Diamond Cellar Spring/Summer 2024

SPRING CELEBRATIONS

MILESTONE MOMENTS THAT SPARKLE

FOREVER BEGINS HERE

CHEERS TO OUR NEWEST COUPLES

FAMILY TIES WHERE FAMILY AND JEWELRY COME TOGETHER

A NOTE FROM THE CEO ANDY J O HNSON

You know that feeling when you step outside and the air just seems to hum with possibility? That’s spring for you—a season of renewal and growth.

As we embark on another season at Diamond Cellar, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that has brought us to this moment. From our humble beginnings as a jewelry repair shop in Columbus, Ohio, to our evolution into a luxury, family-owned jewelry company with locations across the country, it has always been about more than just beautiful jewelry. It’s about the stories we’ve shared, the connections we’ve forged, and the memories we’ve helped create along the way.

This year marks our 77th spring season. Can you believe it? It’s been 77 years of crafting exquisite jewelry, of celebrating life’s most precious moments, and of being a part of your lives. It’s a journey that fills us with pride and gratitude every single day.

But you know what truly sets us apart? It’s our people and our unwavering commitment to our communities. From training the next generation of jewelers right here in our stores to championing charitable causes close to our hearts, giving back has always been at the core of who we are.

In this issue, we’re excited to share a behind the scenes look at those who make up a big part of our Diamond Cellar family, as well as shine a spotlight on the power of family ties in the jewelry industry. From iconic brands with generations of expertise, to designers forging their own path alongside loved ones, we celebrate the unique bond that family brings to the world of design and creativity.

So let’s embrace the warmth of spring, the strength of family bonds, and the sparkle of every precious moment. From our family to yours, thank you for being a part of our story. Here’s to a season filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities.

Cheers,

Andy Johnson

SAWMILL 6280 SAWMILL ROAD DUBLIN, OH 43017

EASTON TOWN CENTER 3960 NEW BOND STREET

COLUMBUS, OH 43219

GREEN HILLS 3805 GREEN HILLS VILLAGE DRIVE

NASHVILLE, TN 37215

Diamond Cellar began as a jewelry repair shop in Columbus, Ohio, that has evolved into one of the nation’s largest family-owned luxury jewelers. As we celebrate 77 years in business, our dream continues to grow.

Our Services

JEWELRY REPAIR

Diamond Cellar offers expert jewelry repair services to restore the beauty and functionality of your precious pieces. Our skilled artisans meticulously inspect and repair jewelry, from simple chain soldering to intricate gemstone resetting. With our state-of-the-art equipment and attention to detail, we ensure that your jewelry is returned to you in pristine condition, preserving its sentimental and monetary value.

WATCH REPAIR

We understand the significance of your timepiece and offer comprehensive watch repair services. Our certified watchmakers are trained to handle various brands and models, from luxury Swiss watches to everyday timekeepers. Whether it’s a battery replacement, intricate movement overhaul, or restoring a vintage heirloom, we employ precision and care to ensure your watch keeps ticking accurately and looking its best.

CUSTOM DESIGN

Elevate your jewelry collection with our bespoke custom design services at Diamond Cellar. Our talented designers collaborate closely with you to bring your unique vision to life. From engagement rings to one-of-a-kind statement pieces, we use the finest materials and craftsmanship to craft jewelry that reflects your personal style and story. Whether it’s a redesign of existing jewelry or a brand-new creation, our custom design service transforms your ideas into breathtaking, wearable art.

FAMILY TIES

As a proud family-owned company now in its 77th year and third generation, we cherish the values of tradition, dedication, and innovation passed down through the years. We sat down with some of our incredible designer brands to learn more about family dynamics within the jewelry industry. From the triumphs and challenges to the shared dreams and enduring bonds, join us on a journey through the generations.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: ALEX JOHNSON, PRESIDENT & ANDY JOHNSON, CEO

STEPHEN WEBSTER

How did your family venture into the business and what was the initial vision?

Stephen - I went to art college to be a fashion designer, but very soon after I started, I realised that fashion wasn’t for me. Fortunately, the art school I was at had a very strong jewelry department, and I was absolutely blown away by what looked like people using their hands to make treasure. I didn’t have a vision; that came later. At the time I just wanted to be a great craft person.

David - I followed Stephen into art school and an apprenticeship as a jeweler. When Stephen returned from living in California, he started Webster Jeweller company, and a few years later I joined him at the bench.

Assia - I first started working with Stephen, who was my boyfriend at the time, when he got offered a concession in Harrods and couldn’t afford to hire anyone. So there wasn’t a vision; he just needed help. I didn’t know much about jewelry prior to this, but learned on the job, and very quickly we realised that I had a different set of skills that could be very helpful in establishing and growing the business, so there was no looking back.

Amy - I grew up in a workshop in a way: From a very early age I was in that environment and surrounded by my father, my uncle David and also Stephen Webster’s head goldsmith Mike, who all co-cared for me in the workshop whilst making jewelry. I didn’t entertain the idea of me in the jewelry business until later in life, after first pursuing a career in advertising and graphic design.

Nika - I never really thought about joining the business either. I studied art and languages but didn’t find that career very satisfying. My drawings were always very detailed so I decided to try to have a go at jewelry as it seemed quite a natural progression. Plus, when Amy joined the company I became aware that I was learning so much without realising just by listening to my family’s conversations—and they always talk about

work! And as soon as I started, it felt so natural to me; I’m absolutely loving learning the craft. I still have a long way to go, but I’m hoping to join the company full time in the future, and for now I try to learn and absorb as much as I can.

How do your family members collaborate and work together in your business?

It’s quite hard to separate the business and family. We are proud of the achievements that our parents have made but when we were younger it was probably a little annoying as they were always working. Now though, with Amy working in the business and Nika studying to be a goldsmith, we all find ourselves constantly bouncing around ideas and trying to help to stir the business in the fast changing landscape. Most people who meet Stephen would agree that he has managed to successfully combine business with pleasure. His philosophy for many years has been that if something involves so much time, passion and energy, it might as well be fun also. Most recently, Amy and Nika have contributed to that by DJing together at Stephen Webster events as the Spider Sisters, at first in London and now around the world. This came about

FROM THE LEFT: NIKA, STEPHEN (FOUNDER), AMY, ASSIA, AND DAVID

because we used social media to share our family life during lockdown, and lo and behold it became a part of our business. Funny how unexpected family things can become part of the company’s DNA.

