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Top 10 Wedding Trends for 2010

Engaged over Valentine’s Day and getting ready to set your date? As you begin to plan you 2010 nuptials keep in mind these top trends you’ll see next spring. Buttercream, organic green, backyard weddings – all great ideas to help get you down the aisle.

1. Back to Basics
Events will focus on the attention to the details, the foundation of the event, not the drama or grandeur of the evening. Consider spending more on the lasting memories than the showmanship of the event. Spend a bit more than the average budget allotment on photography mediums rather than abundant floral. Or consider a bit of a longer stay on your honeymoon and a little less of a party at the reception and you’ll be grateful for your decision in the end.

2. Home Weddings Hit Home

Intimate and personal affairs in the backyard are bigger than ever. Going home incorporates the continued trend of personalizing the wedding day experience.
Smaller size guest lists, more intimate settings, grass roots weddings, elegant and detail driven, but in no way small on what counts.

3. Buttercream on the Big Day

Fondant is falling behind, buttercream corners the market.
Tools and techniques now allow for buttercream to look as smooth as fondant when applied by a skilled artist. You have the option of better flavor, more natural ingredients, and less costly cakes that no longer suffer or lack in design.

4. Favor Comeback

Personalized appreciation is back. The effect that an event has on the guests is more noticeable than ever before so the importance of a favor is felt more than ever. Be sure to appreciate to those in attendance - it’s not just an afterthought, omission, or generic item. Think local artisans, locally grown products, personal mementos, and on-the-spot print outs.

5. Nearby Destinations

Nearby destination weddings are taking flight over the exotic and far off locales. The ever popular destination wedding will remain but guests will get out of town by car (within driving distance) so couples can create a weekend, guests get an escape, but no one breaks the bank. Enjoying the US destination locations, spend within your own local economies, create a greener effect, experience undiscovered backyards, and stay sensible about cost while you’re at away.

6. Colors

Monochromatic palettes - this doesn’t mean muted colors, just single color bunches. Vibrant Colors: Orange, green, yellow, and pink. Metal Colors: Gold, silver, copper, and pewter. And black is definitely the new black. Break the rules and show off the darker side of your event.

7. Greener Conscience

Immerging will be the newest phase of eco-conscience: A better understanding of the gray shades of green. You will see more emphasis on the smaller changes that are less recognizable to the guest (i.e. cleaning green, composting, solar and LED lighting, no more oasis in floral arrangements, less catering waste). It’s no longer about making the event appear “organic” – it’s about understanding how things are made, disposed of, and where/when events take place. Learning to make better choices that are unseen by the guest are just as important as those tree-free invitations everyone is talking about.

8. Video Integration into Events

We’ve all seen the photo montages of your childhoods during dinner but the next phase in video at your event comes in several different forms. Video DJ’s are immerging, allowing your dance party to dance to the visuals of the music videos; ceremonies are being broadcast on screens for better viewing from the back; and time lapse photography is being shot and integrated into video for current day montages of you and your fiancé. Love to party? Set up crane camera and project the event as it unfolds on screens around the dance floor (budget permitting of course).

9. HD Video

Videographers have already gone hi-def. But next year all or most will make such a transition, making HD and even Blu Ray the norm in wedding videography. Upgrade now and appreciate the quality later. This also means smaller cameras on site and less intrusion into your event, all around a better (though more costly) option on the big day.

10. Visual Combinations
Professional grade still photo cameras like the Canon 5D Mark II DSLR are being released with HD video capabilities included. It is recommended to have both a videographer and a photographer at your wedding to capture every moment of the big day. Tech-savvy brides looking for a new experience, may like to experiment with a visual professional (videographer or photographer) who has this technology. In the future, you will begin to see an emergence of two-in-one companies. Companies like Engaging Films and Video Keepsakes of Beverly Hills in Los Angeles will shoot video and take stills, but use only one piece of technology.

About Us
Whiteflash is the first company in the U.S. to specialize in the coveted Hearts & Arrows diamond and bring the sheer beauty of “super ideal cut” to the Internet. Debi Wexler, a computer entrepreneur founded Whiteflash in 2000 bringing an expansive selection of loose diamonds to the Internet, including an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows.Whiteflash A Cut Above ® (ACA) Diamonds is unmatched in its brilliance, fire and sparkle and remains the only Hearts & Arrows diamond sold online with advertised standards and a “true patterning” guarantee. In addition, Whiteflash offers original handcrafted platinum and gold settings, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, custom designed engagement rings and diamond jewelry.

Stylish Spring Wedding Design

Spring weddings are about to be in full bloom. This is a time when nature is renewing itself and planning your wedding around a spring theme is a fun and fresh idea. Break out of the heavy drama of winter weddings by using these few tips on trends, colors and other creative ways to celebrate the new season and your nuptials with style.

Pastels are a refreshing change to winter colors, consider the use of a baby blue or a light green for your bridesmaids; maybe even a pair of light pink shoes for the bride to add a fun twist to the wedding day look. Pink and green together make a traditional spring palette, but don’t be afraid to mix it up with other bright colors like sunflower yellow. Just stay away from the darker jewel tones that are more appropriate for winter or fall. Incorporating green accents will help your spring theme too - use fruits, potted plants, and rustic elements sprinkled throughout your event to bring the spring season to life!

Décor should be as light and playful as the season. Try wide colored stripes, polka dots, ribbons, flowy fabrics, and lots of white for a clean look. Green leaves, hand printed cards, and wood pieces keep the spring theme close at hand. Have fun unusual accents like birds’ nests with robin’s eggs candies. Do your best to be good to the environment and use local fresh flowers (which will automatically give you that spring floral look). Live mini-pots of grass to hold place cards, earth-friendly invitations, and sustainable agriculture from your area for catering are all easy ways to be eco-conscience and spring friendly. If your wedding is outdoors during the day, drape fabrics that can blow in the wind, tie ribbons in unexpected places, perhaps even have a maypole! You can set up games on the lawn to keep everyone entertained while you take photos. Croquet, bocce ball, horseshoes are all great options as they are easily set up and contained. Keep the atmosphere fun, airy and light, just like spring itself when you say “I Do” in the outdoors.

Don’t feel cornered by the need to have a wedding that’s too typical spring. There are many other directions you can take while still maintaining that same seasonal feel. Victorian elements can evoke spring with an outdoor garden feel with the use of delicate antique laces and vintage linens, small wrought iron designs for your tabletops with dried lavender along with wicker chairs and lounge furniture. Shabby Chic is another solid direction to take by hanging antique chandeliers outside, overstuffed cushions for your chairs and distressed painted wood décor pieces. Mix vintage with contemporary and add candlelight to easily incorporate a romantic intimate feel.

Favors can be anything from a packet of seeds or bulbs that your guests can plant to enjoy in the new growing season or a sweet wrapped package with a festive pastel or floral-topped cupcake inside, perhaps even a bag of brightly colored jelly beans to leave your guests with a fun reminder of your spring wedding! And of course, don’t forget to gift your flowering and live plants on hand and encourage all to continue to cycle of life in their gardens.

What Will Be the Hottest, Hippest 2009 Wedding Trends

If you’re planning a wedding, you’re probably wondering what will be trendy and hip. There’s no denying that 2009 Wedding Trends will be heavily influenced by two things. Firstly, the economy. It seems dreary to be constantly talking about how the economy will impact your life, but fortunately, I’m already seeing ways in which a smaller budget has inspired couples to have more creative, intimate, and personal weddings.

These weddings are benefiting from a heavy dose of style, influenced by the many images and ideas circulating around the blogosphere. This chic style will be the second biggest influence this year. Rather than huge weddings, where cost cutting means a lack of details or fun, the 2009 wedding trends are full of fabulous details meant for smaller, affordable weddings.

Here’s what I predict will be the top 2009 wedding trends:

Farm Weddings No, I’m not talking about getting married amongst the combines, or having a cow for your bridesmaid. But farms can be an affordable place to get married with a lot of charm. Several of them allow your guests to interact with the animals, while others just provide idyllic pastoral settings. Add some additional down-home touches like gingham tablecloths, pitchers of jam or other country wedding style. Look for a farm that has a barn suitable for a reception.

Small luxurious weddings Budgets might be tight, but that doesn’t mean that luxury and glamour are going away. Instead, couples are opting for intimate glamorous affairs. By having fewer guests, they can have more opulent details, like elaborate favors, beautiful wines and gourmet tasting menus. With such a backdrop, it then feels right to be in your tuxedos and gowns, surrounded only by your truest friends and loved ones.

Macarons The delightful French cookies not only have a delicious almond flavor and light texture, but bakers have a tradition of making them in bright eye-catching colors, making them perfect for weddings. The newest trend is creating a tower of macarons instead of a wedding cake, but they’re also stunning as favors or as accompaniment to wedding cake.

Gray For the past few years, chocolate brown has been the “It Color” popping up in weddings as a hip neutral, and combined with bright pink or cheery yellow. While chocolate brown isn’t going anywhere, the hippest new color for 2009 is gray. You may think of gray as too dreary a color for weddings, but on the contrary, it can serve as a sophisticated foil to brighter colors. It’s great paired with pink or yellow, but perhaps the hottest combination this year will be silver and royal purple.

Affordable and Rewearable Bridesmaid Dresses Forget the peach tulle atrocities of yesteryear. 2009 brides are considerate, and mindful of the economy, so they’re looking for bridesmaid dresses that are truly rewearable, and don’t come with a sky-high price tag. For a beach wedding, consider telling your bridesmaids that they can wear a knee-length, spaghetti-strap dress in any shade of blue. They’ll not only be able to shop the department store sales, but your wedding reflects the beautiful colors of the ocean. If you still want a unified bridal party look, consider gathering your maids for a group shopping expedition.

Vintage Fashion and Fascinators Having a vintage-inspired wedding is a great way to add some style without adding a lot of cost. 1920’s weddings will be especially hot this year. Especially look for brides wearing birdcage veils and fascinators. If you’re a Project Runway fan, you’ll definitely recall Kenley’s fascinators – the feathery charms that perch on your head. But many other designers also make a wide range of fascinators. They look vintage and modern, whimsical and classic, all at the same time.

Diamond Fashion for the Bridal Party Have your bridal party sparkling with diamonds on your big day. Whether is be diamond earrings, diamond bracelets, or diamond rings make sure that your bridal party is blinged out for the big event.

Checklist for Choosing a Diamond Engagement Ring

Every groom-to-be needs a checklist for choosing a diamond engagement ring. Searching for the perfect engagement ring is an intimidating task, even if your fiancé has already accepted your proposal. This is one of the most important purchases you will make, as well as one of the most expensive, and you need to keep several issues in mind when making your decision. Everyone’s checklist is different, but these basic concerns will insure that you do not leave out any major considerations.

First, determine exactly how much you can spend on an engagement ring. Bear in mind that you will most likely be paying for part or all of the wedding and honeymoon costs, as well as starting a new life together, and it isn’t wise to go substantially in debt for the ring before other expenses are met. Budgeting for an Engagement Ringis a careful process and you should take plenty of time to ascertain your spending limit.

Educate Yourself

Before setting foot inside a jewelry store, research the basics of diamonds and engagement rings. Knowing the terminology, such as the four Cs of diamond quality, as well as the basic differences between settings, shapes, and types of engagement rings will keep your search efficient without ignoring unique options.

Choose a Jeweler

After you have been properly educated, it is time for the next step in your checklist for choosing a diamond engagement ring: choosing a jeweler. It is important that you find a reputable, trustworthy jeweler. You can ask for recommendations from friends and relatives, or start with a local jeweler with a long history. Mall stores are generally reputable but have limitations, while independent jewelry stores also have risks, especially if you may be relocating. When in doubt, ask to see the jeweler’s certification and other credentials.

Choose a Metal

Most engagement rings are platinum, yellow gold, or white gold.

Platinum

Platinumis the strongest metal and is considered rarer than gold. While it doesn't wear, is resistant to damage, and won't tarnish, it can be difficult to repair if it is damaged. Platinum is also significantly more expensive than gold.

Yellow Gold

Yellow gold is the most common and traditional metal for both wedding and engagement rings. 24-karat gold is pure gold, while 18-karat is 1/4 alloy. The higher the purity, the softer and more flexible the metal, making it more prone to damage. Most engagement and wedding rings are either 14- or 18-karat gold. Gold Engagement Ringseventually show wear such as nicks and scratches, but are easily repaired.

White Gold

White gold is measured by the same standards as yellow gold, but is treated to retain a white, silver-like finish. This finish eventually wears off and must be periodically reapplied. White gold is an excellent choice for a unique ring that will match any other jewelry.

Choose a Setting

Selecting a setting can be one of the most confusing parts of the checklist for choosing a diamond engagement ring. There are many different Engagement Ring Settings. Common settings include solitaires and bridal sets, while channel settings, three-stone rings, and other designs are becoming increasingly popular.

Solitaires

Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ringsare single, elegant diamonds that may come in a variety of shapes (heart, marquise, round, pear, oval, emerald, etc.), settings (channel, bezel, flush, prong, tiffany, etc.), and sizes. If you haven't already determined what your sweetheart likes, you might want to take her window shopping to get a general idea. If you would like for the ring to be a surprise, however, you may want to enlist the help of a close friend or relative.

Accent Stone Settings

Accent stone or side stone settings include both a larger center stone as well as multiple small stones that embellish the engagement ring band. Many accent stones are set in channels to protect them from damage. Some people prefer a combination of round stones and baguettes (rectangles), round stones only, or trilliums (triangles).

Three-Stone Settings

Three Stone Engagement Ringsare considered nostalgic, with each of the diamonds representing the past, present, and future. The stones are set in a straight line without additional accent stones. Many people prefer to build their own engagement ring by choosing each of the three diamonds.

Bridal Sets

You can purchase engagement rings with matching wedding bands. The bands can be solid gold with a matching solitaire engagement ring, or they might have side stone settings in both the wedding band and the engagement ring, with the engagement ring also featuring a prominent solitaire. For many of these Bridal Set Engagement Rings, the wedding band cannot be worn without the engagement ring and the two are frequently soldered together before the wedding.

Ask for an Appraisal and Certificate

Your diamond should be issued an appraisal of its value. You should also ask your jewelerif the diamond has been treated with any fillers or other laboratory enhancements. If it hasn't, he should issue you a certificate of authenticity. This paperwork is essential if you choose to have your ring insured.

Warranty

You also need to inquire about the warranty of your diamond. Some jewelers will continue to warranty the ring if you visit regularly for them to clean and check the setting of the ring. These basic maintenance tasks guarantee that your ring will remain as brilliant on your fiftieth anniversary as it was on your wedding day.

No matter which type of engagement ring you ultimately buy, by following certain tasks and approaching the purchase in an educated fashion, you will be pleased with an investment that will grow in value just as your love continues to grow throughout your marriage.

About Us

Whiteflash is the first company in the U.S. to specialize in the coveted Hearts & Arrows diamond and bring the sheer beauty of “super ideal cut” to the Internet. Debi Wexler, a computer entrepreneur founded Whiteflash in 2000 bringing an expansive selection of loose diamonds to the Internet, including an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows. A Cut Above (ACA™) is unmatched in its brilliance, fire and sparkle and remains the only Hearts & Arrows diamond sold online with advertised standards and a “true patterning” guarantee. In addition, Whiteflash offers original handcrafted platinum and gold settings, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, custom designed engagement rings and diamond jewelry.

Fashion Accessories Will Always Be a Necessity

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I always love to find out how much borrowed jewelry a celebrity is wearing to a red carpet event. If the Golden Globes earlier this year was any sign of how much money celebrities will be wearing to future events, then we’re in for a treat for the Oscars, hosted by Hugh Jackman.

Being a jewelry designer who is heavily immersed in this industry, I have a good knack for predicting trends and what people will wear. Here are my trend predictions that you can expect from the Oscars.

Diamonds are a fail-proof solution to any jewelry concerns, especially Natural Colored Diamonds. Celebrities are often worried that jewelry can lead to a “Worst Dressed” nomination, and therefore, opt for diamonds. You’ll definitely spot them on the red carpet, from dangling earrings and big bold rings to subtle button earrings. But, unlike previous years, stars will keep the diamonds simple. They don’t want anything too flashy due to the state of the economy right now. So be on the look out for a hint of color on their diamond jewelry this year.

SMALL STUDS & BUTTON EARRINGS
Celebrities want their couture dresses to do all the talking, so we can certainly expect to see a lot of button earrings. Button earrings always enhance the overall look, but don’t take away from the dress. They also make a fabulous accent to the ever-so-popular one-shoulder dress.

CLIP-ON COMEBACK
Many celebrity stars have a big secret – they love clip-on earrings! Stars often ask jewelry designers to create clip-on earring styles for them, even if they have pierced ears. You see, those big, diamond earrings can be very heavy, which can stretch out the ear. For comfort and beauty, many celebrities opt for clip-on styles to avoid any problems. This will be a trend that will continue into 2010.

Our celebrity stylists insiders say that Olivia Wilde and Eva Longoria both wore clip-on earrings to the Golden Globes.

BRIGHT PEARLY WHITE
Celebrities won’t just be flashing their pearly whites at the camera at the Oscars – you can also expect white dresses and accessories as well. White was one of the most popular hues of choice at the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards (Kate Beckinsale, Salma Hayek, Sandra Bullock, Teri Hatcher, etc). We can expect to see some additional white jewelry on the red carpet.

About Us
Whiteflash is the first company in the U.S. to specialize in the coveted Hearts & Arrows diamond and bring the sheer beauty of “super ideal cut” to the Internet. Debi Wexler, a computer entrepreneur founded Whiteflash in 2000 bringing an expansive selection of loose diamonds to the Internet, including an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows. A Cut Above (ACA®) is unmatched in its brilliance, fire and sparkle and remains the only Hearts & Arrows diamond sold online with advertised standards and a “true patterning” guarantee. In addition, Whiteflash offers original handcrafted platinum and gold settings, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, custom designed engagement rings and diamond jewelry.

How To Tell If Your diamond engagement ring or diamond jewelry Is A Non-Conflict Diamond.

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

You are looking for a diamond with a good cause. You're a diamond lover. You've got countless pieces of jewelry studded with diamonds. You are looking to find an engagement ring with the right cause. You are one of those people who just can't resist the glitter and brilliance that goes with a diamond. Then you learn about the existence of blood diamonds. Your world is suddenly turned upside down.

That may be a satiric narrative but the subject is dead serious. Blood diamonds are used to fund wars and other brutal activities in certain parts of the world. Diamonds sold in this illicit trade promote violence and kill people; you want to make sure that your own non conflict diamonds.

Many sectors emphasize the difference between "clean" diamonds, often called non conflict diamonds and "blood diamonds". Even the UN General Assembly was quick to point out that diamonds mined and sold legally help the economy and promote prosperity in certain parts of Africa. In a resolution made in December 2000, they were also emphatic in stating that the sale of blood diamonds only brings about pain and suffering. That is why restrictions and standards have been put in place to differentiate non conflict diamonds from the blood diamonds.

Non Conflict Diamond Detection Points

The useful question would then be: How do I know if a diamond is a conflict diamond or a conflict free diamond? For practical purposes, the answer would really be: "There is no absolute way you can tell, especially if the diamond has already been polished." Difficult? Sure.
This is challenging if you want to know whether or not the diamond you already own is "tainted". However, there are still some precautionary measures which are in place and which you can take in order to avoid purchasing a conflict diamond. First of all, the international community has established a system wherein a "Certificate of Origin" is required. There are known areas from where blood diamonds originate. With these certificates, you can have a way of knowing the origin of the diamond. Of course, certificates can and have been forged. Stricter measures and even stricter implementation is needed in order for this system to work efficiently.

In addition to “Certificate of Origin”, some countries have set up their own measures in order to ensure that blood diamonds are not released in their markets. Amnesty International advise is asking four questions when you are out shopping for diamonds. First, ask the salespeople how you can be sure that what they are selling are non conflict diamonds. Second, ask them if they know where their diamonds come from. Third, ask for the company policy on purchasing diamonds. Fourth, ask if they can show you a written guarantee from their suppliers. Most likely if they are unwilling to help you out with your questions, they might have something to hide. They might be unable to answer you simply because they themselves do not have assurances as to the nature of their goods. Additionally, the jewelry company may not have educated their sales people on what conflict diamonds are about. In such instances, Amnesty suggests that you go some place else.

These questions should give you assurances that you purchase only non conflict diamonds. Unless everyone from source to manufacturer educates and cooperates and there is international transparency, there are still chances that some blood diamonds may get through.

Groom's Guide to Wedding Rings

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The last thing a groom thinks about is his wedding ring. It's the poor cousin to his bride's spectacular diamond engagement ring. That said, the groom's wedding ring is the one indicator that this man has a gorgeous wife somewhere, possibly on his arm. The great news is that a groom and bride's wedding rings are the one item in a wedding that don't cost a fortune. In this article, Whiteflash.com covers what a man needs to know about the most important piece of jewelry he'll ever wear.

Unless you're a groom wearing a high school or college ring, chances are your wedding ring is going to be the first real piece of jewelry (gasp!) and the most important ring you're ever going to wear. While you did your duty by buying an engagement ring and popping the question, you'll want to think about the ring that you buy for your bride and the one you'll wear on your ring finger. We make it easy to get through the variety of choices for men's wedding bands, from platinum to titanium and everything in between.

Cost of the Wedding Ring

A man's wedding rings will cost between approximately $100 (for titanium rings) to $2000 (for platinum with diamonds set in the ring), with most rings coming in around $600. The reason for the price range (albeit much less of a range than a woman's diamond engagement ring) is the material used to make the band, and whether diamonds are used.

Mens Wedding Rings Materials

A groom's wedding band will be made of platinum, white gold, yellow gold, titanium, stainless steel or, lead. (Just kidding on the lead bit). Platinum and white gold are, at present, the most popular materials.

White gold is an alloy of gold (ie. it is gold and silver or palladium). This is where the concept of Karat comes in. Karat is a measure of the purity of the material. An 18K gold ring has 75% pure gold (the element). The higher the karat, the softer the ring and the more easily it will get scratched and dented. Accordingly, 18K is considered the optimal karat (with pure gold coming in at 24 karats).

There are positives and negatives with each type of wedding ring material you purchase. In particular, each will show different wear and tear after some time. The photo above shows what you can expect after one year of wear from each of the popular wedding ring materials.

Learn more about men's wedding ring materials:

Platinum Wedding Rings - the king of rings
White Gold Wedding Rings - the most popular choice for the groom
Gold Wedding Rings - the classic ring choice for the groom
Tungsten Wedding Rings - won't scratch and very inexpensive
Titanium Wedding Rings - slick, but has some drawbacks

Width of the Wedding Ring

The width of a man's wedding ring is measured in millimeters. The smallest rings are 3 mm in width, whereas the largest rings are 8mm in width. Generally, men will purchase a ring that is on the larger side, tending towards 5-6 mm.

Style

Most younger generations of men choose simple wedding bands, and generally, have shied away from yellow gold in favor of 18k white gold or platinum. Some men have chosen rings that have a braid carved in them, or alternatively, some other edging that the manufacturer has set. Diamond-studded rings for men are definitely in the minority.

For additional comfort, grooms should consider purchasing a ring where the inside of the wedding ring is cambered or with rounded edges. Frankly, however, when a groom first wears a ring - any ring - it is likely to feel like a foreign object, with hard edges. Over time, rounded edges probably don't add much, especially since most of the time, you'll not even notice your ring. (You will, however, notice when your ring is not on your finger, as you reach to play with it. Read on to find out why this is the case.)

When to Buy the Wedding Band

Generally, a groom will buy his bride's diamond engagement ring separate from the wedding bands, as the bride and groom each have wedding bands, and may want to choreograph the look of their rings with matching wedding bands. Accordingly, the wedding bands should be purchased two months before the wedding (at the latest). This will allow for time to get it sized properly, and make any adjustments.

Ring Measurements

The diameter of the ring will be measured either by your jeweler, or if you are buying wedding rings online, all reputable online retailers have suggested wedding ring size guides that you can print out. And even if you are buying your ring online, jewelry stores will happily fit you for your ring (as they try to sell you on their product!)

Working Out

A note - men should take their ring off and put it in a safe place (and the same place) when going to the gym to work out. This is because dumbbells and barbells can easily scratch or dent ring materials. Don't leave it in the locker, but rather, put it in your bag. Countless husbands have had to admit to their wives that they lost their 18k white gold wedding ring at the gym.

Playing with Your Ring

One of the first things a groom will do upon wearing his ring for the first time as a husband, and not a groom, will be to play with it. Twisting it on his finger, many a groom will twist and turn at the ring when nervous, such as when the groom makes his wedding speech.

Your wedding band will be a constant reminder of your wife and the commitment you've made. Perhaps it's a reminder that you haven't bought flowers recently. Or that you should tell her that you love her everyday. Whatever it signifies to you, take some time to pick out a man's wedding ring you will be happy to wear.

