“A Newspaper Dedicated to the Southern Jewelry Industry”
e November 2025 issue is sponsored by
’Tis the season of magic and wonder and the perfect time to sparkle a little brighter with IJO.
As we wrap up another year, we’re deeply thankful for your continued support and trust. Wishing you all the magic of the season, resilience when it’s needed most, and the kind of connections that carry us through. Here’s to a brilliant holiday and a new year filled with success, growth, and bright possibilities.
SOUTHERN JEWELRY NEWS
Eliza Page: A Different Approach
By Wanda Freeman
In a classic business move, Elizabeth Gibson started her Austin, Texas jewelry store - Eliza Page - to fill a need. It was 2004, and Gibson, then thirty-one, worked in advertising, serving a client list rich in entrepreneurs and their startups.
Thanks to her lifelong hobby of making jewelry and selling her wares around town, she knew the jewelry-selling landscape: lots of good boutiques that happened to have jewelry cases, but no dedicated design-focused local jewelry stores.
“There was a missing component,” Gibson recalls. “A lot of local designers, but no design-focused stores to sell their work.”
Gibson thought she could answer that need, albeit mostly on her own.
ChatGPT - Your New Assistant 5
fast, easy projects you can do right now
By Mia Katrin
You need every edge you can get! Enter ChatGPT - an easy-touse Artificial Intelligence (AI) assistant that’s revolutionizing how smart retailers operate. Whether you’re creating an Instagram campaign, updating your merchandising layout, planning inventory strategy, filling new staffing needs, or creating your next 5 year business plan, ChatGPT can be your behind-the-scenes partner 24/7.
What Is ChatGPT?
ChatGPT is an AI-powered assistant - a smart, virtual employee that can read, write, brainstorm, analyze and create custom solutions based on your specific instructions. Unlike Google, which gives you links, ChatGPT gives you conversational responses that you can refine and improve through back-and-forth dialogue.
For jewelers, this means it can:
• Write compelling ad copy
• Customize you inventory plans
• Help design your store layout
• Suggest sample “sales pitches”
• Generate business expansion plans - and much more! It’s Not Just a Search Engine
A key point: ChatGPT is not just a search engine. It’s a thinking partner. You don’t just ask it a
“When you work in advertising, every week you have a new client, and I worked on branding and marketing for them. I had an entrepreneurial spirit and a lot of businesspeople and entrepreneurs as friends,” she says.
As it turned out, her non-jewelry business strengths served her well: “Because of my experience in business and entrepreneurship, I do things differently than a lifelong jeweler would. … I went in thinking like a customer.”
Gibson opened her first jewelry store in south Austin, but within a few months she knew the place to be was elsewhere: specifically, in the city’s burgeoning 2nd Street District, a lively multi-use community that has been her store’s neighborhood for the past 20 years.
Please see Eliza Page page 4
That’s Mine
By Diana Jarrett
Recent news outlets confirmed the sale of Lucapa Diamond Company in Angola and Australia to Dubai’s Jemora Group. Lucapa is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s leading high value, large-size diamond producers. Gaston International, part of Jemora Group, says it intends to keep working closely
and more recently, with exceptional colored gemstones which they auction.
A Shift in Paradigm Rapaport Diamond Report founder Martin Rapaport chatted with Dubai bigwigs during a successful jewelry trade show a year or so back. With its burgeoning influx of jewelry trade shows, he posed the question, “So, why aren’t you in the diamond busi-
Please see
Assistant page 22
with Lucapa’s existing partners and management, thus maximizing their asset’s long-term value. Even a decade or so back, this might have been seen as an uncharacteristic pairing. But today for Jemora, it’s a natural fit. The Dubai based firm also holds investments in precious metals
ness?” Emirates have been strategically developing welcoming venues for the diamond and gemstone industry to support such trade fairs. It has proven to be a genius move too, as professionals from around the world convene to trade their brands in a globally
Eliza Page in the heart of Austin’s 2nd Street District.
ChatGPT generated image. Prompt: Client couple admiring engagement ring on her finger in store.
Lucapa mine pink diamond in rough and finished heart shape. Photo Lucapa Mine
eliZA PAge
Continued from page 3
Today, Eliza Page makes a big impression with its small but stylish footprint. At 1,000 square feet, the store focuses on area designer collections rather than big national brand names.
That local accent was a key component in Eliza Page’s 20th anniversary on 2nd Street in September, when Gibson brought back her Austin Shines initiative, introduced 15 years ago. Whereas the 2010 event featured an educational seminar, this time around there was a benefit competition called the Austin Shines Design Challenge.
dra Scott was becoming Kendra,” Gibson says. “It felt like it was time to showcase the Austin jewelry scene.” Scott was the keynote speaker for the seminar.
This year, Gibson introduced the charity component, with all of the challenge entries donated and 100% of the donations going to the Center for Child Protection.
“I will definitely do another charity design challenge event next year,” Gibson says. “I might
In this contest, Austin-area designers applied to the competition, and twenty finalists worked with a provided item - a rustic salt-and-pepper diamond - to submit to judges. Four winners - first and second places for the Judges’ Shining Star and the People’s Choice Shining Star - would win prizes including a residency at Eliza Page and access to business and branding consulting services.
The Judges’ Shining Star award went to Jamie Turner De-
signs for its Zahra Hinged Drop Necklace featuring a gold pendant with filigree design and faceted center diamond. The People’s Choice Shining Star award went to Claire Sommers Buck Jewelry for its Rustic Guardian Pendant featuring a rustic center diamond set in a bezel of oxidized brass.
Like the local focus, jewelry education is a high priority for Gibson, starting with her store team of eight women and extending to the larger community.
SJN MAJN
Established 1988
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
Diana Jarrett
Deborah Yonick
Vice President Sales
Elesa B. Dillon
elesa@southernjewelrynews.com
Contributing Writers
Slav Galkin
Diana Jarrett
Chuck Koehler
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.
“Everyone here at Eliza Page is encouraged to take AJP classes,” she says of the GIAsponsored Applied Jewelry Professional program. “When you’re an independently run business, education is so important. I want to provide that for my team.”
Indeed, Gibson founded the Austin chapter of the Women’s Jewelry Association so the local jewelry-design community could learn and network.
Her first Austin Shines event, when Eliza Page was only five
years along, had an educational focus as well.
“There had been a lot of independent designers coming to me, all asking me the same questions, so I hosted the educational seminar to help answer all the questions at once,” Gibson recalls.
At the time, the country was beginning to see an upsurge of designer activity and specialty stores, and “the whole makerEtsy thing was going strong.”
The jewelry community in Austin was blossoming, and “Ken-
wait an extra year to do another local collection competition.”
Gibson says she didn’t foresee where things would be today, but she appreciates the perspective she has gained.
“Jewelry lasts forever, it’s recyclable, you’re creating heirlooms. It has so much meaning. The clients are all ages, it’s multigenerational. Of course, as a maker and buyer and lover of jewelry, I’ve always known that, but now I’m seeing it from a business perspective too, and I love that.”
Eliza Page focuses on area designer collections rather than big brand names.
Elizabeth Gibson, owner of Eliza Page.
People’s Choice Shining Star winner Claire Sommers Buck.
Jamie Turner Designs won the Judges’ Shining Star with this piece.
Claire Sommers Buck Jewelry’s People’s Choice Shining Star winner.
Stuller announces the company’s 2025 S.E.R.V.E. Stars
(LAFAYETTE, La.) - Stuller is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 S.E.R.V.E. Star Awards, honoring employees who have made exceptional contributions and embody the company’s five core values.
“Service has always been at the heart of Stuller,” said Jennifer East, vice president of human resources. “These employees have made a meaningful impact through their work and support of others, and we’re proud to recognize them!”
The S.E.R.V.E. Star Awards recognize those who lead by example, uplift others, and contribute to the culture of service that is central to Stuller’s mission and future success. The 2025 Stuller S.E.R.V.E. Star Recipients are
• Overall S.E.R.V.E Star: Morgan Miquez, IT Operations Project Planner
• Smile and Acknowledge: Danielle Turner, Resale Certificate Administrator
• Engage with Your Community: Shelbi Smith, Marketing Project Manager
• Raise the Bar: Bridget Brown, Customer Service Manager
• Value Your Wellness: Ian Graff, Web Analytics Specialist
• Elevate Yourself: Chantell Bertrand, Casting Tree Manager
Congratulations to each of this year’s honorees for the positive impact they’ve made across Stuller and beyond. “Stars shine bright. We are thrilled to recognize this year’s ‘STARS’ and are grateful for the light they shine on our customers, their fellow employees, and our Acadiana community,” says Danny Clark, president of Stuller. “We are humbled to recognize their priceless contributions to our company and the people we serve.”
