



VENETIAN PRINCESS CARNIVAL

VENETIAN PRINCESS CARNIVAL
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Jewelry artistry and elegance entwine in Fana’s world of wonder.
48 CLOSE TO OUR HEARTS
Ballantyne Jewelers is committed to giving back
Associate Publishers JODI BRUKER, CHARLES GARONE
Production Manager FERN MESHULAM
Director of Ad Services JACQUELYNN FISCHER
Director of Operations CATHERINE ROSARIO
Production Artist CHRIS FERRANTE
Accounting KASIE CARLETON, URSZULA JANECZKO, BRUCE LIEBERMAN, STEVEN RESNICK
Published By
Chairman CARROLL V. DOWDEN
President & CEO MARK DOWDEN
Senior Vice Presidents EDWARD R. BURNS, LIZETTE CHIN, THOMAS FLANNERY, RITA GUARNA
Vice Presidents NIGEL EDELSHAIN, NOELLE HEFFERNAN, MARIA REGAN, STEVEN RESNICK
BALLANTYNE JEWELERS magazine is published by Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Drive, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, in association with Ballantyne Jewelers. Copyright © 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. All rights reserved.
Editorial Contributions: Write to Editor, Ballantyne Jewelers, 12335 N. Community House Rd., Charlotte, NC 28277; or email rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.
The magazine is not responsible for the return or loss of unsolicited submissions.
Subscription Services: To change an address or request a subscription, write to Subscriptions, Ballantyne Jewelers, 12335 N. Community House Rd., Charlotte, NC 28277, or call 704.341.4242.
Advertising Inquiries: Email Lizette Chin at lizette.chin@wainscotmedia.com.
We’re delighted to share this special edition of Ballantyne Jewelers magazine—one of two inspiring publications we proudly present to you this year. As our family business continues to grow and evolve, we remain deeply grateful for the loyal support of our clients and community. Whether you’ve just discovered us or have been with us for generations, we are honored to call you part of the Ballantyne family.
Each year is more than a milestone—it is a reflection of the relationships we’ve built, the stories we’ve been privileged to share and the memories we’ve helped create through our craft. Rooted in the founding values of honesty, integrity and excellence, our mission remains the same: to provide an experience defined by personal service, masterful craftsmanship and a carefully curated selection of fine jewelry and timepieces.
Our diverse, multi-generational team brings together creativity, expertise and care, allowing us to serve you in ways that are both timeless and innovative. Together with our in-house master jewelers and dedicated designers, we continue to mark life’s most meaningful moments—from “just because” gifts to custom engagement rings, anniversary bands and heirloom restorations that carry your story forward.
This publication is more than a showcase of what we do—it is a celebration of who we do it for: you. Thank you for being an essential part of the Ballantyne Jewelers journey. We look forward to sharing in your next milestones, big and small, and to welcoming you back with every season.
With gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead, The Tekin Family
At the confluence of history and nature lies the richest soil for creativity—and it is here where Roberto Coin’s jewelry takes root, blossoming into exceptional works of wearable art. Since its founding in 1996, the brand has invited the viewer on a journey through cultures and eras, guided by the unmistakable elegance of Italian craftsmanship. From the brand’s home in Vicenza— known as the City of Gold for its centuries-old legacy of jewelry making—to the regal palaces of Venice that inspired the iconic floret motif of the Venetian Princess collection to the sweeping flower fields evoked in the Jasmine line, Roberto Coin captures moments, places and dreams in glowing gold and luminous gemstones. And like all great artists, Roberto Coin leaves a signature—one of rare magic. Hidden within each creation is a ruby, positioned to rest against the wearer’s skin. Inspired by ancient lore, this gem symbolizes the designer’s heartfelt wishes for a life filled with health, happiness and longevity. It’s no wonder these timeless treasures have graced Hollywood’s brightest stars—like Nicole Kidman and Cynthia Erivo—just as they adorn you and those you cherish.
This page, clockwise from top left: 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Oval Hoops, $27,150; 18K White Gold Perfect Diamond Hoop, $28,500; 18K Yellow Gold Venetian Princess Double Medallion a Paperclip Chain, $9,150; 18K Yellow Diamond Love in Verona Ring, $13,500. Opposite page: 18K Yellow Gold Venetian Princess Diamond and Mother of Pearl Pirouette Flower Pendant, $22,650.