Shhh! Find Her Ring Size Without Spoiling the Surprise

You’ve come to the monumental decision that your girl is a keeper, and you can’t wait to ask her to marry you. The problem? You have no idea what size engagement ring to buy her. It’s a common dilemma, but below are some sneaky ways to dig up this crucial bit of information.

If You Want to Go It Alone…

· If she wears a ring on the all-important finger, you’re golden. As long as she occasionally takes it off, that is. The next time it’s in her jewelry box rather than on her finger, covertly steal it for an hour, take it to a jeweler, and have it measured. If she wears a ring on that finger all the time, however, it’s a trickier process. When she takes it off to shower or do the dishes, sneak in there and make an impression of the ring in a small hunk of soap or bit of clay. If she absolutely never takes it off, you’ll have to be even stealthier. Get her talking about where she got the ring, what kind of metal or stone it’s made of, etc. Ask to get a better look at it (which means she’ll probably take it off) and then make up an excuse to get her out of the room. When she leaves for a few seconds, use that clay or soap to get an impression.

· Use your finger as a yardstick. Using a ring she wears on her left ring finger, push it down gently on one of your fingers (not your thumb). Make sure that you don’t force the ring. Mark the spot on your finger where the ring comes to rest and then get to a jeweler ASAP to have it measured.

· If your bride-to-be is a heavy sleeper, measure her finger with a piece of string or a twist-tie while she dozes.

Helpful Hint: If she wears a ring on the ring finger of her right hand, don’t assume that it will be the same size as she wears on her left hand. Many people’s fingers measure slightly larger on their dominant hand. You still have to go digging!

If You Want a Little Help From Your Friends…

· If a good friend or family member has recently gotten engaged, ask that person to help you out. Next time the two of them are together, the recently engaged woman can ask your girlfriend if she wants to try on her ring. If it’s a perfect fit, great. If it’s a little too big or too small, you’ll at least have a ballpark.

· If a friend of hers is close to getting engaged, have her ask your girlfriend to tag along the next time she goes to the jewelry store (to give her own guy hints about what kind of ring she want). The friend can ask the jeweler to size her finger and then suggest that your girlfriend do the same.

· Ask a close friend to talk about her own engagement ring the next time she sees your girlfriend. The friend can ask your girlfriend to try it on so she can see how it looks to other people. It may sound silly to a guy, but it makes perfect sense to a woman!

Helpful Hint: Having her best friend, sister, or mom on your side is ideal, but think hard before you ask someone. Make sure that whoever it is happens to be a phenomenal liar—as in, CIA material. If her best friend blushes every time she tells a fib, she’s not a good resource. And if your girlfriend has always dreamed about calling up her mom and screaming news of her engagement, she might be a little disappointed that her mom already knows.

Click here to download and print Whiteflash's Ring Sizer!

A ring should fit snugly, yet comfortably. It should go on fairly easily, but come off with slight effort. You can determine your ring size fairly accurately by following the steps below and referring to the chart. 1/4 sizes are also available for the most precise fit. It should be noted that wider rings will fit more snugly than thinner bands. People with large knuckles sometimes have a problem with fit because rings that are big enough to go over the knuckle fit too loosely once they are beyond the knuckle. There are a number of remedies for these special cases. Please contact customer service for advise.

Groomsmen Jewelry Titanium Cufflinks and Titanium Jewelry

Your special wedding day is quickly approaching and it is important to thank each member of your bridal party appropriately. Why not individualize your gifts to show that you put thought and effort into picking out something that your friends would enjoy and use. After all, each friend/family member is unique and should be thanked in an original way, while also expressing your relationship with that person. You may be asking yourself- “What kind of gift should I buy my groomsmen?” No Problem! Whiteflash.com makes the selection easy with our wide assortment of Titanium Groomsmen jewelry and accessories.

Diamond Tennis Bracelets

What else is as stunning as the shimmer and sparkle of hearts and arrows super ideal cut diamonds? No matter what your attire, from jeans to formal evening wear, a diamond tennis bracelet completes your ensemble. Nothing says elegance and style like a circle of diamonds. Nothing quite adds to a look quite as much as a diamond tennis bracelet.

Diamond tennis bracelets come in a variety of settings: marquise, emerald-cut, pear-shaped, round or square. When purchasing a diamond tennis bracelet, it’s important to select a style that reflects personal tastes in jewelry. When you think diamond tennis bracelet, think balance and think visually balanced diamonds like the Whiteflash ACA.

Another aspect of choosing a diamond tennis bracelet is how well it will coordinate with your diamond earrings, diamond pendants, necklaces and diamond rings. If you want the focus on your diamond tennis bracelet, choose other pieces of jewelry that highlight and accent the brilliance of the stylish addition to your wrist.

Your diamond tennis bracelet should speak a language all its own when coordinated with your clothes. One great look is your little black dress paired with a strand of pearls and your diamond tennis bracelet. Add diamond studs to your ears and heads will turn.

White gold diamond tennis bracelets make wonderful gifts for those who mean most to you. As a graduation gift, it’s a memento of a milestone in your grad’s young life. Diamond jewelry makes a terrific traditional 10th anniversary present. A diamond bracelet is perfect for this. A diamond tennis bracelet for a 10^th anniversary symbolizes love and commitment in the same that an engagement ring does.

Popping the Question on a Budget

The old adage about spending three months’ salary on your girlfriend’s engagement ring may or may not be feasible in the current economy. It doesn’t matter whether your budget is lean or large. Everyone wants to get a great value for the money. AtWhiteflash.com, you find premium diamond jewelry at an excellent value, while allowing you to pop the big question on any budget.

Finding the perfect diamond engagement ring at an online boutique like Whiteflash.com is a great budget tip. Not only do you save gas by not driving around to every jeweler in the area, but it’s easy to narrow your choices to engagement rings that are in your price range. And whatever you want to spend, you’ll have an incredible selection to browse—unlike many brick-and-mortar places, where they may have just a few rings on display.

Another benefit of shopping at Whiteflash.com is the extensive collection of fun, easy-to-understand articles that give you a true “diamond education.” When it comes to diamonds, the key to getting a great value is to know which characteristics make a stone pricey—so you know where you’ll need to compromise a bit if you need to. Your diamond education also includes learning about different cuts. Most guys don’t know a princess cut engagement ring from a marquise cut, but we can change that in a matter of minutes.

Quality is paramount when selecting a diamond engagement ring for the right woman and you can buy exceptional quality without going over budget with a diamond solitaire. The diamond solitaire ring style is simple, elegant, and timeless—with a brilliant diamond as the focus. When you choose a solitaire from Whiteflash.com's "ACA" or “Expert Selection” lines, one superb stone is all you need to make a lasting impression.

One of the best ways to stick to a budget when popping the question is to let the jewelers at Whiteflash.com design a custom engagement ring. This way, you can choose the exact stone—including size, shape, color, and clarity—as well as what metal you want (white or yellow gold or platinum), whether you want diamonds surrounding the solitaire, and even details about what the prongs look like. Not only can you tell your girlfriend that it was designed especially for her, but it’s a wonderful way to splurge on the things that are important to you and save on the things that aren’t.

When you choose a premier online diamond boutique like Whiteflash.com crowned by Kiplinger's as 'Lord of the online Rings', popping the question on a budget becomes much easier. From an incredible selection of loose diamonds and created rings—all in stock—to outstanding customer service to assist you every step of the way to money-saving free shipping, it’s a hassle-free way to guarantee that both your bank account and your girlfriend will be thrilled.

Diamond Earrings Are Always the Perfect Gift Idea

Everyone sweats over purchasing holiday gifts for loved ones, but how many holiday gifts do you really remember? If you’re like most people, the answer is “not many.” But when diamond jewelry is involved, you can bet the woman in your life will remember what you gave her this year. When she sees that little box, she won’t know what’s inside, but she’ll already be smiling. And when she discovers it’s a stunning pair of diamond earrings from Whiteflash.com, it’ll be a very merry holiday indeed.

The great thing about diamond earrings is that unlike many gifts, she can use them every day. Diamond earrings can be dressed up for work or special occasions and dressed down with jeans on the weekend. Every time she puts them on, she’ll think about the thrill she got when she opened them. Try getting that kind of impact from a sweater!

And diamond earrings aren’t just a thoughtful gift for your wife or girlfriend; they’re a meaningful way to express your affection to any important woman in your life. Maybe it’s time for your daughter’s first pair of diamond earrings, or how about thanking your mom for her love and support with a gift that will take her breath away?

When deciding on a pair of earrings, think about her style: Does she like to stand out in a crowd? Or does she prefer timeless pieces that will look as elegant tomorrow as they do today? The key is to find an e-tailer with an extensive collection of diamond earrings so that you can browse many different styles--from studs to hoops to drop earrings.

Many people are hesitant to purchase diamonds as a gift because they’re afraid they’ll make a mistake or don’t feel “qualified.” But Whiteflash.com wants to change that mind-set. With an unparalleled online library of information to give you a diamond education, Whiteflash.com offers easy-to-understand guides that will help you learn about the different cuts, shapes, and characteristic of diamonds. This is an important decision, and we feel strongly that knowledge is power.

Among the things you’ll learn is that when buying diamond earrings—or any diamond jewelry—it’s essential that you purchase them from a retailer who knows how to properly cut diamonds to maximize their brilliance. At Whiteflash.com, we’re proud to say that we only sell exceptional stones, like our “Expert Selection” and “Whiteflash ACA” diamonds. All of the earnings that you see on the Whiteflash.com's website allow many to choices from and ready to ship to you, you can knock out your Holiday shopping quickly and easily.

Make this holiday one she’ll always remember by surprising her with a dazzling pair of diamond earrings from Whiteflash.com.

Free Shipping Will Make You (and Your Wallet) Happy This Holiday

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

During the holidays, budgets can get tight, but you still want to purchase something extraordinary for your loved ones. With Whiteflash.com, you can pick out a stunning piece of jewelry and still come in under budget—especially with our free shipping guarantee. If you live in the U.S., your purchase will be shipped directly to your doorstep at no charge to you. It can also be sent to a Federal Express station in your area, which is a great way to keep a surprise gift under wraps.

Maybe this holiday you plan to surprise the special woman in your life with an engagement ring, or perhaps you’ve already popped the question and it’s time to pick out wedding bands. Don’t add to your bill by paying for shipping. Whiteflash.com appreciates your business, and it’s our pleasure to ship your jewelry free via FedEx Priority Overnight. We know that you’re anxious to open up your lovely purchase, so we don’t make you wait!

With free shipping, it’s a great time to treat yourself right too. A diamond right hand ring, diamond bracelet, or the pair of diamond earrings you’ve always wanted is going to make your holiday bright—no matter what else Santa stuffs in your stocking.

Our free shipping is also the perfect excuse to finally get your engagement ring or wedding band fixed. Lots of people set their rings aside for years because they’re damaged. Make this year the year you let Whiteflash.com mend your wedding band. Whiteflash.com provides free shipping on anything and everything you purchase from us—from loose diamonds to custom creations to repairs we perform.

And don’t worry; your item will get to you fast. In addition to Priority Overnight shipping, Whiteflash.com has all of the items that you see on our site in stock—unlike many other online jewelry retailers. You don’t lose any time waiting for your piece to come from another country. And if you pay by credit card or bank wire transfer, we’ll get your jewelry on its way to you the same day of your purchase. Imagine holding the beautiful diamond jewelry you just picked out in your hands tomorrow.

Your purchase is also insured for free the entire time it’s in transit. To ensure that your jewelry isn’t stolen before you have the opportunity to open it, make certain that you don’t have a signature release on file with Federal Express that allows them to leave packages at your door. Naturally, we can’t control everything—like the weather and excessive shipping volumes—which is why it’s still a good idea to plan ahead. But we use the best transportation service available, and, combined with the fact that it’s absolutely free to you, we’re pretty sure you’ll agree that there’s never been a better time to treat yourself or someone you love to the gift of diamond jewelry.

So make this holiday season more dazzling and easier on your wallet with free shipping from Whiteflash.com.

Diamonds: The Perfect Gift for the Bride, Groom, and Wedding Party

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Diamonds are a big part of a wedding; the engagement ring, wedding ring, and perhaps even the groom’s ring are traditional places for them to make an appearance. But today, diamonds are also cropping up as a classic, elegant gift for everyone in the wedding party.

Think about the many gifts that are exchanged in the days leading up to the wedding and on the big day itself: the bride and groom give each other tokens, the parents of the couple bestow gifts, attendants are thanked with gifts, and the couple receives a pile of presents from well-wishers. Everyone is looking for gift ideas that express the depth of their love and affection, and nothing conveys those emotions quite like a diamond.

The exchange of wedding rings is a highlight of the ceremony. Though the selection of the engagement ring is typically sweated over most, it’s just as important to carefully consider the diamond wedding bands. Diamonds in both the bride’s and groom’s wedding bands are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why. Most women enjoy the added flash and sparkle of bands accentuated with diamonds, and even many grooms are drawn to the sophisticated, stylish look of diamond accents.

The specialty of Whiteflash cut diamonds is the cut as a perfect hearts and arrows diamond. Why pay more for a brilliant diamond when you can get the most visually balanced diamond on line for half the price.

All eyes will be on the bride as she walks down the aisle, and she needs special jewelry to mark such a special day. It’s traditional for the groom, the bride’s parents, or both to gift her with a lovely piece of jewelry for the occasion. Whether it’s a pair of exquisite diamond earrings, a diamond tennis bracelet, or a diamond necklace, she’ll treasure the gift not only on her wedding day, but every time she wears it in the years to come.

Diamond jewelry is also a lovely way to thank the people in your wedding party for being part of your big day. Express your gratitude for bridesmaids’ efforts with a gesture such as matching diamond earrings, or show your appreciation for the love and support the mothers of the bride and groom have provided over the years with a diamond pendant for each. These are charming, meaningful ways to recognize the people who’ve helped create the wedding of your dreams.

Whiteflash.com is the ideal place to search for such an important gift. Not only do we provide a huge selection of diamond jewelry, but whiteflash.com also believes in providing a diamond education for its customers. Our huge online library will help you learn about the different shapes, cuts, and characteristics of diamonds so that you can make an informed decision.

Weddings are the perfect occasion to show how much you care. Surprise them with the eternal gift of stunning Whiteflash cut diamonds.

Diamond Solitaire: Rekindle Your Love This Holiday

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Many people think that diamond solitaires are only for one moment in their lives: engagement. But the truth is that the woman in your life may appreciate a ring more now than she did back then. Between work, kids, and other commitments, your relationship may have taken a backseat lately. But there’s nothing like an exquisite diamond solitaire from WhiteFlash.com to rekindle that spark and put your love front and center.

This holiday is a great time to show her how much you love her. A diamond ring is not only a wonderfully romantic gesture, but it makes your life so much easier, too. Aren’t you tired of trying to figure out what she wants for the holidays? Skip the anxiety of browsing racks of sweaters or endless aisles of kitchen gadgets. Save yourself the time and trouble of guessing whether the size or color is right. A diamond solitaire is always the perfect gift—one that she won’t even think about returning and will wear forever.

You may have already given her that all-important diamond engagement ring, but isn’t it time to surprise her with a second, even more incredible diamond solitaire? The smile on her face when she opens it will return every time she wears it. And after all, hasn’t she given you plenty of reasons to smile over the years?

The Perfect Choice, Every Time

You’ll always feel good about giving jewelry from Whiteflash.com because we don’t just try to sell you a piece of jewelry. We offer a true diamond education. Our site has a lot of great information—from the different diamond shapes you can choose from to an explanation of what makes one diamond better than another—all in easy-to-understand language.

Plus, we have an unparalleled selection of diamond rings, so you can choose a style that’s as unique as she is. First, think about the purpose of the ring: do you want it to coordinate with a piece of jewelry—such as her engagement ring and/or wedding band—that she already owns? Or do you it to make a statement on its own? If you want it to complement a piece she already has, make sure that the metal or diamond shape is similar. If it’s a statement piece on its own, the sky’s the limit! Pick out a metal, diamond shape, and style that she’ll love to wear over and over.

Choosing the shape of the diamond is a crucial element, but it’s also the most exciting. Think about your lady: Is she classic? Modern? Cutting edge? Whiteflash.com has everything from the timeless cuts like round, princess, and heart-shaped to contemporary cuts like asscher, cushion, and radiant. No matter what shape you select, know that Whiteflash.com provides only superior diamonds. We specialize in exceptional choices like Whiteflash ACA and Expert Selection, which means that you get more flash and more sparkle for your money.

And when it comes to metals, Whiteflash.com offers diamond rings set in premium 950 platinum and 18 karat white and yellow gold. You’ll find endless options that are created from top-quality metals that meet international standards. There’s no skimping on design or quality, so she’ll be able to feel your flawless taste in the weight of her ring every time she moves her hand.

You’ll love browsing through the gallery at Whiteflash.com, but why not consider something even more personal: a custom-designed ring. With our design center, you can select every single detail that goes into her one-of-a-kind ring. Even if you don’t know a karat from a carrot, Whiteflash.com makes it easy and fun to design a ring that she’ll know is hers alone.

We appreciate our customers’ business, which is why we offer free shipping on everything we sell. And because we partner with FedEx, your jewelry will arrive before you know it—and is fully insured along the way.

This year, surprise her with a diamond solitaire from Whiteflash.com. It’s the last thing she’ll expect—and the only thing she’ll remember about this Holiday.

Are You Getting Your Money’s Worth When it Comes to Bling?

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The term “bling” is everywhere these days, but it’s nothing more than a new way to refer to the sparkle that comes from high-quality, well-cut diamonds. It may seem like an easy task to determine whether a stone has been cut well because it will sparkle, right? Well, yes and no. “Bling” can be manufactured, turning a not-so-great diamond into something designed to fool you into thinking it’s a winner.

When purchasing stones—either loose diamonds or ones already set into mountings—you have to be wary of low-quality stones that retailers are trying to pass off as high-quality choices. But don’t worry. Whiteflash.com is dedicated giving you a true diamond education through this and many other articles in our extensive online library. So come on, it’s time to get schooled in bling!

A diamond is just a hunk of potential until it’s been cut, and the cut can make the difference between a “so-so” diamond and one that is truly exquisite. At Whiteflash.com, our seasoned professionals know exactly how to cut a diamond to ensure maximum sparkle. Some retailers will give you a song and dance—complete with props—in an attempt to sell you a lower quality diamond. Don’t be fooled by tricks such as bringing out official-sounding “luminosity detectors” or a jeweler who cuts more facets into a stone in an effort to convince you that it reflects more light.

It’s especially important to know the cut and quality of a diamond when you’re choosing a piece of jewelry intended to spotlight a sole stone–such as a diamond solitaire ring or a diamond pendant. It’s similarly vital to choose a high-quality diamond for an engagement ring. It will be worn every day, and no matter how good the owner’s intentions are in the beginning, most women will admit that they don’t have theirs cleaned by a professional very often. But a high-quality diamond will sparkle and give off lots of light even with a layer of soap scum on it.

Among the finest choices is a “hearts & arrows” cut. The name comes from the shapes reflected from the diamond at different angles. When viewed upside down, eight symmetrical heats appear. When you turn the diamond over, you’ll see eight radiating arrows at the crown. These designs come from cutting a stone so exactly that facet reflections overlap, creating kaleidoscope patterns.

Any diamond looks pretty good in lots of sunlight. It’s in low-light situations—a candlelight dinner, in a darkened theatre—where hearts & arrows really shines. Rainbow flashes and unmistakable fire is what you’ll see, and you’ll be glad you didn’t settle for anything less.

The pros at Whiteflash.com weren’t content to simply rest on the laurels of other jewelers, however. Whiteflash ACA really is a step beyond anything you may have seen before. We’re so sure you’ll agree that it’s simply extraordinary that we include a toolkit complete with a compact magnifying viewer with every Whiteflash ACA purchase.

When it comes to selecting a top-quality diamond—whether it’s a diamond wedding ring or a diamond tennis bracelet—make sure you’re dealing with an experienced, scrupulous retailer that only sells truly outstanding diamonds. Remember that science—not deceptive marketing—is the key to great bling.

Inside Weddings Fall - Whiteflash Fashion Jewelry in good company sparkling in the Jewelry Box.

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Here are a few of Inside Weddings favorite things from Inside Wedding's Rebecca Varma a Brilliant Idea - a sparkling collection of favorite diamond jewelry. 18K Gold and Diamonds 'Embrace' pendant created by Whiteflash.com.

The Nest Article: Instant Expert: Upgrading your Engagement Ring

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

thenest.com, 6/3/08

Instant Expert: Upgrading Your Engagement Ring

We know you’d be happy with a twist tie as long as you’re married to Mr. Right, but if your engagement ring isn’t the fairy-tale bauble you’ve always dreamed of, consider trading up.

Why upgrade?

Trading in your rock has become more popular than ever—from stone swapping to adding more bling to your existing ring. “The trend with young adults is that they’ll get a $10,000 ring, and a few years later, they’ll want it to be larger,” explains Debi Wexler of whiteflash.com. “It’s a way of showing their appreciation for the longevity of the relationship.”

Here’s why many choose to upgrade

* Size: You love the shape of your diamond, but you came down with DSS (Diamond Shrinkage Syndrome). The more you look at it, the, uh, smaller it seems to get.

* Style: Your mate chose a pear-shaped cut in a gold setting, but you’ve always had your heart set on a princess cut in a platinum setting. Let’s face it: you’re not sporting “The Rachel” haircut anymore, right? Why not wear a ring that reflects your style?

* Stones: You’d love to add more stones to your original ring to amp up the sparkle.

* Setting: You were given an heirloom from one of your or his relatives that you want to reset or turn into a necklace or keepsake. Now you’d rather have a more modern, everyday ring that reflects your individuality and doesn’t feel like the old “family stone.”

Work with your original jeweler

Before you even think about upgrading your ring, find out what your jeweler’s policy is. It can vary: for example, whiteflash.com offers a lifetime policy on their branded diamonds, which allows you to trade them in for the full value you paid; Tacori applies a percentage of credit (usually around 75 percent) toward purchasing a new ring; and De Beers will upgrade your ring depending on an on-site appraisal of its current value.

Also, factor in setting costs. An upgrade from a 1.5-carat to a 2-carat won’t fit into your original setting, so you’ll need to get a new one, which will increase the price of your upgrade. You don’t have to toss the original setting, though; consider putting a colored stone in it for a right-hand ring.

Brush up on the basics

Here are the top things to remember when you trade in your ice:

* Cut: Keep in mind that round and princess cuts are easier to upgrade than fancier cuts like radiant, pear, or cushion.

* Quality: A higher-quality diamond is more likely to receive a higher upgrade value. Your diamond should be in the same condition as when you received it.

* Certification: Certified diamonds (AGS or GIA) are more easily upgraded than non-certified diamonds. Always ask to see the certification for the new diamond.

Get more bling yor your buck

There are some sneaky ways to squeeze the most value out of your upgrade:

* Don’t round up: Going from a 1-carat to a 1.9-carat is cheaper than going to a 2-carat, but you can’t tell the difference visually.

* Skimp on clarity and color: You might assume that the four Cs are all of equal weight, but that’s not the case. Clarity and color aren’t as important as cut or carat when it comes to making a visible difference.

* Go online: You can often get better deals from online discount jewelry retailers like bluenile.com, goldspeed.com, and ice.com; these sites are ranked among the top online jewelry retailers by internetretailer.com.

* Buy used or estate jewelry: Search for estate sales in your area and frequent the classified section of the newspaper for deals.

* Shop overseas: Take a second honeymoon to the Bahamas, Cayman islands, or Mexico, and save 40 to 60 percent on new jewelry.

Weigh the sentimental factor

Not willing to part with your original rock? Consider these options:

* Try a past, present, and future ring: You can place the upgraded stone in the middle (which represents the present) and have two other smaller stones set on the outside (to represent the past and future).

* Reuse a portion of the ring: Take your original stone(s) and have them remounted as earrings or a pendant.

* Keep the original setting: If the size difference isn’t significant, you may still be able to replace the diamond without affecting your original setting.

* Add anniversary bands instead: If the idea of altering your diamond in any way leaves you uneasy, take a different route altogether by adding stackable diamond bands.

Insure your new ring

Whether you insured your first ring or not, now’s the time to cover your new assets:

* Get appraised: If you’ve added value to an existing ring or purchased a new one, you need a new appraisal (from a certified gemologist or your jeweler) in order to update your existing insurance policy.

* Secure a rider: Ring insurance is best purchased as an extension (typically referred to as a “rider”) to add on to your renters or homeowners policy. You must provide all your receipts and an appraisal.

Questions to ask

* Is the ring covered if you lose it accidentally, or only if it’s stolen?

* How will the company replace the ring?

* Is the ring insured to its full value?

* How will you need to prove that the ring vanished if you make a claim?

thenest.com, 6/3/08

WhiteFlash.com Reaches Big “O” Status in July

Thursday, July 08, 2008

Hot on the pages of Oprah’s O Magazine July 2008 issue is a stunning diamond cuff bracelet by online jewelry sensation WhiteFlash.com.