What are some challenges unique to working with family and how do you overcome them?

The challenges stem from the fact that we are very close and all really care. We found ourselves in a family business, and we all want to contribute toward its continued success. This does mean that we bring home problems, as well as positives. We try to work through issues together but it is family, so things can get emotional. On the whole, though, we are able to support each other, and we try to overcome the stresses by also having fun as a family and making each other laugh. Assia, Amy and Nika love to cook, which is a distraction and a great way to get things back to family. Stephen, Nika and Amy sometimes just start DJing which can get us all on the dance floor if things get really stressful.

(STEPHEN’S BROTHER)

Can you highlight a particular success or achievement that you attribute to the strength of your family ties?

Interestingly, COVID put us all in the same place at the same time so we made videos about our work and what we were up to together, even things like us just making cocktails, and this really engaged our clientele. We then realized the power of the family.

How has the business evolved across generations, and what changes have been made to adapt to new trends and challenges?

What milestones do you celebrate as a family in the context of business?

“WE FOUND THAT OUR VERY INDIVIDUAL PERSONALITIES ALL COLLECTIVELY CONTRIBUTE TO THE IDENTITY OF THIS FAMILY BUSINESS.”

An example of cross-generational change was when Amy joined the business. She felt that it was time to go back to the archive and look at some of our classics that had been dropped over the years and reintroduce them to a new generation of consumers. We relaunched Crystal Haze collection, which was really the collection that put us on the world jewellery map 27 years ago. Its newly realized form, a reinvented CH2, proved to be a great success. We probably wouldn’t have done this had Amy not suggested the idea. It is also super important to have the younger generation’s input with the everchanging and evolving fashion world, which is very relevant to Stephen Webster jewelry.

Can you share a proud moment or achievement that stands out as a testament to the strength of your family working together?

The more we work together, the more excited about our future we become. Now with the next generation joining, Stephen and Assia feel that all the effort was well worth it.

A good example is when we collaborated with Machine Gun Kelly: Stephen planted the idea and designed the rings; David and his team produced them. Amy created all the campaign imagery and video content and, alongside Nika DJ’d at the launch party, and Assia, as usual, pulled the whole thing together. This demonstrated how our diverse skill sets could come together to create a successful jewelry collaboration.

During lockdown in our kitchen, Stephen and Claire (our head designer) were designing the No Regrets Lounge in Diamond Cellar Nashville over Zoom. Because we were all also in the kitchen, we all started contributing together. David was at home with his family, but he eventually made sure that everything, down to the showcases’ drawer handles was made beautifully. At this point, it’s worth mentioning that our kitchen, complete with neon signage, doubled up as our own No Regrets Lounge at Home. After lock down, the neon remained and when we are all together on a Saturday night, Stephen makes martinis, Assia and the girls cook, followed by a DJ set. It’s now a tradition.

The biggest milestone to date was when we all went to Buckingham Palace for Dad to receive an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) from Prince Charles (now King Charles) in recognition of his skills and the mentoring he does for up-and-coming jewellers in the industry. The day was very special and we were all so proud. Afterward we had a lovely lunch at Fortnum & Mason with our late granddad Tom.

Are there any exciting developments or projects on the horizon for your family and the business?

The most recent collaboration, “I Wanna Be Yours,” is between Stephen and one of his closest friends, the British punk poet John Cooper Clarke. A combo of a jeweler and a poet will be completely unexpected, but in some ways shouldn’t be a surprise as we source inspiration from places that other jewelers wouldn’t. We also have a new retail model planned, which will combine the No Regrets Lounge, first established in Beverly Hills, and now in Nashville, with our complete product range in a way that will be radical and exciting, and in line with the DNA of the Stephen Webster brand.

What are the key lessons learned that you would share with those navigating family dynamics in a business setting?

We are still learning but try to always look on the bright side. Laughter always helps and, of course, matching tattoos. THEN-PRINCE

SLOANE STREET

Share your respective titles at your company and what role each of you play in the business.

Charlotte - I am co-founder of Sloane Street Jewelry with my primary focus being on the sales side as well as overall brand vision. My role involves bringing our creations to life in the eyes of our customers and ensuring our brand’s message is communicated effectively.

Frances - I am co-founder and CEO of Sloane Street Jewelry, and my responsibilities revolve around design and production, as well as, overseeing the financials of the business. We really do work in tandem with every aspect of the business, but we recognize each other’s strengths and weaknesses in order to work in the most effective way.

How did your family venture into the business, and what was the initial vision?

Charlotte - I was studying in Paris, and I got a call from my mom saying that she was getting on the next flight to London to visit my grandmother who was sick. I said I wanted to do something just her and I, and we finally landed on jewelry. We scribbled up a business plan on a train napkin and started throwing around names and landed on Sloane. Sloane Street in London is a street that holds fond memories for my mom and I, and it is where my mom had her first apartment, where my grandmother used to take her for girls days out and in turn holds a special place in my heart as well. I was convinced that the URL had to have

been taken, but when we looked it up, it was available and it felt like a sign. Almost as though my grandmother was giving us her blessing. We opened a business license a few days later and now here we are celebrating 10 years in business in March, this year!

Frances - I was not planning on going back into the jewelry business. I was hoping to enjoy a season of life with a bit of quietness, but that lasted about four or five days….I am a workhorse; I am not someone who can just sit around doing nothing, so when the opportunity presented itself, I couldn’t say no. Our initial vision was to create a brand that stood apart from the rest, while remaining timeless and not too trendy, jewelry that was able to withstand the test of time and be able to be passed down through generations— something that could be coveted yet still wearable for everyday occasions, and I believe we have been successful. Though we knew who we wanted to be from the start, the collections evolved massively overtime— it did not happen overnight. We went incredibly high end in the beginning, and it took a while to “figure out who we wanted to be when we grew up.”