Roberto Coin combines his technological prowess with time-honored craftsmanship to create the new Love in Verona collection. The four-petaled floral motif repeats in diamonds and in engraving, even reappearing in the gallery of each piece as a reminder of our inner beauty.
At Ballantyne Jewelers, we believe your jewelry should be as extraordinary as the moments it celebrates. Whether you envision adding a personal touch to an engagement ring, reimagining a beloved heirloom, or creating an entirely new masterpiece, our in-house artisans and design experts bring your vision to life with artistry, precision, and uncompromising quality. From your first sketch to the final setting, our process is tailored to you—ensuring your creation is as personal and enduring as the story it represents.
Share your vision with our design team or meet with our master jewelers in person. We will provide a complimentary quote based on your desired design, precious metals, gemstones, and ring size, so you know exactly what to expect as we begin your journey.
Our designers collaborate with you to translate your ideas, drawings, or inspirations into a bespoke concept. With the expertise of our Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Graduate Gemologists, we will help you select the perfect ethically sourced diamonds and colored gemstones to bring your design to life with brilliance and meaning.
Once your concept is finalized, we create a detailed wax or computer-aided design (CAD) model to present your piece from every angle. This step allows you to visualize your design in lifelike detail and request any refinements before production begins—ensuring it’s perfect in every way.
Upon your approval, our master craftsmen cast your piece in the precious metal of your choice and meticulously set each diamond and gemstone by hand. Every finished creation undergoes a thorough quality inspection to guarantee it meets our exceptional standards before it is presented to you — a one-of-a-kind jewel, beautifully realized and made to last for generations
and brand founders Dominick and Jack Gabriel, jewelry isn’t just a craft—it’s a birthright. Originally Lebanon, their father was a master jeweler, and the grew up immersed in the world of sparkling and meticulous design, spending countless in his workshop during their formative years. enchantment of fine jewelry and the richness Lebanese culture became woven into their daily lives—and that legacy is reflected in every piece Gabriel & Co. creates.
This is a brand where luxury meets real life— delicate, meaningful design elevates the everyday without overpowering it. Think stackable in Mediterranean-inspired blues, whisper-thin necklaces that shimmer just enough, and earrings with confidence, whether you’re dressing for a gala or a Because true heritage isn’t just worn—it’s lived.
This page, clockwise from top left: 14K Yellow and Gold Bujukan Diamond Cuff Bangle, $4,000; 14K Gold Prong Set Diamond Bar Necklace, $4,000; White and Yellow Gold Diamond Hollow Tube Huggie Drop Earrings, $2,200; 14K White Gold Diamond Paperclip Hoop Earrings, $2,850; 14K Yellow Gold Domed Diamond Star Ring, $2,425; 14K White Gold Diamond Layered Criss Cross Ring, $3,800; 14K White Gold Bujukan Diamond Stations Bangle, $2,450. Opposite page: 14K Yellow-White Gold Bujukan Interlocking Circles Pendant Necklace, $1,700.
Discover the story behind every piece—and its real value—with Ballantyne Jewelers’ expert appraisers.
At Ballantyne Jewelers, we understand that fine jewelry is more than adornment—it is history, heritage, and a reflection of life’s most meaningful moments. Whether you are curating a personal collection, safeguarding a treasured heirloom, or simply curious about the worth of a beloved piece, knowing its true value empowers you to make informed decisions about its future.
Even if you never plan to sell a cherished jewel, a professional appraisal is essential. Jewelry insurance requires an accurate valuation to protect against loss, and a piece cannot be properly insured without certified documentation of its worth.
Our Graduate Gemologists meticulously examine every detail—from gemstone quality and craftsmanship to current market trends—to establish an authoritative valuation. We provide certified documentation you can present to your insurer, and we are pleased to offer “Insurance Replacement Estimates” for any item purchased from Ballantyne Jewelers.
If you are considering parting with diamonds, gold, timepieces, or estate jewelry, our certified appraisers will provide a precise, market-driven evaluation. As a multi-generation, family-owned jeweler, Ballantyne Jewelers approaches each piece with integrity and discretion, ensuring you receive a fair and competitive offer. Our goal is to help you maximize your return while providing an experience worthy of the treasures you entrust to us.