To learn more about Stuller and Stuller S.E.R.V.E., visit Stuller.com/About.
Allison Kaufman earns 4th consecutive IJO Vendor of the Year award
(INDIANAPOLIS)
- At the most recent Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) Show held in Indianapolis, IN, IJO proudly recognized the outstanding contributions of its vendor partners with the annual Vendor of the Year awards. This year, the top honor was awarded to Allison Kaufman, whose excellence in service, innovation, and partnership set them apart in a highly competitive field. This is the 4th consecutive year this vendor was bestowed this distinction.
First Runner-Up honors went to Ostbye, and Third Place was awarded to Quality Gold, both of whom continue to demonstrate exceptional support and collaboration with IJO’s retail members.
“Strong vendor partnerships are the backbone of our group’s success,” said Stephen Barnes, owner and CEO of IJO. “Working with companies like AllisonKaufman helps make our buying group the best in the industry; together, we raise the bar.”
Samantha Larson, Director of Vendor Relations + Merchandise Strategy, shared deeper appreciation for the role these vendors play: “Each year, we’re reminded of just how valuable
Continued from page 6
great vendor relationships are. These awards go beyond product offerings, they celebrate vendors who show up as true partners, who listen, adapt, support, and grow with us. Allison Kaufman, Ostbye, and Quality Gold exemplify what it means to be committed, reliable, and innovative collaborators. We’re deeply grateful for the trust, dedication, and mutual success we continue to build together.”
The Vendor of the Year awards are determined by a combination of member feedback, performance metrics, and overall
contribution to the success of the group as voted on by retail members. The recognition highlights
the vendors who not only meet expectations but consistently exceed them.
GIA names Sriram Natarajan Senior Vice President of Laboratory Operations
(CARLSBAD, Calif.) - Sriram ‘Ram’ Natarajan, previously managing director of GIA India Laboratory Private Limited (GIA India), has been appointed to a new role as senior vice president of laboratory operations for the Gemological Institute of America, Inc. (GIA). He began his new responsibilities in early August,
based at GIA’s world headquarters in Carlsbad, California, reporting to GIA President and CEO Pritesh Patel.
In this new role, Natarajan will lead and establish the vision and direction for GIA laboratory operations, including diamond grading and jewelry services.
“Ram is a dynamic leader closely attuned to GIA’s mission and the needs of our laboratory clients,” said Patel. “As we continue to introduce new technologies and processes to advance efficiency, and develop new laboratory products and services, his expertise, insight and experience will be invaluable.”
Since 2020, Natarajan was the managing director of GIA India, reporting to the board of directors of GIA India Laboratory Private Limited (GIA India). In that role, he was responsible for education and laboratory activities in India. He joined GIA India in 2017 as vice president of laboratory operations, bringing with him three decades of extensive operational and leadership experience across various international industries.
“It is an honor to take on responsibility for overseeing GIA’s gemological laboratories,” said Natarajan. “I look forward to working with our teams and clients to deliver high-quality laboratory services and uphold the standards of excellence that GIA is known for.”
Amit Pratihari has been named the new managing director of GIA India Laboratory Private Limited.
Learn more about GIA at GIA.edu.
Sriram ‘Ram’ Natarajan, GIA senior vice president of laboratory operations
Can Independent Jewelers Reclaim Their Market?
A 24-month strategy for growth through focused product management and smarter marketing
By Slav Galkin
As the diamond industry evolves, independent jewelers face a turning point. Lab-grown diamonds are now part of most store assortments, and natural diamonds continue to anchor the emotional value of fine jewelry. But the business models that carried many independents for the last two decades are showing signs of fatigue. To remain competitive and profitable, retailers must reset their strategy, streamline inventory and reclaim control over their marketing, and invest in tools that match the expectations of today’s customer. The next 24
months will be critical.
Lab-grown diamonds undoubtedly have a place in the modern store, but their role needs to be clearly defined. Right now, many independents price themselves below national chains and online players in this category. While that can serve as a useful short-term tactic, it’s not a viable long-term strategy. As larger retailers reduce their prices, and they will, the already slim margins on lab-grown will only shrink further. The next dollar of profit will become harder to earn, and the impact on cash flow could be significant. Over time, it’s entirely possible that fine jewelers
simply won’t be able to afford to sell lab-grown diamonds at current volume levels and remain profitable. That isn’t guaranteed, but it’s a real risk that can’t be ignored.
Because of this, lab-grown should be treated as a managed support category, not the foundation of the business. It makes sense to focus it on fast-moving, lower-risk products such as studs, bands, hoops, and bracelets - where it serves the valueconscious customer without redefining the store’s identity. Lab-grown can be part of the offering, but it should never become the business model.
Natural diamonds, on the other hand, need renewed focus and a clear narrative. For too long, the category has relied on legacy campaigns and assumed emotional value. That assumption no longer holds with younger consumers. Retailers must define the value of natural diamonds through rarity, emotional significance and craftsmanship. This message can be story-based (emotion), material-based (cut) or both, but it must be consistent. Most importantly, it should come from the store itself. Local jewelers still have the trust and voice to make natural diamonds relevant again.
Slav Galkin
To support this messaging, retailers need to unlock capital currently tied up in inefficient inventory. Many stores are overassorted, carrying slow-moving product across too many categories. Worse, aged inventory, typically over 18 months old, rarely moves, even with aggressive discounting. Reports from Harvard Business Review, NielsenIQ, and Deloitte confirm what many retailers already sense. Stale products don’t sell in today’s market. Consumers are increasingly drawn to freshness and relevance. By streamlining to core styles and top-performing SKUs, stores can improve cash flow, turn rates, and merchandising clarity.
This shift opens the door to reinvesting in marketing, which has become both more fragmented and more essential. While digital marketing plays a role, the most effective and underutilized tool remains direct mail. It outperforms digital on customer acquisition cost, long-term value, and memorability. Direct mail allows retailers to reach buyers with high intent and creates a physical reminder that digital simply can’t match. The most effective model is multi-channel, with direct mail at the center and digital platforms supporting the message. Marketing should not be judged too quickly or discarded when it starts to feel repetitive. In truth, that is when it starts to gain traction with the customer.
While this strategy calls for reducing dependence on external brands, it still requires alignment with a strong supplier. One that supports the retailer without trying to replace them. That means partnering with a manufacturer who provides high-quality marketing assets and merchandising support, without selling direct to consumer or harvesting your customer data. The cost of producing brand-level photography, campaigns, and digital assets is simply too high for most independent jewelers, even for larger multi-store operations. A trusted supplier that invests in these tools
The Story Behind the Stone Ancient & Trending Now
By Diana Jarrett
Collectors and retailers alike love to spin a tale about their favorite gemstones. These stories give veracity to the stone’s value and establish its place in history. Recounting the stone’s collectability since ancient times is a bonus.
The continuity of human enjoyment to a particular jewel is a big draw. More often than not, we simply read about a stone’s early provenance rather than seeing examples of it for ourselves. Here’s an opportunity to observe where an amethyst jewel fit into ancient times, and into early aristocratic eras that flourished.
The Legacy of Amethyst
Today, gemstone lovers maintain ardent affection for amethysts. The grape juice tinted stones are gorgeous to look at and can easily become part of a jewelry fan’s signature look. There’s a wide range of tints to appeal to anyone. From palest lavender to
deepest royal purple, everyone can find their favorite shade. This lovely tinted jewel, like other quartz varieties, has been found throughout the world and has been exploited since antiquity. The color purple is associated with royalty, so it’s easy to see that early nobility found this stone to be exceedingly desirable. Ancient Greeks thought that amethyst dispelled drunkenness, so they were known to wear the
Dig this Castle
Speaking of below the surface, one never knows what they will uncover while digging around. Recently, archaeologists unearthed a spectacular treasure while excavating around the moat of an ancient Polish castle. Specifically, the exciting find came from the 13th century Castle Kolnie, near Poland’s border with the Czech Republic.