Can you highlight a particular success or achievement that you attribute to the strength of your family ties?

Frances - I think one of our biggest successes has been making it to 10 years. Building a business is hard, and it’s even harder adding in the sensitive dynamics of family, but I don’t think there is anything I am more proud of.

“THE MAJORITY OF OUR SUCCESS WAS DUE TO OUR FAMILY TIES ALWAYS PULLING US BACK TOGETHER.”

Charlotte - A mother-daughter relationship is so powerful, and I believe my relationship with Frances has been the secret ingredient to our recipe for success.

In what ways do different generations contribute to the business, bringing their unique perspectives?

Frances - The fusion of my experience and Charlotte’s innovative outlook creates a dynamic business model. Having been in this industry previously, I knew what worked and what didn’t. Paired with Charlotte’s understanding of modern marketing techniques, this ensures that our brand

What are some challenges unique to working with family and how do you overcome them?

The main challenge is ensuring that business decisions do not affect our personal relationship. We have found success by embracing open dialogue, mutual respect, and a willingness to compromise. This approach has helped us address disagreements constructively, fostering a supportive and collaborative atmosphere.

How do you envision the future of your family business and what goals do you have for the coming years?

Charlotte - I envision Sloane Street Jewelry continuing to grow as a beacon of innovative design and ethical practices, with a focus on expanding our philanthropic efforts and sustainable sourcing. We aim to introduce innovative collections that continue to bridge timeless designs with modern aesthetics, appealing to a diverse customer base and continuing to grow our presence.

Frances - Working together has always been about leveraging our unique perspectives to enhance our creative process. I focus on the intricate details of design and production, while Charlotte brings a fresh, modern approach to our brand’s presentation and marketing. Our joint efforts are a testament to the power of combining experience with new-age thinking.

Are there any exciting developments or projects on the horizon for your family and the business?

Charlotte - I am getting married this year, so that is incredibly exciting, and we have a project in the works in that same genre! I am so excited for this next chapter of life, and it has been so special to share this year of “first” with my mom!

Frances - We are always exploring new creative avenues, and currently, we’re excited about expanding our digital presence and exploring innovative materials and designs that reflect the evolving tastes of our clientele.

Are there key lessons learned that you would share with those navigating family dynamics in a business setting?

Charlotte - The key lesson is the importance of clear communication and setting boundaries between personal and professional life. Recognizing each other’s strengths and learning to compromise are crucial for harmonious collaboration and business growth. Being able to let go of egos has been an important factor to our successful partnership as well. That mixed with trust and knowing that you both are focused on a common goal!

Frances - Patience and respect are fundamental. It’s important to listen and be open to new ideas, acknowledging that different perspectives can lead to greater creativity and success. Balancing tradition with innovation, guided by mutual respect and shared goals, has been instrumental in our journey.

FROM THE LEFT: FRANCES AND CHARLOTTE

PIRANESI

Share your respective titles at your company and what role each of you play in the business.

Mimi- president/creative directorhandles everything relating to design, stones, style.

How did your family venture into the business, and what was the initial vision?

We are a multigenerational family business. The origin of the company focused on color stones which eventually evolved into what Piranesi is today.

How do your family members collaborate and work together in your business?

Working as a family is acknowledging everyone as team members. We are all very different, which is why we are all better together.

What are some challenges unique to working with family, and how do you overcome them?

We work together, laugh together, eat together, fight together and grow together. We truly love what we do and frankly never have a “day off”. Most important in working with family is mutual respect.

How has the business evolved across generations and what changes have been made to adapt to new trends and challenges?

After my late husband passed, I went from the role of creative director to president. As the kids joined the business, they each brought innovation and growth to the brand. The key is not to adapt to the trends but to anticipate them.

In what ways do different generations contribute to the business, bringing their unique perspectives?

The younger generation definitely has a different, more modernized view on the business. The beauty is standing true to the core of the company while learning to acclimate to the world we live in today.

Can you share a proud moment or achievement that stands out as a testament to the strength of your family working together?

After my husband passed away, we never let go, not even for a moment. The journey continues, and the family and business continues to grow just the way Sami would have wanted.

Are there key lessons learned that you would share with those navigating family dynamics in a business setting?

The key to success is respect and knowing that everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

MIMI & HER LATE HUSBAND SAMI

DIAMOND CELLAR IN THE COMMUNITY

Discover the heart of Diamond Cellar as we spotlight our unwavering commitment to giving back and supporting the communities we call home. From supporting local causes and initiatives, to achieving notable milestones, explore the impactful contributions we’ve made together.

TULSA TOUGH: A THREE-DAY CYCLING FESTIVAL

Racing Towards Excellence

Tulsa Tough exists for two sole purposes: to promote healthy lifestyles and to elevate Tulsa. We were fortunate enough to be a sponsor of Tulsa Tough in 2023 where we were able to gift Tudor timepieces to several of the race winners.

Celebrating Collegiate Excellence

With over 77 years of history in the Columbus community, we have been honored to be a proud sponsor of Ohio State Athletics for many years. This year, we were excited to add incredible partnerships in both our Nashville and Tulsa markets with Belmont University and The University of Tulsa.

TULSA TOUGH

Pawsitively Impactful

Joining forces with one of our incredible brands, Sloane Street, we partnered to support Cause for Paws at the Belle Meade Country Club. This event brought together animal lovers and advocates in support of our furry friends in need. Through our partnership, we were able to contribute to the welfare and well-being of animals while fostering a sense of community and compassion.

Diamond Cellar’s Wild Partnership With The Columbus Zoo

Through our exciting collaboration as the Official Jeweler of the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, we’ve been able to sponsor the incredible Sparkling Spruce during Wildlights, teed off at the Safari Golf Club for our 3rd annual golf tournament, and shared the love at our first zoo Valentine’s Day event, Hearts Go Wild.

CAUSE FOR PAWS

CAUSE FOR PAWS

Glamour for Good

We are proud to have been back for another year of Friends and Fashion, an event dedicated to supporting Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital in Nashville. This heartfelt collaboration brought together fashion enthusiasts and philanthropists alike to raise crucial funds for pediatric healthcare. It was a privilege to play a part in such a meaningful cause, uniting our community in support of brighter, healthier futures for the youngest members of our society.

