than theirs. Don’t take the bait.

Focus on building your list throughout the year, train your audience on what they can expect, and deliver value to them throughout the year. Then, you’ll be ready for the big times of the year and have a stable audience you can rely on. And when the time comes to look at the numbers, don’t get too focused on which reports show the best numbers. Stay focused on the bottom line.

André Savoie is the founder of High Level Thinkers, a digital marketing agency serving local jewelers with digital marketing, including Facebook, Instagram & Google advertising, local SEO, email marketing & more. For more information, contact André at andre@highlevelthinkers.com, 504-669-3207 or visit www.HighLevelThinkers.com.

GIA examines 34.59 carat CVD laboratory-grown diamond

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) - The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) laboratory in Hong Kong recently evaluated the largest chemical vapor deposition (CVD) laboratory-grown diamond seen by the Institute. Produced by Ethereal Green Diamond in India, the 34.59 ct, 24.94 × 13.95 × 9.39 mm, emerald-cut laboratory-grown diamond was evaluated as VS2, G color. The size of the largest CVD diamond seen by GIA increased by 111% since the Institute reported on a then recordsized 16.41 ct CVD laboratory-grown diamond in 2022.

Gems & Gemology (G&G), GIA’s quarterly professional journal, recently published an online research note that includes all observations and spectroscopic features of this latest record CVD-grown diamond. The research note will appear in the Summer 2023 print edition of the journal.

“This more than two-fold increase in size within one year is an impressive technical achievement in CVD diamond growth,” said Tom Moses, GIA executive vice president and chief laboratory and research officer. “With such production improvements, correct identification and disclosure are critical to maintaining consumer trust; this is another example of why GIA devotes significant resources and research to protect consumer confidence.”

This 34.59 ct CVD laboratory-grown diamond has minute features that resulted in it being evaluated as VS2 for clarity. Researchers found small black graphite inclusions, some along the inside of the body, while others formed clusters of clouds between growth layers. Microscopic observation showed a weak “oily” or wavy graining looking through the table, a feature sometimes seen in CVD laboratory-grown diamonds.

André Savoie

This 34.59 ct CVD-grown diamond, produced by the Ethereal Green Diamond in India, is the largest seen by GIA. Photo by Johnny (Chak Wan) Leung (GIA).

THE BEST SAWTA, WOSTEP, CW21 WATCHMAKERS AND BENCH JEWELERS PAID TOP DOLLAR

Luxury operation with locations in Arizona and Indiana. We offer exceptional health insurance, dental and vision benefits, weekly pay, PTO, retirement accounts and matching contributions. Continuing education support and upward mobility. Apply at brinkersjewelers.com/careers/

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Have you ever thought of relocating to South Florida? Or opening a second location?

We are an established Jewelry Store located in NW Broward County, at this location 12 years within a growing community of wealthy young professionals. 1600sq ft store in a well established 100% occupied shopping center. Over 4400 customers in our data base. For more information send inquiries to Scottcook33473@gmail.com

Religious Jewelry Rep Wanted

for Northeast and New England territories. Singer Company has been in business for over 80 years, with many established accounts. We are in search of a motivated individual, with jewelry sales experience and carrying more than one line. Please email Carol at carol@singer-co.com to apply.

Bench Jeweler Opportunity

Join the Vons Jewelry team!

Full time position at 3rd generation Jewelry store in Lima, Ohio. Open Tuesday thru Saturday. 10 days paid vacation and 5 sick days. 6 paid holidays. 401k with match, profit sharing. Health Insurance. Minimum 3 years bench experience. Send resume to dennis@vonsjewelry.com

The Nation’s Largest Restyle Event Company Seeks Experienced Jewelry Sales Representatives and Bench Jewelers who are free to travel and ready for the financial success that working for a great company offers. Salary plus commissions $80K to $120K+. Set schedule; no cold calls. 34 weeks per year travel required, security provided. Benefits include bonuses, 401K, and profit-sharing plans, dental, paid health and life insurance, commuting allowance, paid travel expenses and vacation.

One of the Midwest’s leading jewelers is in need of a store manager. Picture yourself managing a well-trained seasoned staff that emphasizes team work, in a large free standing store that carries some of the top designer lines in the business. The ideal candidate will have a related degree, at least 3 years of management experience, coupled with a dynamic skill set. Our city one of the fasted growing communities in the country, with one of the lowest cost of living and is a wonderful place to live. Starting salary and total compensation from $80,000 plus, depending on experience and qualifications.

HIGH END JEWELRY STORE MANAGER

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We are seeking experienced Jewelry Sales Reps/Wholesalers, for travel. Diamond Jewelry manufacturing & customer service team available to increase sales. Catalog & marketing material provided. Send resume: info@diasunjewelry.com or 888.342.7861

Ability to Recruit, Hire, Train and Motivate Top Performers.

Must be a Strong Sales Closer

Sunny Southwest Florida! We are expanding. Great location. Top pay, Full Time, Full Benefits Package. $75k-120k yearly. hr@dunkinsdiamond.com

239-822-1022