When you choose to sell to Ballantyne Jewelers, you will also enjoy the option of receiving immediate payment—or an exclusive store credit to reinvest in a new piece you will love just as much.
At the heart of Simon G. is a story worthy of a classic American dream—and a romance with the art of jewelry making that reads like a love letter. Simon Ghanimian, the brand’s founder, arrived in the U.S. from Armenia with just $200 and plans to become an engineer. But a job setting stones in New York City’s diamond district, meant only to fund his college education, revealed a deeper calling: the precision, beauty and craftsmanship of fine jewelry.
It’s no surprise that a mind drawn to engineering would fall in love with detail. That same meticulous eye defines every Simon G. creation. Each design is intricate and intentional—often hiding playful surprises, such as a shimmer of unexpected color, a twist on a classic silhouette or a new take on a traditional motif. The pieces marry oldworld elegance with modern artistry, and every stone is placed with care and purpose. The result? Jewelry that doesn’t just shine—it tells a unique love story.
Private sourcing. Global access. Swiss luxury on your terms.
Love is in full throttle for NASCAR driver Harrison Burton and his fiancé, Jenna Petty, who began dating as high school sweethearts in 2017. The couple announced their engagement in March 2024—and Ballantyne Jewelers is proud to have been part of their love story. Burton popped the question in a dreamy New York City setting, proposing at Gapstow Bridge in Central Park. The race car driver presented Petty with a diamond ring from Ballantyne Jewelers, which she called the “most beautiful ring ever” in an Instagram post. With the city skyline in the background and years of memories between them, she said yes. Burton, the 2020 NASCAR Infinity Series Rookie of the Year, competes full time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He is the son of former driver Jeff Burton. Petty (no, she’s not related to race car legend Richard Petty) is a professional dancer and an active member of the NASCAR community.
The couple will wed in October 2025 in Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina.
There’s something undeniably magical about endings that loop back to where it all began— and that’s exactly the story behind Cole Swindell and Courtney Little’s engagement. In May 2023, the country music star got down on one knee at a farm north of Nashville—the very spot where the pair shared their first official date during a video shoot for his song “Some Habits.” Swindell surprised Little with a heartfelt proposal and a diamond ring from Ballantyne Jewelers, later telling Entertainment Tonight, “Still couldn’t tell ya everything I said down on one knee…All I know is she said ‘YES’! We’re so excited!” Little later confirmed the moment with her own Instagram post and caption: “Woke up as future Mrs. Swindell.”
A Grammy-nominated country music artist, Swindell has been headlining the “Happy Hour Sad Tour” in 2025 in support of his Apple Music Nashville Sessions: Cole Swindell EP Little is a former member of the Charlotte Honey Bees, the professional dance team for NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, and is co-owner of The Little Sister Boutique in Charlotte. The couple married on June 12, 2024. Little gave birth to their first child, daughter Rainey Gail, on Aug. 7, 2025.
Who better to entrust with the symbol of your everlasting love than a brand devoted to treating you like royalty? When friends Thierry Bellisha and Haimy Mann founded CrownRing in 1999, they set out to reimagine bridal jewelry—creating bold, exquisite pieces worthy of life’s most meaningful moment. Their idea? To craft rings that celebrate the majesty marriage, where every bride and groom are queen and king of their wedding day. From timeless elegance to striking innovation, CrownRing delivers a regal experience through two signature collections.
The Carlex Collection is an architectural marvel—bold, refined and designed for those who appreciate both precision and panache. Featuring clean lines, daring structures and a broad range of customization options, Carlex rings come in everything from classic gold to sleek black cobalt. Whether you lean toward understated sophistication or unapologetic edge, collection offers a masterpiece for every style.
The Bleu Royale Collection speaks to the modern romantic. This line is innovative, clean and modern, but never at the cost of individuality. Details such as carbon accents, hand-painted enamel and tantalum bring your vision—and your love story—to life. All pieces are created with the comfort everyday wear in mind, so your love is always right at your fingertips.
BLEU ROYALE From top: Bleu Royale 7.5mm Wide Men’s Wedding Band in 18K Yellow Gold with a Brushed Center and High Polish Edges, $6,980; Bleu Royale 7mm Wide Men’s Wedding Band with an 18K Yellow Gold Interior and Hammered Tantalum Exterior, $3,520; Bleu Royale 7.5mm Wide Men’s Wedding Band in 18K Yellow Gold with a Brushed Tantalum Center, $5,550; Bleu Royale 7.5mm Wide Men’s Wedding Band in 18K Yellow Gold Set with 190 Black Diamonds, $10,070.