Wearing the bold piece in the July feature story “Hello, Sexy!” was Judson O’Hair (page 196) a 41 year old technology sales executive who has admitted to loosing her sensual edge when it comes to style. The captivating feature story redefines the meaning of phrase inherently sexy by transforming 4 everyday working women’s looks and uncovering their hidden inner bombshell.

Known for featuring wearable and transitional stylish accessories and fashions, Oprah’s O Magazine hit the mark by selecting the show-stopping cuff for Judson to wear in her final “reveal” when she transformed from everyday mousey into seductive red carpet diva. Featuring 10 carats of stunning bezel set Whiteflash ACA diamonds in a slinky fabric like 18K white gold cuff, the bracelet typified her new found fearlessly bold inner self. 162 Diamonds adorn this lovely bracelet.

No stranger to helping to create red carpet looks for Hollywood’s trendsetting divas, WhiteFlash.com has dressed many notable celebrities such as Jessica Alba, Jessica Simpson, Elizabeth Banks, Lindsay Lohan, Gina Davis and Adrianne Curry.

For more versatile and unique styles to transform your look, visit www.WhiteFlash.com.

BBB Winner Third Time winning is a Charm for Whiteflash

Sun, 06 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Early in May, 2008 Better Business Bureau Education Foundation honored BBB Accredited companies that maintain a superior commitment to ethics, overall excellence, and quality in the workplace. This event was held at the '2008 Awards for Excellence' luncheon held at the InterContinental Hotel in Downtown Houston.

Year-round, The Better Business Bureau otherwise known as the 'BBB' recognizes commendable businesses in the community and helps consumers know who to trust and patronize.

Whiteflash.com has been awarded a Houston Better Business Bureau "Winner of Distinction" for the third consecutive year. Superior quality and unsurpassable customer service are the two business principles at Whiteflash.com for continued success. Whiteflash.com is an on-line boutique for engagement rings, anniversary bands and custom design jewelry. Several generations deep full of experienced staff will guarantee clients a brilliant diamond buying experience.

The on-line diamond boutique, hailed by Kiplinger’s Financial Magazine as “Lord of the Online Rings,” has partnered with Fox, Lionsgate and others for high-end promotions. Whiteflash has also been featured in the Chicago Tribune, Smart Money, and worn by such fashion celebrities, Chloe Sivegney, Ciera, Gina Davis and Jessica Alba. Recently they introduced their new line of jewelry geared towards children called 'Awear' - jewelry for conscience kids. This new product line offered an even more affordable pricerange to their Dreams of Africa jewlery line where they donate 25% of the profits to the non-profit organization, World Centers of Compassion for Children International. Whiteflash has a responsibility not only to serve their clients, but to create continued awareness and responsibility of supporting the diamond trade in a way that is a win for all who touch the lives of those they love.

Buying Whiteflash Bling in San Diego Weddings

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

White gold or yellow? Titanium or Palladium? The spring/summer edition of Weddings San Diego educates and helps you choose. Pictured inside is a custom princess-cut diamond between two sapphires set in white gold. Most rings are 14-18 karat. For yellow gold, the price comes down versus platinum. Fair skinned people may not like how yellow gold looks on them, but color gold looks fantastic on olive or darker toned skin. Try this yellow gold and diamond creation setting from Whiteflash.com -- We can custom make this setting for you.

A Better Bling

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Gold may glitter and Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but there’s more to jewelry than meets the eye – especially when it comes to the environment and human rights.

Body + Soul, http://www.body+soul.com/ presents Dreams of Africa™, http://www.dreamsofafrica.org/ an initiative of Whiteflash.com to provide an outlet to create awareness of conflict diamonds. Body + Soul unearthed the truth about metals and gems, and found sustainable alternatives that really sparkle, including Whiteflash’s Dreams of Africa™ pendant.

Geena Davis and Debra Messing and many others are ambassadors to this lovely cause. Whiteflash's executed the design development of Dreams Of Africa™. This line of jewelry was created in order to raise awareness for and bring financial relief to African children, particularly those affected by the illicit trade of rough diamonds.

Click on http://www.dreamsofafrica.org/ for more information on Whiteflash's initiative on conflict diamonds and the Kimberly Process.

Click on www.WCCCI.org to find out more about Whiteflash's alliance with the organization selected to receive a percentage of profits on sales from our Dreams of Africa™ line of jewelry.

Will You Marry Me?

Sun, 23 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Men confess their love for their ladies! Watch a marriage proposal on a bus and another right on stage. Tears rain down as the brides-to-be are handed stunning engagement rings from Whiteflash. Later, Matt Bean of Men's Health gives tips on how to pull off the perfect proposal without breaking the bank. Learn how to purchase a diamond and the latest trends in stones. Plus, expert advice on what makes a successful marriage.

About the Ring

The growing popularity of vintage rings is proof that great styles are never out of date. Our beautiful Sarah's Surprise is an 18k white gold "vintage-inspired" ring with a Whiteflash ACA 1.01-ct. center stone and side stones totaling an additional 0.25 ct. If you two prefer classic over contemporary, then take our advice—this stunning heirloom will keep your love forever young.

Elizabeth Banks ‘Definitely’ Sparkles

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Actress Elizabeth Banks accessorized with Whiteflash.com’s gorgeous Tanzanite Diamond Cocktail Ring and Diamond Earrings at the premiere of Definitely, Maybe at the Ziegfeld Theater in New York City.

Elizabeth's eye-popping ring features a one of a kind 5.5 carat cushion Tanzanite modified brilliant gemstone with 2.4 carats of Whiteflash ACA diamond melee in a platinum Champaigne pave setting. Her captivating Whiteflash earrings feature two rows of diamonds in a braided bezel setting.

Banks is known to audiences for her roles in Seabiscuit, Heights, Spider-Man, and Wet Hot American Summer. She gained widespread popularity for memorable performances in The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Slither, and the Disney hit, Invincible. In Definitely, Maybe she plays one of three love interests of Will Hayes (Ryan Reynolds), a thirty-something dad trying to explain his impending divorce and past relationships to his 11-year-old daughter Maya (Abigail Breslin). The romantic comedy also stars Derek Luke, Isla Fisher and Rachel Weisz.

About Whiteflash.com
Whiteflash.com is the first company in the U.S. to offer an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamond and bring the sheer beauty of “super ideal cut” to the Internet. Debi Wexler, a computer entrepreneur, founded Whiteflash.com in 1999 bringing an expansive selection of loose diamonds to the Internet, including an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamonds. Whiteflash ACA is unmatched in its brilliance, fire and sparkle and remains the only Hearts & Arrows diamond sold online with advertised standards and a “true patterning” guarantee. Whiteflash.com also offers original, handcrafted platinum and gold settings, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands and custom designed jewelry. For more information, log on to www.whiteflash.com or call 877.612.6770.

Definitely, Maybe.

Whiteflash is proud to partner with iVillage and Universal Pictures in celebration of this new romantic comedy.

Enter for your chance to win a diamond pendant from Whiteflash.com or a movie gift pack by visiting The Definitely Maybe Contest on the iVillage promotions page. You could also win tickets to a free screening of Definitely, Maybe in your area.

Learn more about these fun giveaways at iVillage promotions.

About the Movie

Ryan Reynolds stars as Will Hayes, a political consultant trying to explain his impending divorce and past relationships to his 11-year-old daughter Maya, played by Abigail Breslin.

Maya wants to know absolutely everything about how her parents met and fell in love, so Will tells her about his romantic relationships with three very different women: his college sweetheart, the dependable girl next door Emily (Elizabeth Banks); his longtime best friend and confidante April (Isla Fisher); the free-spirited but ambitious journalist Summer (Rachel Weisz). Will’s story takes place in New York City in 1992, when he was a young, starry-eyed aspiring politician moving from Wisconsin to work on the presidential campaign.

As Maya puts together the pieces of her dad’s romantic puzzle, she begins to understand that love is not so simple or easy. And as Will tells her his tale, Maya helps him to understand that it’s definitely never too late to go back/diamonds_info.and maybe even possible to find a happy ending.

Watch the Definitely, Maybe trailer.

http://video.ivillage.com/player/?id=205707

Learn more at the Definitely, Maybe website.

http://www.definitelymaybemovie.com/

Inside Edition/Wedding Channel Winter Proposal

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

WeddingChannel.com was interviewed on trend of proposal planners and found a groom to be who was willing to air on Inside Edition. Whiteflash was chosen to provide the Wedding Channel to make a special proposal even more exciting. With a Whiteflash comfort fit X-prong setting and a one carat Princess Whiteflash ACA diamond, we were able to present a lovely 'engagement ring' to Gabby and Bijou. Warm hearts didn't mind the cold weather during Inside Edition's arrangement of Bijou Summer's proposal.

Real Engagement

Gabby Feliu & Bijou Summers
Hunter, NY

When Bijou and Gabby headed to Hunter Mountain, she assumed it would be like every other weekend they spent there: great friends, great times, and great snow. Little did she know that Gabby had been planning an elaborate proposal with the help of Inside Edition, Destination Bride with Lisa Light, and Whiteflash.com

As the couple made their way up the mountain on the ski lift, signs are held up asking Bijou to prepare to say yes. She looks around, confused, and then amazed at such an orchestrated plan. She explains that she had no idea, "He did a perfect job. He never gave away any hints." As Bijou and Gabby ski off the lift, Gabby reveals what is underneath his ski gear -- a suit and a sparkling engagement ring! Bijou's beloved also hands her a beautiful bouquet of fresh florals designed by David Michael Schmidt from Renaissance Floral Design.

After, Bijou agrees with an excited "yes!" the twosome is ready to enjoy their engagement reception with their family and friends and eager for an understated, yet gorgeous fall wedding in Maine at the Spruce Point Inn. Why in the fall? Well, it's right before snowboarding season, of course!

See below for the complete picture diary of this wonderful winter proposal with the Whiteflash.com engagement ring presentation.

http://wedding.weddingchannel.com/contentsets/show.asp?vhl_uid=619816698&category=619816698

Whiteflash Sparkles in The Knot

The Spring-Summer 2008 edition of The Knot Magazine features elegant brides dressed in breathtaking gowns and dazzling diamond jewelry. To our delight, a collection of brilliant items from Whiteflash are leading this parade of bridal beauty/diamonds_info.

Follow the arrows to see Whiteflash-crafted diamond jewelry, including our mesh diamond and bangle bracelets, chandelier earrings and eternity wedding and diamond engagement rings.

With suggestions for gown, accessories, hair, eyes, lips and even the bouquet this feature is a must-see for brides to be so pick up your copy of The Knot Magazine - and enjoy!

Whiteflash in Lucky Magazine

The February issue of Lucky magazine has Diamond Deals & Giveaways in the "Lucky Breaks" section, including beautiful pieces from Hearts On Fire, KC Designs, Helen Ficalora and Whiteflash. The featured Whiteflash item is a gorgeous “Martini” three-prong diamond pendant worth $2000.

Whiteflash quote: “Check out this massive online emporium for an impressive array of gorgeously refined pieces like this classic pendant, or you can create your own design from the site’s setting options and loose diamonds of every cut and quality.”

Whiteflash in Bridal Guide Again

For the third time Whiteflash creations are appearing in Bridal Guide. This time it's our unique Dreams of Africa cufflinks. An initiative to help children suffering in Africa, the Dreams of Africa program sends 100% of profit made on a unique line of creative jewelry designs to our charity partner, the WCCCI.

Dreams of Africa in iVillage Top 10

iVillage selects the Petite Dreams of Africa pendant for its "Beauty & Style" Top 10

Whiteflash in Elegant Bride

Whiteflash was one of twelve top-quality jewelers to have a wedding band featured in the Winter 2008 edition of Elegant Bride along with Bulgari, Cartier, Tiffany, Harry Winston and Graff.

The article, called “Rock Bands,” featured an 18k gold band from Whiteflash with 14 points of diamond melee. Elegant Bride selected these dazzling dozen diamond bands form some of the world’s highest quality jewelers.

Whiteflash in National Jeweler

The December National Jeweler featured Whiteflash colored gemstone jewelry worn by celebrities in 2007. Included were Hollywood starlet and Grammy ward winning R&B singer Ashanti and award-winning actress Chloe Sevigny.

Ashanti was featured in a striking pair of dark citrine, blue topaz, peridot and Whiteflash ACA diamond drop earrings worth $5,800.00 from the Whiteflash Alpha Omega Collection, and simple but classic Whiteflash bangle bracelets - one in yellow sapphire and diamonds and the other in pink sapphire and diamonds.

Chloe Sevigny wore an exquisite kunzite, amethyst, peridot and Whiteflash ACA diamond drop necklace topped off with a beautiful amethyst, peridot, cirtrine and Whiteflash ACA diamond cocktail ring.

Jessica Alba is Radiant in Whiteflash Jewelry

Jessica Alba dazzled her fans in over $170,000 of Whiteflash diamond jewelry at the premier of her highly anticipated romantic comedy, “Good Luck Chuck.” The young actress, well-known for her roles in Dark Angel, Sin City and two Fantastic Four blockbusters, is one of Hollywood’s hottest stars.

Alba wore a breathtaking 5 carat Whiteflash ACA hearts & arrows diamond set in a platinum “Champaigne Pave” setting that bubbled with tiny sparklers, a set of stackable diamond, sapphire and amethyst bangle bracelets and blinding 2 carat diamond studs. She was joined at the Westwood, California premier by “Good Luck Chuck” co-star Dane Cook.

A trendsetter, Houston-based Whiteflash.com is an online boutique specializing in precision cut diamonds and custom jewelry creations. Hailed as “Lord of the Online Rings” by Kiplinger’s financial magazine, Whiteflash products have been showcased on Entertainment Tonight, the Emmys, Screen Actors Guild and MTV VMA Awards and are a frequent choice among Hollywood celebrities for red carpet appearances.

“Good Luck Chuck,” released on September 21, is a hilarious comedy about the luckiest – and unluckiest – guy on earth, starring Jessica Alba and Dane Cook, now playing in theaters.

Whiteflash in the Connecticut Post

Critic Joe Myers raves about Whiteflash in the Connecticut Post forum

AGS Liddicoat Journalism Award Presented

Sat, 08 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – Shane McClure, Wuyi Wang, and Matt Hall of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Laboratory have received the American Gem Society (AGS)’s annual Richard T. Liddicoat Journalism Award for Industry/Trade Reporting. They shared the honor with former GIA researcher Christopher Smith for their article titled “Identification and Durability of Lead Glass–Filled Rubies,” which was published in the Spring 2006 issue of Gems & Gemology.

The award was presented at the AGS Circle of Distinction Dinner, held July 31 at the Rainbow Room in New York City. The winners share a $1,500 monetary award, and a $1,000 donation is being made in their names to the Richard T. Liddicoat Scholarship Fund at GIA.

In 2004, the industry was alerted to the presence in the market of natural rubies that had been filled with high-lead-content glass to reduce the visibility of internal fractures. The G&G article presented GIA’s research into this new form of treatment, its effectiveness and durability, and the microscopic features that can be used to identify it.

“The undisclosed clarity enhancement of rubies with lead-glass fracture fillers is a major concern, particularly because the substances do not withstand some jewelry repair procedures and exposure to some household products,” said G&G editor-in-chief Alice Keller. “Shane McClure and his coauthors rigorously investigated the treatment, and they are worthy recipients of this prestigious award.”

This is the fourth Gems & Gemology article to receive the Richard T. Liddicoat Journalism Award since its inception in 2003. AGS developed the annual journalism award in remembrance of the longtime GIA president and chairman, who was also G&G editor-in-chief from 1953 to 2002. In addition to industry/trade reporting, the award recognizes consumer reporting in national or multiple markets and local consumer reporting.

About GIA:

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA can be found on the web at http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton 760-603-4112.

About Whiteflash.com

Whiteflash.com is the first company in the U.S. to offer an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamond and bring the sheer beauty of “super ideal cut” to the Internet. Debi Wexler, a computer entrepreneur, founded Whiteflash.com in 1999 bringing an expansive selection of loose diamonds to the Internet, including an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamonds. Whiteflash ACA is unmatched in its brilliance, fire and sparkle and remains the only Hearts & Arrows diamond sold online with advertised standards and a “true patterning” guarantee. Whiteflash.com also offers original, handcrafted platinum and gold settings, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands and custom designed jewelry. For more information, log on to www.whiteflash.com or call 877.612.6770 .

Rapaport: Bridal Guide Cover Features Whiteflash Diamonds

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

IDL to Launch India Service

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From Rapaport News (Avi Krawitz) - Dubai-based International Diamond Laboratories (IDL) is planning to launch its India operations at the end of August.

IDL announced it would launch the new service at the International India Jewellery Show taking place August 30 to September 3, 2007 in Mumbai.

“The choice to launch International Diamond Laboratories in Mumbai underlines the importance of the Indian community to the diamond business,” said IDL CEO Peter Meeus.

“We are excited to present our products first to the world’s leading manufacturing center and the world's fastest growing retail market,” he said.

GIA Article: Topaz Blue and Deja Vu

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – By Robert Weldon, G.G.

The issue concerning blue topaz and other irradiated gems today isn’t so much the radiation used to turn colorless topaz blue. Rather, it’s about Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing requirements. In the United States, any facility that irradiates gems – including topaz – in a nuclear reactor must have an NRC license, but only one such place, a research reactor at the University of Missouri, is currently licensed to perform this gem treatment. However, the University of Missouri does not have the required separate license to import or distribute irradiated topaz in the U.S. Most irradiated blue topaz sold in the United States in recent years has been imported from overseas, and most of it was irradiated at overseas facilities. The NRC says that there are presently no entities licensed to import and distribute irradiated blue topaz in the U.S. market. Yet, as of July 2007, irradiated topaz comprised an estimated 8% of the U.S. colored gemstone business at wholesale, making it one of America’s most popular gems.

What Went Wrong?

Some suggest the problem has been a lack of enforcement by the NRC. But at a July meeting between the NRC and industry officials, NRC officers openly wondered how the entire jewelry industry could have “fallen out of compliance.” The NRC is a relatively small agency, and its officials suggest that it is up to the industry to play by the rules. Lack of enforcement cannot be levied as an excuse.

All that said, this isn’t just a case of an overbearing bureaucracy, because the lack of compliance with NRC regulations may be creating potential risks for consumers. The NRC import/distribution licenses ensure that reactor-irradiated materials (including gems) released into the U.S. market do not contain overly high levels of residual radioactivity. To understand why this could be an issue, it’s helpful to review just what treaters are doing when they use irradiation to turn colorless topaz blue.

A Brief History

In 1904, a mere eight years after A. Henri Becquerel first discovered radioactivity, British scientist William Crookes experimented with irradiating diamonds by packing them in radium salts. Attractive changes in color resulted, and experiments with other gem materials began. However, what was then not well understood was the potential danger that radioactivity posed to humans – and many of these treated gems were dangerously radioactive. As the general awareness of the risks of radiation exposure grew, U.S. government regulations covering irradiated materials began to coalesce in the 1940s, culminating in the Atomic Energy Act of 1946.

Famed GIA Laboratory gemologist G. Robert Crowningshield was the first to report on radioactive blue topaz in Gems & Gemology (G&G) in 1981. In 1988, nuclear engineer Charles E. Ashbaugh described the irradiation of several kinds of gems – and the potential for residual radioactivity – in a comprehensive G&G article. That same year, the NRC began to issue licenses to U.S.-based reactor facilities to treat gemstones, and separate, specific distribution licenses to “initial importers” as part of its directive to protect American consumers from dangerous levels of radioactivity. Reports suggest that almost half the blue topaz sold in the U.S. in the 1980s was treated domestically. However, when most facilities in the U.S. stopped offering these services in the 1990s, gem distributors turned overseas. GIA offered testing services for irradiated gemstones from 1991 through 2006.

Radiation Sources

Three processes are used for radiation treatment of topaz and other gems:

Gamma Ray: Gems are exposed to radiation emitted by Cobalt-60 or Cesium-137, both highly radioactive isotopes (or “radioisotopes”) of these two elements. These materials are sealed within stainless steel rods for safety, and release gamma rays during radioactive decay. This form of irradiation (which must take place within a shielded area) is used to sterilize medical equipment and food production, as well as to treat a variety of gems. Advantages are that little heat is generated and no residual radioactivity is created, but the colors produced may not be as intense as with other methods. Colorless topaz turns brown with gamma ray treatment, and is then subsequently heated to blue.

Linear Accelerators (also called “linacs”): These facilities use powerful electromagnets to accelerate a beam of electrons. The electrons create color as they pass through the gem, but also create substantial heat, and thus the gem must be cooled during treatment to prevent damage. In addition, the electrons can create residual radioactivity, especially if high energies are used. Linacs are considered a “preferred choice” for gems requiring high doses of radiation, including topaz and yellow beryl. Colorless topaz turns yellowish brown in a linear accelerator and must be heated to blue.

Nuclear Reactors: These facilities consist of vessels holding submerged uranium fuel rods. Nuclear fission in the reactor produces high-energy neutrons and gamma rays that create color as they pass through the gem. The most intense colors in topaz are created with this method, and blue color does not require subsequent heating. However, neutron bombardment can also create substantial residual radioactivity. The effects in topaz are not long lasting, provided the material is chemically pure. But topaz is rarely pure, and certain trace elements can become long-lasting radioisotopes. In formulating their regulations governing radioactive materials, the NRC is particularly concerned with controlling the handling of radioisotopes that have longer half lives (weeks, months or years).

Cooling Down

Dr. Jim Shigley, distinguished research fellow at the GIA Laboratory in Carlsbad, Calif., notes that much depends on the degree to which the irradiation process produces radioisotopes, a factor that varies from gem to gem due to variations in major elements or trace-element impurities. “Radioisotopes are all different and each has a different half life, so they may emit radiation for periods of a few seconds to thousands of years,” Shigley explains. What this means is that a parcel of irradiated blue topaz arriving in the U.S. may contain plenty of safe stones – and others that are radioactive in excess of NRC limits (the very small quantity of a radioactive material that a member of the general public can legally possess).

“Additionally,” Shigley says, “radioisotopes cannot be identified with Geiger counters – this requires highly trained technicians using more sophisticated radiation detection equipment, such as a gamma spectroscopy system.” So in some instances a Geiger counter can tell if a stone is radioactive, but without more advanced testing to measure the amount of radiation being emitted and determine which radioisotopes are present, you have no way of knowing whether you have a problem stone or one that will cool off to a legal level in a week or two.

In the case of linac-treated blue topaz, the “cooling off” period can be as short as two weeks. But topaz treated in a nuclear reactor may, in rare cases, remain radioactive for years. Thus, licensed testing facilities are needed to analyze the radioactivity and determine whether it is below acceptable levels (or store the gem until that point, if necessary). Historically, limits in the United States have been more stringent than in other countries, so with virtually all of the irradiated topaz on the market now being treated overseas, the NRC has started to emphasize its long-standing regulations that all irradiated gems be imported by licensed entities, to ensure that testing for residual radiation takes place to meet U.S. laws.

It is important to remember that total exposure is what matters. Briefly handling a stone with long-lived radioisotopes may carry little risk – but a customer who regularly wears that stone on a pendant around her neckcould potentially be exposing herself to unsafe levels of radioactivity.

Rule Change!

Although the NRC’s licensing regulations for the gem industry have not changed much since the 1980s, it now appears that their scope will be expanding. Until recently, distribution of topaz treated in a linear accelerator did not require an NRC license, though importation had to be reported. In July 2007, the NRC stated that new rules requiring licensing for gems treated in a linear accelerator would be phased in between 2007 and 2008. The NRC has always closely regulated the activities of nuclear reactors. In the past, organizations at the state level have regulated other irradiation facilities (such as linear accelerators).

The Next Steps

It is not clear what the future holds for blue topaz. The NRC has clearly signaled to the industry that it plans more active enforcement ofits licensing requirements. But other questions remain: Willthe NRC decide, based on its evaluation of industry inventories, that current supplies of neutron-irradiated gems such as blue topaz may stay on shelves? Will consumers and the industry absorb the added costs ofcomplex testing that the enforcement of NRC licensing will bring, especially considering that they will probably exceed the per-carat cost of inexpensive gems such as topaz? What is clear, based on recent NRC activity, is that importers will no longer be ableto profess ignorance of the regulations.

For GIA, and especially the GIA Laboratory, these questions are also of paramount importance as it grapples with the notion of once again going through the expense and rigors of obtaining an NRC testing license and acquiring trained staff, proper instrumentation, and appropriate testing facilities. For key importers of irradiated gems, a decision will have to be made about whether the present debacle surroundingthe gemswill simply be a momentary inconvenience or the beginning of a complex path of compliance with the law.

(More detailed information on the irradiation of topaz and other gems can be found in several articles available for download from the Gems & Gemology section at http://www.gia.edu/.)

Bibliography:

Ashbaugh C.E. (1988) Gemstone irradiation and radioactivity. Gems & Gemology, Vol. 24 No. 4, pp. 196-213.

