American Diamonds Forever PressRoom

Liberian Government Signs Memorandum of Understanding with the Israeli Diamond Industry

2007-11-25T12:53:00.001-06:00



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IDI Chairman Moti Ganz, President Johnson-Sirleaf and IDE President Avi Paz

In a festive ceremony, a memorandum of understanding was signed today, November 20, under the aegis of Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, by Israel Diamond Institute Chairman Moti Ganz and Liberia's Minister of Lands, Mines & Energy Dr. Eugene H. Shannon. The memorandum of understanding lays the foundations for strategic cooperation between the Liberian government and the Israeli Diamond Industry in the area of diamonds.

In addition to President Johnson-Sirleaf, the ceremony was attended by Liberia's Minister of Lands, Mines & Energy Dr. Eugene H. Shannon, Liberia's Defense Minister and other ministers, senior members of Israel's Diplomatic Corps, Chairman of the Israel Export Institute David Arzi, foreign ambassadors, senior representatives of the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Industry Trade and Labor, and leaders of the Israeli Diamond Industry.

Chairman of the Israel Diamond Institute (IDI), Moti Ganz, noted in his speech that the Israeli Diamond Industry attributes great importance to Africa in general and Liberia in particular. "Africa is a continent of opportunity. Current opportunities and future opportunities. Let us make sure not to miss this chance."

Ganz spoke of President Johnson-Sirleaf's vision and noted that "the president symbolizes a new spirit in Africa. She brings great hope to all of the countries in the region. She is a woman of vision who is determined to do her best for her country and her people."

"The future of Liberia's economy is embedded with diamonds," Ganz remarked. He expressed his conviction that a new page will soon open in Liberia's history. "The Israeli Diamond Industry believes in the new Liberia. If you wish it, it is no longer a dream."

"The memorandum of understanding is only the beginning of cooperation that will undoubtedly enrich both partners," declared Ganz.

In his introduction, the IDI's Managing Director Eli Avidar noted that President Johnson-Sirleaf is the first woman to be elected head of state in Africa in general and Liberia in particular. "The president has fought for democracy in her country and was even imprisoned. Later, she went into exile."

In 2005 she was elected President of Liberia and in November 2007 President George W. Bush awarded Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf the Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award given by the United States.

"Johnson-Sirleaf's credentials as a Harvard trained economist have strengthened her stature in the international community and the road has been paved towards the cancellation of Liberia's huge foreign debt as well as the rehabilitation of its economy," he noted.

President Johnson-Sirleaf thanked the participants for their activity on behalf of Liberia and noted that she is acting to strengthen the good relations between the two countries. She described the historical ties between Israel and Liberia and the many agreements signed between them in the past. She added that two former presidents of Liberia visited Israel and recalled the visit of former prime minister Golda Meir to Liberia. Recalling Golda Meir, she noted that female African leaders are following in her footsteps today.



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IDI Chairman Moti Ganz and Liberian President Johnson-Sileaf shake hands as Minister Eugene Shannon looks on

The President noted the lifting of the sanctions imposed on Liberia's diamond industry and its reinstatement in the Kimberley Process. "Liberia has many natural resources. Until recently these mineral riches served to promote internal conflict in the country rather than go to my people's benefit. In fact, the minerals were described as a curse."

"Revenue from diamonds was exploited mainly for destruction and contention. Therefore, Liberia has a long way to go until it reaches its proper course. But I am pleased to say that despite the fact that we have dealt with such hardship, today Liberia has the opportunity to rehabilitate itself. We have renewed growth. We have succeeded in changing the poverty level. Our economic policy has reinstated the confidence of the international community. We will do everything in our power to rebuild our infrastructures, fight poverty and give our youth a good education."

The President spoke of the good relations that Liberia now has with neighboring nations and noted that "we are endeavoring to achieve regional cooperation that will enable us to broaden our markets beyond our borders."

"We are pleased that the sanctions on our diamond industry have been lifted due to recognition of our efforts. We will use our resources to establish a transparent system for governance of revenue from diamonds and other minerals," she added.

"Our country is on the right path," noted the President. "The challenges are great and our administration is aware of the long road ahead. We believe that with a committed government and with the help of those working alongside us, including the international community, Liberia has the opportunity to rebuild itself. Thank you for being a part of Liberia's future."

President Johnson-Sirleaf thanked the hosts of the festive event and expressed the hope that the ties in the area of diamonds between Liberia and the Israeli Diamond Industry will grow ever stronger.

Liberia's Minister of Lands, Mines & Energy Dr. Eugene H. Shannon and IDI Chairman Moti Ganz then signed the memorandum of understanding and the guests subsequently attended a luncheon in honor of the Liberian President.