The murky depths of the moat yielded a spectacular 600-yearold jewel once treasured by a nobleman or perhaps a duke. The
jewel and carve drinking vessels from larger (amethyst) quartz crystals.
Finding Them
Describing where amethysts are found is like issuing a roll call for the most diverse global sites imaginable. But huge deposits of this material originate in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul. Massive amethyst bearing geodes are extracted from the region today. Most are destined to retain their natural shape as a testament to the mammoth possibilities hidden below the earth’s surface.
silver-gilt amethyst piece, likely part of an elaborate brooch, is one of the rarest high-status medieval jewelry items ever found in a settlement context.
The excavation team discovered the precious ornament embedded in sediment precisely where a medieval sojourner might have accidentally lost it while crossing the fortress’s entrance.
Every Piece Tells a Story
While we’ll never know who the high-born owner of this amethyst item was, we can study to gather inferences from the piece.
The intricate ornament features an important amethyst cabochon set within an elabo-
rate cone-shaped claw setting. A delicate halo of openwork rays or palmette petals accentuate the importance of this purple stone. The workmanship surrounding the amethyst proves how cherished these regal stones were to the ancient aristocracy.
Archeological historians declare the jewelry design to be of international origin, signaling the far flung cultural exchange during medieval times.
These experts also show the esteem medieval nobility demonstrated for the amethyst. According to their research, nobility believed fervently in the powers of this violet jewel. Its list of benefits was impressive. The purple stone was believed to provide protection against gout, bad dreams, and even treason, deceit, and captivity. Other valuable traits included protection against blindness, enchantment, and strangulation. No wonder it was a cherished talisman for medieval aristocrats traversing those ancient trade routes. Keeping Love Alive
Today, amethyst lovers may not be susceptible to such dangerous woes, so they collect the stone for other reasons - principally its transcendent beauty. Your customers will warm up to these delightful stories of centuries past. Who doesn’t love to be in such a highbrow company?
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
Interior of amethyst geode. Image 1st Dibs
600 year old amethyst brooch. Image Archaeological News Massive amethyst geode displays a
Keep your best customers coming back with a strong retention program.
Save hours of manpower while increasing efficiency and profit.
Grow your business with trustworthy Key Performance analytics.
Increase inventory performance by making smarter, data-backed buying decisions.
Get a clear picture of sales staff performance.
The Edge is more than a POS system; it’s like adding a staff member with an MBA in Jewelry Retailing.
jewelers across the nation trust The Edge.
The Retailer’s Perspective
These are a few of My Favorite Things
By Chuck Koehler
Through the years, I’ve had countless readers of this column come up to me and tell me about how something I had written affected, entertained, or educated them, usually in a positive way. Here are a few of those stories from years gone by.
Diamonds can’t break because they’re so hard (2010)
Wrong! Ask any bench jeweler that’s ever broken one and they’ll tell you differently. A Diamond, while breaking, makes a
very unique and unmistakable sound. Here’s what is really going on. Gemstones fall into two categories: Hardness and Toughness. Hardness is a stone’s resistance to scratching or abrasion.
A Diamond is the hardest natural material on the planet. The only thing that can scratch a Diamond is another Diamond. Fun fact: on the Mohs scale of hardness, the difference between 1 and 2, is the same as the difference between 2 and 3. It’s same between all the numbers between 1 through 9, with Diamond being the only
mineral at 10. If the scale was totally accurate, the number after 9 would be 144. That’s how hard a Diamond really is.
On the other hand, Toughness is a stone’s resistance to breakage or cleavage. A Diamond, because it is so hard, has a relatively poor toughness. You can bump a Diamond (hardness 10) into the corner of a glass showcase just right (hardness 6), and break it clean in two.
Does anyone remember the TV commercial where the guy was in the back seat of a Mercury
Marquis Brougham, driving over bumpy Manhattan streets, while cleaving a $1M rough Diamond for Cartier? Just let a pair of pliers slip, at just the wrong time while you’re setting a Diamond, and you’ll break off a chunk before you can say darn it (or insert your own word of choice here)! And for the record, every Diamond substitute to date will scratch glass.
I don’t want to let my diamond out of my sight (2014)
That’s just an old wives tale that a relative told them about
jewelers stealing your jewels, so don’t you ever let it out of your sight. I usually just hand it back to them and say, “I’m sorry, that’s just not a service we offer.”
In reality, I’ve never had a customer that handed me a true ‘If I stole this, I could disappear and retire on the proceeds’ Diamond ever tell me they wouldn’t let it out of their sight. They usually just hand it to me and ask me when it will be ready.
A jeweler handling Diamonds is like a bank teller handling money. Who cares how big the deposit is if it’s not going into your personal account? I’ve only seen one real case of a switched Diamond (and it was about a quarter of a million dollar switch) in my career. If a customer is only paying me to size their ring, then I’m not going to go to all of the extra trouble to take out their Diamond and set a better one in its place. Why? Because, every single time that this happens, they’re handing me their crappy, 1/4 ct., I2, TLB Diamond. I always want to say, “What do you think I’m gonna do, switch it with a better one?”
Then I want to tell them that the only reason I keep everything in my showroom under lock and key is because I think they’re going to try and steal something from me.
Emeralds make crappy wedding ring stones (2005) Yeah, I know the customer really wants an emerald. And they promise that they’ll be really careful with it. They promise they’ll take it off when they do the dishes. They promise they’ll take it off when they work in the garden. I’ve heard ‘em all. But, do you want to know the real truth. They won’t! Once that ring is on their finger, it’s on there to stay. Now, the reason I care is twofold.
One: When your customer breaks one of the emeralds that you sold them, there’s a possibility that your customer could end up in my store. In one respect that’s good. I get an opportunity to make your customer, my customer. In another respect, it’s bad because, assuming I actually like Please
Chuck Koehler
ASHI launches 2025 Holiday Sweepstakes
ASHI has announced the launch of their 2025 Holiday Sweepstakes. “Get ready to boost your brand, engage your audience, and drive sales this Holiday Season with ASHI’s free Holiday Sweepstakes - your ticket to festive marketing success!” says Mr. Pandya, partner at ASHI.
This powerful initiative helps retailers connect with new and existing customers through Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter, creating a viral wave of likes, shares, and visibility. Retailers can capture valuable consumer data like emails and demographics - building lasting customer relationships while positioning themselves as “The Holiday Brand” in their local market.
Sweepstakes Details
• Duration: October 20, 2025 - January 5, 2026
Powered by Innovation
In collaboration with Avalon Solution, ASHI introduces JewelSweep™ - the first-ever social media sweepstakes platform built for the jewelry industry. It’s a game-changer that combines technology, engagement, and brand exposure into one seamless experience.
• Winner Announcement: January 9, 2026
• Grand Prize: One lucky customer, chosen from the winning retail partner’s pool of entries, will receive a stunning Clover Station Necklace - a gorgeous statement piece in luxurious 14K yellow gold, valued at $2,495.
Retailers can also opt for a Custom Sweepstakes, guaranteeing one winner from their own store - perfect for driving exclusive engagement and social growth.
Sweepstakes Highlights
• Personalized Entry PageCustomized with your logo, store image & info.
• Social Media BannersProfessionally designed creatives for all major platforms.
• Consumer Data AccessCapture valuable leads via your branded entry page.
• Micro-Website Link - Direct traffic to your ASHI Retailer Micro-Website.
• Digital Marketing Library - High-quality images ready for instant posting.
• Social Media SupportBoost participation through posts, videos & live reveals.
Join ASHI’s 2025 Holiday Sweepstakes for a fun, festive, and free way to make your brand shine brighter than ever.
If you’re interested in participating in this unique and powerful marketing initiative, please complete the Holiday Sweepstakes Retailer Online Participation Form at sweepstakes.ashidiamonds.com/participationrequest. All participating retailers will be reviewed and approved by ASHI.
For more information about the Sweepstakes Program, contact ASHI at 212-319-8291 or email sweepstakes@ashidiamonds.com.
’Tis the season of magic and wonder and the perfect time to sparkle a little brighter with IJO.