Crowningshield R. (1981) Irradiated topaz and radioactivity. Gems & Gemology, Vol. 17, No. 4, pp. 215-217.

Nassau K. (1985) Altering the color of topaz. Gems & Gemology, Vol. 21, No. 1, pp. 26-34.

Nassau K. (1994) Gemstone Enhancement, 2^nd edition. Butterworth Heinemann, New York.

Captions:

Natural blue topaz is rare, and typically the hue is very weak. Colorless topaz is irradiated to achieve hues such as those seen here. From top: 33.72 ct fantasy shield cut, 23.71 ct fantasy pear shape, 7.12 ct emerald cut, and 11.02 ct fantasy marquise cut. Photo by Robert Weldon, © 2007 Gemological Institute of America.

Virtually colorless topaz rough (above) is irradiated and then heated to turn blue (middle layer of rough). The NRC and experts today say that topaz should be faceted before it is irradiated so that cutters are not exposed to potentially harmful dust. Rough in the range of 25 to 50 ct, faceted gems in the range of 32.72 ct to 7.12 ct. Photo by Robert Weldon, © 2007 Gemological Institute of America.

Various kinds of gemstones are treated by irradiation to change or enhance their color. These include (from top) this 33.72 ct blue topaz, 6.97 ct rubellite tourmaline, 7.12 ct blue topaz, 0.81 ct green diamond, 0.50 ct blue diamond, and 0.25 ct yellow diamond. Photo by Robert Weldon, © 2007 Gemological Institute of America.

About GIA:

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GIA Adds Johannesberg Lab

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – After announcing three months ago that its Board of Governors had approved its global expansion plans, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) held a news conference in Johannesburg today to announce that GIA is planning to open a laboratory in that city and expand its educational offerings there as well.

Tom Moses, senior vice president, GIA Laboratory and Research, said that starting in early September, GIA will begin absorbing the laboratory operations of the Jewelry Council of South Africa (JCSA). The JCSA will continue to operate its other interests, but GIA will take on the JCSA’s laboratory functions.

Moses said, “GIA is making itself available to its ever-growing number of international clients. Our international laboratory business has grown significantly in the last decade and it is our desire to be more accessible to our clients. By being in key producing and consuming regions, we can better promote GIA standards, and shorten the distance between all our customers and ourselves.”

According to Moses, the JCSA’s current executive director, Leslie (Les) Milner, will become the director of the GIA Johannesburg Laboratory. Moses also announced GIA's timetable for full implementation of the new program.

In September, the JCSA lab will commence operating as a "take-in window" or "consolidator" for GIA and its customers, thereby joining the GIA Lab Direct Network. Submissions will be invited from Botswana and Namibia as well as South Africa.

In early October, an experienced team of JCSA laboratory diamond graders will visit the U.S. for intense training in the methodologies of GIA’s standards. They will then return to Johannesburg in late 2007 and be joined by veteran U.S. graders and management from GIA to begin an eventual establishment of full laboratory services.

In early 2008, GIA will formally open the GIA South Africa, Laboratory in Johannesburg. Although the Laboratory will offer services for all sizes and types of diamonds, colored stones, and pearls, the initial service done on site in Johannesburg will be limited to the GIA Diamond Dossier® Report, which covers stones ranging from 0.15 carats up to 1.99 carats. While other services are still under consideration, those items GIA is not presently prepared to service in Johannesburg will be shipped to the U.S. for work.

“In addition,” said Moses, “We believe GIA’s Education offerings can be very valuable both to the manufacturers and retailers here, and will provide additional opportunities for the local population. We currently offer classes locally; however, it is our intention to expand those offerings,” said Moses.

“We’ll also be working with organizations here to find opportunities to provide scholarships for deserving candidates.”

“We are very pleased to be joining the diamond community here in Johannesburg,” said Moses. “Southern Africa is an important location in the diamond industry with a long history and we believe GIA should have a Laboratory presence here, as well as Education, in order to better serve our customers.”

About GIA:

Tom Moses Honored at AGS Gala

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – Tom Moses, senior vice president, GIA Laboratory and Research, was awarded the eighth annual American Gem Society (AGS) Triple Zero Award. The award, named for the highest diamond quality grade in AGS nomenclature, recognizes significant commitment to education as well as leadership in the industry.

Craig Underwood, president of AGS, presented the award to Moses during the AGS Circle of Distinction reception on July 31 in New York City. Moses was selected by a committee of industry leaders and past recipients.

“We are delighted to commemorate Tom for his remarkable accomplishments and contributions in gemology,” said Underwood. “He’s considered a global industry leader and continues to provide an exemplary record of service and knowledge to this industry. He also adheres to the highest standards of excellence and ethical principals of both GIA and AGS, thus making him a true representative of this award.”

Moses has played a pivotal role in the Institute’s gem Identification and Research efforts. He has led groundbreaking studies of synthetic diamonds, HPHT-treated diamonds, diamond cut analysis, and Chinese freshwater cultured pearls, among many others. Through his lectures and articles, Moses has educated the industry on important gemological issues.

”Tom is vital to our organization as he carries a wealth of knowledge, vision and dedication that is unparallaled,” said Donna Baker, president of GIA. “Through his leadership to all of the GIA Laboratory and Research international operations, he has fostered our mission to provide the most innovative gemological research throughout the world. He exemplifies excellence and GIA commends Tom for this significant recognition.”

Moses earned his Graduate Gemologist diploma in 1977 while working at GIA’s Santa Monica campus. In 1988, he transferred to the New York Laboratory and became a protégé of its longtime director, G. Robert Crowningshield. Moses was named vice president of Identification Services in 1988. Since being named to his current position in 2005, he oversees all GIA Laboratory and Research operations worldwide.

Moses also received GIA’s Richard T. Liddicoat Award for Distinguished Achievement, the Institute’s highest honor, in 2002.

About GIA:

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Women's Jewelry Association Awards Presented

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – Susan Elliott, GIA dean of students and Anna Martin, a member of GIA’s Board of Governors were both honored at the 24^th Annual Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) Award of Excellence gala on July 29, 2007 in New York City. Each year, WJA honors a number of outstanding women who have excelled at their jobs in the jewelry industry.

The gala recognizes the accomplishments of women in the industry in a variety of categories, including; manufacturing, retail, design, education, sales and marketing. Cocktails and a silent auction were followed by the dinner and the awards ceremony.

Elliott received an award in the category of Special Services:Professional Women Serving the Jewelry Industry. As the Dean of Students, Elliott presides over student life and develops and maintains the policies vital to the integrity of GIA Education. An active participant in the WJA, Elliott chaired the DIVA committee from 2003 to 2005 and served as the President of the WJA San Diego Chapter from 2002 to 2005.

“It is such an honor to be recognized by my fellow peers, colleagues, and the WJA,” said Elliott. “I am very proud to be part of such a dedicated group of leaders to promote women in the jewelry industry.”

Anna Martin received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Martin has been a member of the GIA Board of Governors for 10 years and has significantly contributed to the jewelry industry. Currently, she is the senior vice president and regional manager of ABN AMRO Bank. She has served the financial needs of the diamond and jewelry industry for most of her 38 year tenure with ABN AMRO.

“Both Susan and Anna represent GIA in the finest tradition and legacy of excellence,” said Donna Baker, GIA president. “Their talents, commitment and contributions are invaluable and we congratulate them on this fine achievement.”

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Holloway Cut Adviser Earns US Patent

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

For years Garry Holloway's diamond-cut consultancy has had strong alliances with leading international diamond researchers and websites. Well-known for his portable ideal-scope, a tool used to show the cut quality of diamonds, he developed the Holloway Cut Adviser (HCA) system in 2000. The HCA was used to grade the cut quality of more than a billion dollars of diamonds in its first year alone.

Garry Holloway, FGAA, DipDT, JAA Appraiser

From Rapaport News (Jeff Miller) - The United States' Patent & Trademark Office issued patent No. 7,251,619 on July 31 to Garry Holloway of Canterbury, Australia, inventor of the HCA system, for a computer implemented method for evaluating a gemstone.

"The system and method are particularly suited for use in an online environment or may be utilized in conjunction with rough diamond analysis instruments in order to provide cutters with greater guidance as to the most appropriate dimensions to cut rough diamonds in order to maximize the yield of a rough diamond and to also produce a diamond of an acceptable grade," the patent's abstract read.

The original application was filed on June 18, 2001.

Full Description of the Patent

The present invention relates to the field of gem evaluation and more particularly to the field of diamond evaluation.

The cutting of gems such as diamonds is a highly skilled art with many variables that combine to create gems of varying qualities. The laws of physics dictate that, when proportioned correctly, a diamond will reflect back a maximum amount of the light that enters the stone. Because proportions are such a critical element in the diamond's beauty, the ideal cut has become identified as the standard of diamond beauty. In this regard the various parameters that define the cut of a diamond, including table, crown and pavilion angles, culet and girdle.

Most of a diamond's life and sparkle comes from its cut. Diamonds are often cut to retain weight, which results in light leaking out the back of the diamond, and also a dull drab diamond with a smaller diameter.

In 1919, Marcel Tolkowsky wrote a masters thesis on the ideal proportions for round diamonds. The proportions designated by Tolkowsky's have generally been considered as well chosen and have been the benchmark in the industry for the past 80 years. The target set by Tolkowsky was of a diamond with crown angle of 34.5 degree, pavilion 40.75 degree, and table of 53 percent.

However, Tolkowsky's ideal design has led to the industry developing the have been used to develop tolerances of an "ideal cut." This has been an incorrect application of Tolkowsky's ideal, as not all diamonds within the designated tolerances in fact could be described as "ideal." Further, recent research has shown that there are diamonds outside of the proportions indicated by Tolkowsky that are equally or even more beautiful.

Cut grading systems were developed in order to assist in classifying high quality cuts from lesser quality cuts. However, as existing cut grading systems are generally based on the developed tolerances, they are inadequate. Further such systems are feature oriented in that they provide a numerical grading for the diamond. Laboratories that provide such a numerical grading take the worst scoring feature and assign that score as a cut grade. This process ignores the complex interrelationship of facets as light reflects and refracts on its passage through a diamond. A diamond with a slight deviation on each of these measures can rate as ideal even though the performance is only fair. Equally some deviations for Tolkowsky's proportions can compensate for other undesirable deviations in other factors.

It is therefore apparent that large discrepancies can exist in the way institutional "tolerances" are applied to a single "ideal cut." Further, today's grading systems are not flexible enough to take account of different proportion preferences of individuals or geographic markets. Many consumers, particularly sophisticated consumers, expect more of cut grading systems. There is therefore a need for a more flexible and accurate grading system.

It is also apparent that there are many variables in assessing the quality and beauty of a diamond, and that, particularly from the lay person's point of view, it can be a difficult decision choosing the right diamond. There is therefore a need for a simplified gem assessment system and method.

In addition, there are numerous diamond traders around the world selling diamonds of varying quality. For a person, particularly one not experienced in the gem trade, it can be a difficult process evaluating diamonds and judging their appearance based upon the cut factors listed by the traders. Also, it can be time-consuming process evaluating diamonds from the various traders.

There is therefore also a need for an improved system for evaluating gems of multiple remote traders.

The present invention seeks to overcome or alleviate at least one of the problems of the prior art.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a system has been developed whereby the various cuts of a diamond are defined in terms of individual user preferences. That is, the various cuts of a diamond are assessed according to factors that characterize the beauty and desirability of the diamond.

In this regard, three factors are commonly used to assess the beauty of a diamond being brilliance, fire or dispersion and scintillation.

Brilliance: Brilliance is generally considered to be the most important feature when considering diamond beauty. If brilliance is compromised then the effectiveness of a diamond's fire and scintillation is also reduced. Brilliance is often related to proportions that reduce light loss from the pavilion of a diamond. The understanding of brilliance must include the directions in which light travels to an observer and the source and type of light used in any analysis.

Fire or Dispersion: Fire is the term used to describe the spectral separation or dispersion of white light into rainbow flashes. Fire is generally considered to be enhanced with steeper crown angles and smaller tables.

Scintillation: Scintillation is perhaps the least clearly defined visual feature in diamond appearance. One definition is "a pleasing visual balance in the spread of clearly defined and well spread dark and light areas that flash on and off as a light source, the stone or the observer's position change". The dark areas should be a small component of the overall stone's face up appearance with a head shadow of 21 degrees. Scintillation is dependent on the type of lighting, the observer's physical presence and the diamond itself. It is more personal than brilliance and fire, because the more of these two features the better, whereas the ideal amount of blackness and contrast is in the eye of the beholder.

Spread: A further desirability factor that may be considered in the system according to the present invention is "diameter spread." That diamonds of the same weight but different proportions can appear bigger or smaller is often referred to as "spread." This factor, however, is an economic or desirability factor rather than a beauty factor.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, the system is fed various cut features of a diamond, such as crown and pavilion angles and table percentage. Based upon the actual values, input, the system produces a simple description of the visual appearance of the diamond in terms of the beauty factors of the diamond. Therefore, in this way, rather than just providing a numeric grade, the customer is provided with a definition from which the individual is able to form their own opinion, based upon personal or regional taste.

In this regard, the present invention uses a look-up table or the like which matches diamonds having particular cut features with appropriate beauty factors.

In this regard, according to the first embodiment of the invention, weightings are given to all of the factors being considered. Fromweightings it is apparent that the system is based upon holistic information, rather than unrelated individual features, and that the feature considered most important in assessing diamond beauty is brilliance.

In order to apply the holistic information to particular diamond cuts, a cross correlation between the various cuts and the holistic information needs to be established. This may be achieved in various ways, such as by studying actual diamonds in order to calculate penalty values. However, it is more efficiently performed using virtual diamond analysis, as this eliminates problems with variation in color, clarity and the minor facet groups. Examples of software programs that may be utilized include Diamcalc, Firescope, and Gilbertson-Scope. These software packages are available from OctoNus Software Limited, a company founded by Moscow State University, Russia.

Such software programs may be used to develop charts of diamond images of the most commonly encountered diamond proportions. For the present example, the range chosen was for table sizes between 54 percentand 65 percent on a grid of the pavilion angles between 39.5 degree and 43 degree in 0.5 degree graduations and steps of one degree for crown angles between 28 degree and 40 degree/diamonds_info

The Firescope instrument, as distinct from the Firescope software, enables the light return of real diamonds to be studied and appropriate weightings given in regard to brilliance. In this regard, using the virtual Firescope software, it has been found that consumers show a preference for diamonds with a strong red light return and a black eight star pattern. Therefore, using the Firescope software, diamonds displaying this feature were given a good brilliance rating.

From this analysis it became apparent that as table size increases, the black stars in the stones identified as falling within the recommended areas are seen to become thinner and less well defined. Also, it became apparent that variations in pavilion angles could be compensated for by a larger opposing variation in crown angles. This resulted in a broader range of proportions than the Tolkowsky proportions that yielded beautiful diamonds.

Therefore, such subjective analysis was applied to all the virtual diamonds in the grid patterns using the Diamcalc software tools, predominantly from a "face up" position, and each given an appropriate brilliance score of zero to four, whereby the lower the score, the better the brilliance.

In order to verify the results, cross correlation was performed by comparing diamonds with the same score from different areas on each grid, and those from other table size grids. Finally results were confirmed by showing actual diamonds with known proportions to numerous observers in various lighting environments.

It is to be appreciated that the results were produced essentially by considering the face up viewing position of the diamond because of the economic importance of this position. This is because most diamond sales are made by observing diamonds from a face up view. Nevertheless, this is not an essential component of the invention, and the model used in developing weightings could equally be based upon other viewing positions, such as oblique positions.

Although the aesthetic penalties in relation to brilliance, fire, scintillation and diameter spread are the most preferred qualities to account for, penalties or adjustments in relation to other aesthetic qualities may also be taken into account in the overall model.

Vertical Spread Adjustment

For example, in another embodiment of the invention, a further aesthetic feature of diamonds that may be taken into consideration in calculating a penalty weighting is vertical spread. Vertical spread is different to diameter spread. It is an issue that consumers raise from time to time and is the amount of diamond that can be seen projecting above a setting. Generally vertical spread comes at the cost of reducing "diameter spread." For example, a somewhat subjective allowance for this factor could be a 20 percent weighing in the spread factor for stones with steep crowns and small tables.

Table Size Adjustments

Generally, the best looking diamonds have table sizes of 53 percent to 60 percent (measured as a percentage of the diameter of the diamond.) Diamonds with table sizes that are too large or too small have some impact on diamond beauty. Hence, it is preferable for a penalty factor for such table sizes to be applied to each of the beauty factors.

Hence, a diamond with a table size of 62.5 percent has scores of brilliance of 0.5, fire 0.643 and scintillation 0.643 giving a total penalty of 1.786. This means it is possible for a diamond with this size table to score an excellent grade.

Girdle Adjustment

In a still further embodiment of the invention, a further aesthetic feature that may be taken into consideration in calculating penalty weightings is an adjustment for the girdle thickness. Ray path analysis shows that polished girdles refract some light back above the girdle in the same way as other facets. However, for this to occur, it would require a diamond to be set with an exposed girdle. Nevertheless, on balance, thick girdles result in less light return and can look like inclusions, especially if bruted rather than faceted. Thick, very thick and extremely thick girdles weigh much more but are one of the most effective ways to maintain yield without sacrificing beauty. Diamonds with extremely thin and very thin girdles are given a penalty because of the undesirable risk of damage. It should be noted that the spread factor provides an additional penalty for a diamond with an overly thick girdle.

With these considerations in mind there would bea penalty deduction for overly thin and overly thick girdles. Hence in the girdle range between 4 percent and 10 percent, the penalty is between zero to one on a continuum, and the continuum extends further for excessively large girdles.

Fish Eye Adjustment

According to a further embodiment of the invention, an adjustment may be made for fish-eyes. A fish-eye appears as a circular inclusion and is a reflection of the girdle on the opposite side. Fish eyes are most apparent if the pavilion is shallow and the table is large or a combination of the two. Fish eyes can be seen in diamonds with a 41 degree pavilion and 72.2 percent table and at 390 pavilion and 58.4 percenttable and any proportions in between, with no tilt. Also, as the table gets 1 percent bigger, a 1 percent larger fish-eye is apparent. Nevertheless, a near fish-eye may be considered desirable because the stone will have an excellent spread.

In relation to the weightings given to diamonds evaluated using the present invention, a score of 1 is added for 0 percent on a sliding scale where 5 percent is given 0.2.

As fish-eyes are generally an undesirable trait, an automated comment in relation to the fish-eye should be generated for appropriate stones. If <1% or less do not buy this diamond under any circumstances, as it is a fisheye, and >1% to <3% this diamond is almost a fisheye, and >3% to 5% a small amount of tilt will show a fisheye under the table of this diamond.

The percentages in this table refer to the ABC Page-Thiesen Diamond Grading scheme, although any suitable grading system may be utilized.

Culet Adjustment

A large culet on a diamond allows a small amount of light loss, but more importantly mars the appearance. In this regard, a culet often appears as a black inclusion.

In order to account for this problem, if a culet size is smaller than 1 percent, no penalty is added. However, for culet sizes above 1 percent a penalty is added on a sliding scale, with a 5 percent culet size adding a penalty of 0.8.

Advisory System

With all required weightings and adjustments determined, these calculations may then be utilized in a user-friendly system for evaluating a diamond. In this regard, the system would operate by requiring a user to directly input the cut parameters of a diamond of interest, or via an interface with a proportion measuring device or other proportion data processing means.

Based upon the input parameters, the system will then match these parameters with the relevant tables of brilliance, fire, scintillation and spread ratings and other applicable adjustments in order to obtain an appropriate weighting for each factor, as well as a total score. An overall comment may also be provided.

For example, for a diamond having a table of 56 percent, a pavilion angle of 42 degree, a crown angle of 31 degree, a girdle of 2 percent and a culet of 0 percent, the diamond will obtain a weighting of 1.0 for brilliance, 1.0 for fire, 1.0 for scintillation and about 0.46 for spread. This diamond will therefore have an overall penalty of 3.46. It is to be appreciated that the worst looking diamond would be rated as ten or more. A score of zero would be extremely uncommon, and in fact most popular Tolkowsky proportioned diamonds would score around one. It is hence apparent that this penalty is based upon aesthetic principles and is therefore likely to have more meaning to a lay person.

In addition to the numeric aesthetic penalty rating, it is possible to provide the user with a descriptive assessment of the diamond based upon the diamond cut parameters and/or the penalty weightings given for the aesthetic parameters of brilliance, fire, scintillation and spread. Therefore, in simple words the system can describe how each diamond will most likely look to a buyer in a jewelry store lighting environment for each of the above parameters.

For example, it is possible for the advisory system to recognize three distinct types of diamond with optimum beauty, being Tolkowsky's Ideal Cut (TIC), Brilliant Ideal Cuts (BIC) and Fiery Ideal Cuts (FIC). Brilliant Ideal Cuts return the most light and tend to have the largest spread for the same weight. Fiery Ideal Cuts have more fire or spectral color and appear to have more facets and scintillation. An FIC is a cut with a steep crown angle in order to increase fire or dispersion, while having a slight reduction in pavilion angle to maintain optimum dispersion. A BIC on the other hand is one with a shallower crown angle and slightly deeper pavilion in order to optimize brilliance. The TIC range combines a balance of fire and brilliance. BIC diamonds tend to weigh less and FIC diamonds weigh more for the same diameter spread.

Therefore, when one of these stones is recognized, the system can include a statement in the assessment, such as:

"This stone exhibits characteristics of a TIC/BIC/FIC."

In this regard, BIC, TIC and FIC characteristics are only given for diamonds in the excellent range (i.e. less than 2) and with the following crown angles: Crown Angle Diamond Type less than 32.5 degree, BIC more than 35.5 degree, FIC between 32.5 degree, and 35.5 degree TIC.

The system can also provide an assessment based upon each feature being assessed. For example:

Brilliance: 0 This diamond has ideal brilliance; 1 This diamond has very good brilliance; 2 This diamond has good brilliance; 3 This diamond has fair brilliance; 4 This diamond has poor brilliance

Fire or Dispersion 0 is very firey 1 has good fire.

Scintillation 0 and has excellent scintillation 1 and has good scintillation 2 and has poor scintillation.

Spread 0 It has a very good "spread" or large diameter for its weight 1 It has a reasonable diameter or "spread" for its weight 2 It is deeply cut and has a poor "spread" or diameter for its weight.

Symmetry; 0 The symmetry is excellent; 0.5 The symmetry is good; 1 The symmetry is poor.

Polish; 0 and the polish is excellent; 0.5 and the polish is good; 1 and the polish is poor

Girdle Thickness; 0 with a medium girdle (very good) 0.5 with a very thin girdle (can chip); 0.5 with a thicker than ideal girdle, so it weights about x % more than if it had a thinner girdle 0.5 this diamond has an extremely thin girdle that is prone to chipping, but the spread is bigger than you would expect 1 this diamond will lose some brilliance through its extremely thick girdle, it weighs about xx% more than it should

The present invention therefore provides a system able to furnish a description of the visual appearance of diamonds in simple terms, even though the variables and issues involved are enormously complex. That is, the present invention is able to turn the numerical cut grades into a benefit based rating that defines the cut of a diamond in ways that individual preferences can be identified and satisfied.

In particular the system aids both novice consumers and experienced buyers in selecting unseen diamonds, as if each diamond were lined up side by side.

In fact, in a further embodiment of the invention, where the present advisory system is provided over the Internet, a database could be formed by having a number of traders upload proportions of their diamonds that are for sale. The proportions would preferably be determined using proportion measuring devices, such as those manufactured by Sarin Technologies and Ogi Corporation. For example, Sarin Technologies market a desk-top measurement device that takes a series of 64 pictures of a rotating diamond and measure all its angles and proportions digitally.

Potential customers could then obtain reports using the advisory system in relation to these diamonds, based upon the proportion information, and also view virtual models of the diamonds, created from the proportion information by using virtual modeling tools, like Diamcalc.

In a further embodiment of the invention, proportion measuring devices are used to model every facet of a diamond making it then possible to account for symmetry and other faceting variations and defects, which are then able to be included in the advisory system. This would then enable a virtual image to be generated. Alternatively, the image displayed to the user may be a digital photograph of the appropriate diamond.

Therefore, in addition to the user being given an aesthetic grading and appropriate comment on the diamond, an equivalent image of the diamond may be displayed before the user together with details relating to the relevant trader, such as a hot-link to the trader's site.

The present invention may also be advantageously used in overcoming the problems in existing grading systems, which include inadequate cuts within the "top grades" and exclude other diamonds with favorable combinations of rejected proportions. Thus, current systems unfortunately lead cutters to cut for grades and attract healthy margins, as compared to cutting for beauty. That is, diamond cutters will generally cut a diamond within the recognized tolerances of an "ideal cut" which weighs the most, but which typically is dull and drab, as they make more money by cutting deeper, heavier diamonds that leave a little more weight on the crown and pavilion, even though in actuality, these are not the more beautiful diamonds.