Gitanjali Honors Wimbledon Champ With Diamond Coated Tennis Ball

2007-11-25T10:38:00.001-06:00

Gitanjali subsidiary, Jewellery Marketing Company, presented tennis championVenus Williams with a diamond encrusted tennis ball to honor her victory at the 2007 Wimbledon tennis championships.

Jewellery Marketing Company chief executive officer, Nehal Modi, presented Williams with the ball --with the 4,300 diamonds covering it-- at a ceremony in New York.

“Venus Williams is a style icon all over the world. The youth try to emulate her not just on the tennis court but also off it,” said Mehul Choksi, CEO of Gitanjali. “The love and passion that she has for her game are in line with the Gitanjali Group's zeal to make the best jewelry which has a universal appeal.”

India-based Gitanjali Group has the licensee rights to develop and market jewelry under the Wimbledon brand.

WJC Unveils New Rendering

2007-10-30T09:13:00.001-05:00

The World Jewelry Center has released a new artist’s rendering of the 50-plus story tower that will be the focal point of the new international marketplace for the gem and jewelry industry in Las Vegas.

The WJC trade tower, designed by Altoon + Porter Architects, LLP, will contain office condominiums of more than 700,000 square feet and owned by several hundred companies from around the globe. WJC businesses will have access to grading labs, an educational center, meeting facilities, and exhibition space. There will also be banking facilities, an advanced security system, restaurants, an exclusive private club, and fitness facilities.

The top floors will be reserved for some 90 "ultra-luxury" residential condominiums with a dedicated elevator system. Condominium owners will have a complete array of services available to them in a high-security living-working environment.

“With over 100 companies having already reserved their space, the office tower is rapidly being filled with many of the industry’s leading companies in every sector of the trade," said WJC managing director Bill Boyajian. "It will not only be one of the world’s most iconic buildings, but also one of the industry’s most important.”

Robert Zarnegin, founder, president, and chief executive officer of Probity International Corp. is developing the project.

Winning Bids for Rio Tinto Pink Diamonds

2007-10-30T09:10:00.001-05:00

A total of 65 pink diamonds were sold to 17 successful bidders from around the globe, many at record breaking prices, during the 23rd annual Rio Tinto Diamonds Argyle Pink Diamond Tender, held in Perth, Australia, Hong Kong, and New York.

The exclusive diamond sale featured the world’s rarest pink diamonds from the Argyle mine in Australia, with about 100 key clientele personally viewing the diamonds in secret locations.

The Argyle Signature Stones picked for 2007’s tender attracted substantial interest due to the range of vivid and deep colors. Purplish reds, deep pinks, and a rare grey-violet diamond were included in this year’s collection, Rio Tinto said in a statement.

Details of winning bids for the diamonds, amount of bidders, and total revenue generated from the Tender are not disclosed to protect successful bidders’ confidentiality. However, Rio Tinto pink diamonds are known to command prices exceeding $400,000 per carat, 20 times the price of equivalent white diamonds, due to rarity and market demand.

Leading colored diamond designer and luxury retailer, John Calleija, did participate in the tender for the 11th consecutive year, and spoke about it.

"I was thrilled to successfully win four diamonds, including three of the incredible purplish red diamonds," he said. "I am already planning jewellery designs for my Argyle Signature Stones, which will be the flagship of my new London store."

The Rio Tinto Pink diamonds are predicted to run out by 2018.

Swatch Chair Picks Clooney for Energy Firm

2007-10-30T09:08:00.001-05:00

George Clooney will become an executive board member of a new Swiss company that will develop clean energy systems for car motors and other devices, The Associated Press reports.

The new company will have different branches doing research and development in the clean production of hydrogen, solar energy and fuel cells, said Nicolas Hayek, Sr., chairman of the Swatch Group, who is setting up the firm.

"First I hesitated between Al Gore and Clooney," Hayek said in an interview with daily Berner Zeitung on Oct. 20.

Hayek reportedly said he didn't ask Gore because he wasn't sure whether the former vice president would run for president and therefore might have accepted the post as a mere public relations exercise.

Clooney will sit on the board alongside Swiss astronaut Claude Nicollier and others, Hayek reportedly said.

Clooney's spokesman, Stan Rosenfield, confirmed the report in an e-mail to The Associated Press.

Hayek, who chairs the executive board of Swatch Group AG, the world's largest watchmaker, said he will also preside over the board of the new company, which will be based in Biel.

He did not say when the new company, which has yet to be named, will be launched, the AP reports.

George Clooney in an advertisement for Omega, part of the Swatch Group

JCPenney, Charles & Colvard Launch 'Milestone Moments' for Women

2007-10-23T08:55:00.001-05:00

Moissanite creator Charles & Colvard and retailer JCPenney launched a Milestone Moments campaign in October asking women to share their personal or professional milestones.