As we wrap up another year, we’re deeply thankful for your continued support and trust. Wishing you all the magic of the season, resilience when it’s needed most, and the kind of connections that carry us through. Here’s to a brilliant holiday and a new year filled with success, growth, and bright possibilities.
Why Do We Give Engagement Rings? The story behind the tradition
By Mia Katrin
What’s old is new. The gifting of engagement rings is a deeply rooted tradition spanning centuries and cultures. Today it’s a virtually universal symbol of love and commitment. But what are this custom’s origins? They’re more complex - and at times, more commercial - than you may realize. For jewelry retailers, embracing this rich history is quintessential for sales. By enticing customers to appreciate this custom’s rich legacy, you magnify the significance of their own personal story.
Ancient Lore: From Rome to Byzantium
The earliest known instance of betrothal rings dates back to ancient Rome, around the 2nd century BCE. According to Pliny the Elder, in ancient Rome women were given two rings: one of gold to wear in public, and one of iron to wear at home. The rings
were more a symbol of ownership than affection - an indication that the woman was no longer legally available.
The Romans likely borrowed the practice from even earlier Egyptian customs, where circular rings symbolized eternity. During the later Byzantine period the exchange of rings became a formal part of the marriage agreement. By the 9th century the Christian church had sanctified the tradition, incorporating ring exchanges into marriage ceremonies.
Medieval Europe: Wealth and Status
In 1477 Archduke Maximil-
ian of Austria gave a diamond engagement ring to Mary of Burgundy. Widely regarded as the first documented instance of a diamond ring being used for engagement, it set a precedent among European nobility. The distinctive ring featured thin, flat diamonds arranged in the shape of an M. While diamonds were rare and expensive, this act was less about romance and more about political alliance - engagement rings also symbolized power and prestige.
Throughout the Medieval and Renaissance periods, rings became increasingly elaborate, featuring gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Posey rings, engraved with romantic poems or mottos, were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries in England and France.
East and West
Outside Europe engagement customs evolved differently. In many Eastern cultures rings were not traditionally part of the betrothal process. In India the gifting of jewelry - often elaborate gold sets - was common, but rings did not hold the same exclusive significance they did in the West.
In the Jewish tradition a simple gold band, reflecting modesty and purity, is exchanged during the wedding ceremony itself - not at engagement. Islamic cultures often include the exchange of gifts including jewelry as part of
enced by royal preferences - such as Queen Victoria’s sapphire and diamond jewelry.
20th Century: “A Diamond Is Forever”
The popularity of diamond engagement rings exploded in the 20th century thanks to the advertising campaign that revolutionized the industry. In 1947 De Beers launched the slogan “A Diamond is Forever,” coined by copywriter Frances Gerety at the Philadelphia agency N.W. Ayer & Son. The campaign cleverly linked diamonds with the idea of eternal love, a narrative that resonated deeply with post-war couples looking for stability and symbolism.
The marketing strategy also emphasized that men should spend a specific portion of their income - originally one month’s salary, later raised to two - on the engagement ring. De Beers’ efforts were wildly successful: in the U.S., the percentage of brides receiving a diamond engagement
engagement rituals. But rings are not always central.
Victorian and Edwardian Eras: Romance Meets
Craftsmanship
By the 19th century engagement rings had become more widespread among the middle and upper classes in Europe and North America. The Victorian era saw a surge in ornate, romantic designs, incorporating hearts, flowers, and snakes - Queen Victoria’s iconic engagement ring, designed by Prince Albert, her fiancé, featured a serpent, a symbol of eternal love.
The Edwardian period brought delicate filigree settings and platinum mounts, reflecting the technical advancements of the time. While diamonds were increasingly used, colored gemstones remained popular, influ-
ring rose from just 10% in 1939 to over 80% by the end of the 20th century.
Royalty Rules
Celebrity and royal engagements have consistently influenced ring trends. When Prince Albert proposed to Queen Victoria in 1839 with a serpent-shaped ring, snake motifs gained popularity. Perhaps the most influential modern ring belonged to Princess Diana, whose 12-carat Ceylon sapphire surrounded by 14 diamonds catapulted to icon status upon presentation to Catherine, Princess of Wales.
“Now” Trends
The tradition of engagement rings continues to evolve. Gender roles are shifting: it’s no longer uncommon for women to propose to men or for same-sex couples to
The iconic sapphire and diamond engagement ring that belonged to two princesses - Diana and now her daughter-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Posey Ring c. 1650-1750 with engraved sentiment.
Queen Victoria’s engagement ring given to her by Prince Albert, who designed it. The mystical snake Ouroboros with emerald and rubies. Image Etsy
OURS BEGINS WITH RESPONSIBILITY.
Through trusted partnerships with responsible mining communities — from tourmalines in Brazil to sapphires in Montana and emeralds in Africa — each Harmony Gemstone by Hoover & Strong reflects our deep commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. With a transparent, traceable journey and respect for both people and planet, our conflict-free diamonds and gems are as conscientious as they are beautiful. Choose stones responsibly. Choose Hoover & Strong.
Sapphires from Montana
Tourmalines, Emeralds and Aquamarines from Zambia
Tourmalines from Cruzeiro Mine, Brazil Garnets, Rhodolites and Tsavorites from Kenya
AssistAnt
Continued from page 3
question and walk away. You collaborate - ask it for options, then revise and refine the results.
Talk to ChatGPT (through your “prompts”) like it’s a person. Be as specific as possible. Don’t just say “Design a social media campaign.” Say “We’re a high-end retail store in Raleigh with an established clientele. Design an Instagram campaign for a Ladies’ Night Out Pre-Holiday event featuring diamond jewelry with models and refreshments.” When ChatGPT responds, ask it to refine its response - to create photos and invitations, or incorporate your own product shots or pictures of your store, staff, and satisfied clients.
Step-by-Step: How to Use ChatGPT
Step 1: Log In
1. Go to chat.openai.com
2. Click Sign Up (if new) or Log In (if returning)
3. Use your email, Google account, or Apple ID
You don’t have to log in, but it’s better to do so. If you do, ChatGPT will keep a record of your past conversations. The next time you log in, you can just continue the dialog or refer to previous ones.
Step 2: Start a Conversation
You’ll see a chat box at the bottom that says “Send a message…”
Here’s how to start:
Example prompt:
“I run a retail jewelry store in Boston that focuses on bridal and estate jewelry. I want to create a Valentine’s Day social media campaign. Suggest three campaign ideas with headlines, visuals, and suggested posting schedule.”
You’ll get a detailed response. You can then ask:
“Make the tone more romantic and elegant” or “Add a version with a giveaway contest.”
The more specific your prompt, the better your result!
1. Marketing Made Easy
ChatGPT can create full marketing campaigns in minutes. Here’s what it can do:
Social Media Posts - Ask it to write Instagram or Facebook posts with hashtags, emojis, and image suggestions.
“Write 5 Instagram posts to promote my new engagement ring collection, each with a unique story angle.”
Create Ads and Visuals - Combine ChatGPT with image tools like DALL·E (built into ChatGPT Pro) to generate visual ads:
“Create a romantic visual image of a couple exchanging a vintage ring under soft lighting.”
You can also ask ChatGPT to create images using the basic program, but there are some limitations.
Email Campaigns - It can draft your entire email funnel: subject lines, body content, and callsto-action.
“Write a 3-email campaign to promote a 20% off sale on estate jewelry, with one email per week.”
collaborating on a new marketing campaign.
Evaluate Effectiveness - Upload your email click-through reports and ask:
“Analyze these email metrics. What subject lines performed best and why?”
Update Your Website - ChatGPT can help write or revise your About page, product descriptions, or FAQ section.
“Write a warm, story-driven ‘About Us’ page for a third-generation family-owned jewelry store.”
2. Level UP Your Store Layout and Merchandising
Need help with presentation? ChatGPT can:
• Recommend traffic flow based on customer behavior
• Suggest display strategies
• Create a layout tailored to your brand
Example: “Suggest a store layout for a 600 sq ft boutique jewelry store that highlights bridal jewelry and encourages add-on sales.”
Or:
“Write product descriptions for five display signs with an elegant, premium feel.”
3. Smarter Inventory Planning
ChatGPT can help evaluate your product mix and make recommendations.