Time to Talk: Diamond Cellar’s Movember Event Brings Men’s Health into Focus

We proudly hosted our 4th annual Movember event in November with Oris. Guests took part in an evening of watches, whiskey, and meaningful discussions surrounding men’s mental health awareness. Featured speakers included Dr. Josh Norman, a psychiatrist from Ohio State, and former Buckeye football player, Harry Miller, who shared valuable insights and personal experiences. It was a privilege to bring our community together for an evening of camaraderie and support for an important cause.

Tatas, Tinis, and Tennis in Tulsa

This year, we were privileged to be able to support Oklahoma Project Women as the presenting sponsor of the Tatas, Tinis, and Tennis Tournament. From thrilling tennis matches to heartfelt support for breast cancer awareness, we were honored to stand alongside the community in promoting health, wellness, and solidarity.

MILESTONE OCCASIONS

Life is a journey filled with moments that shape us and define our path, from Mother’s Day and Father’s Day to the enduring love of anniversaries and the excitement of graduation. Each milestone holds a special place in our hearts. At Diamond Cellar, we believe in marking these moments with the timeless beauty of jewelry, not just as gifts, but as heartfelt expressions of love, appreciation and celebration.

MOTHER’S DAY

As Mother’s Day draws near, it’s the perfect moment to celebrate the remarkable women who shape our lives with love and care. From its roots in ancient festivals honoring motherhood to its modern-day incarnation, Mother’s Day holds deep significance. It’s a time to show appreciation for the sacrifices and support our mothers provide every day. And what better way to convey our gratitude than with jewelry? Jewelry, with its timeless elegance and personal touch, serves as a fitting tribute to the unique bond between a mother and her child. Whether it’s a delicate pendant, a pair of earrings, or a bracelet, each piece symbolizes the enduring affection and admiration we hold for these extraordinary women. This Mother’s Day, let jewelry be the heartfelt expression of love and appreciation for the mothers who enrich our lives in countless ways.

FATHER’S DAY

ather’s Day is an opportune time to honor the significant role fathers play in our lives. Stemming from early 20th-century efforts to recognize paternal influence, Father’s Day has evolved into a day to celebrate the love, guidance, and support provided by dads worldwide. From teaching life lessons to offering unwavering encouragement, fathers leave an indelible mark on our hearts. There is no better way to commemorate their impact than with a classic watch, a stylish ring, or a personalized accessory. Each piece serves as a tangible token of appreciation for the invaluable role fathers play. Let jewelry be the meaningful gesture that conveys gratitude and admiration for the extraordinary men who shape our lives with their love and wisdom this Father’s Day.

ANNIVERSARIES

Celebrating anniversaries is more than just marking another year passed; it’s an acknowledgment of the commitment, dedication, and love that is shared. These milestones offer an opportunity to reflect on the journey traveled together, from the early days of excitement and discovery to the depth of understanding and companionship achieved over time. It’s a chance to reminisce about cherished memories, celebrate achievements, and strengthen the foundation of the relationship for the years ahead. Amidst these sentiments, jewelry emerges as the perfect gift choice for anniversaries. Each piece of jewelry carries with it a story—a memory to be cherished and a promise for the future.

ANNIVERSARY GIFTS BY YEAR

11th Anniversary: Steel

14th Anniversary: Opal

15th Anniversary: Crystal

24th Anniversary: Stone

25th Anniversary: Silver

30th Anniversary: Pearls

40th Anniversary: Ruby

42nd Anniversary: Watches

45th Anniversary: Sapphire

50th Anniversary: Gold

55th Anniversary: Emerald

60th Anniversary: Diamond

GRADUATION

As the cap is tossed and the tassel turned, graduation marks a significant milestone in one’s journey—a moment of accomplishment, growth, and new beginnings. From classic pearls to sleek watches, a gift of jewelry from Diamond Cellar serves as a symbol of achievement and a reminder of the hard work and dedication that led to this moment. Whether it’s a gift to mark the end of one chapter or the beginning of the next, jewelry holds the power to encapsulate memories and celebrate the bright future that lies ahead.

DIVE PRO PROFESSIONAL DIVING TOOL

ISO 6425 certified, water resistant to 300 m, in lightweight titanium.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Crafting Diamond Cellar’s Story From Within

By Melissa McCoy Director of Marketing

At Diamond Cellar, we’ve always believed in doing things a little differently—and that includes our approach to marketing. All of our marketing is done internally, by a small yet mighty team of talented individuals.

One of the biggest perks of handling our own marketing is the ability to collaborate on a daily basis. Having our entire team under one roof means that ideas flow freely, creativity knows no bounds, and innovation is always at the forefront. Being in the same space allows us to bounce ideas off each other, challenge assumptions and, ultimately, come up with campaigns that truly resonate with our audience.

But it’s not just about convenience—it’s about quality too. By keeping everything in-house, we have complete control over every aspect of our marketing, from concept to execution. Our photographers work hand in hand with our designer, ensuring that every image tells a story and every design captures the essence of our brand. And with our digital marketing team, we’re able to seamlessly integrate our online and offline efforts, creating cohesive campaigns that leave a lasting impression.

But perhaps the biggest benefit of all is the sense of ownership that comes with doing it ourselves. Every campaign, every photo, every design is a labor of love, crafted with care and attention to detail. And when we see our work out in the world, there’s no greater reward.

So while it may be unique for us at Diamond Cellar to handle our own marketing, it’s a decision that we wouldn’t trade for anything. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about selling jewelry—

IT’S ABOUT TELLING STORIES, BUILDING CONNECTIONS, AND SHARING MOMENTS OF JOY WITH THE WORLD.

And with our in-house marketing team leading the way, the possibilities are truly endless.

DESIREE REED

PHOTOGRAPHER

MARY TZAGOURNIS

MARKETING COORDINATOR

TAYLOR JACOB

DIGITAL MARKETING

DANIELLE CHISLING

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO YOUR JEWELRY

For over 75 years, Diamond Cellar has been a trustworthy expert in the jewelry industry. We offer a pristine collection of jewelry, designed intentionally for those looking to breathe new life into family heirlooms. We sat down with a couple of our experts to give us insight on the customization and repair process and highlight why our designers and goldsmiths are some of the best in the business, creating some of the best custom jewelry offered in Columbus, Nashville and Tulsa.

our goldsmiths will look at is the jewelry’s style.