The campaign is a way to honor those significant events in every woman's life that have marked her progress, moved her forward and created who she is today, the campaign partners contended. The Milestone Moment campaign is hosted on O Magazine's website (The Oprah Magazine.)

From now through January 16, 2008, women in the United States can share inspirational stories and at the completion of the contest, one grand prize winner will be selected to share her story nationally. The winner will also receive a one-of-a-kind platinum pendant set with an approximate 5ct. round, brilliant-cut, moissanite jewel surrounded and accented with micro-set diamonds valued at $10,500.

"Offering outstanding beauty, quality and durability, moissanite is fast becoming the must-have piece in today's fine jewelry industry," said Beryl Raff, executive vice president at JCPenney. "It is an ideal gift for celebrating the key milestone achievements in a woman's life."

Bob Thomas, Charles & Colvard's CEO, added, "This contest is a way for us to honor extraordinary women who live brilliantly, celebrating her intricacies of spirit, individuality and milestone achievements.

"We hope this contest will help to create another unforgettable milestone moment in the winner's life."

Tiffany & Co. Aggressive U.S. Expansion

2007-10-23T08:37:00.001-05:00

Tiffany & Co. said Wednesday that it plans a "significant increase" in the number of TIFFANY & CO. stores it plans to open in the U.S. To make this happen, the luxury jeweler developed a new, smaller-format store that will occupy approximately 2,000 square feet and offer jewelry designs with the exception of engagement jewelry. It has the working name TIFFANY & CO. COLLECTIONS and the first store is expected to open in 2008.

"The addition of this new format affords us with the opportunity to ultimately operate as many as 170 stores in the U.S.," said Michael J. Kowalski, Tiffany chairman and chief executive officer. "This new format has the potential to significantly accelerate U.S. sales growth over the medium- to long-term and enhance profitability due to a merchandise mix weighted with higher-margin products."

Kowalski said the company still plans to open five to seven traditional TIFFANY & CO. stores per year, averaging about 5,000 square feet. Tiffany currently operates 68 TIFFANY & CO. stores in the U.S.

Beth O. Canavan, Tiffany executive vice president, said the new stores will cater to the self-purchase customer theroughout the U.S.

"The location opportunities in existing and new markets are vast and geographically broad-based and add enormous sales potential and longevity to our store expansion strategy," Canavan said.

After opening the first store in 2008, Canavan said the company plans to open eight to 12 stores per year.

Movado Launches Tom Brady Limited Edition

2007-10-23T08:31:00.000-05:00

NFL quarterback Tom Brady is the star of Swiss luxury watch Movado’s new Series 800 limited edition Tom Brady Automatic Chronograph. Brady, who plays for the New England Patriots football team, is only the fourth quarterback in NFL history to lead his team to three or more Super Bowl wins. He worked closely with the Movado team on the watch’s design.

“Movado is very proud of our association with Tom Brady,” says Jeff Cohen, president of Movado Worldwide. “He is one of the most prolific quarterbacks in the NFL and embodies everything that Movado Series 800 stands for: timing, innovation and a commitment to excellence.”

The new timepiece is the first in what is expected to be an ongoing series of limited edition sport watches starring leading sports figures.

The limited edition automatic timepiece comes in two versions. One is made with Movado’s own trademarked surgical grade stainless steel alloy (“Performance Steel”), with black or silver dial, on Movado’s own composite resin XTremeResin strap, reinforced with Kevlar, the first strap of its kind in the Movado Series 800 line. There are 1,000 watches, $2,500 each. The other is solid 18K rose gold, on an alligator strap. There are 12 watches only, each numbered, $20,000 each.

Both versions come with a certificate of authenticity signed by Tom Brady and Efraim Grinberg, president and chief executive officer of Movado Group, and with the rotor of the Swiss automatic movement decorated with Brady’s jersey number, "12."

6.04 Carat Fancy Vivid Blue Diamond Sells for $7.98 Million

2007-10-11T10:58:00.001-05:00

Fancy vivid blue
diamond fetches
$1.32 million p/c
Photo: Sotheby's

Demand for large diamonds with exceptional color drove the price of a 6.04 carat, emerald cut IF / fancy vivid blue diamond ring to $7,981,835 following an intensive auction at Sotheby’s Monday in Hong Kong. The winning bidder is reportedly Moussaieff Jewellers.

The sale, a record per carat price for Sotheby’s at $1,321,590 per carat (p/c), was part of the Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite auction in Hong Kong.

The bidding lasted eight minutes, with seven telephone bidders competing for the rare diamond.

According to Quek Chin Yeow, head of Sotheby’s Hong Kong Jewellery Department, Hong Kong dominates the market at the top end for white and colored diamonds in Asia.

The per carat price exceeded the previous record of $926,000 p/c for the Hancock Red, a 0.90 carat red diamond sold in 1987.