Define Your Focus - “Based on national trends, should I expand my estate jewelry collection or invest more in custom bridal?”
Recommend Products - “Suggest 10 designer brands for fashion jewelry that would appeal to urban women 25 - 40.”
Evaluate Results - “I added three new product lines last quarter. Help me create a report comparing their performance.”
4. Recruiting, Evaluating, and Retaining Staff Staffing is key. ChatGPT can make the process smoother.
Staff Recruitment - Need to hire? “Write a job posting for a sales associate with luxury retail experience, to post on LinkedIn and Indeed.”
Or:
“Write a job ad for a jeweler with CAD experience to join a custom design studio in Miami.”
Evaluate Candidates - It can help generate interview questions: “Create a list of 10 interview questions for a jewelry sales associate to assess both experience and sales skill.”
5. Plan the Future of Your Business
Long-Term Planning - “Create a 5-year business plan for a single-location retail jeweler that wants to grow an online presence.”
You can then ask follow-up questions:
• “Should I add a second store or expand e-commerce?”
• “What metrics should I track quarterly?”
• “How do I evaluate whether my current location is ideal?”
Market Evaluation - “Is it worth targeting Gen Z with upscale jewelry in a small city market? What would the campaign look like?”
Pitfalls to Avoid
While ChatGPT is powerful, there are a few things to watch out for:
• Be Specific: Vague prompts give vague answers.
• Fact-Check Details: It doesn’t always have the latest data - especially pricing, regulations, or hyper-local info.
• Check essential information: ChatGPT can make mistakes!
• Don’t Rely on It Alone: Use it to assist you, not replace your judgment or experts like CPAs or lawyers.
• Limit Sensitive Data: Don’t upload confidential customer records.
Final Thought
ChatGPT is like having a smart assistant that never sleeps. It can save you time, money, and mental energy - freeing you up to focus on what you do best: offering beautiful jewelry and connecting with customers. Plunge in and have fun! The more you use ChatGPT, the more ways you’ll think of using your new assistant. Start today. Visit chat. openai.com and ask your first question: “How can ChatGPT help my jewelry store grow in the next year?”
ChatGPT generated image. Prompt: Salesperson showing bracelet to client.
ChatGPT generated image. Prompt: Store staff group
ChatGPT generated image. Prompt: Retail jewelry store owner envisioning new merchandising layout.
Furry Friends on the Job!
Meet the adorable Coco. Coco is a Toy Poodle pup that works as mascot and guard dog at Concierge Diamonds on South Hill Street in Los Angeles. Born in April, his age is counted in months, not years (pictured here at 2 months). The little guy needs his rest and has a bed in the o ce, but often prefers to sleep next to it on the oor. He likes his toys frozen because they soothe his teething, says his human, Aubrey Berse, Production Lead at Concierge Diamonds. Coco is an o ce favorite, likes to greet clients and spends a lot of time on various employees’ laps while they work. He also loves to model a variety of diamond jewelry.
Do you have a furry friend that helps out in your store? Tell us about it and send a picture to bill@southernjewelrynews.com.
Say hello to Maggie! Maggie, a four-year-old Red Labrador Retriever is the sassy sweetheart behind customer service at Gold Star Jewelry & Pawn in Jacksonville, Florida. She brings a wagging tail, a warm welcome, and just the right amount of attitude to charm everyone who walks through the doors at Gold Star. Beginning work as a tiny pup, Maggie loves to greet visitors - popping her head out above the counters. She’s especially fond of the store’s treat bearing jewelry appraiser and children whom she always wants to play with. She also likes to show o her stu ed animals to customers.
Introducing the Feathered Friends at Mark Loren Designs in Fort Myers, Florida. There are currently no Furry Friends at the jewelry gallery at Mark Loren Designs, but they do have Lemondrop (right) and Fireball the Canaries. Pictured here with their latest brood of little Canary chicks. Fireball is the male and sings like Enrico Caruso most of the day, and sometimes helps Lemondrop with the kids. The sta and especially the clients love them! “They aren’t security trained, but they are a fabulous addition to our sta ,” says President and Founder Mark Loren.
Tariffs & Tenacity: How Jewelers Are Navigating The New Normal
By Deborah Yonick
When the U.S. government doubled tariffs on Indian jewelry imports to 50 percent in late August, it wasn’t just another policy skirmish - it was a jolt to one of America’s most tradition-rich industries. India is the world’s primary diamond-cutting hub and a top supplier of finished gold jewelry, and these tariffs are not abstract headlines, but a direct line item in jewelers’ costs, contracts, and conversations with customers.
The impact abroad was immediate. The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) called the hike “doomsday,” warning that $10 billion in exports - nearly one-third of India’s global trade - are at risk. Manufacturers are already exploring shifts to Turkey, Mexico, and the UAE to sidestep the duty wall.
In India’s cutting centers, production has slowed sharply. Rough imports fell to $768.7 million in August from $1.15 billion in July - though still 14 percent above 2024 levels. Exporters are bracing for further contraction, reducing shifts and stretching holiday breaks amid forecasts of up to a 20 percent decline if U.S. demand does not rebound.
Petitioning Washington
Back home, Jewelers of America took its fight to Washington. In August, JA President and CEO David Bonaparte met with White House trade officials, arguing that tariffs on natural diamonds unfairly punish U.S. businesses, driving up consumer prices without protecting domestic producers.
That message grew louder at JA’s mid-September Capitol Hill fly-in, when a delegation of jewelers pressed lawmakers on tariffs and organized retail crime.
“Right now, it’s an all-hands-ondeck situation,” Bonaparte said.
“The majority of retailers and manufacturers in the U.S. depend on diamonds and gemstones that cannot be sourced domestically.”
The envoy warned Congress that the 50 percent India rate is unsustainable, forcing stores to trim taut margins or cut local investment. While JA welcomed the Sept. 5 executive order adding diamonds, gems, and natural pearls to an exemption list under Annex III, relief depends on reciprocal trade agreements.
Equally active in its lobbying in Washington for relief, the American Gem Trade Association calls the tariffs “the singlemost critical threat to the colored stone industry that AGTA has ever seen.”
AGTA President Bruce Bridges and CEO John Ford met with treasury, commerce, and congressional officials in September pressing for gemstones and pearls to remain eligible for zero reciprocal tariffs under the Sept. 5 executive order. The association advises members to track tariff impacts and be patient, as exceptions depend on new agreements with source countries.
Tested but Standing Firm
While trade groups press for relief, companies across the supply chain are adapting in real time.
“Tariffs have added costs up to 30 percent on some of our products,” says Gina Bogda, vice president of Metal Marketplace International (MMI) in Philadelphia. “We passed on the minimum amount we needed to recover, raising prices 8 percent as a direct result of the tariffs.”
Anticipating higher gold prices earlier this year, MMI expanded its 10K stock - a move that has paid off. “Our 10K sales have increased significantly,” Bogda notes. “Chains like rope, Miami Cuban, and figaro remain steady, though lighter gauges move faster. Sterling silver is strong. Margins are under pressure, but we’re standing behind our customers.”
Customs rules keep shifting, she adds, “but with 47 years of success, MMI will do what is required to succeed.”
In Baton Rouge, Danny Clark, president of Stuller, calls tariffs both a test and an opportunity. “2025 has been an exciting and challenging year,” he says. “Tariffs across the globe have pushed all of us to think differently and opened doors to new opportunities.”
Stuller’s strategy emphasizes efficiency, supplier partnerships, and robust inventory. “Even with headwinds, jewelry demand remains strong,” Clark underscores. “As we approach the holidays, we’re fully stocked and ready to meet our customers’ needs.”
For Torry Hoover, president of Hoover & Strong in Richmond, Virginia, tariffs are accelerating a long-awaited shift toward U.S. manufacturing. Working almost exclusively with recycled domestic precious metals, his firm is largely insulated from raw-material shocks.
“Tariffs have helped increase demand for U.S.-made jewelry,”
he says, distinguishing between “metal-rich” and “diamond-rich” jewelry. “A ring with 50 onepointers may still be made in Asia, but solitaires and anniversary bands can now be competitively produced here.”
After 25 years of watching domestic manufacturing decrease, Hoover says that it’s about time to see demand return, and after decades of lean manufacturing and automation, his company is ready.