“The customer is likely bringing their inherited jewelry to us because they’re not comfortable wearing the specific style of that piece,” explains Scott Duncan (also known simply as Duncan), who has been a Diamond Cellar goldsmith for 35 years. “Then we interview the customer to find out what style they are interested in and what they would like to see that jewelry become.”

During the interview process, Duncan or one of our other Diamond Cellar goldsmiths will show customers a variety of styles to determine which one they are most drawn to. This is often done by looking through pictures or Pinterest boards customers bring in, flipping through Diamond Cellar catalogs or trying on pieces in the showroom.

HOW IT WORKS

When a customer brings a piece of jewelry to Diamond Cellar for repairs or customization—whether it’s an old pendant, ring, or anything else you can dream up—the first characteristic

Once customers determine their desired style, they can watch a goldsmith sketch out a few ideas, which are then turned into a computer-aided design (or CAD). When they receive these sketches and renderings, customers are encouraged to share their own ideas, ask questions, and make suggestions or modifications.

“We’re going from a verbal idea to a hand-drawn sketch to a computer-aided design, all before the piece ever gets physically made,” explains Duncan. “We want to make sure that what customers have on their mind is something we understand visually as well. It’s not our jewelry to wear and enjoy; it’s theirs. We’re going to great lengths to make sure we know exactly what customers want.”

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONNECTIONS

This idea of customer involvement and connection is not new to us — it has been an integral part of the brand since its inception. Our team of experts understand the sentimental value and trust that comes with maintaining and updating family heirlooms.

“Customers really build relationships with many of our designers and trust them,” explains Diamond Cellar’s Director of Jewelry Design and Manufacturing, Bethany James. “To be able to have that trust is a huge honor. We try to take our time with our clients and build that connection to figure out what they want the most and what’s going to last them for years to come.”

A BALANCE OF OLD & NEW

While we are undoubtedly capable of breathing new life into an heirloom, we are also experts at maintaining a piece’s sentimental value and durability. After all, our goal is to ensure the piece remains intact for future generations to enjoy too.

“Another big piece of the customization process is looking at the durability and legacy of a piece,” says Duncan. “We’re creating an heirloom piece too—something customers are also honored to pass on to their offspring or someone else.”

We implement modern technology and unique expertise to ensure a piece of jewelry will last. For example, designers often use laser welders to fuse metal back together when rebuilding old, broken jewelry.

“Vintage pieces that are filigree have a lot of very fine lines and wires, and those wear down,” adds Duncan. “We have the ability to replace those very fine wires with our laser welder and other tools. We have the latest equipment to handle those issues and repairs and make the jewelry look as new as it did in 1920.”

TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION OF JEWELERS

Another way we uphold our mission of maintaining jewelry craftsmanship is the way we train the next generation of jewelry makers. Since Diamond Cellar started in 1947, it has been an education-based shop, helping novice jewelers find their way in the industry.

In doing so, we look to expert goldsmiths like Duncan to help instill their knowledge in the younger generation. This not only helps us maintain our reputation, but it also ensures the traditional components of jewelry-making are not lost.

“For example, we’re still holding on to that wax carving technique that people said was going to go away with the introduction of CAD,” adds James. “We’re instilling it into our apprentices because it’s tradition. It’s cool for our customers to be able to watch our goldsmiths carve right then and there, try that wax on, and have that connection with our designers while they’re in the store.”

This expertise and knowledge is what makes Diamond Cellar stand out among other jewelers. “We have passed our unique knowledge along to so many of our jewelers who have been with us for 15 or 20 years,” says Duncan. “It’s truly just about passing down knowledge and conveying that same team mindset to our customers.”

SCOTT DUNCAN , DESIGNER GOLDSMITH

HIGHLIFE

Ladies Automatic Sparkling MOVING FORWARD

FREDERIQUE CONSTANT LADIES’ TIMEPIECES

Frederique Constant is a Swiss watchmaking manufacture founded in 1988 out of the shared passion of an entrepreneurial couple, Aletta and Peter Stas. Today the brand proudly offers a range of quartz and mechanical models at accessible prices, while showcasing its watchmaking expertise with 31 calibers designed, developed, and assembled in its own Manufacture in Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva.

The Highlife and Classics collections feature ladies’ styles, including the Classics Carrée, Art Déco and the Classics Quartz, which can be worn as everyday watches, as well as elegant timepieces for an evening out.

CLASSICS MOON AND STARS

With 40 diamonds on the bezel, a navy dial with stars decoration, 8 diamond indexes and a date window at 6 o’clock, all set on a navy leather strap, this watch is great for evening wear, special occasions, or those who simply want something that stands out.

CLASSICS SLIMLINE LADIES

Designed to emphasize the soft curves of the wrist with harmony and sensitivity. A precious and contemporary collection in the purest spirit of Frederique Constant.

CLASSICS CARREE LADIES

The seamless lines and elegant polished case reveal a classical white dial showcasing intricate “clous de Paris” decoration and traditional Roman numeral indexes. The Carrée design of the smooth polished case perfectly blends and embellishes the feminine wrist for a flawless tailor-made match.

CLASSICS QUARTZ LADIES

The 36mm case of the Classics Quartz Ladies is a perfect feminine size and features a dial with guilloché decoration, roman numeral indexes, handpolished hands and a date window at 6 o’clock. A simple uncluttered dial offers a timeless look, focusing on the essence of the watch.

casual chic

It’s comforting to know your jewelry works well wherever you go.

as seen on the cover

Crafted in 18K white gold, this stunning ring showcases a mesmerizing 15.42 carat aquamarine.

FOR LOVE OF BUBBLES

People work hard to give sparkling wines such effortless effervescence.

By Robert Beringela

Consider sparkling wine, a festive catalyst for countless celebrations. Bright, effervescent, deliciously refreshing, it goes down so easily you may not realize how hard it is to make.