Wedding Gold Set with 112 Round Diamonds, $12,960; Carlex
8.5mm Wide Men’s Wedding Band in 18K White Gold Set with 6 Baguette Diamonds and 90 Black Diamonds, $16,655; Carlex
8.5mm Wide Men’s Wedding Band in 18K Yellow Gold with a Custom Message or Date Interior and Hand Painted Blue Enamel, $8,010; Carlex 9mm Men’s Wedding Band in 18K Yellow and White Gold, $9,105; Carlex 10.5mm Wide Men’s Wedding Band in 18k White Gold Set with 3 Princess-Cut
Just as history shapes the present and trends converse with the past, the classic and the contemporary are never in conflict—they’re intertwined. Few brands embody this harmony as seamlessly as Fana, a visionary in the world of bridal and fine jewelry. At the heart of Fana’s identity is a dedication to craftsmanship. Each piece—whether a showstopping necklace or a flawless engagement ring—passes through the hands of more than 20 artisans, each one adding their own layer of expertise and intention. The result is not just jewelry, but a finely tuned composition, where every detail sings. Fana’s designs breathe fresh life into classic silhouettes—never replicating history, but always honoring it. Think bold dinner rings, elevated hoops with a hint of color and statement pieces set with the brand’s sparkling, hand-selected diamonds, each to be worn with a confidence that never goes out of style.
We’re more than just your favorite local jeweler.
Since our arrival in North Carolina in 1999, we have offered a variety of services to help you preserve and enjoy your precious jewelry for years to come. Our services include repairs to your jewelry and watches.
Your jewelry deserves the same artistry in its care as it did in its creation. At Ballantyne Jewelers, our master craftsmen approach every repair with precision, respect, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether it is restoring an heirloom’s original brilliance, resetting a cherished diamond, repairing delicate prongs, or breathing new life into a treasured piece, each detail is handled with the highest level of skill and discretion. Our goal is to preserve not just the beauty of your jewelry, but the stories and emotions it carries.
A fine timepiece is more than a way to tell time—it is an investment in engineering, heritage, and personal style. Ballantyne Jewelers offers meticulous watch care trusted by collectors and connoisseurs alike. Our certified watchmakers and specialists provide everything from battery replacements and bracelet adjustments to complex mechanical servicing and refinishing. Each timepiece is treated with the precision it was built to embody, ensuring accuracy, longevity, and the enduring elegance that defines luxury horology.
BALLANTYNE JEWELERS AND THE CHARLOTTE 49ERS HAVE ANNOUNCED A MULTIYEAR PARTNERSHIP, WITH BALLANTYNE JEWELERS NAMED THE OFFICIAL JEWELER OF CHARLOTTE 49ERS ATHLETICS.
The Charlotte 49ers and Ballantyne Jewelers will collaborate on a variety of in-game activations, community initiatives and exclusive fan engagement opportunities. Alumni, season ticket holders and fans can look forward to unique events and curated jewelry experiences throughout the year.
Ballantyne Jewelers is a family-owned, alumni-owned business with deep roots in Charlotte, and our commitment to quality, tradition and community makes us a perfect partner for the 49ers. Together, we’re creating memorable experiences that celebrate both the passion of Niner Nation and the craftsmanship of one of Charlotte’s most trusted jewelers. This partnership is about more than just jewelry—it’s about pride, tradition and building lasting connections with our fans.
At Ballantyne Jewelers, we believe that thriving communities are built on strong connections. As a family-owned business, we take pride in our roots and are dedicated to supporting the organizations that make our neighborhood a vibrant place to live and work. Our commitment to giving back is at the heart of what we do. For instance, we are proud to support The Samantha and Kyle Busch Bundle of Joy Fund, the foundation started by NASCAR driver Kyle Busch and his wife that advocates for infertility education and awareness and awards monetary grants to couples who require fertility treatments. Ballantyne also supports Misty Meadows Mitey Riders, a nonprofit that improves the lives of children with special needs through creative and effective therapeutic horseback riding.
From top, left to right: KJ Vanderwerken, Yuhan
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