The present invention, however, may be used to redress this problem, in that the cut advisory system may be programmed into rough diamond analysis instruments. This will provide cutters with greater guidance as to the most appropriate dimensions to cut rough diamonds in order to maximize the yield of a rough diamond and to also produce a diamond of an acceptable grade.

Variations and additions are possible within the general inventive concept as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

AGS Announces New Membership Designation

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From AGS, Las Vegas, Nevada - Representatives of the American Gem Society™ announced a new membership designation for American Gem Society members who have successfully completed Jewelers of America’s Certified Bench Jeweler certification, an exam process created to assess existing expertise and knowledge, as well as the American Gem Society education requirements, during 2007 International Conclave in Denver, Colorado.

The Certified Jewelry Arts Professional designation was spearheaded by a committee chaired by David Gardner of David Gardner’s Jewelers. Gardner was one of two American Gem Society members to receive the initial CJAP designations at Conclave. Dave Lantz of MJ Harrington and Company was the other recipient. Both Gardner and Lantz hold American Gem Society titles: Certified Gemologist™ and Certified Gemologist Appraiser American Gem Society, respectively.

“Any partnership that raises the bar for the bench jeweler is a win-win for the entire jewelry industry,” said David Peters, director of education of Jewelers of America. “The JA certification coupled with the AGS designation validates the bench jewelers expertise, provides a communication vehicle to the customer, and helps build the retail jewelers repair business. JA is honored to aid in this designation process.”

While Jewelers of America’s Bench Jeweler Certification program is open to all bench jewelers in the industry, the Certified Jewelry Arts Professional designation is only available to American Gem Society members.

“Bench jeweler’s capabilities are an incredible asset and means of differentiation for the independent retailer. We are pleased to utilize JA’s education program as a prerequisite for this designation,“ said Ruth Batson, Executive Director and CEO of the American Gem Society.

The American Gem Society, founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley, is a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to proven ethics, knowledge and consumer protection within the jewelry industry. The American Gem Society is the international professional organization for all Registered Jewelers (RJ), Certified Gemologists (CG), Certified Gemologist Appraisers (CGA) and Independent Certified Gemologist Appraisers. Members are held to the highest ethical and professional standards in the industry and must pass annual recertification examinations to maintain their American Gem Society titles. Less than five percent of jewelers in the country have met the exacting requirements necessary for membership. For more information regarding the American Gem Society, please call 866.805.6500, or visit their website at http://www.americangemsociety.org/.

Stuller Suspends Sale of Blue Topaz

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From JCKOnline

Stuller Inc. has temporarily suspended the sale of Swiss, London, and Sky Blue Topaz loose gems and jewelry, “due to recent developments regarding the importation and distribution of Irradiated gemstones,” the Lafayette, La., company said on its Web site. Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations require the initial importer of nuclear irradiated gems to be licensed by the NRC. “Currently, there does not appear to be any entity licensed by the NRC for the import, possession, or distribution of nuclear irradiated gemstones in the U.S.,” the company said. The company added that there have no allegations of health or safety issues related to the gemstones. It recommends that diffused or coated topaz can be substituted where appropriate, but these treatments must be disclosed. Several industry organizations are working toward gaining a better understanding and solution to the issue. Stuller said it will also be involved in the process and will provide updates on its Web site.

View release from Stuller.

GIA Now on iTunesU

Sat, 28 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – Have you ever wanted to go behind the scenes and experience the sights and sounds of an Imperial topaz mine in Brazil? Maybe you’d like to watch a seminar on laser-drilled diamonds or a tutorial on accounting basics from the GIA School of Business.

These are just a few examples of the free video and audio content that current students and graduates of any GIA course can now access through GIA on iTunes U. The Institute joins a growing number of U.S. colleges and universities thatare partnering with Apple, Inc. to deliver educational content via iTunes U.

With GIA on iTunes U, it’s easier than ever to continue your gemological education and stay up-to-date on industry developments. In just a few clicks, you can select the materials you want to download to your personal computer or MP3 player and enjoy them at your convenience.

The segments are brief, usually five minutes or less, but packed with useful information. More than 100 are currently posted, and GIA’s Course Development department is creating new podcasts on a regular basis, many of them featuring all-new, exclusive footage.

Patrick B. Ball, the Institute’s director of Education training and the creator of GIA’s iTunes U site, says, “With this powerful medium, we’re now able to deliver timely and widely expanded educational content to GIA students and instructors worldwide, as well as Continuing Education for our alumni. So far, the response has been overwhelmingly positive, and to date we’ve delivered 36,000 downloads.”

To get started, go to GIA’s Continuing Education page and click on the “Register for My GIA” image in the lower right corner. By completing the forms that come up, you will establish a “My GIA” user ID. Your password will then bee-mailed to you. You will also need to download and install Apple’s free iTunes software.

Once you’re set up, visit https://my.gia.edu/ often to get the latest content. You can also choose to subscribe so that new content is automatically delivered to your computer.

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G&G Summer 2007 Edition in August

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Summer 2007 issue of Gems & Gemology, scheduled to mail to subscribers in early August, features a review of global rough diamond production since 1870, a look at the performance of several common emerald-filling substances, and the debut of a new section, Rapid Communications.

In the lead article, “Global Rough Diamond Production Since 1870,” exploration geologist Dr. A. J. A. Janse reviews and analyzes annual production statistics (by value and carat weight) for the world’s most significant diamond sources, through 2005. Over this entire period, South Africa ranks first in value, followed by Botswana, while the Soviet Union/Russia ranks first in carat weight, followed by Australia.

“The scope of Dr. Janse’s article is remarkable,” says G&G editor-in-chief Alice Keller. “It provides comprehensive data for the 27 top diamond-producing countries, plus analysis of the most important mines and diamond projects currently in development. It is a unique perspective on the historical and future availability of the rough diamonds that drive our industry.”

Next is Dr. Mary Johnson’s “Durability Testing of Filled Emeralds,” a long-term, systematic study of the stability and durability of nine common emerald-filling substances. Researchers filled 128 emeralds and exposed them to a battery of durability tests, with results that varied dramatically among the different fillers.

Rounding out the slate of Summer issue articles is “Continuity and Change in Chinese Freshwater Pearl Culture,” by Doug Fiske and Jeremy Shepherd, a look at some recent developments inChina’s freshwater cultured pearl production.

This issue also marks the launch of the journal’s new Rapid Communications section, which provides brief, timely articles on noteworthy gem materials, localities, and identification or treatment techniques, among other topics. The section debuts with reports on polymer-impregnated turquoise and on yellowish green diopside and tremolite from Merelani, Tanzania.

The journal’s Lab Notes section presents the latest discoveries at the GIA Laboratory, including a diamond hosting a color-change garnet coated with a sulfide mineral, and a natural opal with a structure resembling that of synthetic opal. Among the many items featured in Gem News International are chatoyant gems from Tanzania, Chinese akoya cultured pearls, and a review of the accounting firm KPMG’s report on the global jewelry industry.

There’s still time to test your gemological knowledge by taking the 2007 Gems & Gemology Challenge.Official entry cards are included in the Spring 2007 issue, and forms for electronic submission were e-mailed to subscribers on July 16. Entriesmust be received by Aug. 6. To purchase a copy of the Spring or Summer issue or to subscribe, https://www.gia.edu/_WebApps/GemsAndGemology or contact Circulation Coordinator Debbie Ortiz. Call toll-free 800-421-7250, ext. 7142. Outside the U.S.and Canada, call 760-603-4000, ext. 7142.

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AGS Launches Online Report Verification

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

From AGS, Las Vegas, Nevada - AGS Laboratories announced the launch of Report Verification, a new feature that allows visitors to conveniently verify a diamond grading report online. Report Verification is located at www.agslab.com.

Though the new feature will mainly target consumers, anyone with an AGS Laboratories diamond grading document can access and use Report Verification.

“We wanted to make it easier for consumers to verify their AGS Laboratories’ Diamond Grading Documents,” noted Peter Yantzer, Executive Director of AGS Laboratories. “Our founding tenet is consumer protection and we are always looking for new ways to increase consumer confidence. The ability to verify their AGS Laboratories Diamond Grading Document is just one way that we can help them.”

Visitors to www.agslab.com can access this new feature from the home page. To verify a report, a user will need an AGS Laboratories report number and the carat weight. Once that data is entered, a pop-up window will appear, indicating the grading analysis for the diamond, which users can print for their records.

The AGS Laboratories, created in 1996, is committed to protecting the consumer by providing unbiased grading reports based on the highest standards of diamond grading. AGS Laboratories is the only diamond grading laboratory licensed to use the AGS Performance-Based Cut Grade System — the first-ever cut grading system for a fancy shaped diamond. The Lab currently issues a cut grade on round brilliant, princess, and emerald cut diamonds. Other shapes are due to come on line in the near future.

For more information on the AGS Performance-Based system, or any of their products and services, please visit www.agslab.com or email marketing@agslab.com.

Goldie Jewelry Design Competition Winner is Jennifer Lam

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – GIA London recently named Jennifer Lam, a graduate of GIA London’s graduate gemologist program, as the winner of the inaugural H. Goldie Jewelry Design Competition. Lam was presented with a £1,000 award and £500 trip to BaselWorld 2007, Europe’s premier jewelry fair, as a result of her winning entry.

Open to all students enrolled in GIA London’s Jewelry Design classes, the competition is made possible by an ongoing donation from London-based diamond brokers H. Goldie & Co. Ltd., and Goldie International Ltd. Design contestants are required to draft a design for a set of diamond jewelry in yellow and/or white gold; the set can consist of either a pendant and earrings for women or cuff links and a tie bar or tie tack for men. Three judges evaluate the drawings for quality of painting, technique, design idea, and overall presentation. Entrants must also include a mission statement on how they plan to use their jewelry design skills in the future.

Lam used the sea as the motif for her winning “Oceanic” design – a pendant and earring set. The waves are made of 18K yellow gold, surrounded by hollow circular frames of 18K white gold, and accented with a spread of melee diamonds ranging from 0.01 to 0.15 carats to create a “splash effect.”

Mark Boston, H. Goldie’s chairman, and Mark Walker, creative director, were not only instrumental in establishing the award, but also dedicated time to Lam at BaselWorld 2007 where she was given the opportunity to tour the show with Walker.

“I came away with a very good impression of Jennifer and I am confident she is the right person to earn the first H. Goldie Jewelry Design Award,” said Walker. “She is inquisitive, creative, inspired, and most importantly, loves jewelry. She will use this experience as an important stepping stone toward what we all expect will be a highly successful jewelry career.”

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. “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.”

Lam said, “The jewelry design course at GIA helped me find a way to convey my ideas and use my illustration skills through beautiful jewelry drawings. After learning all the fundamental technical skills and doing challenging projects, I was confident I could create attractive jewelry pieces that are comfortable and durable.”

GIA London’s next Jewelry Design class runs from Sept. 24 through Nov. 23, 2007. Registration is available on the GIA London website (http://www.gialondon.co.uk/) or by calling +44 20 7813 4321.

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JA Trade Show Attendees get Priority GIA Service

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) New York Laboratory will offer “priority laboratory services” to Jewelers of America (JA) trade show attendees before, during and after the run of the upcoming trade show on July 29 to August 1, 2007 in New York.

According to Tom Moses, senior vice president – GIA Laboratory and Research, “With this GIA priority laboratory service, JA attendees coming to New York for a few days for a great trade show can submit their items of diamonds, pearls or colored stones to GIA for laboratory servicing, and then pick them up prior to leaving town.”

Showgoers can drop off stones at the nearby GIA New York Laboratory’s take-in windows and get their material back before the close of the show. For example, if a stone gets submitted to the GIA New York Laboratory on Thursday, it will be available for pickup by Tuesday night.

“We’ll run extended drop-off and pick-up hours at the New York Laboratory on Thursday, July 26 from 8:00 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. On Friday, the Laboratory will be open its regular hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Then we’ll extend the Laboratory’s regular Monday and Tuesday hours (July 30 and 31) from 8:00 a.m. till 6:30 p.m.”

If work gets submitted Monday or Tuesday, it will still be afforded priority service and will be shipped back to their owners by their preferred shipping method.

“We’re interested in improving our service to our customers, the industry and the public,” said Moses. “We thought this priority laboratory service would benefit many of our colleagues who are attending the JA show here in our own backyard.”

The Jewelers of America Show is being held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

The GIA New York Laboratory is located on 580 Fifth Avenue, Suite 200, New York, New York 10036. Call toll-free on 800-366-8519 or local at 212-944-5900. The fax is 212-575-3095.
To find out more about GIA Laboratory services, look on the web at http://www.gia.edu/ or E-mail: labservice@gia.edu

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GIA Career Fair Approaches

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The 2007 GIA Career Fair will take place in just seven days – Friday, July 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. Considered the jewelry industry's most prominent job event, Career Fair should not be missed by anyone pursuing a career in gems and jewelry.

This year, a record-breaking number of companies – over 50 in all – are recruiting at Career Fair.

Whether you're a first-time job seeker or a seasoned jewelry professional, Career Fair opens the door to a variety of employment opportunities, including appraising, design, marketing, manufacturing, and sales. Attendees have the chance to apply for positions with multiple employers and meet representatives from the industry’s best-known companies, such as Zale Corporation, David Yurman, De Beers, Tiffany & Co., Christie’s, and the Home Shopping Network.

Besides the countless opportunities, job seekers can get one-on-one career coaching and attend seminars, workshops, and panel discussions led by the industry’s top business leaders. For recruiters, Career Fair attracts hundreds of people already targeted on the jewelry industry, many of whom are professionally trained.

In addition to the July 27 event in New York, Career Fair will also be held Oct. 19 at GIA’s Robert Mouawad Campus in Carlsbad, Calif. Like New York, the Carlsbad event will feature a recruiting area, career coaching, and panel sessions.

Admission for job seekers is free.

Job seekers can visit GIA’s Career Fair website on http://careerfair.gia.edu/ for more information, or call GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair hotline at 800-421-7250, ext. 4100. Employers who wish to recruit at Career Fair can call 800-421-7250, ext. 4195.

GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair was founded by GIA and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California. The prime sponsor for the New York Career Fair is The Nielsen Jewelry Group, and the prime sponsors of the Carlsbad event are the JCK International Publishing Group and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California.

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Coaches at GIA Jewelry Career Fair in NY

Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – There are sports coaches, life coaches and drama coaches. The gem and jewelry industry offers coaches of its own at the GIA Jewelry Career Fair on July 27 at the Jacobs Javits Center in New York.

At Career Fair, the jewelry industry’s annual recruiting event, job seekers not only get to interview with top employers, but they also get to meet, listen and learn from scores of gem and jewelry VIPs who share their insights in workshops, panel discussions and through career coaching sessions.

These individual coaching sessions provide exceptional one-on-one time with leaders from a wide variety of industry sectors including: appraising, diamonds, design, marketing, manufacturing, retail, and watches. The coaches are presidents, executives, and top level managers from successful companies who participate on a voluntary basis to share their expertise and passion for gems and jewelry with newcomers to the field.

At least 35 industry leaders have volunteered to coach at the GIA Career Fair New York event. Job seekers will have the opportunity ask questions, get advice on career paths, obtain tips on perfecting a resume and acing an interview. After choosing an area of interest within the industry, attendees will be assigned a coach on a first-come, first-served basis.

Kathryn Kimmel, GIA’s vice president of marketing and public relations and co-creator of Career Fair, said that career coaching fulfills an important need in shaping careers. “There are a lot of talented job seekers out there who are firmly committed to jewelry careers, but lack the specific advice and encouragement only our industry professionals can provide,” Kimmel said. She added, “Career Fair coaches truly represent what’s best about our industry – it’s not just about the incredible career opportunities, it’s also about the generosity and openness of the people who work in this industry.”

Diana Jarrett, colored stones editor for the trade industry publication, Rapaport, has been a career coach in the past and will participate again this year. “I am thrilled to continue my role as a mentor as I enjoy providing professional guidance to enthusiastic job seekers,” said Jarrett.

Jarrett said that through speaking to job seekers about their talents and experiences, she’s been able to identify valuable assets they may not have recognized.

Jarrett also believes this unique mentoring service sets it apart from traditional job fairs. “GIA puts a tremendous amount of careful thought and planning into fostering an effective, friendly and intimate environment for job seekers,” said Jarrett. “This event provides a successful bridge between the education process and the marketplace.”

In addition to the July 27^th event being held in New York City, Career Fair will also be held on October 19^th at GIA’s Robert Mouawad Campus in Carlsbad, CA. Like New York, the Carlsbad event will feature career coaching in addition to panel sessions and recruiting opportunities.

Job seekers can visit http://careerfair.gia.edu/ for more information, or call GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair hotline at 800-421-7250, ext. 4100. Admission for job seekers is free.

GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair was founded by GIA and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California. The prime sponsor for the New York Career Fair is The Nielsen Jewelry Group, and the prime sponsor of the Carlsbad event, to be held Oct. 19, is the JCK International Publishing Group.

About GIA:

GIA: Detection & Durability of Serenity Coated "Fancy Color" Diamonds

Mon, 09 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif.

With the advent of HPHT treatments and sophisticated irradiation techniques, the age-old practice of coating diamonds to enhance their color would seem to be a thing of the past. However, the GIA Laboratory has seen an increase in coated diamonds submitted in recent months, which prompted researchers to investigate a new commercial coating that is now in the diamond market.

Serenity Technologies of Temecula, California, has created a silica coating that produces natural-looking fancy colors, including blue, green, orange, pink, purple-pink, and yellow. This coating is reasonably durable (though not considered permanent), but it can be readily identified by standard testing.

The diamonds examined in this study were coated with a silicate material less than 60 nanometers thick, with other substances added to achieve different colors. While Serenity Technologies did not reveal the nature of the additives, the researchers’ findings point to gold and silver added to create pink and blue, silver to create yellow, and iron to create orange.

GIA researchers Andy H. Shen, Wuyi Wang, Matthew S. Hall, Shane F. McClure, James E. Shigley, and Thomas M. Moses were joined by Steven Novak of Evans Research Group in conducting the study. The group examined 102 diamonds of various colors from dealers whose goods had been coated by Serenity. They subjected the diamonds to spectroscopic analysis, chemical analysis, and microscopic observation under various lighting conditions, followed by a series of durability tests.

Many of the diamonds examined were very small, 0.01−0.03 ct, though some blue, orange, and pink goods were larger. All but the yellows showed strong colors, equivalent to Fancy Intense and Fancy Vivid grades for natural-color diamonds. The yellow diamonds showed slight tinges of brown. In addition, Serenity agreed to treat six larger, near-colorless diamonds (0.34–0.40 ct) supplied by GIA to determine the differences in their gemological and spectroscopic properties after treatment. These ranged in color from Fancy Light yellow to Fancy Deep purple-pink.

The gemological examinations found that the colors appeared evenly distributed when the diamonds were examined face up. However, typically the coating became visible as a colored film when the researchers looked at the diamonds through the pavilion facets in diffused, reflected light. It was particularly strong on the green-coated diamonds. Some of the coatings showed scratches, colorless spots, and small stains.

With the coated pink diamonds, there was none of the pink graining typically found in natural-color pinks. In other colors, many common internal features, such as the high clarity of type IIb blues and the patchy color distribution in natural orange-yellows, were not seen in these samples. All were generally lower-clarity stones.

The treatments had little effect on fluorescence. After processing, the six stones fluoresced the same color to both short and long-wave ultraviolet radiation, but the intensity to long-wave UV was weaker in two samples.

No changes were observed in the infrared spectra of the six diamonds analyzed both before and after coating. The ultraviolet-visible-near infrared spectra of the coated samples were different from those of their natural-color counterparts. The chemical composition of the coatings used to produce the different colors was determined by secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS).

Durability tests were conducted to determine how well the coatings could withstand jewelry setting and repair processes, as well as the wear and tear of everyday exposure to common chemicals.

The coatings in all colors withstood heating up to 500 degrees Celsius but showed a change in color or cloudiness above 600 degrees. However, touching the stone with a polishing wheel after the setting process damaged all of the colors tested. Similarly, the act of soldering prongs in the retipping process caused color changes in most of the goods tested.

The coatings were fairly resistant to jewelry-cleaning operations, including steam cleaning and pickling, but immersion in sulfuric acid for 30 minutes removed the coatings entirely on six of the seven stones. Household chemicals such as detergent and alcohol did not affect the coatings, but two days’ immersion in undiluted bleach caused color fading in blue, green, and yellow samples. The bleach did not affect the orange and pink stones. The coatings were less resistant to scratching. A stainless steel needle point did not damage the material, but common abrasives such as sandpaper and powdered cleanser scratched the coatings of the colors tested (blue, orange, and pink).

The GIA Laboratory will provide an identification report for such stones, noting that the diamond is “surface coated” and indicating carat weight, cutting style and measurements, but it will not issue a color or clarity grade because coatings are not considered permanent.

Figures

Figure 1. A variety of colors can be produced on polished diamonds (here, 0.01–0.70 ct) by a new coating technique from Serenity Technologies, Inc. Composite photo by Jessica Arditi and Jian Xin Liao/©GIA.

Figure 2. These six diamonds (0.34–0.40 ct) were colorless to near-colorless before being subjected to the Serenity coating process. Composite photo by Jian Xin Liao/©GIA.

Figure 3. Some of the samples showed scratching, as on this orange-coated diamond. Photomicrograph by Shane F. McClure/©GIA; magnified 22×.

Figure 4. Also visible on some stones were spots or patches of uncoated areas, as seen with reflected light on this blue-coated diamond. Photomicrograph by John I. Koivula/©GIA; magnified 10×.

Figure 5. This vivid orange-coated diamond (left) changed to an intense yellowish orange (right) when exposed to a high-temperature solder during retipping. Photos by Jian Xin Liao and Robison McMurtry/©GIA.

Financial Status of Diamond & Jewelry Industry

The following presentation was given by G. Loet Kniphorst, Global Head, International Diamond & Jewellery Group at ABN AMRO Bank N.V. at the WFDB/IDMA Presidents Meeting in Amsterdam June 2007.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a pleasure for me to be invited at this (WFDB) Presidents’ Meeting, especially since it is held in my home town of Amsterdam. Not often I get the opportunity to come to Amsterdam for the diamond business, as most of our clients and events like this one are located elsewhere.

Reading up on the Netherlands in Chaim Even Zohar’s book From Mine to Mistress, I noted that the history with the diamond industry goes back 400 years and a number of the present Dutch diamond houses date back untill early and middle of the 19th century. Since the middle of the 20th century, Amsterdam’s position as a manufacturing centre has significantly decreased. However, Amsterdam has done a remarkably good job in maintaining its status as city of diamonds.

I believe the international diamond industry can learn an interesting lesson in marketing from studying this case.

Over the years the diamond industry has changed, but the speed of change appears to be going faster and become more complex.

In order to put things in the right perspective, let us look at the diamond pipeline and the way it has developed in recent years.

Most of us are aware that statistical information in the diamond industry tends to be scattered around and many of the figures simply do not add up. The data on the screen though are consistent with most sources, with the exception perhaps of the level of retail sales of diamond jewelry, for which $68.5 billion is at the lower end of the estimates and around $74 billion at the higher end.

When first of all looking at the development over the years, you can see that
- the value of the rough production has gone up consistently – from $8.8 billion to $13.5 billion, or an increase of over 50 percent;
- the diamond content in diamond jewelry sales went up with more than 30 percent;
- however, retail sales went up with less than 20 percent, over a 7 year period.

In terms of growth for a luxury item, this is far from spectacular. I should note that the 2006 figures for the jewelry sales are up with approximately 10 percent as compared to 2005, which is significantly more than in recent years.

But, where is the money made? In mining and in retail sales. The man in the middle is being squeezed.

Of course we should not forget that at the start of the pipeline, the mining requires major investments while, at the retail end, the inventory, marketing campaigns and investments in brick and mortar also require major investments.

So, the conclusion is, if you take the costs of all these investments into consideration, then the diamond industry is not as profitable anymore as a number of years ago.

Following the pipeline development, growth of the bank debt appears to be unstoppable.

The exact figures for the bank debt in the various centers have in recent years also become a topic of dispute. For Tel Aviv and Antwerp most people will agree. Although Antwerp has seen the arrival of 2 new banks and is also being serviced by some banks in London. Mumbai has many banks servicing the industry, but the consensus for bank debt is between $4.2 and $4.5 billion.

For New York it depends how we define the diamond companies; where a less limiting definition could perhaps almost double the figure from $2 to $4 billion. For the sake of consistency we base our estimates in a similar manner as we have done in the past and use the more restrictive number. Add to this figure about $600 million in securitization programs and perhaps another $400 million from other centers like Hong Kong, Dubai and Johannesburg and you can conclude that the bank debt has more than doubled over a 6 year period.

Libor interest rates certainly have had an effect as well. If you consider that every full percent rise in interest rates adds approximately another $100 million to the bank debt; should rates rise further the effect will not go unnoticed.

Be it as it may, most important of all is the fact that the diamond industry is not the same any more. The whole environment is changing.