Following the traditional Champagne method, the work begins with what is called a “base” wine, bracing and acidic, not great for drinking, which is put into bottles with yeast and sugar, then stored in a cool cellar, where it undergoes a secondary fermentation, acquiring bubbles and toasty flavors that grow in complexity over time. The finest sparkling wines are often aged for years. And even then the job isn’t complete. A process known as riddling comes next — the gradual rotation of the bottle to nudge any yeast sediment into the neck — followed by disgorging (the delicate removal of that sediment)—and a final topping off with wine and sugar for balanced sweetness.

That’s the dumbed-down version. But you get the gist.

“It is definitely a labor of love,” says Matt Dees, head winemaker at The Hilt Estate, an acclaimed winery in Santa Barbara County, California. “Or, to put it slightly less romantically, a huge pain in the butt.”

Given the toil and time involved, it’s no wonder many sparkling wine producers outsource one or more of the tasks. Some buy their fruit instead of growing and harvesting it themselves. Others pay to have their sparkling wine riddled and disgorged. Not Dees, though. He is one of a small but growing cluster of California vintners who handle every step in the drawn-out process, from the vineyard to the cellar, and beyond.

“It’s not that people who outsource can’t make delicious wines, because of course they can,” Dees says. “And they do. I guess you could chalk the choice up to our being control freaks. We are fiercely proud of making estate wines, of farming and producing and bottling ourselves. For us, doing it any other way wouldn’t sit quite right.”

At The Hilt, sparkling wine production dates to 2012,

when a cool growing season yielded an unusually lean, electric chardonnay that Dees and his colleagues felt would make a great base for bubbly. Their first release sparkling wine was tiny, barely 50 cases, but the labor was painstaking, as The Hilt owned little of the requisite equipment.

“We did it MacGyver-style, with duct tape and by the seat of our pants,” Dees says. “Disgorging was excruciatingly slow, and we topped off all the bottles by hand.”

Over time, the property invested in expensive machines, including a disgorger and a gyroscope for riddling, and the production process grew increasingly efficient. But even today it’s a boutique operation, yielding roughly 250 cases of sparkling wine per year, drawing from estate chardonnay and pinot noir.

In their in-house approach to bubbly, Dees and his team are not alone. Other notable grower-producers of California sparkling wine include Frank Family Vineyards in Calistoga. There winemaker Todd Graff, who began his career in the early 1990s at storied Shramsberg, oversees production of four styles, from a beautifully balanced blanc de blancs to an ethereal brut rosé. Farther west, in Sonoma County, at Inman Family Wines, Kathleen Inman, a pioneering winemaker who helped lead the revival of California rosé, takes a similarly hands-on, artisanal approach. Working with fruit from her organic vineyard, Inman, who started making sparkling wines in 2009, was among the first vintners in the state to produce sparkling wines from single vintages (most sparkling wines are blends), which lends them a distinctive sense of time and place. In the patience and attention required, Inman says the process reminds her of another intensely demanding kind of work that also instills a deep sense of pride.

“To me, nurturing these sparkling wines into existence is akin to motherhood,” she says. “I think of them as my children.” A labor of love, indeed.

Inman Family Wines

Russian River Valley Blanc de Noir, 2019, $78

A graceful, balanced sparkling, with refreshing acidity and a long berry finish.

The Hilt Estate Estate Sparkling, 2019

Bright and dry, with just the right amount of body, and notes of almond, green apple and nectarine.

Frank Family Vineyards

Brut Rosé, 2017

Sunset pink in the glass, this elegant sparkling wine has rose petals and raspberries on the nose, and a complex minimality that lingers on the palate.

From top, left to right: Todd Graff and Mike Sangiacomo of Frank Family Vineyards; Frank Family cabernets; sparkling wines from The Hilt Estate; the vineyards at The Hilt Estate in Santa Barbara; selections from Frank Family Vineyards, Inman Family Wines and The Hilt Estate; Kathleen Inman of Inman Family Wines; Inman’s sparkling wines.

CELEBRITY BLING

The red carpets were heating up as Hollywood performers paired their unforgettable looks with the world’s finest jewelry.

Getty/Jeff Kravitz/Contributor

Left: Actress Sydney Sweeney got dolled up for the LA premiere of Euphoria Season 2, wearing stunning Messika earrings from the “Snake Dance High Jewelry Collection. Right: Vanessa Hudgens grabbed the redcarpet spotlight at the 2023 Met Gala, where she rocked a 17-ct. fancy intense yellow diamond ring by Roberto Coin. She paired the ring with 18K rose gold black jade and diamond earrings from the brand’s Sauvage Privé Collection.

Getty/Jeff Kravitz/Contributor

Left: To the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, Russian model and TV personality Irina Shayk made a statement with Messika’s iconic Akh-Ba-Ka necklace. The piece, designed for the brand’s “Beyond the Light” Collection, features 15 diamonds cut from a single rough stone. Right: Actress Kerry Washington was a showstopper at the 2023 Met Gala, as the Scandal star wowed in Mikimoto’s Jardin Mystérieux Akoya cultured pearl and diamond necklace and white South Sea cultured pearl and diamond earrings in 18K white gold.

Getty/Mike Marsland/Contributor

Getty/Mike Coppola/Staff

BIGGER, MORE

BRILLIANT DIAMONDS FOR LESS

Lab-grown diamonds from Céleste are identical in composition to mined diamonds and cost 70% less. Feel good wearing a bigger, more brilliant diamond that was responsibly created above ground.

exclusively at

BEN COATES & SABRINA SIVIGLIANO

ENGAGED APRIL 22, 2023

TULSA, OK

TERRI GRAVES PHOTOGRAPHY

SARAH & LIAM ALICARDI

MARRIED AUGUST 13, 2023

COLUMBUS, OH

NATE & CATE ROEHRENBECK

MARRIED OCTOBER 13, 2023

COLUMBUS, OH

One of our favorite moments of our wedding day was our first look. We are truly best friends, and we loved having a private moment to check in and enjoy each other before all the wonderful chaos ensued. -CATE

Liam proposed on a hike in Hawaii, with a view of the ocean and the coast behind us. -SARAH COLETTE MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

CONNER & BROOKE DAY

MARRIED SEPTEMBER 23, 2023

JENKS, OK

We chose Diamond Cellar because we wanted a place that would treat us like family and provide us with beautiful custom jewelry that would stand out and last forever.