Retailers Recalibrate
The ripple effects of this volatile environment are reaching retailers about to begin the holiday selling season. Signet Jewelers - parent of Kay, Zales, and Jared - sources roughly half its finished jewelry from India, placing it squarely in tariff territory. On recent investor calls, executives acknowledged the risk while projecting confidence.
“Tariff impacts, particularly from India, are being monitored closely,” CFO Joan Hilson said. Signet still expects margin expansion this fiscal year, thanks to its scale and ability to renegotiate supplier terms.
Pandora, which manufactures heavily in Thailand, estimates its U.S. tariff hit at about $178 million annually. CEO Alexander Lacik told The Wall Street Journal, “At the end of the day, with high tariffs, pricing will be passed on to the U.S. consumer. There is no doubt.”
Independent jewelers, with fewer levers to pull, are pre-ordering inventory, slimming product sizes, or shifting into sterling silver to keep prices accessible. As one of JA’s fly-in attendees, Michael Page of Hingham Jewelers in Massachusetts, put it, “So much of what we do in the jewelry industry is small and family owned… when we’re able to succeed, we can invest in our local communities.”
Both retailers and vendors are navigating uncertainty from fluctuating tariff policies, each facing different pressures. “Retail jewelers are understandably concerned that higher product costs may deter consumers, while vendors are struggling to fulfill orders amid shifting import duties and cannot continue to absorb these costs,” describes Sherry Smith, director of business development for the Edge Retail Academy in Omaha, Nebraska.
Smith reminds that tariffs on imported goods have long existed, but what has changed is the volatility of when and how they are implemented. Despite the instability, she sees in the Academy’s aggregated data that consumers, particularly within the independent jewelry channel, continue to buy.
“We are advising retailers to focus on what they can control: manage inventory tightly, maintain disciplined buying practices, and follow a ‘just-in-time’ purchasing model to reduce exposure to sudden cost changes,” says Smith. “This approach protects cash flow and prevents overpaying for goods that could decrease in cost if tariffs shift again. Remaining agile and data-driven will be key to navigating this period successfully.”
Holiday Expectations
Market research firms like Bain & Co. forecast a 2 to 5 percent contraction in global luxury, because of tariff pressures and volatile consumer confidence. McKinsey & Company cites price increases reaching their limit, putting a premium on supplychain discipline and visible consumer value.
While many experts expect a modest contraction in consumer spending, particularly with a continued shift toward experiential and wellness-related purchases, Smith believes independent jewelers can achieve a strong holiday season.
“The key will be staying visible, intentional and prepared,” Smith explains. “The fourth quarter represents 40 percent of annual sales for jewelers, so pulling back on marketing or inventory investment could be a self-fulfilling prophecy. Our message to independents is to be cautious, but don’t retreat. Maintain best practices in financial and inventory management, execute a strategic and consistent marketing plan, and stay engaged with customers.”
For jewelers, the season ahead will test not just inventory planning but adaptability and grit. Retailers who stay proactivealigning buying, marketing and team execution - will continue to capture discretionary spending and close the year successfully, cheers Smith, even in a volatile economic environment.
ReclAim
Continued from page 10
without undermining the retailer’s customer relationship is essential.
This becomes even more important when considering the second major challenge: visual presentation. Today’s direct-toconsumer jewelry brands often operate without physical inventory, yet they win attention and trust because they lead with exceptional photography and polished social media. Independent jewelers can no longer compete using generic stock images, outdated renders, or poorly Photoshopped product on models. The visual bar has been raised, and consumers, especially younger ones, notice. Matching that level of polish is no longer optional. It is the new minimum standard.
The third challenge is digital visibility in a search environment increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. The old strategy of pushing a store’s link to the top of a search results page is losing effectiveness. AI-powered discovery tools now prioritize relevance, clarity, and content quality. For retailers, this means fast-loading websites, clean UX, natural human language, and original photography that reflects the store’s unique voice. In the past, many jewelers avoided investing in their own web presence by using supplier-fed websites, iframe product feeds or templated layouts. That shortcut will no longer work. AI-driven search engines will prioritize content that is current, authentic and independently produced. Without it, a store may simply not be shown to potential customers at all.
There is also a structural risk that many independents overlook. A growing number of retailers rely heavily on “brands” that are not true brands but function more as centralized marketing and inventory systems. These programs are often powered by the store’s name, staff, and client base. Over time, the brand builds consumer loyalty while quietly shifting customer data away from the retailer. Some of these brands now sell directly to consumers. Others could shift direction entirely, repositioning as high-end or exclusive DTC, leaving the retailer exposed. When an independent store becomes dependent on a single supplier brand, the business model becomes fragile.
For long-term success, independent jewelers must choose partners carefully. The ideal relationship maintains store-level control, customer ownership and a degree of leverage. Local trust and relationship equity are the as-
sets that national brands cannot replicate.
The path forward is not built on nostalgia or temporary workarounds. It requires a thoughtful rebalancing of inventory, a renewed commitment to marketing, and clear differentiation of natural diamonds in the mind of the consumer. With the right approach, independent jewelers can protect their relevance, improve profitability, and build durable brand equity within their local markets. The opportunity is real. But it requires focus, consistency and the willingness to adapt before it’s too late.
Slav Galkin is the Vice President of Strategic Business Development for Gems One/Alpha Lab Grown. Learn more about Gems One at GemsOne.com.
Rings
Continued from page 20
exchange rings. Men’s engagement rings, once virtually unheard of, are gaining popularity.
Lab-grown diamonds, which offer identical optical and chemical properties to mined stones, are increasingly accepted among younger cost-conscious buyers for their environmental appeal. Alternative stones - moissanite, sapphires and other colored gems, salt-and-pepper diamonds - speak to those seeking uniqueness and affordability.
Customization rules. Couples seek rings that reflect their personal stories through bespoke designs, heirloom settings or meaningful engravings.
Tradition Meets Today
Despite changes, one constant remains: engagement rings are powerful symbols - a promise, a turning point, a public declaration of intent. The act of presenting an engagement ring projects emotional and sentimental impact far beyond its monetary value.
Yet the meaning has broadened and evolved. Where once engagement rings symbolized ownership or social contract, today they increasingly represent partnership, equality and shared values. Whether featuring a classic round-cut diamond or a minimalist band set with a birthstone, the engagement ring continues to evolve - just like the relationships it celebrates.
Honoring Tradition, Embracing Change
Embracing this rich history enables jewelers to better guide their customers. Sharing the lineage of the ring - from Roman iron bands to Edwardian filigree to lab-grown gems - elevates a routine transaction into a transformative experience. Today’s customers are not just buying a product; they’re investing in a tradition steeped in meaning.
As the engagement ring evolves to adapt to contemporary tastes and values, one truth emerges: this powerful tradition is here to stay. As each generation continues to redefine this storied tradition anew, they continue to honor, grow and enhance the rich, time-honored tradition on which it rests.
from page 3
suitable locale.
At that time, the Dubai business leader chatting with Rapaport explained, “We are in the real estate business, not in the diamond trade.” He pointed out that their strength lies in creating destinations for the diamond and gemstone industry to conduct business in a mutually beneficial setting. The global trading hub plus Dubai’s tax-free status for shoppers greatly enhances its value.
But things do change, and Jemora saw Lucapa as the right fit for their portfolio.
Dubai’s Entrée into Diamonds
Meanwhile Dubai’s own diamond cutting sector has been making important strides in recent years. Because precision cutting is critical to diamond’s value, Dubai began producing its own state of the art diamond cutting technology and tools.
For centuries, fine gold and gemstone adornments were central to traditional Arabian culture. Today, Dubai ranks as the second largest gold trading hub in the world, surpassed only by Switzerland’s gold trade.
So continuing the ancient legacy by venturing into the diamond mine acquisition makes sense. While oil was once the backbone of wealth for the Middle East, the
region is looking elsewhere to drive its robust economy into the future. Diamonds represent a step toward that diversification.
The Attraction of Lucapa
The choice of this particular mining group is also illuminating. Australia-based Lucapa Diamond Company began operations in Angola about a decade back. Lucapa had previously established
diamonds, like its stones in pink, yellow, and blue tints.