We have tried to compare all the forces that influence the industry in one slide. It has become quite a busy one but I hope it does visualize all the changes that in many ways are forced upon us.

It is not my intention to dwell upon each aspect of this diagram at length but I like to briefly highlight the main aspects.

Rivalry

The fact that overall the business is not growing very fast, that there is overcapacity in manufacturing and that there are many players in the market chasing the same goods, leads to a strong rivalry in the market, which in turn leads to pressure on and reduction of margins.

On the other hand we have Legal/Regulatory Requirements.

The requirement to know one’s customer becomes stronger and stronger. Governments, suppliers and banks alike want to be able to monitor and verify where the business is coming from and where it is going to.

Entry Barriers

The rise of the Internet has made entry into the market much easier and also forces additional price transparency upon the industry. The changing regulation in southern Africa may also influence the entrance of new (local) players in the market.

Threat of Substitutes

Next to the perceived threat --and I must add opportunities-- of synthetics, there is also the threat of other luxury goods. A recent analysis of United States sales, for instance, claimed that the increase in sales of flat screen TV’s, has had a negative effect on jewelry sales.

Social Responsibility

The community requires from the industry that it acts responsibly, socially and environmentally as well as ethically. Often the NGO’s and the media are the most vocal in this respect, but governments, suppliers, buyers and banks have similar demands.

Supplier Power

The changing role of De Beers obviously has had a major impact, also its recent announcements of reduced output. I will come back to that in a minute. New mines are expected to come on stream and may further change the market share of some of the traditional suppliers. Combining a mining company and a jewelry retail company, termed as forward integration, of which we have seen several examples may also change the balance.

Market Prices

The Internet is improving the consumers’ knowledge of prices and creates more and more possibilities for a potential buyer to compare prices. Furthermore, certain specific conditions in the market are still causing an anomaly, where increases in the prices of rough are not followed by similar increases in the prices of polished.

Buyer Power

Especially the majors in the USA have dictated conditions which have forced vendors to either become more efficient or to loose margins to the extent that it becomes unprofitable. Also by joining together to buy rough diamonds, like we have recently seen in India with Diamond India Limited, one can improve the buying power.

Size and Structure

I have argued in the past for diamond companies to become more structured in a corporate manner. I have received criticism from some that I was out to kill the small family businesses. I personally do not see why a family business, either small or large, can not be structured as efficient corporate organizations. In fact many family businesses in the diamond sector have done so already.

The rough index has gone up significantly, while the polished one is only slowly, slowly moving up.

What is quite clear is that volatility in the prices of rough has increased and we expect it to increase further.

Much of this volatility is a result of the changes in the dynamics of our industry. As we have seen since 2000, the industry leader De Beers renouncing its custodial role and in the mean time its market share has fallen below 50 percent for the first time.

It means that the diamond industry loses its blanket of protection that was provided by De Beers and becomes much more like any other commodity based industry. As a banker this means that we have got to reappraise our attitude to the risks that our customers take. It is absolutely essential that the industry starts to manage its risk professionally.

Do I believe bank debt has more or less reached its peak? In fact I do.

Although new banks may enter, bank debt may be switching from one bank to another, but under the current circumstances, I believe the maximum level has more or less been reached. Therefore there is a need for the industry to attract alternative funding and for instance the Indian equity market has shown already last year it can play a role in this respect. Also a number of inventory and receivable securitization programs in Antwerp have contributed as a new source of funding, although enhancement by standby bank credit is still required. But for major outside investors to come the way of the diamond industry, through diamond funds, individual investors and private equity, it is necessary to have objective price indexes and to develop financial instruments that mitigate and limit the inherent risks of the business.

It is important to attract additional funding, as the graph in the middle is showing, the expectation for the future is that demand for rough diamonds is strongly going to outstrip supply.

To deal with this situation efficiently, is going to require a paradigm shift in how the industry relates internally and most importantly externally. Much more than lip service has to be paid to price transparency. The resistance of providing clear, unambiguous and independent information must change.

The core issue is that there has to be an objective, multiple sourced and independent price source used by the industry and which is acceptable to those outside the industry and in particular those that will provide funding to the industry.

If the industry is going to be able to take advantage of the positive future we are expecting, it must not allow its growth capacity to be blocked by banks or other funding providers being unwilling to take on growing risk as the industry itself grows.

Too much capital is locked in inventory. Having to hold stock and sit on it when margins in the cutting centre are declining rather than growing is not a healthy scenario.

It is no secret that there are many attempts at creating financial instruments for diamonds. Any financial instrument, be it based on physical delivery or non physical, such as trading on an index, is predicated by the need for an objective pricing mechanism. Similarly diamond funds are being created but so far have only had a modest success due to lack of a benchmark price source.

We at ABN AMRO have taken a lead by sponsoring a Polished Diamond Price index which is listed on Bloomberg and Reuters.

Multiple sourcing of data is essential and the index we sponsor is multiple sourced, currently by 20 companies, and we strongly encourage companies to participate on price feed contribution.

The methodology used to produce the index must be totally transparent as well as consistent, based on a logical weighting.

There is a huge opportunity for our industry. I would strongly urge the industry to exit to the unthinkable, become genuinely transparent and join in to create a pricing mechanism that can be used to provide the financial instruments that we all need.

We at ABN AMRO believe that the diamond industry needs the acceptance of an objective, consensus price source which will be the benchmark on which valuations can be based, trading can depend on and financial instruments like futures can be structured. To that extent we will participate in a workshop about derivatives later this week, organized at the premises of the Antwerp Diamond Centre by PolishedPrices.com, to discuss with representatives of the financial markets and members of the diamond community how such mechanisms can be developed.

Perhaps as a final remark I can reiterate that my Bank, ABN AMRO, has been committed to the worldwide diamond trade for many, many years. We consider ourselves a stakeholder in the industry. In recent months, our bank has been the subject of many speculations, who will take us over and whether ABN AMRO will be split up. We in the International Diamond and Jewellery Group believe we can and will continue to service the business.

And whoever will take us over, will encounter a group that is a market leader in the diamond industry, with committed highly experienced staff, working efficiently and generating strong revenues year on year. We therefore look to the future with confidence and expect to continue to service the diamond industry for many, many years to come.

Thank you for your kind attention.

Munsteiner Exhibit Draws Capacity Crowd

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – An opportunity to meet Bernd Munsteiner, one of the world’s best-known gem artists, drew a capacity crowd to the GIA Museum on June 8. The gala event marked the opening of the new exhibit, “Reflections in Stone,” which showcases a retrospective of Munsteiner’s unique and distinctive carvings from the last several decades. The German artist sparked a revolution in the gem-cutting when he pioneered an entirely new direction in gem carving more than 40 years ago. Innovative and abstract, Munsteiner’s work will be on display in the Rotunda Gallery at GIA through March 2008.

Recognized by contemporary gem artists as the visionary who broadened their artistic horizons, Munsteiner is frequently referred to as the “Father of the Fantasy Cut.” Instead of only cutting gemstones for jewelry use, he is best known for turning agates and transparent stones into evocative images, objets d’art, and sculptures. His trademarks include the abstract use of angles, grooves, and curves that scale dramatically across the back of the gem, with the top or front often left smooth and polished.

Munsteiner’s trademarks include the abstract use of angles, grooves, and even curves that scale dramatically across the stone.

Munsteiner developed a radical approach to his craft that reveals the aesthetic qualities hidden in natural mineral formations.

“We are honored to have ‘Reflections in Stone’ here at GIA. This is the first time this exhibit has appeared in the U.S., and it is our pleasure to introduce the amazing work of this groundbreaking artist to a wider audience,” said Elise Misiorowski, director of the GIA Museum.

During the event, Si and Ann Frazier delivered the third presentation in GIA’s 2007 Museum Lecture series, “Bernd Munsteiner: Maker of a Gemstone Revolution.”

As gem and mineral authors and teachers, the Fraziers discovered Munsteiner’s work in the early 1970’s while traveling in Idar-Oberstein, Germany – a region that boasts more than 500 years of gem-cutting history. After cultivating a lifelong friendship with the artist, the Fraziers were recently invited to serve as contributing authors for his book, “Bernd Munsteiner Reflections in Stone.”

The GIA Munsteiner exhibit is open to the public. Reservations through GIA Guest Services (telephone 760-603-4000) are required. Museum hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

About GIA:

GIA Collection Receives Three In-Kind Donations

Thu, 05 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – Visitors to the Gemological Institution of America’s (GIA) Collection booth at industry shows often make donations of their own when they see the positive response the displays typically generate. This year’s JCK show exhibit of loose cultured pearls and cultured pearl jewelry had the same effect.

Robert E. Kane, president and CEO of Fine Gems International in Helena, Mont., donated a set of 54 rough and cut sapphires. The collection, which weighs a total of 21.24 carats, is from the renowned Rock Creek deposit in the Sapphire Mountains of Montana. Sapphires were discovered there by gold miners in the late 1890s, and more than 100 million carats have been mined since then. Advances in heat treatment technology in the 1990s have made the deposit more commercially viable.

“The complete color range and variety of this suite is just beautiful,” said Elise Misiorowski, director of the GIA Museum. “We can use them in many different ways; they are ideal for display and perfect for our Education and Research departments.

Designer Etienne Perret, of Camden, Maine, presented his “Madonna” ring to Misiorowski. He said he gave it the name because of its protective arm of diamonds over a Tahitian cultured pearl, which reminds him of a mother with a child. “To me the ultimate mother with child image is Madonna with Christ,” he said.

Recent donations to the GIA Collection include the Madonna ring (left) from Etienne Perret, rough and cut sapphires (top right) from Robert E. Kane, and gold hoop earrings (bottom right) from Toby Pomeroy. Photo © GIA 2007.

Misiorowski said, “It’s stunningly dramatic in its soft and simple design.”

Toby Pomeroy donated his 18K reclaimed gold hoop earrings, which Misiorowski called “elegantly spare and carefully engineered.” Pomeroy, based in Oregon, is environmentally concerned and intent on creating an alternative to destructive mining practices. He uses only reclaimed or recycled gold alloys in his jewelry. His work was recently featured in Vanity Fair’s Green Issue, which focuses on environmental success stories, and Town & Country.

Misorowski added, “We are grateful to all of our donors whose gifts enable GIA to continue its nonprofit mission to educate our students and visitors.”

Etienne Perret (left) presenting the "Madonna ring" to GIA Museum Director Elise Misiorowski. Photo © Exposures Ltd. and Gary Michael 2007.

About GIA:

Save $150 This Summer on GIA Online Business Classes

Wed, 04 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America has announced that for a limited time, the GIA School of Business is offering its online courses for $840 each – a savings of $150 per course. Sessions start July 16 and last 10 weeks. The special savings can be applied towards any of the eight online courses offered.

“GIA online courses provide students convenient access to a comprehensive jewelry business education in the comfort of their own environment,” said Dr. Mink Stavenga, dean of the School of Business. “Any time, any place, day or night, students are able to have access to assignments and connect with fellow students and professors.”

"More importantly, though, the GIA School of Business courses give students knowledge and insight into the unique and highly competitive world of the jewelry business. Not business alone, but the business of gems and jewelry."

Stavenga said, “Our online courses are flexible enough to fit into anyone’s existing work or education schedule. If you want to learn more in a convenient manner, you can. If you want to earn more, the GIA School of Business can give you the tools you need to succeed.”

During the summer quarter starting July 16, students can enroll in any of the required lower division courses for GIA’s Bachelor of Business Administration degree program: Principles of Management, Accounting Basics, Fundamentals of Marketing, and Principles of Economics. These courses, along with upper division courses: Marketing Management, Human Resource Management, Retail Management, and International Law and Trade, can all be taken online.

Prospective students can take a free demonstration course to sample the online learning environment and coursework of the GIA School of Business in that section of the GIA website on http://www.gia.edu/.

About GIA:

07/07/07 Proving Popular For Weddings

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Saturday July 7, 2007 will be one of the most popular wedding dates in history. Over 38,000 weddings are being reported that day on theknot.com, whereas a typical weekend in July has closer to 10,000 weddings. Some couples are taking the number seven even farther than the date, hosting seven bridesmaids and bridegrooms, seven course banquets and, of course, adding seven diamonds to the wedding band.

The number seven is being played up by companies as well as couples. In Las Vegas there will be over 3000 weddings on Saturday. The LaBella Wedding Chapel and Planet Hollywood both feature wedding specials that day for $777. The Little White Wedding Chapel offers a $77, seven-minute wedding accompanied by seven flowers for the bouquet. Famous nuptial sites like the Bellagio will be running multiple weddings, beginning in the wee hours of 07/07/07 and progressing right up to 11:30PM. The Flamingo is hosting 77 weddings at 7 locations and the Las Vegas Ritz-Carlton boasts a $7,707 package including seven hours of spa treatment, two nights in a seventh-floor room, and a shopping credit of $777 at Neiman-Marcus.

The Ritz-Carlton New York Central Park is offering a Lucky Number 7 Wedding Package for $77,777, proclaiming Saturday July 7, 2007 to be “the luckiest day in history.” It includes room for 77 guests, a cocktail hour with 7 canapes, a custom 7-tier wedding cake and even seven diamonds for the bride from Tiffany & Co, consisting of a 1.18 ct five-stone platinum shared-prong wedding band with F VVS diamonds and a pair of I VVS earrings. The company further offers a 7-night honeymoon at any of their hotels.

The popularity of dates like 05/05/05 and 06/06/06 was notable but 07/07/07 may prove to be the most popular wedding date for many years to come.

Liddicoat Scholarship Fund Campaign Underway

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) fifth annual Richard T. Liddicoat (RTL) Scholarship Fund Campaign is now underway. Contributors to the scholarship campaign, which runs through December, will be helping qualified individuals build their careers in the gem and jewelry industry.

The RTL Scholarship Fund was created by the GIA Alumni Association in 2003 to honor Liddicoat, the Institute’s longtime president and chairman, who is regarded as the “Father of Modern Gemology.”

The RTL Scholarship Fund was created in 2003 as an opportunity for donors to honor Liddicoat and support gemological education. Photo © GIA.

The fund furthers Liddicoat’s personal mission of providing gemological education to worthy students by awarding two full scholarships each year in the GIA Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) diploma program. The winners will be announced at GIA’s Industry Awards Presentation at the Tucson trade shows in February 2008.

To date, the RTL Scholarship Fund has granted eight full scholarships. This year’s recipients, Dixie M. Louviere of New Orleans and Victoria Pulla-Corella of New York, were awarded scholarships for the On Campus and Distance Education programs, respectively.

“I am honored to be the recipient of such a prestigious scholarship,” said Pulla-Corella. “Thanks to GIA and Mr. Liddicoat’s legacy, my dream to design and market jewelry that’s on par with some of the industry’s most well-known companies is taking its first step toward becoming a reality.”

To contribute to the RTL Scholarship Fund or to establish a GIA scholarship in the name of an individual, company, or professional organization, contact Bev Berthoty, GIA manager of Institute Relations at 800-421-7250, ext. 4120.

Applications for the 2008 RTL Scholarships are available by on the GIA website at www.gia.edu and will be accepted until Oct. 15, 2007. Many additional GIA scholarship applications are available and can also be found on the GIA website in the education section.

About GIA:

GIA Hosts First Law Enforcement Training Day

Mon, 02 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – According to the Jewelers’ Security Alliance (JSA), the jewelry industry lost more than $105 million in 2006 due to crime. To help combat these losses, which frequently combine with the potential for violence, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) was recently called upon by federal and local law enforcement to provide a full day of diamond and gem training.

Dan McCaffrey (left), special agent for the FBI, is shown here using a microscope with Dan Campbell, director of Education for GIA New York. Photo © GIA 2007.

The event, the first of its kind for GIA, was held last month at GIA’s New York City Education facility, with 24 law enforcement officials in attendance, including representatives from Belgium and Canada, as well as specialized NYPD detective units and FBI agents from New York, New Jersey, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C.

Spearheaded by GIA New York’s Director of Education, Dan Campbell, with support from the Institute’s Education and Laboratory departments, the program was designed to enhance attendees’ knowledge of gemology in order to aid in the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases. Campbell covered topics as diverse as diamond characteristics and inscriptions, colored stones, synthetic gems, and the use of microscopes and loupes. He also discussed standard methods for grading diamond clarity, color, and cut, along with determining carat weight.

In addition, Ivy Cutler, a GIA staff gemologist who serves as the Laboratory’s lead liaison with law enforcement, explained how agents can use the expertise and services of the Laboratory to identify stolen jewels or assist with prosecution. Bob Frank, vice president of JSA, also presented an overview of JSA and its focus on industry crime.

Brian J. Nadeau, Supervisory Special Agent for The FBI’s Major Theft Unit, played a key role in preparing for the training day program. "The FBI welcomes the opportunity to work with GIA in this effort,” said Nadeau. “Specialized training is always helpful to law enforcement, and this class provided FBI agents with good information to enhance future jewelry and gem investigations."

For GIA, deterring gem theft and assisting in the recovery of stolen property is an important part of its mission to protect the public’s trust in gems and jewelry. According to Larry Wright, GIA’s director of Corporate Security, the response from law enforcement officials attending the event was very positive.

“Our work with law enforcement is very important to us, and as a non-profit, public benefit organization, we see it as our role to help them in whatever way we can,” said Wright. “We’re very positive about the potential for this training program, which will ultimately benefit consumers and the trade alike on a global level.”

The GIA team, along with law enforcement, is now carefully evaluating attendee feedback to adjust, enhance, and further provide the highest standard of training and education to meet the specific needs of law enforcement. GIA may then make this training available in the future for other law enforcement agencies.

About GIA:

AGS Unveils New "Diamond Quality Analysis"

From AGS, Las Vegas, Nevada - Small is the new “mighty” at AGS Laboratories. The Lab unveiled a new diamond grading document at the JCK Las Vegas show today, the Diamond QualityTM Analysis (DQA).

The DQA is similar to the Diamond QualityTM Document though in a more compact 8.5’’ x 4.75’’ format. The DQA contains a complete analysis of the diamond’s Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight, and while a laser inscription is included in the document, it will not have a plot. The DQA will be used for diamonds weighing .18 carats to .99 carats.

“We’ve been getting increased demand for the DQA, and we wanted to give our clients additional tools to sell their diamonds,” says Peter Yantzer, Executive Director of AGS Laboratories. “The DQA adds even more diversity to our product line, and is perfect for clients who need a document with a complete cut grade for their smaller diamonds.”

The AGS Laboratories, established in 1996, is committed to protecting the consumer by providing unbiased grading reports based on the highest standards of diamond grading. AGS Laboratories is the only diamond grading laboratory licensed to use the AGS Performance-Based Cut Grade System — the first-ever cut grading system for a fancy shaped diamond. The Lab currently issues a cut grade on round brilliant, princess, and emerald cut diamonds. Other shapes are due to come on line in the near future.

For more information on the AGS Performance-Based system, or any of their products and services, please mail marketing@agslab.com.

Find Your Dream Job at GIA's Career Fair

Fri, 29 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – Are you passionate about jewelry and thinking about a career in the industry? Then don’t miss the upcoming GIA Jewelry Career Fair on July 27 at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. Career Fair is considered the industry’s premiere recruiting event and can get you up-close and personal access to high-profile companies, leading industry experts and even, ultimately – a profession in the jewelry industry.

Besides having the opportunity to interview with top employers, attendees also get to meet, listen, and learn from some of the industry’s most prestigious individuals through workshops, panel discussions, and career coaching sessions.

Many past Career Fair attendees have successfully found employment through the event.

Sumeet Chordia—a Graduate Gemologist (G.G.), Graduate Jeweler (G.J.), Applied Jewelry Arts (A.J.A.), and who also holds a Jeweler Business Management diploma (J.B.M.)— attended a previous Career Fair and met with a Tiffany & Co. executive, a meetingthat eventually led to a position for him there. Chordia believes Career Fair was instrumental in finding that first major job upon which he’s basing his career.He is now an apprentice for a high-end jeweler, Zonnie Shiek, in New York.

“The GIA Career Fair is the best platform for individuals interested in the jewelry industry,” said Chordia. “It brings together a variety of personalities and opportunities all in one setting. It gets the career process moving and makes job seekers aware of what's out there and where they want to go. Everyone seeking a career in the jewelry industry should attend Career Fair.”

Paty Mejorado, an Applied Jewelry Arts (A.J.A.) and Graduate Jeweler (G.J.), attended a previous Career Fair and found her present employer through the event. She is now a gemstone buyer for Los Angeles-based Star Ring andcredits Career Fair forleading her to this role.

Mejorado explained, “My Career Fair experience came full-circle, as I not only found a career I am passionate about, but I walked away finding the most fitting professional role based on my skills and talents. I believe that because I attended Career Fair, I found my dream job.”

In addition to the July 27 event being held in New York City, Career Fair will also be held on Oct. 19 at GIA’s Robert Mouawad Campus in Carlsbad, Calif. Like New York, the Carlsbad event will feature career coaching in addition to panel sessions and recruiting opportunities.

Job seekers can visit GIA Career Fair for more information, or call GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair hotline at 800-421-7250, ext. 4100. Admission for job seekers is free. Employers who wish to recruit at Career Fair can call 800-421-7250, ext. 4195.

GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair was founded by GIA and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California. The prime sponsor for the New York Career Fair is The Nielsen Jewelry Group, and the prime sponsor of the Carlsbad event is the JCK International Publishing Group.

About GIA:

"Rockdoc" Bill Lieberum Passes Away at 59

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

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Bill “Rockdoc” Lieberum, who passed away June 20 at the age of 59, was interred in his home state of Florida today.

Well-known to internet bloggers for sharing professional opinions and advice at no charge, Lieberum was a specialist in consumer fraud and appeared as a court witness and on radio and TV talk shows over many years to expose “shady practices” in the diamond and jewelry business. He was a Gemological Institute of America Graduate Gemologist, a former American Gem Society retail store owner, and Certified Gemologist Appraiser. A music lover, Lieberum was also an accomplished pianist who enjoyed playing jazz and rock and roll.

Lieberum started in the trade in 1979 by polishing rings and working for a colored stone dealer. He closed his retail store and became an independent appraiser in the mid 1980s. Since that time he had worked to help thousands of consumers make intelligent decisions when buying gemstones and jewelry.

Dave Atlas of Accredited Gem Appraisers, a fellow appraiser, said of Lieberum, “Bill led by example in his later years. He was a strong advocate of consumer fairness. So much so, that he scared a lot of potential work away, but he wanted to play the game by his own set of rules and it is my belief he did this with honor. No one made more thorough reports and I sure would not have wanted him opposite me in an expert testimony situation. He was adamant about his positions and learned how to make his case and defend his territory. He fought hard for his clients and he set a good example of complete appraising and service. Bill never had quite enough time because he wouldn't rush a job out before he was perfectly content with the appraisal. I will miss his contributions and his often counterpoint views. It’s difficult to outlast your contemporaries and I am saddened to hear we no longer have Bill around to pick on us or for us to pick on him. RIP.”

Many of us at Whiteflash knew Bill personally. He was a champion for highest quality and consumers constantly sang his praises to us.

Highly regarded for expertise in both gemological and legal circles Bill was best known as a long-time contributor to internet education. More than anything, he loved to share his considerable knowledge - talking and answering questions with anyone and everyone - and was extremely generous with his time. He was a teacher, a perfectionist and above all, someone completely dedicated to the things he loved and passionately committed to sharing those things with others.

We will miss you Bill. Rest in peace.

Sarin Works to Boost Consumer Confidence with Retailers

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Sarin Technologies demostrated its new tools designed to enhance consumer confidence at the retail counter with immediate confirmation of the cut quality and color grades of diamonds, as well as providing a simple means of laser inscribing information on the girdle of a diamond. Sarin's vice president of marketing, Udi Lederer, said the company is reaching out to retailers in the United States following the company's research that concluded consumers are demanding more information from retailers on the diamonds they buy.

CRJP Explains 2008 System

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From CRJP, London, UK – The Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices (CRJP), which promotes responsible ethical, social and environmental practices throughout the diamond and gold jewellery supply chain, held its annual general meeting (AGM) and a stakeholder meeting in London on 14 May 2007. The stakeholder meeting was attended by nearly 20 organizations, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and representatives of the worldwide diamond and gold jewellery industry. The stakeholder session, arranged by CRJP’s leadership team and attended by many CRJP members as well, was held to give stakeholders the opportunity to comment on CRJP’s planned introduction of a third-party monitoring system in 2008. CRJP CEO Michael Rae conducted the AGM and facilitated the stakeholder meeting, with input from CRJP Chairman Matthew A. Runci, CRJP committee chairs and secretariat staff. CRJP member firms have pledged to hire independent, third-party monitoring firms to examine a wide range of their ethical, social and environmental practices. The monitors will assess whether the members are in conformance with the Council’s agreed Code of Practices, approved in 2006 [go to http://www.responsiblejewellery.com/ to view the CoP].