Diamond-Studded Top on the Auction Block

2007-10-09T12:47:00.001-05:00

The $1.4 million diamond-studded top unveiled in February during Milan Fashion Week will go on the auction block in Dubai in mid December.

The top was created by the late renowned fashion designer Gianfranco Ferré in a joint effort with diamond company and DTC sightholder Dalumi. It concluded Ferré's women’s collection for fall/winter 2007/2008. Matched with black tuxedo pants and a black silk cape, the outfit was worn on the runway by British rock singer Skin.

More than 900 diamonds weighing more than 300 cts. were stitched in curved horizontal rows across a sheer black vest. The diamonds were of G color and VS and higher clarity and were set in white-gold studs. A single Ferré employee hand-stitched each diamond onto the fabric.

The glittering top was displayed in jewelry shows around the world, including BaselWorld, The JCK Show ~ Las Vegas, the Hong Kong Jewellery & Watch Fair, and the Forevermark DTC event in Tokyo.

Dalumi, in a statement said placing the top up for auction is the logical next step. The auction is scheduled for mid-December in Dubai. No other details were released.

"All the world will have the possibility to admire the wonderful top," the statement read.

Ferré, who died June 17 of a massive brain hemorrhage, spoke about his love of diamonds in a story that appeared in the May issue of JCK.

“The diamond has a place in everyday life, obviously, as long as there is no loss of style, no pointless ostentation,” he said. “In my opinion, the diamond has all the natural allure and personality necessary for always making the difference, for adding a truly special touch. Even in the case of a simple white shirt and pair of jeans.”

Ring Box with LCD Technology

2007-10-09T12:45:00.001-05:00

A new electronic invention, sourced from the world of cell phones, provides consumers with highly personalized packaging. Its inventor is calling it "YouTube in a luxury ring box."

Danny Oh, founder and president of Euri, Inc., Torrance, Calif., has patented Euricase, a multimedia ring box that incorporates a LCD panel that automatically plays a customer’s personalized video, picture slideshow, or audio when opened.

Each case, which can be customized, is about the same size as the average ring box. Soft perimeter lighting focused on the ring when the box is opened enhances the presentation. The 2-inch LCD panel includes a clock, alarm, calendar, and photo-album display.

It is available in various colored and metallic finishes. The box interior can be lined with leather or velvet. When the ring is not in the box, a placeholder with the retailer’s logo is available.

Even technically challenged customers will be able to drag and drop, via a USB port, an enhanced marriage proposal, a slide show or video with music of special courtship moments, such as the wedding, honeymoon, or birthdays, Oh said. The multimedia can be easily updated at any time. It can store more than 500 pictures or 60 minutes of video.

Oh—who previously spent more than 12 years in the semiconductor industry, developing components for companies such as Samsung, Motorola, and LG—said Euricase will change jewelry gift-giving.

“It will not be thrown away or put in a drawer," Oh said. "The box will be shared with family and friends as an ongoing reminder of the couple’s special life events."

The keepsake nature of the Euricase is an ongoing benefit to the retail store, Oh said. Retailers can customize the box with their store colors, logo, promotional videos, and advertising.

The Euricase ring box retails for $198.95, which Oh says provides a potential profit center as opposed to an expense.

Charles & Colvard Battles Breast Cancer

2007-10-09T12:43:00.000-05:00

For the first time, Charles & Colvard created Moissanite and Boscov’s, the country’s largest family-owned department store, are teaming up to help women fight against breast cancer. For the month of October, as part of Boscov’s annual storewide efforts to raise funds for breast cancer awareness, 5 percent of all moissanite jewelry purchased in-store and sold nationally online will go toward funding the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, a not-for-profit organization.

In addition, to help educate women and raise awareness for the cause, the two companies are giving away a free moissanite ribbon pin with every moissanite jewelry purchase. The ribbon pin features a moissanite set in the center and will also be accompanied with an educational bookmark detailing tips on combating breast cancer.

The store will also have a moissanite ribbon pendant specially priced at $299.97 for the month of October. It is normally available for purchase at $829 suggested retail. The pin and pendant were created by jewelry manufacturer Samuel Aaron Intl. exclusively for Boscov’s. Customers can purchase moissanite from any of Boscov’s fifty store locations or by logging onto the store’s Web site.

Diagem Updates Trade on 9ct+ Pink Diamond

2007-09-11T16:59:00.000-05:00

Six months ago, Diagem Inc. of Canada purchased a 9.32ct pink rough diamond from an artisan miner in Brazil for about $445,000. The miner held a permit to mine diamonds on Diagem's property 370/98. At the time it was estimated the rough stone would end up as a 5ct heart shape polished diamond, but it turns out that estimate was a little optimistic.

Diagem shipped the diamond to the Natural Diamond Corporation of Belgium for analysis, cutting, and polishing.