Important Stones from Lucapa Since 2015 when mining began in Angola, Lucapa has produced an exceptionally large cache of colossal, rare stones. These include at least 48 Type IIa diamonds which exceed 100 carats each. Among the important diamonds are Angola’s largest
mining ownership in Western Australia. Lucapa’s Australian asset, primarily the Merlin Diamond Mine in Northern Territory was famed for producing Australia’s largest diamond, a 104 carat crystal rough.
It also gained worldwide attention for its gem-quality output, claiming 75% of its recovered diamonds have been graded gem or near-gem quality, including Australia’s celebrated fancy colored
ever recorded crystal, a 404 carat stone named “4 de Fevereiro” and the rare 170 carat pink diamond called “Lulo Rose”, discovered in 2022.
Troubles and Solutions
Despite its history of producing numerous high value large diamonds, Lucapa went into voluntary administration earlier in May 2025. Just a week prior, the company halted its stock trading on the Australian Securities Ex-
change.
After a restructuring of the mine’s assets, an agreement for acquiring Lucapa Diamond Company Ltd. is complete, says Gaston International. Of course, the transaction was subject to regulatory and court approvals, including creditor consent prior to the share transfer’s completion.
This confirms their control of both mining and exploration assets in Angola and Australia. This represents a significant shift in ownership for one of the most recognized producers of large sized diamonds. The deal was valued at about $10M US.
A Wise Acquisition
With the purchase, Jemora Group says it has expanded its footprint in the natural diamond sector. That positioning places Dubai among the select few entities diversifying their portfolio to include Africa’s top diamond deposits and Australia’s finest grade
gem-quality mine.
Current estimates also say that Angola’s Lulo alluvial mine (partly owned by Lucapa) still contains 249,000 carats of recoverable diamonds, most of which are of gemmy quality. With the mine’s gem quality production nearing 75% of its total output, it represents a tremendous windfall for the new owners. In most mining production, about 20% of the entire diamonds recovered are of gem quality. The rest, some 80% are destined for industrial use.
In less than 2 decades, Dubai has welcomed the world’s diamond and gemstone trade to its region. Trading has become robust, safe, and provides a tax-free shopping experience. Seeing the value of doing business in this sector, Dubai embarked on creating precision diamond cutting tools. Now, they’re investing in the enterprise of diamond mining.
404.2 carat diamond, “4 de Fevereiro”. Photo Lucapa Mine
Ore is removed in the recovery of Lucapa’s diamond production.
Photo Charles Hull
170 carat Lulo Rose; largest pink diamond found in 300 years.
Photo Lucapa Mine
“IMMEDIATE CASH” $1,000,000 Available!!
FROM TIMEX TO ROLEX
WFN Is Now Buying
Watches & Watch Material!
Large Quantities Desperately Needed For Our Domestic & International Operations!
BUYING ALL QUALITIES & GRADES FROM 5¢ TO $5,000 & UP!
•ALL WRISTWATCHES!
•ALL POCKETWATCHES!
•ALL LADIES WATCHES!
•ALL MENS WATCHES!
•ALL GOLD & PLATINUM WATCHES!
•ALL NON GOLD WATCHES!
•ALL NEW OVERSTOCK WATCHES!
•ALL UNPICKED-UP AND ABANDONED WATCH REPAIRS!
•ALL MOVEMENTS, MECHANICAL & QUARTZ!
•ALL WATCHES WORKING OR NOT
•ALL WATCH BANDS!
•ALL WATCH SCRAP!
SHIP OR CALL FOR HIGHEST OFFER!
We will travel to buy your watch shop or jewelry store inventory!!
Estates and Businesses Liquidated!!!
Reasonable Commissions!!
BUYING... WATCHES
•High Grade
•Low Grade
•New & Used
•Watch Related Items, Such As
Watch Bands & Watch Material
•Ladies/Mens - Pocket & Wrist
BUYING... JEWELRY
•Karat Gold Jewelry
•Platinum Jewelry
•Scrap Jewelry
•Gold-Filled Jewelry
•Sterling Silver Jewelry
•Costume Jewelry
BUYING... FLATWARE
•Sterling Silver
•Silverplate
•Stainless Steel
•Dirilyte
•Pewter
•Large quantities always welcome
•Diamonds & Colored Stone Jewelry
•Coin and Related Items
BUYING... MISC.
•China & Crystal Tableware
•Gift Items
•Coins and Coin Collections
•Christmas Tree Ornaments
•Old Fountain Pens
•Sterling Holloware & Tea Sets
•Tools and Equipment
Call 770-396-1787 • FAX 770-395-6959, email to wfn2@mindspring.com or write at 5579B Chamblee Dunwoody Rd. #215, Dunwoody GA 30338 - Dept J4
We are members of SJTA. Serving the Jewelry Industry since 1974. Know of an estate or business for sale?
ASHI proudly introduces AVA, an AI-powered ASHI Virtual Assistant built to transform the way retailers engage with its B2B platform - delivering faster, smarter, and more intuitive personalized service. Powered by OpenAI’s ChatGPT and designed to provide real-time, personalized assistance, the AI Chatbot offers a seamless experience across desktop and mobile, enabling retailers to quickly find products, check stock availability, place orders, request quotes, and get instant answers - all within a single conversation. ASHI has always used technology to strengthen its service to retailers - AVA is the next evolution in that ongoing promise.
This cutting-edge assistant combines conversational AI with deep product integration to redefine the B2B buying journey. After six months of development, AVA was engineered using OpenAI’s latest large language model (LLM) and is securely hosted on AWS - ensuring fast, reliable, and scalable performance. Designed for efficiency, intelligence, personalization, and ease of use, this AI Chatbot enables retailers to effortlessly explore thousands of jewelry products, add items to the Shopping Cart, Wish List, or Sales Quotations, submit Special Order requests, request Custom Quotes, and email Style Details - all with remarkable speed and simplicity.
Key Features
AVA delivers round-theclock support to help retailers streamline operations and make informed decisions across key functions:
• Product Information - Instantly access detailed descrip-
What’s New ASHI launches AVA AI Chatbot redefining how retailers do business
tions and specifications for each style
• Inventory Status - Check real-time availability of products
• Matching Sets - Discover complementary designs to complete a set
• Similar & Related StylesExplore visually and stylistically connected options
• Add to Cart - Add styles to the shopping cart directly from the chat
• Add to Sales QuotationInstantly add styles to existing or new sales quotations
• Special Orders - Submit requests for made-to-order or nonstock styles
These proactive suggestions enhance decision-making by encouraging next steps at just the right moment.
Smart Escalation System
The AI Chatbot includes a smart escalation system that detects complex or unresolved
chuck
Continued from page 14
you, I have to try to defend you. But, I can only defend you so far. In business, if I have a chance to convert one of your customers into one of my customers, I have to do it. State law!
Two: The customer IS NOT always right! Sometimes, as professionals, we have to steer people in the proper direction. One of those proper directions is not putting emeralds in a wedding band in the first place. Let me explain why.
Emeralds are mineralogically known as Beryl. Beryl, in its natural state, is colorless, and very stable. If, at any point during its 20 million year crystallization process, iron is introduced, the beryl turns a very pretty, light blue. Iron and Beryl mix very well with one another, and in turn, form a very stable gemstone known as Aquamarine.
On the other hand, if chromium is present in the ground and introduced into the crystallization process, the resultant stone is an Emerald. Beryl and Chromium DO NOT MIX! The two minerals are like oil and water. It’s worse than the Van Halen/Van Hagar controversy. (By the way, Van
boosts efficiency 24/7
• Increased engagement through meaningful, guided conversations
• A hybrid support experience that combines AI speed with human expertise
AVA, sets a new benchmark in B2B service, enabling retailers to work faster and more effectively-while reinforcing ASHI’s commitment to innovation and customer success.
queries and automatically routes them to ASHI’s Customer Service team in New York. This seasoned support team - many with over 25 years of experience with ASHI - provides responsive, expert service when a human touch is needed. This human + AI partnership ensures reliable and efficient service for retailers.
Expected Impact
• A streamlined ordering process that reduces friction and
Hagar was better!) This is the reason that Emeralds are so internally included.
Now, because the stone is so unstable at the molecular level, coupled with the stresses put on the stone during it’s million year journey to the surface, it has already had any will-to-live completely sucked out of it. Thus, it just wants to break! And usually, the first chance for that to happen is on the jeweler’s bench.