-BROOKE

Matthew came to Michelle with an idea in his head of what he thought would be perfect for me. Once Michelle had the description of what he wanted, she helped curate an option that was classy looking, while also being unique. The overall shopping experience was seamless and fun!

-KAYLEE

MARIA PILATO & RYAN ROY

ENGAGED JULY 15, 2023

FRISCO, TX

Ryan proposed to me in the Fort Worth Stockyards outside of Hotel Drover - my favorite place ever. When Ryan was down on one knee and asked me to marry him - my first words were “oh my God that’s my ring” - and I forgot to say yes!

-MARIA

ELLEN SASLAW & DAN GEORGES

MARRIED FEBRUARY 19, 2023

COLUMBUS, OH

The moment I knew she was forever was seeing who she was with my daughter. Her soul is so genuine and sweet. It was knowing who she is and what she stands for in life.

-DAN

MARYBETH & SPENCER HESELDEN

MARRIED DECEMBER, 16 2023

HUDSON, OH

For us, Diamond Cellar was a must. Living in Columbus, you hear how it’s top tier. You really are treated like royalty and they make all wedding ring dreams come true.

-MARYBETH

LEVA & BOBBY IDELKHANI

MARRIED JANUARY, 03 2024

FRANKLIN, TN

It was love at first sight.

-LEVA

MICHAEL & KATHLEEN SPURGEON

MARRIED APRIL 15, 2023

BROKEN ARROW, OK

Our wedding day was an incredible celebration with over 300 family and friends attending. We were all so full of joy, and we celebrated how God brought us together.

-KATHLEEN

MORGAN DELANCY

CANDICE & LANCE WHITE

ENGAGED AUGUST 21, 2023

NEW ALBANY, OH

ADAM & ABBY GLICK

MARRIED AUGUST 12, 2023

COLUMBUS, OH

Adam picked out my engagement ring and kept it a surprise! He saved every ring inspiration picture from when we first started dating to the engagement. I wanted an elegant and timeless ring and Diamond Cellar helped design the perfect piece.

-ABBY

KAMRYN PHLEGAR & MATT TURNEY

ENGAGED AUGUST 10, 2023

DALLAS, TX

ERIC KELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Club Sport neomatik 39 tabac. A powerful automatic watch in the rich, radiant colors of an Indian summer: tabac, ember, and smoke. With its new diameter of 39.5 millimeters and on a comfortable metal bracelet, Club Sport neomatik 39 makes a statement—and is perfectly proportioned. Featuring sunburst polishing on the dial, powered by the DUW 3001 caliber with the NOMOS swing system, water resistant to 20 atm, and a sapphire crystal case back—yet still only 8.5 millimeters in height. Precision mechanics, made in Glashütte, Germany. Available at the best retailers, such as Diamond Cellar. Learn more online: diamondcellar.com and nomos-glashuette.com

Clockwise from top: The new Ref. 5930P World Time combines a platinum case with brilliant green dial and alligator leather strap; the women’s model Ref. 7130R boasts a bezel set with 62 diamonds, a basketweave motif in olive green and rose gold case; inside the stainless steel case of the Ref. 5935A World Time Flyback Chronograph is a rose gilt dial with carbon motif.

WATCHES FOR THE WORLD

Patek Philippe’s World Time models offer luxury plus functionality to a discerning population on the move. By Christen

Fisher

time used to be a local matter. Prior to the mid-19th century, towns and cities around the world relied solely on the relative position of the sun to determine the time of day, which would then be displayed on a centrally located clock on a church steeple, in the town square or in a jeweler’s window. There were no national or international conventions that defined how time should be measured.

While astronomers in Greenwich, England, had established mean time (time measured by a pendulum clock) in the 1670s, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) was of no practical use, except to sailors who used it to calculate their position at sea on transoceanic journeys. For the average citizen, long-distance travel was so slow that standardized time was irrelevant. Then came the railroads.

As tracks began to crisscross entire continents, the need for an international time standard became imperative. In 1876, Sir Sandford Fleming, chief engineer of the Canadian Pacific Railway, spent a night frustrated in an Irish train station having missed the last departure—as well as other connections—because of the time discrepancies between towns. Fleming’s misadventure inspired him to solve what he knew would become a universal problem. In 1884 at the International Prime Meridian Conference in Washington, D.C., he advocated for the adoption of a standard time with hourly variations from it according to a system of 24 time zones dispersed around the globe. Essentially, his system is still in use today.

Ten years after the International Prime Meridian Conference, a man named Louis Cottier was born in Carouge, Switzerland. He grew up to be a talented and sought-after independent watchmaker. Having graduated from the Geneva School of Horology, he won two prizes from Patek Philippe while still an apprentice. He worked as a master horologist for several major brands, and even was entrusted with the restoration of Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf’s personal watch collection. But Cottier remained humble, working in the backroom of his wife’s book and stationery shop, where he made desk clocks, pocket watches and hand-made prototypes including wristwatches without hands, watches with jumping digital hours, fantastical jacquemarts (mechanized human figures in clockwork) and automata (self-propelled devices). And it was there, in 1931, that Cottier invented the “Heure Universelle,” or the “World Time” mechanism. Originally created as a pocket watch for a local jeweler, the World Time was the first complication to display the time in all 24 time zones simultaneously. It quickly gained attention from luxury watchmakers. In 1937, Patek Philippe approached Cottier about producing the World Time as a wristwatch, and in 1940 the company launched the World Time Ref. 1415 with a cloisonné enamel dial. Cottier refined the design in 1953 by uncoupling the time zone mechanism from the movement, so the hour hand could be moved without affecting the regular progression of the minute hand. Six years later, Patek patented the system.

World travel has become ubiquitous in the years since Sir Sandford Fleming pushed to standardize time. The need to know the local time at a glance anywhere in the world is relevant to everyone who dares to venture beyond their front door. Patek Philippe World Time watches fulfill this need in exemplary ways.