Jacky Lewy, a director of Diagem and a principal of Natural Diamond, has been directing the cutting and polishing process, which is nearly complete at 3.13cts.

The heart-shaped, orangey-pink diamond (pictured) has peaked the interest of some auction houses.

According to Lewy, "Christie's has expressed interest in including the diamond in its next auction or the auction preceding Valentine's Day. Other houses are also showing interest."

Lewy and others who have examined the diamond express confidence that the diamond will likely achieve a significant value, but the company cautioned that it is not possible to obtain a definitive valuation because of the unique and rare nature of the diamond.

Diamonds Feature Prominently at MTV Awards in Las Vegas

2007-09-11T16:53:00.001-05:00

As the evening lights went up on Las Vegas September 9, 2007, music television channel MTV hosted its annual video music awards. The Diamond Information Center noted too that diamonds rocked the strip, sparkling from the red carpet right on up to the awards stage.

This season’s diamond fashion trends featured stacked diamond bangle bracelets, boldly adorned Right Hand Rings, and stylish diamond statement earrings the group stated. The “sister act,” diamond jewelry designers Ofira and Lorraine Schwartz styled some of the leading ladies at the awards, including Ashanti who shined bright in a glitzy diamond Right Hand Ring set in platinum.

Singer Ashanti and diamond jewelry at the MTV video music awards.

Singer Beyonce′ donned five diamond Caviar bangles; and two diamond Monkey Collection bracelets also by Lorraine Schwartz; and singer Mary J. Blige hit a high note wearing 18 karat gold diamond statement earrings by Ofira.

The Diamond Information Center listed the following hot diamond trends:

Stacked Diamond Bangle Bracelets

Ashanti -- Lorraine Schwartz -- Diamond bracelet set in platinum and diamond and platinum bangles
Beyonce -- Lorraine Schwartz -- Five stacked diamond Caviar bangles; two diamond Monkey Collection bracelets
Jennifer Hudson -- Ofira -- Diamond and 18 karat gold bangle bracelets
Mary J. Blige -- Ofira -- Diamond and 18 karat gold bangle bracelets

Boldly Adorned Right Hand Rings

Ashanti -- Lorraine Schwartz -- Diamond Right Hand Ring
Britney Spears -- Hellmuth -- Diamond Right Hand Ring
Eve -- Jacob & Co -- 3.5 carat diamond Right Hand Ring
Jennifer Garner -- Cartier -- Diamond Right Hand Ring
Mary J. Blige -- Lorraine Schwartz -- White and brown diamond Right Hand Ring set in 18 karat gold
Megan Fox -- Rafinity -- 10 carat diamond Right Hand Ring valued at $49,000
Nicole Scherzinger -- Sol Rafael -- 18 carat intense yellow radiant diamond Right Hand Ring valued at $450,000

Stylish Diamond Statement Earrings, including diamond hoops and studs

Ashanti -- Lorraine Schwartz -- Diamond Caviar hoops set in platinum
Britney Spears -- Diamond studs
Jennifer Hudson -- Ofira -- Diamond and 18 karat gold earrings
Mary J. Blige -- Ofira -- Diamond and 18 karat gold earrings
Megan Fox -- Rafinity -- 2.5 carat giant skinny hoop earrings valued at $4,600
Nicole Scherzinger -- Sol Rafael -- 6 carat diamond studs valued at $150,000
Rihanna -- Diamond studs

The following celebrities all wore diamonds to the 2007 VMA MTV Awards:

Ashanti -- Lorraine Schwartz -- Diamond bracelet set in platinum; diamond and platinum bangles; diamond Caviar hoops set in platinum; diamond Right Hand Ring
Ashlee Simpson -- Jacob & Co -- 7 carat black diamond mesh cuff; 7 carat diamond chandelier earrings
Audrina Patridge -- Erica Courtney -- Diamond Enchantment bracelet featuring 0.51 carat yellow diamond set in 18 karat gold and 0.56 carat oval diamond set rose gold, both stones in 2.18 carats of pave diamonds valued at $33,000; diamond earrings; diamond Right Hand Ring
Beyonce′ -- Lorraine Schwartz - Five diamond Caviar bangles and two diamond Monkey Collection bracelets; diamond Monkey Collection earrings
Britney Spears -- Diamond cuff; diamond studs; diamond rings; including Right Hand Ring by Hellmuth
Eve -- Jacob & Co -- 3.5 carat diamond Right Hand Ring
Jennifer Garner -- Cartier -- Diamond bracelet; diamond earrings; diamond Right Hand Ring
Jennifer Hudson -- Ofira -- Diamond and 18 karat gold bangle bracelets; diamond and 18 karat gold earrings
Lauren Conrad -- Diamond bracelet and diamond Right Hand Ring
Ludacris -- Lorraine Schwartz -- Diamond studs (his own); black and white diamond ring
Mary J. Blige -- Ofira and Lorraine Schwartz -- Diamond and 18 karat gold bangles by Ofira; diamond and 18 karat gold earrings by Ofira; white and brown diamond Right Hand Ring set in 18 karat gold by Lorraine Schwartz
Megan Fox -- Rafinity -- 2.15 carat diamond giant skinny hoop earrings valued at $4,600; 10 carat diamond Right Hand Ring valued at $49,000
Nicole Scherzinger -- Sol Rafael -- 6 carat diamond studs valued at $150,000; 18 carat intense yellow radiant diamond Right Hand Ring valued at $450,000
Paris Hilton -- Diamond cuff bracelets; diamond earrings; diamond Right Hand Ring
Rihanna -- Two stacked diamond bracelets; diamond studs; diamond Right Hand Ring
Whitney Port -- Diamond earrings; diamond Right Hand Ring
Moon Man Award -- Jacob & Co. -- Diamond Moon Man Award, 13.75 total carats of white and black diamonds, plus 14k yellow gold valued at $200,000