Every jeweler knows that an emerald will break if you just look at it wrong. And, because the stone is trying to break, no jeweler in the world will put the amount of pressure needed to really lock it in the setting. Thus, if they don’t break out, they’re going to fall out.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not against Emeralds as a gemstone in jewelry. I’m against Emeralds as a gemstone in wedding jewelry. The wedding ring is the most abused piece of jewelry that most people own. A necklace just kinda hangs there and looks good. As a rule, earrings don’t take a whole lot of abuse either.
So Emeralds are great for these purposes, just not wedding rings.
I never take possession of anyone’s jewelry outside of my store (2005)
Mr. Pandya, Partner at ASHI, shared his perspective on the launch: “With AVA, we’re revolutionizing how retailers interact with ASHI. It’s about better service, faster decisions, and a truly seamless digital experience. AVA is more than just a chatbot - it’s a smarter, more efficient way to do business. It sets a new standard for service in our industry - one that both retailers and consumers will come to expect.”
For more information call ASHI at 800-622-ASHI (2744), contact your Regional ASHI Sales Representative, or visit www.ashidiamonds.com.
Period! Many, many years ago, when I was a mere journeyman apprentice, I would take in jewelry for repair from anyone, anywhere, anytime. And, since I tend to favor establishments where like-minded adults gather after work, (aka Happy Hour), I had to learn this lesson the hard way.
It only takes one or two customers to come in and swear they gave me their nugget bracelet at ‘da club’ a couple of weeks ago so I could repair it. Nowadays, unless a customer comes into my store, and hands me their jewelry across my counter, I won’t even touch it. Unless I’ve filled out a job envelope, and issued them a receipt, I know for a fact that I don’t have their jewelry. Some lessons can only be learned the hard way.
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, or send e-mail to info@southernjewelrynews.com.
Introducing Everyday Luxury from Stuller
Low-profile diamond bands styled for every occasion
(LAFAYETTE, La.) - Diamond wedding bands are no longer reserved for one finger or one moment. Designed to layer, mix, and stack, these styles let customers create looks that feel current, personal, and versatile.
Stuller offers jewelers endless ways to help customers build meaningful stacks or find a standout piece with carat weights ranging from under 1/4 ctw for subtle accents to more than 15 ctw for bold looks, trending stone shapes such as emerald, oval, and baguette, and modern settings with low-profile silhouettes.
“Our diamond bands are designed not only to give jewelers a product to sell but also a story to tell,” says Katelyn Meche, bridal director at Stuller. “These bands provide options that give customers the opportunity to build personalized stacks, celebrate milestones, and express their style.”
Shop the collection at Stuller.com/DiamondWeddingBands.
What’s New
Retailers Express Excitement over GN Diamond’s new Easy to Use App
GN Diamond is now providing independent jewelers with an easy to use App called Diamond Hunt. Jewelers can now take advantage of this powerful online inventory search and presentation tool complete with 360-degree videos, third-party light performance grading and GIA certificates.
One Diamond Hunt feature in particular delights customers both on-line and in store: the third party-verified light performance score. Complete with high-res photos and detailed measurements, this engaging visual sales tool is being used more than ever by independent jewelers to drive online sales and in person sales. This App is easily illustrated from a mobile phone, i-pad or stationary computer to share with clients during a sales presentation or simply by sending a link of the diamond for a customer to view.
Captivate Customers with an Easy Sharable Link
The third-party light performance score makes it easy to communicate the meaning and value of brightness and brilliance. Typically, cautious shoppers feel empowered by this knowledge and are able to confidently select the right diamond and understand price discrepancies between seemingly similar diamonds.
Diamond Hunt uses clear visuals to demonstrate to the cus-
tomer exactly what it means when you say a diamond has excellent light performance. The customer can easily compare any number of diamonds in your inventory to see how subtle differences in color, clarity, cut, and brightness affect overall brilliance and quality, explaining why one diamond is brighter than another. And customers have peace of mind knowing the light performance score is an objective, third-party grading.
Created by GN Diamond, Diamond Hunt is an excellent online diamond shopping portal independent jewelers can use to sell online with their own branding and markups. Diamond Hunt can also be easily used in store simply by displaying the search portal on in-store devices or scanning a QR code.
Convenience for You and Your Clients
While many shoppers may
initially shop online, and internet competition continues to heat up, independent jewelers need every sales advantage they can get. Diamond Hunt’s light performance score, 360-degree video, Gemprint ID, and more makes it convenient and captivating to browse your inventory online.
“GN Diamond is dedicated to developing practical tools that make it more convenient for customers to do business with you,” say Asaf Herskovitz, GN Diamond CEO. For training on this new App, simply call GN Diamond at 800-724-8810 to schedule a quick Facetime or Zoom call with your sales staff. GN’s sales representatives are available 7 days a week at sales@gndiamond.com. Learn more about GN Diamond and the new App at GNDiamond.com.
STELLARI GOLD™ from CG Creations® solves holiday season’s biggest dilemma
(PEARL RIVER, N.Y.) - While the price of gold continues to escalate, yellow gold jewelry remains the accessory of choice for style-conscious consumers. Beyond the bolder classics like Miami Cuban and figaro chains, even basic everyday pieces are increasingly priced out of reach. Layering 18K gold over fine Italian sterling silver opens the door to affordability without sacrificing quality.
CG Creations® is proud to exclusively offer the STELLARI GOLD™ collection, “the only alternative to solid gold on the market that maintains 100% precious metal content,” says Lance Fiasconaro, vice president of CG Creations®.
Recent additions to the line include a wide array of fancy Italian earrings as well as some interesting new chain links. “We started out offering mostly the classic heavier items, like men’s neck chains,” said Fiasconaro. “Even lightweight pendant chains are a tough sell in solid gold now. 14 karat gold earrings are out of reach in all but the smallest sizes. Jewelers need an alternative. They need
something to sell that doesn’t give their customers sticker shock.”
Using the most innovative technology and their decades-long relationships with factories worldwide, CG Creations®’ STELLARI GOLD™ brings the look and feel of karat gold to consumers who otherwise may have been priced out of fine jewelry.
“We’ve renegotiated prices with manufacturers to keep retail price points accessible for all, including the under $200 retail impulse buys that are often overlooked,” Fiasconaro says. “We’ve made it our priority to keep giving our customers what their customers are looking for.”
As an added assurance, all STELLARI GOLD™ items come with a lifetime warranty and will not fade or tarnish.
CG Creations® has been reliably serving the jewelry industry for nearly 50 years, visit cgcreations.com for further information. To request your copies of the newest catalogs, email sales@cgcreations.com or call 800-431-1606.
LASER FOR SALE
Laser Star Model 7000 series for sale
Laser Star Workstation, purchased in 2005, model# 515-7092, with binocular microscope viewing system. Sell for $10,000.00. Contact: Wayne Madere at (225) 772-0756.
STORE FOR SALE
Pro table small jewelry store for sale
Our major competitor just retired and closed his store!
Located in mountain city out west, in busy strip mall - 900 square feet (60% production space, 40% sales oor)
Email serious inquiries to martha@southernjewelrynews.com
Subject Line: Mountain City
NDA required to be able to receive more info
Jewelry store located in the heart of Middle Tennessee, 45 minutes south of downtown Nashville
26 year jewelry business for sale due to owner retirement
Highly profitable business with strong historical revenue growth trends
Email serious inquiries to wtgunn129@yahoo.com
NDA required to receive further info
BECOME YOUR OWN BOSS!
A hometown fine-jewelry store for sale that has been in business for over 25 years with a well-established client list. Desiring to sell all inventory, fixtures, equipment, safe, etc. for a one-package deal. Serious inquiries only.
Please contact Tim Bryant at cell 606-524-7569 or lloydwillia7596@bellsouth.net
For 122 years, Boston-based GBC has been considered the nation’s largest buyer and wholesaler of fine jewelry surpluses and closeouts. The available position is an opportunity to join our team with responsibilities involving selling existing accounts, developing and maintaining customer relations, and establishing new accounts. GBC’s offerings are ever-changing and value oriented, with prices consistently below market ranging from $50 to $50,000. Sales are generated on a “delivery” basis.