At the stakeholders’ meeting, CRJP Standards Committee Chairman James Evans Lombe explained the complexity of the Council’s undertaking, pointing out that no responsible practices initiative had yet attempted to monitor a range of ethical, social and environmental practices across such a complicated supply chain. Evans Lombe stressed that CRJP will introduce the monitoring system in phases, based on the different sections of the CRJP Code of Practices, to ensure that members fully understand their responsibilities and have sufficient time to self assess their practices, as well as to hire independent monitors.

CRJP Programme Director Santiago Porto explained the current plan for CRJP’s implementation system, emphasizing that it will be a system of continuous improvement. “As long as our members are getting better year on year, we will accept their phased approach to changing practices,” said Porto. But CRJP CEO Michael Rae also emphasized that the Council will develop sanctions and enforcement actions, as well as a complaints mechanism, to identify members that, ultimately, do not make progress on adherence to the group’s Code of Practices. In response to stakeholder questions, Rae outlined the CRJP’s intentions to create a committee that is transparent and credible, to evaluate and, if necessary, discipline member companies that fail to meet the CRJP’s standards.

How The CRJP System Will Work

CRJP’s working plan is that each member will be required to map its supply chain, self assess each facility the company runs, and share the self-assessment with an independent monitor and CRJP. CRJP will provide a variety of tools for its members to use in the self-assessment process, including guidance documents that quickly explain:

1.) What the member needs to know about each specific section of CRJP’s Code of Practices

2.) What steps the member needs to take to be in compliance with the Code

3.) How the member can evaluate company performance against the Code’s standards

Once the self-assessment is complete, members will hire independent monitors. The independent monitors will:

1.) Review members’ reports

2.) Identify facilities to visit

3.) Conduct inspections, identify good practices, and offer corrective action plans where needed

4.) Prepare summary reports for members, which will be filed with the CRJP secretariat

CRJP will begin to pilot some of its self-assessment tools and systems during the Northern hemisphere’s summer, continuing and expanding into the fall, with a volunteer group of members, from all levels of the supply chain. By January 2008, the group aims to require members to start their first self-assessments, based on specific parts of the CRJP Code of Practices, such as those that address adherence to the Kimberley Process and World Diamond Council’s System of Warranties, as well as adherence to anti-money-laundering (AML) practices. Members will also begin hiring independent monitors to evaluate their progress in 2008.

Feedback From Stakeholders

Among the feedback given to the Council during the 14 May meeting was the concern that outside stakeholders have not been sufficiently consulted on a formal basis, on the details of the Council’s work in developing its implementation and monitoring system. CRJP’s secretariat has been regularly consulting, on a one-on-one basis, with individual NGOs, on various aspects of the system. It also pledged at the meeting to consider a proposal being developed by a group of NGOs, concerning more formal NGO engagement going forward.

Stakeholders also suggested that CRJP consider outside certification of its approved monitors, by organizations completely independent of CRJP, for the greatest assurance to consumers that the system is credible.

In addition, some stakeholders asked questions concerning the specific practices CRJP will require of its large mining members. Rae explained that CRJP is participating in the ongoing Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA), a multi-stakeholder initiative that eventually could allow independent monitors to assure mines are operating responsibly. When the IRMA system is complete, CRJP hopes to recognize a miner’s IRMA assurance as credible evidence of its adherence to responsible mining practices. In the short term, however, CRJP will also require that its mining members adopt existing credible codes of responsible practices, such as the “International Cyanide Management Code For The Manufacture, Transport and Use of Cyanide In The Production of Gold.”

Finally, other stakeholders also asked questions about CRJP’s commitment to improving working conditions among artisanal, small-scale miners (ASM). Rae cited CRJP members’ active involvement in Diamond Development Initiative (DDI) projects, which aim to improve conditions among artisanal diamond miners; he also referenced CRJP’s founding role in the Madison Dialogue, another multi-stakeholder group seeking to encourage the sourcing of gold, diamonds and other minerals from responsible artisanal and small-scale producers. It is CRJP’s plan to continue to liaise with other organizations’ efforts to certify small-scale miners, such as the certification system planned by the Association for Responsible Mining (ARM). CRJP hopes to be able to recognize such certification systems as being in accordance with CRJP’s Code of Practices, too. CRJP announced at its AGM and stakeholder meeting that its membership has risen to 70 members, from all parts of the diamond and gold jewellery supply chain. To see the current list of members, or to learn more about CRJP, visit http://www.responsiblejewellery.com/.

ABOUT CRJP

The Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices has as its objective to promote responsible ethical, social and environmental practices throughout the diamond and gold jewellery supply chain from mine to retail. CRJP encourages all members of the diamond and gold jewellery supply chain to join in its work. Interested parties should contact info@responsiblejewellery.com.

EGL USA Introduces Light Performance on Grading Reports

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

EGL USA is introducing a new “360 º Diamond Report Service" available in July of this year. It will feature light performance as a new EGL measure for overall diamond quality. The new service was developed utilizing ImaGem’s light performance technology.

The lab will be assigning a new overall grade for each diamond called the Diamond’s Natural Attraction, or DNA. It will be made of twelve elements relating to cut, proportion, light performance and polish & symmetry, or finish.

Mitch Jakubovic, director of EGL USA says “Today’s retailers and consumers are increasingly savvy. This new report goes beyond any evaluation available before. It accounts for the fire and magic of each stone, enabling retailers and consumers, whether shopping in a store or online, to have complete confidence in their purchases."

Susan Johnson Elected to ACCSCT

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) today announced that Susan B. Johnson, GIA’s director of education administration, has been elected school commissioner by the membership of the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT). Johnson will begin serving as part of a team of 13 ACCSCT commissioners starting July 1, 2007.

The announcement marks the first time that a GIA staff member has been elected to a position on ACCSCT’s governing board. Brook Ellis, GIA’s vice president of education, serves on the governing board of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC) and was recently presented with their distinguished service award. GIA holds dual accreditation, with both the ACCSCT and the DETC.

According to Donna Baker, president of GIA, both executives epitomize GIA’s continuing commitment to the highest levels of academic quality. “Susan has dedicated her career to not only achieving the utmost standards in education in our industry, but also to sharing her wealth of knowledge with others,” she said. “We’re proud of her accomplishments and we’re confident that she will serve as an excellent ACCSCT commissioner.”

As GIA’s director of education administration, Johnson is a member of the organization’s education leadership team and plays a key role in operating its global educational business, which serves 16,000 students annually. Throughout her tenure at GIA, she has served as a faculty member, managed the extension division (now lab classes), directed alumni development and filled the role of dean of students. In addition, Johnson has been intimately involved with GIA’s accreditation, compliance, and licensure endeavors. She is also a member of the Association for Career and Technical Education and the Women’s Jewelry Association.

Formed in 1967, ACCSCT has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an authority on the establishment of educational standards and practices. The ACCSCT serves more than 200,000 students across the U.S. and provides accreditation of private, post-secondary, non-degree-granting institutions as well as degree-granting institutions, including those offering associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees that are predominantly for occupational, trade, and technical careers.

GIA is one of more than 800 institutions holding ACCSCT accreditation, and was recognized by the organization as a school of distinction in 2006.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trusts in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA can be found on the web at http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton 760-603-4112.

India Bans Rough from Cote d'Ivoire

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

India has placed a ban on the import of rough diamonds from Cote d’Ivoire in compliance with the United Nations Security Council and other industry organizations. The UN, World Diamond Council and the Kimberley Process places bans on rough diamonds leaving that country after discovering that exported rough was funding weapons.

Helzberg Rewards Good Samaritan

Helzberg Diamonds will be awarding $10,000 to a man who turned in a lost cargo bag with over $260,000 worth of jewelry in it. The Midwest Airlines employee who found it on the ground after his shift ended on June 11, 2007 discovered the valuables and turned it over to police. In appreciation for the man’s honesty Helzberg is awarding him the money and will be making an additional $5000 donation to a local court advocate group in the man’s name.

AGS Labs Appoints New CEO

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Frank Dallahan has been appointed as the new president and chief executive officer of the American Gem Society Laboratories.

Frank Dallahan

“This is a new position created to bring AGS Laboratories to the next level," said Clayton Bromberg, chairman of AGS Labs. "Frank’s varied experience and his reputation made him an ideal candidate for this position. The AGS Laboratories has experienced dramatic growth over the past few years, and the Lab board believes there is a significant growth opportunity ahead. Frank’s leadership skills and industry contacts will play an important role in achieving this growth scenario.”

Formerly CEO of MJSA, Dallahan will begin his position at AGSL on July 15, 2007. MJSA will immediately begin the process of finding a new CEO to replace Dallahan.

Rapaport Awards Eli Izhakoff For Service to Industry

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The Rapaport Group presented the first “Rapaport Award” to Eli Izhakoff for his long-time commitment to ensuring industry social and corporate responsibility. As Chairman of the World Diamond Council (WDC), Izhakoff has led efforts to eradicate conflict diamonds and protect the integrity of the diamond industry.

The award was presented during the Rapaport annual state of the diamond industry conference at the JCK Las Vegas show 2007. The Rapaport Award recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations for exemplary service to the diamond industry.

Before assuming his position with the WDC in 200l, Izhakoff served as president of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses for three consecutive terms.

“Eli Izhakoff, has devoted his career to serving the public interest. His efforts to unite the diamond industry in support of the Kimberley Process and assist government implementation of controls that eliminate conflict diamonds is worthy of praise. Our award is made to recognize Eli’s contributions and encourage others to follow in his footsteps,” said Martin Rapaport, Chairman of the Rapaport Group.

The Rapaport Group
The Rapaport Group is an international network of companies committed to providing added value services that support the development of free, fair and competitive global diamond markets. Group activities include publishing, internet information and trading networks, rough and polished diamond trading services, international buying, quality-control and compliance services, shipping and financing services and research and marketing services.

About Us
Whiteflash is the first company in the U.S. to specialize in the coveted Hearts & Arrows diamond and bring the sheer beauty of “super ideal cut” to the Internet. Debi Wexler, a computer entrepreneur founded Whiteflash in 2000 bringing an expansive selection of loose diamonds to the Internet, including an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows. A Cut Above (ACA®) is unmatched in its brilliance, fire and sparkle and remains the only Hearts & Arrows diamond sold online with advertised standards and a “true patterning” guarantee. In addition, Whiteflash offers original handcrafted platinum and gold settings, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, custom designed engagement rings and diamond jewelry.

JCK Fair Trade Jewelry Conference Highlights Sustainable Options

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The Rapaport Fair Trade Conference at the JCK Las Vegas Show, highlighted viable options for the creation of sustainable development jewelry. Panelists from various organizations presented their views on the growth of global fair trade, the need for sustainable development in Africa and the accompanying demographic and labor issues. In addition, the conference looked at consumer interest in fair trade as well as the growing visibility of the concept in the business and media sectors.

Lourens Maré, CEO of the Jewellery Council of South Africa, and Demos Takoulas, CEO and founder of Vukani-Ubuntu Community Development Projects, both stressed the critical role that fair trade jewelry could play in facilitating sustainable development initiatives. They explained that fair labor practices and local manufacturing of jewelry could bring employment opportunities and other benefits to local communities.

Tom Cushman, a gemstone dealer with first-hand knowledge of artisanal mining in Madagascar, emphasized this point by offering examples from Madagascar, which he described as “the poorest country on earth without a current military conflict.” He explained how the migration of many of Madagascar’s poorest citizens each year to the country’s mining and panning areas underscored the need for fair labor practices to prevent substandard and chaotic working conditions. He called for the implementation of standards that could also benefit the local communities with the development of health centers and improved drinking water and electricity.

Eric Braumwart, CEO of Columbia Gem House, a manufacturer of “fair trade” gems, noted how far the concept of ethical jewelry had evolved over the past few years. Recalling the scant interest in such jewelry at previous conferences as little as five years ago, he shared how some retailers had embraced the concept at this year’s JCK show. “This is the first show where we have had retailers walk into our booth and say ‘We’re ready to buy—we want to buy the concept,’ he said. Braumwart argued that fair trade is not only moral and just for low-wage workers, but it is also “the right business thing to do.”

Caren Holtzman, director of category management for TransFair USA, the flagship purveyor of fair trade products in the U.S. talked about the economic achievements of fair trade, noting that over 150 million lbs of fair trade coffee have been certified since its inception in 1997. In addition, the certified coffee is currently available in such mainstream outlets as Costco, Sam’s Club, Whole Foods, McDonald’s and Dunkin’ Donuts, with over $100 million in additional revenue going to coffee farmers, Holtzman said.

Veronika Kohler, a spokeswoman for the World Bank’s CASM Secretariat, called fair trade “a market-driven opportunity for development” in mining areas. She noted that the $50 billion dollar jewelry market in the U.S.could take advantage of this opportunity as public awareness of the issue increases.

GIA Plans Global Expansion

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) announced that its Board of Governors, here for a biannual governance meeting, has approved plans for GIA to expand its global footprint. The organization will now initiate efforts to strengthen its international presence with new state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers as well as educational facilities in Southeast Asia, southern Africa, and other regions across the globe. In addition, GIA will add diamond grading services to its existing world-class laboratory and research center in Bangkok, Thailand.

According to Ralph Destino, chairman of GIA, expansion is necessary to deliver on GIA’s mission of upholding the highest standards in gems and jewelry. “The plan will allow GIA to address the rapidly growing significance of gemological centers around the world, while also responding to requests from regional government and trade leaders alike for a stronger global presence.”

GIA already operates 14 education facilities, four research centers and three laboratories throughout North America, Asia, and Europe, with an additional education center in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) scheduled for completion next year. According to Donna Baker, president of GIA, the new international expansion plans will allow GIA to bolster its grading, research, and educational offerings in several significant industry centers.

“This milestone announcement comes following intense market analysis and strategizing,” said Baker. “We will focus on offering each geographic market a total presence – complete with education, research, and laboratory operations. Our goal is to meet the growing demands of the world’s expanding markets while retaining our commitment to the highest standards of gemology.”

Each laboratory will be fully staffed to support GIA customers on both a regional and international level. According to Baker, GIA is also looking closely at other major industry centers, beyond Southeast Asia and southern Africa, for further worldwide expansion.

“We have our global strategy defined and we are confident in our ability to deliver on our mission, while maintaining the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism,” said Baker.

About GIA

Special Savings on GIA Business Courses This Summer

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – With special savings available on GIA School of Business courses, the time has never been better to improve your jewelry business skills. Students enrolling in any online GIA School of Business course for the July 16 term will save $150 per course.

Each 10-week course combines traditional business theory with jewelry industry specifics and practical strategies that students can immediately use in their careers. Eight courses, ranging from Retail Management to International Law & Trade, are offered at the special price of $840, making it easy and affordable for working professionals to choose subjects that fit their career goals and budgets.

Online business students participate in an interactive classroom environment with peers from different parts of the world and different parts of the industry. They contribute to class discussions in an open forum, and learn from e-lectures, jewelry-specific case studies, textbook readings, and each other, all while applying the curriculum directly to the industry.

GIA offers its Bachelor of Business Administration degree, Jewelry Business Management diploma programs, and individual business courses both online and at its World Headquarters and Robert Mouawad Campus in Carlsbad, Calif.

The summer term starts online and on campus on July 16, 2007. For more information, or to apply to the GIA School of Business, please call 800-421-7250, ext. 4001 or visit http://www.gia.edu/.

About GIA:

Recruiting at GIA's Jewelry Career Fair

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – For seventeen years, GIA's Jewelry Career Fair, regarded as the industry’s premier recruiting event, has offered unprecedented hiring opportunities for gem and jewelry businesses.

This year, Career Fair will be held on Friday, July 27, at the Jacob Javits Center in New York and on Friday, Oct. 19, at GIA’s Robert Mouawad Campus in Carlsbad, Calif. Career Fair will again offer firms the perfect opportunity to recruit and hire some of the industry’s most skilled and talented candidates.

Employers participating in GIA’s 2007 Jewelry Career Fair meet face to face with hundreds of qualified and highly motivated jewelry industry job hunters, including GIA graduates eager to launch their careers. Top firms such as Tiffany & Co., Fortunoff, Zale Corporation, Iridesse, and The Bell Group–Rio Grande are among the many who have already registered to attend.

Employers who recruit at Career Fair receive pre- and post-event recognition via newspapers, trade magazines, the Web, and direct mail. Employers are also prominently featured on GIA's Career Fair microsite, where job seekers turn to learn more about the companies that are hiring and to pick up useful information to help them in their job search.

Employers who sign up before June 15 are eligible for free display advertising in the event program, which is distributed to all Career Fair attendees and GIA students throughout the year.

The entire recruiting package, which includes space, signage, and all pre- and post-event visibility, costs $400 for New York and $300 for Carlsbad, and only $500 for both Career Fairs combined.

According to Dani Oliver, GIA’s Career Services manager, who oversees the Career Fair recruiting area, more than 50 companies are expected to participate this year. “The chief benefit for recruiters is that in just one day and in just one place, they can meet hundreds of highly trained and passionate job seekers,” said Oliver. “And job seekers are always amazed at the number and caliber of companies represented there.”

Kathryn Kimmel, GIA’s vice president of Marketing and Public Relations and creator of Career Fair, said some of the most recognized companies in the industry attend the event each year. “Successful companies know that Career Fair is the best place to find bright, committed talent who will make positive contributions to their organizations,” said Kimmel.

Employers interested in participating should contact GIA’s Career Services office at 800-421-7250, ext. 4195. They can also go to GIA Career Fair website at http://careerfair.gia.edu/ for more information and to download registration forms.

Job seekers can also go to the GIA Career Fair website for more information, or call the Jewelry Career Fair hotline at 800-421-7250, ext. 4100. Admission for job seekers is free.

GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair was founded by GIA and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California. The prime sponsor for the New York Career Fair is The Nielsen Jewelry Group, and the prime sponsor of the Carlsbad event is the JCK International Publishing Group.

About GIA:

Exhibits, Poster at GIA Collection Booth in Las Vegas

Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

JCK Show attendees who stop by the GIA Collection booth (No. 34548 at the AGTA GemFair Cultured Pearl & Jewelry Pavilion) during the show can pick up the limited-edition 2007 GIA Collection poster.

The free poster features Bradley Weber’s 2002 AGTA Spectrum Award–winning ring titled “Neptune’s Birth.” The ring will be on display at the booth as part of an exhibit of loose cultured pearls and cultured pearl jewelry from sources such as French Polynesia, the South Seas, Japan, China, and the United States. These pieces are all donations to the GIA Collection.

Also at the GIA Collection booth, GIA research associate Al Gilbertson will be discussing his upcoming book, American Cut: The First 100 Years. This volume traces the history of American diamond cutting from 1860 to 1960 and focuses on the evolution of what is now known as the “Ideal Cut.”Gilbertson will be on hand May 31 and June 1, accompanied by instruments of 19th-century cutter Henry Dutton Morse, a cubic zirconia replica of the 77 ct. Tiffany II yellow diamond, and copper castings of the original crystal and finished diamond.

About GIA:

New Awards Program for GIA Alumni

Thu, 31 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The GIA Alumni Association is launching two new awards this month.

“The GIA Alumni Association is continuing a year of change and growth with a new global awards program,” said Linda Ellis Harmeling, GIA’s vice president and chief Advancement officer. “The goal is to encourage graduates to continue their professional development and leadership.”

“The GIA Alumni Association is increasing its reach, and we look forward to forming new chapters around the world and expanding its programs and offerings,” Harmeling said. “We, along with the Alumni Executive Council, wanted to design an international awards program that truly rewards ethics, professionalism, commitment, and participation among our members.”

Each GIA Alumni chapter is invited to participate in the program, which begins with internal nominations. Chapter members will vote for their colleagues who best fit the criteria for the GIA Alumni Achievement Award and Alumni Leadership Award. Nominations are due to each Alumni chapter officer by July 1; the names of the winners in each category should be submitted to GIA by Aug. 1. The chapter award certificates will be presented by local chapter officers in the summer.

Officials from the Institute’s Advancement and Education departments will meet with the Alumni Executive Council to select the two chapter awardees who will receive the International Alumni Achievement and Alumni Leadership Awards. Those awards will be presented during the Alumni Association’s Auction and Dinner Dance at the 2008 Tucson gem and mineral shows. All individual chapter winners will also receive recognition at the dance party.

The Criteria For New Alumni Awards Are:

The Alumni Achievement Award will be presented to a chapter member who:

Demonstrates and promotes integrity, ethical business practices, and professionalism.
Is dedicated to achievement in the gem and jewelry industry, academics (continuing education), and chapter activities.

The Alumni Leadership Award will be presented to a chapter officer who:

Demonstrates mentorship, welcomes new members, advances GIA's nonprofit mission, and promotes an active, growing chapter through innovative programs and activities.
Promotes continuing education for members.
Sets an example for chapter membership by demonstrating integrity, ethics, professionalism, leadership, and commitment to maintaining and enhancing a vital, dynamic chapter.

About GIA:

GIA Offers New Diamond Grading Services

Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is introducing several new diamond grading services and restructuring its diamond grading fee structure. These changes will become effective June 4, 2007.

“The GIA Laboratory is committed to bringing the best possible laboratory services to our clients,” said Tom Moses, senior vice president of GIA Laboratory and Research. “We’re working on several levels to bring this about: from offering new services at new prices to expanding our geographic base to be closer to our customers.”

First, GIA is expanding the range of the carat weight size of its Diamond Grading Report services that will now be offered on diamonds weighing 0.15 ct and larger while the GIA Diamond Dossier® Services (as GIA announced last week) will be offered on diamonds weighing 0.15 ct to 1.99 ct. Fees vary by carat weight.

GIA is also introducing a new, Diamond Type Analysis Service. Loose, natural diamonds may be submitted to the GIA Laboratory for analysis to determine diamond type: Ia, Ib, IIa, or IIb. This service is supplemental to a GIA Diamond Grading Report, Colored Diamond Grading Report, or Colored Diamond Identification and Origin Report either issued previously or at the time of analysis. The fee varies depending on whether the results are disclosed verbally or if a letter describing the results is issued.

In addition, GIA is offering a new ability to print actual inscribed graphics or inscribed logos directly on all GIA Diamond Reports and Dossiers. Instead of describing the logo using alpha-numeric text, customers can now request to have their inscription graphic or logo displayed on the report. With this new GIA Inscription Service, the “Inscription” or “Additional Inscription” line item on the grading report will be used to report both GIA and client-performed inscriptions. No distinction will be made between the two inscriptions.

Finally, GIA is changing its Recheck and Final Observation fees. According to Moses, “These secondary services demand the time of our most senior and experienced technical staff, yet only a small percentage of items submitted actually result in a grade change. After much consideration, we decided it was neither cost-effective nor an efficient use of resources to continue with the previous fee structure.”

“The new fees…more accurately reflect the time, resources and expertise involved in providing these services. However, in keeping with our policy, if the Recheck and Final Observation service results in a change to the diamond’s grade, there will be no charge.”

Moses said, “GIA is aggressively looking for ways to improve internal efficiencies and improve service to our clients. We hope to announce new services and other improvements regularly throughout the year.”

About GIA:

GIA Board Releases Record Funding for 2008 Scholarships

Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) Board of Governors has released record funding for 2008 scholarships in the amount of $297,000 from the GIA Endowment Fund. This disbursement will fund approximately 49 new scholarships in the GIA Schools of Business, Gemology, and Jewelry Manufacturing Arts (both On Campus and Distance Education). This additional funding will allow the Institute to provide a total of 91 scholarships in 2008.

For the first time ever, GIA scholarship funding will be set aside for international Distance Education gemology students and those wishing to enroll on campus at GIA London and GIA India. The Institute will also expand its current scholarship program in the United States.

In preparation for awarding international scholarships, the Institute is addressing the local tax and legal issues in each country.

"We are thrilled to be expanding our scholarship program to reach deserving individuals around the world," said Linda Ellis Harmeling, GIA vice president and chief advancement officer. "The education of tomorrow's jewelers, gemologists, and business leaders is the best investment our industry can make in its future."

The endowed scholarships are furnished by the interest earned on the GIA Endowment Fund. Because the principal is never touched, gifts to the Fund guarantee that the Institute can fulfill its educational nonprofit mission in perpetuity.

All 2008 scholarship applications must be received between June 15 and Oct. 15, 2007. The successful recipients will be selected and notified by December 31, 2007.

Applications for 2008 scholarships can be submitted between June 15 and October 15, 2007. Application forms will be available for download from GIA's website beginning June 15. To find out more, call 760-603-4175 or e-mail financialaid@gia.edu.

To learn about contributing to the GIA Endowment Fund or a GIA scholarship, e-mail Institute Relations manager Bev Berthoty at bberthoty@gia.edu or call 760-603-4120.

About GIA:

AGS Appoints Van Ells Director of Gemological Services

Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The American Gem Society Laboratories (AGS) has appointed Joe Van Ells as director of gemological services. Van Ells has served as large diamond grading manager and gemology instructor for Stuller, a gemstone buyer and quality assurance manager for QVC Shopping Network and a gemological instructor for GIA.