Dalumi to Showcase 'Simplicity' at Hong Kong Show

2007-09-11T16:52:00.000-05:00

Israel-based Dalumi Group has plans underway to showcase a new jewelry design at the upcoming Hong Kong Jewellery and Watch Fair.

The Diamond Trading Comany siteholder will be presenting the first looks at its "Simplicity" collection. The line features a mix of round and square diamonds, many of which were polished in the company's new cutting center in Botswana.

The rings (pictured), earrings and necklaces (also pictured) use white as well as yellow gold in the designs. Marketing communications manager Michal Marx told Rapaport News that the collection's theme is based upon "understated design elements" to achieve a "new language of intimacy."

Marx said that the jewelry was designed for East Asian and the United States markets, with a medium price point. She stressed the importance of the Hong Kong show to Israel, especially in terms of sales, and for reaching the intended target audience.

"We have a very large booth in Hong Kong," she explained. "Our display is 99 square meters. We are present at other shows all over Asia, but this is our most important show…it's a very good show for sales. Basel is a show to be seen, but Hong Kong is a sales show."

Marx told Rapaport News that the booth will be located in Pavilion 5, and not among the 40 IDI-sponsored jewelers from Israel in the Israel Diamond Pavilion. She said the decision was made because the Dalumi Group is an international company with a significant presence in Hong Kong.

PGI Unveils Fourth Commissioned Water-Inspired Design

2007-08-28T12:37:00.001-05:00

Platinum Guild International unveiled on August 23 in Mumbai the fourth in a series of water-inspired jewelry pieces, which they commissioned. Dubbed “Iraja,” a Sanskrit word meaning ‘Born of Water’, the flowing neckpiece falls in chains over the shoulder of the wearer.

Iraja was manufactured by Ganjam, a well-known Indian jeweler, and created by the company’s senior designer Arunima Bhaumik.

Earlier such commissioned pieces include “Aqua,” by Italian studio Orlando Orlandini; “Shibuki,” Japanese for ‘Splash of Water’; and “Jiang,” a representation of China’s Yangtze River.

Iraja is made of 450 grams of platinum, set with 303 diamonds and has 1,500 links and 840 beads. It was produced using five innovative manufacturing techniques and three different surface finishes.

Although valued at $250,000, the Iraja is not for sale.

Al Gore Awarded First Brand Icon by Corum

2007-08-28T12:13:00.001-05:00

Former U.S. vice president Al Gore received the first “Brand Icon of the Year” award from Swiss luxury watch brand Corum and the Global Brand Forum. This is the first year for the award, which is designed to recognize individual contributions in global branding. Gore was honored at the 2007 Global Brand Forum, held Aug. 6 and 7 in Singapore.

Al Gore accepts a Corum Romvlvs watch
from Corum president Michael Wunderman.

In presenting Gore with the the award—a Romvlvs timepiece by Corum—Michael Wunderman, president of Corum Timepieces said that Gore represents “the kind of determination and commitment to excellence” admired by so many companies.

"We are very pleased to co-present this honor with Global Brand Forum 2007,” he said. “I have high admiration and respect for Mr. Gore for his passion, determination and resolve to … conquer challenges whether as a politician or environmentalist, [to be] a 'cutting edge' brand leader of great … responsibility to humankind.”

A Global Brand Forum statement said the award was created to "highlight the achievements [of those] in the global arena who have made a significant contribution to the branding industry and the world community at large.”

Gore was chosen as the inaugural Brand Icon of the Year for “his unique and valuable contributions in the fields of media and the environment."