The three newest timepieces in the World Time Collection are essential for today’s stylish and discerning world traveler. For ladies, Patek offers the Ref. 7130R World Time in a stunning combination of olive green and rose gold. For gentlemen, Patek has combined two emblematic complications to offer World Time Flyback Chronographs in Refs. 5930P and 5935A.

These three watches display all 24 time zones simultaneously with the local time prominently displayed for the time zone whose assigned city name is just above the small red arrow at 12 o’clock—in the classic manner with the hour and minute hands. In the other 23 time zones, the times are directly readable on the 24-hour ring that rotates counterclockwise within the city disk. When one travels into a different time zone, the pusher in the case at 10 o’clock is pressed as often as needed to align the respective city name with the red arrow at 12 o’clock. Each time the pusher is pressed, the hour hand advances one hour, while the city disk and the 24-hour ring move counterclockwise one increment.

The 7130R Ladies’ World Time watch in rose gold is exceptionally refined at 36mm. Powered by the self-winding Caliber 240 HU, an ultra-thin movement that helps keep the case extremely slim, the 7130’s bezel is set with 62 diamonds, while its olive-green dial boasts a finely hand-guilloched basketweave motif and features gold applied hour markers. The watch is presented on a hand-stitched olive-green calfskin strap with a prong buckle set with 27 diamonds.

At 39.5mm, the 5930P World Time Flyback Chronograph in platinum is a combination of technical precision and brilliant aesthetics. Powered by the selfwinding Caliber CH 28-520 HU, the 5930’s green opaline lacquered dial center features a hand-guilloched circular pattern and gold applied hour markers with luminescent coating. The watch is presented on a bottle-green alligator strap with square scales and a foldover clasp.

Also powered by the self-winding Caliber CH 28-520 HU, the stainless-steel 5935A World Time Flyback Chronograph features an opaline rose gilt dial with a carbon motif and charcoal-gray, gold applied hour markers with luminescent coating. At 41mm, the watch has a sporty, vintage look and comes with two calfskin straps, one in grained taupe and the other in beige, each secured with a stainless-steel fold-over clasp.

Patek Philippe’s World Time watches represent the ultimate in luxury and functionality and embody the brand’s deep, longstanding commitment to the needs and values of the world’s travelers.

In record

TIME

You’ll fast become on trend wearing one of these luxury wristwatches from Diamond Cellar.

Leading man Ben Affleck wore a variety of watches during a 2017 press tour in support of Justice League On camera, however, his character, Bruce Wayne, wore a platinum Breguet Tradition Fusée Tourbillon 7047PT. Getty

Vera Anderson

A WATCH CALLED BENNIFER

On the wrist of Oscar winner Ben Affleck there’s evidence of his discerning taste in timepieces—and his on-again romance.

What’s old is new again—that’s a fact about actor-filmmaker Ben Affleck when it comes to both his love life and his watches. In 2002, when Affleck and his now wife Jennifer Lopez first started dating, their love made headlines, as did the piece he wore courtside to a Lakers game and in one of her music videos: a Franck Muller Cintrée Curvex on a Chrome Hearts bracelet, a gift from Lopez. So what was he telling the world when he wore that “Bennifer watch” out again in 2021 as they rekindled their romance after 17 years apart?

Many of the 51-year-old Affleck’s timepieces, in fact, tell a story. Take, for example, the Breguet Tradition Fusée Tourbillon 7047PT, which the Gone Girl star wore in Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice and Justice League playing a titular character’s alter ego, Bruce Wayne, to mixed reviews. The timepiece was a perfect match for his millionaire superhero Batman persona—pretty boy on the outside, with a gold dial showcased under a domed sapphire crystal in a platinum case, workhorse on the inside, with Breguet caliber 569 movement and 50 hours of battery power.

In another of his notable films, 2012’s Oscar-winning Argo, Affleck wore the Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea; the Calibre de Cartier was his watch of choice during his 2010 The Town era; and he also owns and often wears the feminine-leaning Cartier Ballon de Bleu, a celebrity favorite with a silver dial, blue hands and a steel crown.

But since he’s been back with J.Lo? Seems Affleck has saved his real A-list watches for the second iteration of his A-list romance. On their 2022 Europe-

WATCHES TO WATCH

Affleck wore the Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea in his 2012 film Argo; critics questioned the historical accuracy of this watch, cording to the watch website Hodinkee, because the film was set from 1979 to 1981 and this iteration of the watch wasn’t released until 2008. When playing Batman in Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice and Justice League, Affleck wore this platinum Breguet Tradition Tourbillon 7047PT watch. The iconic Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is a celebrity mainstay, and was the inspiration for one Affleck’s custom pieces Artisans de Genève.

an honeymoon, Affleck was spotted in a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona customized by Artisans de Genève. It’s a skeleton version of the iconic Daytona customized for Colombian racing driver Juan Pablo Montoya, and it features an automatic 4130 Rolex movement and a tachymeter carbon forged bezel. Another honeymoon highlight was the 44mm Hermès Arceau L’Heure de la Lune, a true style statement and a unique choice from the French fashion house, with its black dial and moon phase complication that rotates around a dial set with two moons made of mother of pearl.

But who’s really surprised? Let’s not forget we’re talking here about the same guy who proposed (the first time) to Jenny from the Block with a 6.1-carat pink diamond engagement ring. Affleck knows jewelry.

Other noteworthy pieces in the Good Will Hunting star’s collection include the Breguet Tradition Fusée Tourbillon with a skeleton dial and black strap; the A. Lange & Söhne Langematik Perpetual Calendar with a day/night indicator and month display; and a classic Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea with a black dial, luminescent-coated hands and indexes and a date window at 3 o’clock.

Whether this dad of three is running on Dunkin’ (he’s gone from diehard fan to spokesperson for the coffee-and-fast-breakfast brand), PDA-ing with his triple-threat wife, playing a character on screen or promoting his many film projects, actor-director-producer Affleck knows that what he wears on his wrist is only part of his success story. Still, the watch moves he makes are something we’ll continue to watch.

LOVE IN VERONA