De Beers Funds Air Mercy Services

2007-08-28T12:10:00.000-05:00

The South Africa Red Cross Air Mercy Service unveiled its refitted addition to its fleet of specialist medical rescue aircraft. De Beers donated R1.6 million($220,000) to help fund the extension and building of a larger hangar at Kimberley Airport for flying doctor operations, including the medical conversion of the AMS Pilatus PC-12 aircraft; installing a specialist MedPac Medical Interior, which better equips the aircrafts medical staff to attend to ill and injured patients.

John Stone, CEO of SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service (left),
Mary Thuntsi, acting HOD Health Services in the Northern Cape,
and David Noko at the launch of the new aircraft medical interior.

The Red Cross AMS provides flying doctor services to rural towns of the Northern Cape, and transfers patients by specially converted aircraft to treatment centers in Kimberley. Other funding for the medical rescue service came from ExecuJet ($130,000) and the National Lottery Board ($117,116). The newly fitted aircraft was launched Wednesday at an event attended by Northern Cape government representatives, corporate business leaders, and volunteer doctors and medical professionals.

The Red Cross AMS used the donations for infrastructure which supports the almost seven thousand medical flights flown each year, volunteer pilots, and medical personnel. These services provide both routine healthcare and specialized or emergency medical assistance to thousands of people living in the Northern Cape.

David Noko, MD of De Beers Consolidated Mines, and John Stone,
CEO SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service, viewing the new aircraft medical interior.

“We live in a country where the needs of communities are enormous," said John Stone, Red Cross Red Cross chief executive officer. "It is impossible for us as individuals to begin to contribute to meeting these needs, but if we join hands and work together we will be able to rise above the challenges and make a significant difference to the quality of lives of those less fortunate than ourselves."

Stne continued: "The cooperation between a non profit organization such as the SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service, the government and the private sector such as is witnessed here today should be an inspiration and sign of hope for a better future. De Beers was the first corporate sponsor of this program way back in 1996 and we are proud that we, together, have been able to make a difference to access to health care for the Northern Cape Communities."

"This Red Cross AMS service is one of the projects all our De Beers employees are proud we support as a company because of the huge impact it has in the lives of children, women and the elderly in the rural Northern Cape; providing access to health care as well as training and capacity building for doctors and other health professionals at rural clinics and hospitals in the Province," said David Noko, the managing director of De Beers Consolidated Mines. "It is encouraging for the private sector to see this program grow from strength to strength, providing professional services to thousands of people in need each year, through the partnership between the SA Red Cross AMS, the Northern Cape Department of Health and De Beers.”

Gemfields Resources Unearths 10,050 Carat Emerald

2007-08-21T12:45:00.001-05:00

Gemfields Resources PLC, an AIM-listed colored gemstone exploration and mining company, discovered a 10,050 carat emerald at the company’s Mbuva-Chibolele emerald mine in Zambia.

The crystal is a 10 centimeter-long hexagonal stone.

The company has been engaged in exploration activities in Zambia’s gemstone sector since 2000. Its flagship emerald mine, the Mbuva-Chibolele project, has been in commercial production since June 2006.

Indian Jeweler Launches Mobile Stores

2007-08-21T12:37:00.000-05:00

Introducing an innovative concept, Dia Vente Jewellery launched their Vibrant brand Sunday, sending out six specially designed vans that will sell its jewelry in Mumbai.

Vibrant is a collection of jewelry in silver, steel, brass, copper and rubber, accented with cubic zircons, colored crystals, enamel and epoxy. Prices range from Rs. 100 to Rs. 4,000 ($2.50 - $100), with a few pieces going for Rs. 15,000 ($368). Its main target is the youth segment.

As young urbanites are always rushed for time, so the concept of bringing jewelry to the doorstep – whether it is housing complexes, pubs, colleges, or workplaces – with vans staffed by young salespersons seems to be asked for.

The concept is the brainchild of Hemant Shah, who along with designer Yuriko Menon set up Dia Vente last year.

The vans have been specially designed by India’s leading car designer Dilip Chhabria, better known as DC, internationally renowned for his souped up vehicles.

Shah said at the launch that Chhabria’s reaction to the concept of mobile jewelry outlets was “Out of the world.” That set the design tone for the van redesigns, giving them a futuristic, spaceship look.

Renting Jewelry Not Just for the Stars

2007-08-14T13:50:00.000-05:00

Renting isn’t just for movie night anymore. These days, people are turning to rental companies, some of them online, for everything from high-end bridal jewelry and sparkling party-wear to designer bags, at a fraction of the cost of buying them.

A rental allows fashion-conscious customers to walk around with the latest item, without having to shell out for a designer piece that has the shelf life of a very ripe tomato. It also allows costumers with a limited budget to show up at an important event with a diamond necklace they could not otherwise afford. The opportunities for a diamond jewelry retailer with a dormant stock are clear.

Adornbrides.com and Borrowedbling.com are two such rental sites, the first offering fashionable bridal jewelry, and the second letting customers “shop like celebrities: see it…want it…borrow it!” They offer a wide range of jewelry and accessories, including hair clips, belts, sunglasses, bags and even jewel-encrusted sandals.

Bagborroworsteal.com is one of the first rental sites, originally launched as a designer handbag rental site. Presently they also offer scores of different types and styles of jewelry, including items with precious and semiprecious stones, from designers such as Charriol, Chanel and Gucci.

The standard procedure on the jewelry rental websites is that a customer signs up for a monthly fee and chooses which pieces they want to rent. Some sites, such as bagborroworsteal, have different membership plans at different costs.

This site allows the customer to choose from a category, such as Trendsetter, Princess, Diva, Couture and Guest, according to the price range in which they’re interested. Costs run from $9.95 per month to a yearly fee that amounts to about $5 per month. The higher priced memberships usually offer a wider range of jewelry.

The return procedure varies with each site, but it usually comes down to simply sealing the borrowed items in an envelope and shipping them back to the original location.

Jennifer Lam Wins GIA London Design Competition

2007-07-24T09:30:00.000-05:00

Jennifer Lam's winning
design, 'Oceanic'
GIA London recently named Jennifer Lam, a graduate of GIA London’s graduate gemologist program, as the winner of the H. Goldie Jewelry Design Competition. Lam received an award of £1,000 ($2,063) and a £500 ($1,031) trip to the European jewelry fair BaselWorld.

Lam’s winning “Oceanic” design was inspired by the sea and included a pendant and earring set constructed from 18 karat yellow gold, with a spread of melee diamonds ranging from 0.01 to 0.15 carats for accent.

According to Edward Johnson, director of GIA London, the H. Goldie competition will take place two to three times a year, depending on the number of Jewelry Design courses offered. The competition is sponsored by London-based diamond brokers H. Goldie & Co. Ltd., And Goldie International Ltd.

“Through H. Goldie’s generosity, this ongoing competition offers a valuable introduction to the gem and jewelry industry, with both a financial prize as well as a guided tour of BaselWorld,” said Johnson. “This competition is a wonderful opportunity for our Jewelry Design students.”

Contestants must submit a design for diamond jewelry in yellow and/or white gold, which can be either a pendant and earring set for women or cuff links and a tie bar or tie tack for men. Designs are evaluated on quality of painting, technique, design idea, and overall presentation.

Antwerp: Michielsen Launches Centenaire Diamond Cut

2007-07-24T08:03:00.000-05:00

Diamond manufacturer Michielsen Manufacturing & Co., based in Antwerp, introduced a new diamond cut trademarked as the Centenaire cut.

With its round shape and 100 facets the Centenaire cut will guarantee the highest glittering and brilliance, which is never seen before in all other diamond cuts Michielsen concluded.

"As an aureole of sunrays the light will exit the diamond and with this it shows the characteristics of this very special diamond cut, which makes it recognizable from far," the company wrote in a statement.

"Even more than in other diamond cuts you will see the light in the Centenaire cut in all colors of the rainbow move from one facet to an other."

Due to its special cut that carries through from center to the edge, light reflection makes the diamond appear larger than a comparable brilliant cut, Michielseon contended.

"Because its special refraction, a diamond cut into the Centenaire cut will show a higher color than a comparable diamond cut in an other way. Even natural inclusions are, because of the many facets, more difficult to observe. All these pros make the Centenaire cut even more beautiful when used in a jewel."

The company supplies Centenaire cut with an IGI certificate from 0.30-carats on up.

Manak Couture Launches Rose Cut, Color Diamonds

2007-07-24T07:59:00.001-05:00

Beverly Hills, California: Can't get enough of Rose Cut diamonds, or color diamonds on hoops and bangles, large candy-color rings and rainbow gold tones?

Manak Couture has launched several new extraordinary collections reflecting these new trends.

Some of the new designs display the company's ethnic Indian (Gem Palace) heritage, while others reflect everyday fine fashion jewelry.

All designs however do incorporate color, which is a key component of Manak Couture's product reputation.

Spelling Collection to Debut on HSN

2007-07-24T07:55:00.000-05:00

Multichannel retailer HSN said Thursday that it has added Tori Spelling to its lineup with the debut of “The Tori Spelling Collection,” a jewelry line available exclusively at HSN. The actress and designer will introduce her collection on HSN and www.HSN.com on Tuesday as part of the company’s 30th birthday celebration.

The 12-piece collection includes necklaces, earrings, cuffs, and bracelets. The collection, which includes gold-tones and semi-precious stones, have prices ranging from $29 to $129.

The Tori Spelling Collection premieres on HSN on Tuesday at 1 a.m. and 8 p.m. EDT. The collection will also be available at www.hsn.com.