Peter Yantzer, executive director of AGS Laboratories commented; “Joe shares the lab’s philosophy for setting the highest standards for diamond grading. He exemplifies the AGS Laboratories’ benchmark for excellence.”

GIA ETP Explores Running a Jewelry Business

Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) School of Business Executive Training Program (ETP) is a five-day (full-time) to two-week (evening) intensive program in jewelry business, developed specifically for aspiring and mid-level managers who want to learn the fundamentals of building and leading a successful jewelry organization. This June, the ETP is being offered at both GIA New York and GIA London.

GIA’s ETP examines how leadership, strategy, finance, marketing, and operations work collectively to build and maintain a successful operation. For example, students learn how to differentiate their business in the marketplace, develop an effective advertising program, motivate staff members to enhance their performance, and conduct an internal system and process review. They take a critical look at what needs to be done now to move ahead in the future.

Giovanni Valencia, adjunct professor for GIA’s School of Business and instructor for the New York ETP this June, said the program takes place in an interactive and fast-paced environment, where students are encouraged to participate and bring their own industry perspective to the classroom.

“Students in the ETP will explore the fundamental aspects of competing in a fast-changing, global industry,” Valencia explained. “Through lectures, discussions, and case studies, we'll delve into what makes a true business leader. And, we'll explore how companies can leverage their existing resources to achieve lasting success.”

The 2007 schedule for the ETP is as follows: at GIA New York on June 11–14 and June 18–21 (evenings); at GIA London on June 25–29 and September 24–28; and at GIA Florence on July 9–13. A three-day management seminar will be held in Tokyo Oct. 2–4.

For more information about the ETP classes in New York, contact nyedu@gia.edu. For details about the London ETP class, e-mail info@gialondon.co.uk. Contact ETP in Florence at info@giaflorence.com. For information about the seminar in Tokyo, call GIA Japan - Tokyo on 813-3835-7046.

Students interested in continuing their education after the ETP can also enroll in GIA’s Bachelor of Business Administration degree or Jewelry Business Management diploma programs, or take individual business courses. All these business courses are offered online and on campus in Carlsbad, Calif.

About GIA:

Beyonce and Armani ink Diamond Deal

Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Beyoncé Knowles is set to be the face - and voice - of Giorgio Armani's new perfume, Emporio Armani Diamonds. The 'Dreamgirls' star will lend her looks and vocal talents to a TV advertising campaign, after being handpicked by the revered Italian designer.

A source told the New York Post newspaper: "They have known each other for seven years, and Armani feels Beyoncé represents the glamour and glitz of the fragrance."

The 25-year-old beauty will reportedly sing "an old American song" in the commercials.

This is Beyonce's second fragrance deal according to archived news found on SoJones.com. On the fashion site, Beyonce's House of Dereon clothing page, linked news articles reveal the pop and R&B singer formerly signed a deal with Tommy Hilfiger. The 'Crazy In Love' Singer inked and launched a "True Star Gold" fragrance deal with Hilfiger in 2004.

The world-kwown sexy symbol and mega-star has also featured in advertising campaigns for L'Oreal, Pepsi and McDonalds. Emporio Armani Diamonds is set to hit shelves in September.

GIA Expanding Dossier Size Ranges

Sun, 20 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – GIA is expanding the carat weight range of diamonds that qualify for Diamond Dossier® service.

“In response to heightened demand, we’re making our Diamond Dossier service accessible to more people through a wider range of diamond sizes,” said Tom Moses, senior vice president of GIA Laboratory and Research. “Effective June 1, we’ll be lowering the minimum size of diamonds graded to 0.15 cts. and raising the largest size to 1.99 cts.”

Since it was introduced in late 1998, the compact Diamond Dossier format has proven to be an attractive product for both the general public and the industry.

“The Dossier includes the same grading, proportion and measurement information as the GIA Diamond Grading Report, but without a plotting diagram,” said Moses. “This makes it a cost-effective grading and inscription service for diamonds in this size range.”

The Diamond Dossier comes with a free laser inscription registry of the GIA report number on the stone’s girdle, providing for fast and easy identification. Additional information can be inscribed for a fee.

“Turnaround time is dropping, and GIA is committed to bringing it down significantly in the coming months,” said Moses. “Additionally, we’re working on many other parts of our business to make it faster, easier and more convenient to work with the GIA Laboratory. Expanding the popular Dossier service is just one more way of meeting client needs.”

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA’s website address is http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

Online Sales to Increase 18 Percent This Year

Tue, 15 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From National Jeweler Network - Washington, D.C.—Non-travel online sales could reach $259.1 billion in 2007, an 18 percent increase over last year, according to a new report by Forrester Research for Shop.org.

The study, "The State of Retailing Online 2007," predicts that the online apparel, accessories and footwear category will increase to $22.1 billion this year. Last year, $18.3 billion was spent on the category, marking the first time ever that American consumers spent more on online clothing purchases than on online computer purchases.

The report attributes the growth in the apparel, accessories and footwear category to an influx of new companies and liberal shipping policies such as free shipping on returns and exchanges. In addition, such retailers have integrated new technology into their sites including rich imaging, which allows consumers to zoom in on or rotate images of merchandise, or see the merchandise in different colors.

Computer hardware and software, long the frontrunner for non-travel online sales, fell to second place last year, with sales of $17.2 billion, followed by sales of automobiles and auto parts ($16.7 billion) and home furnishings ($10 billion).

GIA Announces 3 Executive Changes

Thu, 10 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) today announced the creation of a new position in Education, a new International Operations position, and the retirement of a senior executive.

GIA has appointed Duncan Pay, director of Course Development, to the newly created position of Chief Academic Officer. In this new role, which will become effective Jan. 1, Pay will assume the responsibilities of Brook Ellis, vice president of Education, who has announced his plans to retire from GIA.

Pay joined the staff of GIA in 1998, and has served as director of Course Development since 2001. With an educational background in geology, Pay brought to the Institute 15 years of industry experience in retailing, wholesale buying, and course development. A principal architect of GIA’s new-generation education program, Pay was recognized as a Staff Member of the Year in 2001.

GIA has also created the new role of vice president of International Operations, and has named Tawfic Farah to the position, effective June 1. Farah will report directly to Donna Baker, president of GIA.

In this capacity, Farah will be responsible for all international activities at GIA. Directors of GIA’s international locations, as well as Seung-Hae Moon, director of Global Education, will report to him on matters of business planning and operations. GIA Education and the GIA Laboratory will be responsible for gemological matters.

Farah returns to GIA from the Dubai Multi-Commodities Commission (DMCC) where he served as executive director for Diamonds and Colored Stones since June 2004. At the DMCC, he worked as a project leader for government relations with numerous diamond producing countries and established trading platforms for diamonds, colored stones, and pearls. He has a PhD in political science from the University of Nebraska, and he has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in Comparative Development and International Relations at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Baker said, “I congratulate Duncan and Tawfic on their new positions. I also thank Brook for the excellent job he has done in developing the quality, versatility and depth of the gemological and business education available at GIA, as well as expanding its global reach. Under his leadership, GIA Education has continued to excel as the leading academic institution in our industry.”

Ellis plans to step down from his current position on Dec. 31, 2007, and take on a new role at GIA as Executive Advisor to assist with transitional issues until his full retirement in June 2009.

Ellis joined GIA in 1995 as vice president of Operations and became vice president of Education in 1996. From 1983 to 1995, he served as a member of GIA’s Board of Governors.

During Ellis’ tenure, GIA Education opened new schools in London, Moscow, Los Angeles, China, and India, thereby expanding GIA’s global presence to 14 schools in 11 countries. Ellis also supervised the introduction of the Accredited Jewelry Professional (AJP) diploma, the Applied Jewelry Arts (AJA) diploma, the Jewelry Business Management (JBM) diploma, and the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree offered by the GIA School of Business.

Ellis’s career began in 1959 with Henry Birks & Sons, Ltd., one of Canada’s largest fine jewelry chains, where he ultimately filled the role of vice president of Fine Jewelry. He is a past director of the American Gem Society and past president of Jewellers Vigilance Canada, Inc.

Brook received the American Gem Society’s Certified Gemologist title in 1974. Elected to the Distance Education and Training Council’s Board of Trustees in 2000, Brook was also elected second vice president of DETC in 2001 and to its Accrediting Commission in 2002. He served as DETC treasurer and was recently honored with its Distinguished Service Award.

About GIA:

Blood Diamond Movie to Play in Sierra Leone

Tue, 08 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations World Food Program, in conjunction with Warner Bros. will present free screenings of the movie Blood Diamond in Freetown, Sierra Leone on May 8 and 9, 2007.

The movie, directed by Edward Zwick, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou and Jennifer Connelly, centered on the illicit diamond trade which fueled the 1990s civil war in that country. "It is wonderful to have the chance to make this story available to the people of Sierra Leone," Zwick said in comments to the media. "After all, it is a story that belongs to them."

The World Food Program (WFP) is providing food assistance to 300,000 people in Sierra Leone in efforts to help the country rebuild after the devastating civil war.

GIA Spring G&G: Color and Serenity Coated Diamonds

Tue, 08 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Spring 2007 edition of Gems & Gemology features articles on pink-to-red coral, a new type of coated diamond, and trapiche tourmaline from Zambia, plus the annual G&G Challenge quiz and more.

Leading the Spring issue is “Pink-to-Red Coral: A Guide to Determining Origin of Color,” by Christopher Smith and co-authors. Pink-to-red coral has been a popular ornamental gem material for thousands of years, and pale coral is often dyed to give it this desirable color. The article compares the identifying characteristics of natural and dyed pink-to-red coral and reports, based on the study of more than a thousand samples, that while magnification and exposure to acetone will identify the presence of dye in many cases, Raman spectroscopy can always establish conclusively (and nondestructively) whether the color is natural or dyed.

“The supply of natural-color pink-to-red coral has diminished in recent years, which means we’ll see more of the dyed material,” said G&G editor-in-chief Alice Keller. “This article is an essential tool in determining if the color is natural or artificial.”

The next feature is “Serenity Coated Colored Diamonds: Detection and Durability,” by Dr. Andy Shen and colleagues. A new multi-film coating technique from Serenity Technologies produces a variety of evenly distributed, natural-looking “fancy” colors on diamonds, including intense blue, green, yellow, and orange to pink to purple-pink. The authors found that while this sophisticated coating can be detected by careful examination with a microscope, UV-Vis absorption spectra and chemical analysis will confirm the treatment. Their study also revealed that the coating is stable to some standard repair and cleaning procedures but may be damaged by others.

Rounding out the Spring issue lineup is “Trapiche Tourmaline from Zambia.” Thomas Hainschwang and coauthors examine these unusual green tourmalines that display a striking six-rayed growth pattern in cut slices, reminiscent of trapiche emerald or ruby. The find in northwestern Zambia is believed to be the first occurrence of true trapiche tourmaline.

The journal’s regular Lab Notes section reports on the latest discoveries at the GIA Laboratory, while the Gem News International section contains highlights from this year’s Tucson gem and mineral shows, as well as other gemological happenings from around the world.

This issue also marks the twentieth anniversary of the G&G Challenge, the annual quiz that lets readers test their gemological knowledge. The 25 multiple-choice questions are based on G&G feature articles from 2006. Successful participants will receive a GIA Continuing Education Certificate and, if they score one hundred percent, recognition in an upcoming issue of Gems & Gemology.

To order the Spring 2007 issue or to subscribe, visit www.gia.edu/gemsandgemology or contact Circulation Coordinator Debbie Ortiz at dortiz@gia.edu. Call toll-free 800-421-7250, ext. 7142. Outside the U.S.and Canada, call 760-603-4000, ext. 7142.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA’s website address is http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

GIA and CSUSM Libraries to Share Resources

Mon, 07 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The libraries at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) have announced the two libraries are extending borrowing privileges to each other’s students and faculty.

The Richard T. Liddicoat Gemological Library and Information Center (GIA Library), located on the Robert Mouawad campus of GIA in Carlsbad, Calif., will loan materials to non-GIA students and staff for the first time.

In return, GIA students and faculty will have access to CSUSM’s Library of more than 260,000 book volumes, as well as sound, film and video recordings.

Left to Right…Mink Stavenga, GIA dean of the School of Business; Paula Rucinski, GIA library manager; Rose Tozer, GIA senior research librarian; Mark Stengel, CSUSM library associate dean; Ann Manning Fiegen, CSUSM business and economics librarian; Dona Mary Dirlam, GIA director of the R.T. Liddicoat Gemological Library and Information Center; Jacqueline M. Borin, CSUSM’s librarian, coordinator, and public services; and Marion T. Reid, dean of the CSUSM Library.

In addition to the mutual borrowing privileges, the GIA Library is providing the CSUSM Library a subscription to GIA’s quarterly, scientific, award-winning journal Gems & Gemology, as well as G&G back issues from 1981 to date. Issues from 1934-1980 are available for free download on GIA’s website (http://www.gia.edu/). The GIA Library will also give GIA Museum exhibition catalogs to the CSUSM Library as they become available.

CSUSM students and faculty can take advantage of the world’s largest gemological library and GIA's expert library staff. GIA librarians will answer “ready reference” questions in the fields of gemology and jewelry received via e-mail, telephone or fax, as they do for other members of the public.

Mink Stavenga, Dean of the School of Business at GIA commented that “Access to the CSUSM Library will be especially helpful to the GIA School of Business students who are attending GIA to acquire a four-year Bachelor of Business degree, with an emphasis in jewelry.”

The sharing of resources will offer a more extensive collection for students at both schools. The agreement between the two organizations began in late 2006 when, Dean Stavenga along with Dona Dirlam, Director of the Richard T. Liddicoat Gemological Library and Information Center approached Marion Reid, Dean of the Library, CSUSM, about a reciprocal agreement.

“The GIA Library collection is the world’s leading research collection on gems and gemology. We are delighted that our students and faculty now have access to its treasures. We welcome GIA students and faculty to our Library,” said Reid.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA’s website address is http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

Liberia Admitted to Kimberley Process

Sat, 05 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Liberia has been admitted to the Kimberley Process following an assessment mission led by the European Commission, along with representatives from Botswana, industry and civil society. This development, along with the UN Security Council’s decision to lift the diamond embargo on Liberia on April 27, means Liberia will now be able to export its rough diamonds legally to other Kimberley Process countries.

The country has been under UN sanctions for six years. Kimberley Process officials have visited Liberia for the past three years to provide guidance on implementing controls on diamond production and trade to prevent conflict diamonds. The Security Council adopted resolution 1753 this year, lifting the diamond embargo, based on the progress made.

Benita Ferrero-Waldner welcomed today's developments, saying, "This first concrete achievement of the Kimberley Process in 2007 demonstrates the Commission's commitment to move forward in ensuring that diamond trade promotes peaceful development rather than fuels conflict.”

Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, Louis Michel, said, "This is a very important step for the development of Liberia, paving the way towards the country's reintegration into the international diamond community and marking the very end of any potential future financing of the war by blood diamonds. Moreover it is a formal recognition by the International Community that the efforts deployed by President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in the field of Governance are producing the expected results and I praise such efforts."

The Process will continue to support and monitor Liberia closely post-admission. This leaves Côte d’Ivoire as the only country subject to UN diamond sanctions.

Ellis Wins GIA DETC 2007 Distinguished Service Award

Sun, 03 May 1007 00:00:00 GMT

Brook Ellis, (left), received the 2007 Distinguished Service Award in Tucson, as presented from Mike Lambert, DETC executive director.

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - Brook Ellis, GIA’s vice president of Education, has been presented with the “2007 Distance Education and Training Council’s Distinguished Service Award.”

Michael P. Lambert, executive director of DETC, said, “This honor is given to individuals in the distance education field for their outstanding service that has enhanced the image of distance education or significantly furthered the work of the DETC.”

“This is one of the highest and most coveted awards in distance education world-wide. In the DETC’s 81-year-history, only themost outstanding leaders havereceived the award."

According to Lambert, "Brook Ellis is deeply respected and admiredin the distance educationfield, and GIA's global reputation for the highest academic quality in the distance education community is legendary. Quality is not an accident. Ellis and the GIA team are thoughtful, accomplished leaders in our profession."

In awarding Ellis the plaque, Marie Sirney, chairman of the DETC Awards Committee and executive vice president of American Graduate University, said, “The members of DETC know Brook’s position at GIA requires a great deal of responsibility and hours of international travel, yet he still devotes an enormous amount of his personal time to DETC. It’s a great pleasure to award this distinguished service award to Brook – his outstanding support for distance education has more than earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.”

Ellis has held the position of vice president of education for GIA since 1996. He has long been a supporter of the jewelry industry and served on GIA’s Board of Governors from 1983-1995. He is a past director of the American Gem Society and chairperson of AGS’ Examination Committee; and was formerly vice president - Fine Jewelry for Henry Birks & Son, Ltd. in Canada.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA’s website address is http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

5th Sinkankis Symposium "Most Successful Ever"

Thu, 03 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The 5^th Annual Sinkankas Symposium held Saturday, April 21, may have been the most successful Sinkankas Symposium ever, according to organizer Roger Merk.

None of the 140 attendees at the day-long, sold-out educational event − which focused on jade − would have disagreed with him.

The audience heard world-renowned specialists talk about jade deposits, trends in the jade jewelry market, gemological characteristics of the different varieties, tips for fashioning the material, and clues to understanding jade’s many quality characteristics.

Merk explained, “It was a terrific event because it concentrated so much knowledge in one place with so many people who appreciated the information.”

Anne Schafer of the San Diego Mineral and Gem Society, which co-hosted the event with GIA, agreed with Merk, saying the Symposium’s enthusiastic crowd enjoyed in-depth, entertaining, and enlightening talks from eight very different experts.

Speakers and their topics included: Fred Ward, National Geographic authorand photographer, on Jades of the World; Si Frazier, author and researcher, on Nomenclature of Jade; Don Kay, of Mason-Kay Importers, on Burmese Jadeite Jewelry; Dale Blankenship, an accomplished jade carver; and John Koivula, GIA gemstone inclusion expert, on the Microworld of Jade.

Also taking a turn at the microphone were Richard Hughes, authorand gem authority, on Burmese Jade Deposits; Mary Lou Ridinger, Guatemalan jade expert, with her views on the Current Guatemalan Jade Market; and George Rossman, professorof mineralogy at the California Institute of Technology (Cal Tech), on the Causes of Color in Jade.

Ward illustrated his talk with his photographs of carvings and localities, and provided historical facts and information about the symbolism in jade carvings. As one example, he said that the Ming Dynasty in China loved horses, and used horses as motifs for their jadeite and nephrite carvings, which were especially prized if two colors of jade were represented.

Frazier drew audience chuckles with his descriptions of various types of natural jade. He also included information about the nomenclature of jade, jade simulants, and “jade wanna-be’s.”

Koivula said that inclusions in gemstones provide an accurate picture of where gems come from and how they were formed. He noted that, “We have to get used to the idea that Mother Nature cooks in a very dirty kitchen, and this helps us understand how gem materials form.”

Dr. Rossman’s presentation looked at plate tectonics and how such forces contributed to the formation of jades in Southeast Asia. He then talked about the sophisticated instrumentation he uses to determine the cause of color in a piece of jade.

In addition, attendees got to view dazzling jade carvings and displays, such as the Eight Immortals jadeite carving donated by Sophie Leu, the jadeite mask donated by Ridinger, and a selection of natural-color jadeite donated by Mason-Kay.

The Annual Sinkankas Symposium is named in honor of renowned gemologist, author, and lapidary John Sinkankas. Previous Symposiums examined quartz, tourmaline, beryl, and phenomenal stones. The topic for next year will be garnets, with the exact date still to be determined.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA’s website address is http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

Whiteflash Repeats as “Winner of Distinction”

Thu, 03 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Whiteflash.com has been named a Houston Better Business Bureau “Winner of Distinction” for the second consecutive year. The company recoeved the award at the InterContinental Hotel in downtown Houston at a banquet recognizing businesses in the Greater Houston area for achievements and commitment to overall excellence and quality in the workplace.

Better Business Bureau member companies must maintain an ongoing and superior level of commitment to ethics, overall excellence, and quality in the workplace to earn the award. Whiteflash was one of 82 finalists and seven retail-based businesses to receive the honor.

The online boutique a company hailed by Kiplinger’s Financial Magazine as “Lord of the Online Rings,” recently partnered with FOX television and FOX-Searchlight movies in nationwide promotions, and has been featured in the Business Journal, the Chicago Tribune and other national publications. Last year Whiteflash created an initiative called Dreams Of Africa (http://www.dreamsofafrica.org/), whereby all profits from a designer line of jewelry are donated to benefit children in areas of hardship.

Whiteflash.com is an internet company specializing in precision cut diamonds and custom jewelry creations. Just shy of its 10-year anniversary, the company previously operated under the name Alpha Creations. Founded in 1998, Alpha Creations sold at wholesale costs to jewelry store chains across the country. Today, renamed Whiteflash.com, the company sells at the same wholesale costs, but direct to the consumer.

GIA Museum Wins Award for Calendar

Wed, 02 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The 27^th Annual American Association of Museums (AAM) Publications Design Competition acknowledges excellence in the graphic design of museum publications. It is the only national, juried event involving publications produced by museums of all kinds and sizes.

Two awards were given under the “Calendars” category for museum budgets under $750,000 – “First Place” and “Honorable Mention.” The GIA Museum won the “Honorable Mention” award for the “Happy Holidays” calendar that GIA sent out as their holiday greeting last year.

This year’s contest drew 1,040 entries from museums across the nation and, out of that, 104 entries were selected as winners.

GIA’s winning calendar was created using 12 photos of jewelry and gemstones chosen from the “Celebrating Excellence in Gems and Jewelry” exhibit, the special collection of one-of-a-kind pieces the GIA Museum brought together last year in conjunction with the 4^th International Gemological Symposium. The exhibit debuted on August 26, 2006 at GIA’s 75^th Anniversary celebration, and was kept on display at the Institute’s Carlsbad headquarters and Robert Mouawad Campus through November 30, 2006.

Exhibits at the GIA Museum are free and available to the public through scheduled tours. To sign up for a tour, contact GIA’s Guest Services or call 800-421-7250, ext. 4116. Outside the U.S., call 760-603-4116.

About GIA:

Sarin Appoints US West Coast Rep

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Guy Zymann has been appointed U.S. West Coast Representative for Sarin Technologies, a manufacturer of technological tools for the diamond industry. He will be responsible for the sales and support of Sarin products used by diamond and jewelry retailers in the region. This appointment comes with Sarin’s decision to enhance its focus on the US retail diamond industry.

Marketing VP Udi Lederer commented “This year marks our commitment to resolving consumer confidence issues related to diamond quality on the jeweler’s sales counter. We are now better equipped to tackle this vital task.”

Formerly sales manager at House of Diamonds in San Diego, Zymann is Sarin’s second representative in the U.S. The company’s first is in New York.

End to Liberian Sanctions Recommended

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A Kimberley Process delegation visited Liberia earlier this month to assess that country’s readiness to join KP.

Sanctions have existed since 2001 when it was discovered Liberia’s exports were funding arms. After taking office in early 2006 President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has made continued requests to lift sanctions. The United Nations Security Council confirmed that the ban on exports would be reviewed. On April 28 Grand Cape Mount County Senator Abel Massaly appeared on local media, also calling upon the United Nations to lift the sanctions, claiming that the prior conditions no longer exist and applauding the Johnson-Sirleaf led-government.

Stephane Chardon, European Commission representative of the KP delegation commented, "The panel made a few technical points that need to be corrected, but the bottom line recommendation is that Liberia is ready to join KP," The panel's report was forwarded to the UN Security Council for review, which is expected to take place in the coming days

Sotheby's New York Jewelry Auction Brings $22 Million

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Sotheby’s auction house held a sale of “Magnificent Jewels” in New York city on April 24 which returned $22,440,200 with the top four lots all selling for more than $1,000,000.

A 74.95 ct fancy intense yellow diamond, sold for $2,056,000 represented the top lot. The second was an 18.54 ct emerald which brought $1,888,000. A 16.98 ct D VVS1 emerald-cut diamond by VanCleef & Arpels sold for $1,552,000 as did a necklace signed Reza, Paris, with a 30 ct baguette collar suspending a 48.91 ct J VS2 pear-shaped drop.

JCK 2007 Bigger Than Ever

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From JCK Events - Jewelry retailers from around the world will have the opportunity to be enlightened by leading industry authorities who are scheduled to speak in the expanded educational program at JCK Las Vegas. In addition to perusing the exhibits and attending the special events, retailers should plan to take time to participate in this unparalleled educational program taking place in two buildings this year at both the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino and the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). The conference kicks off with several extensive tracks devoted to the topics critical to business success and professional enhancement. Plus, there will be special sessions featuring industry and editorial experts, an executive round-table presentation, and renowned speakers including JCK's keynote presentations by the legendary Suzanne Somers and independent jeweler consultant Shane Decker.

Suzanne Somers (www.suzannesomers.com)

"This year we are very excited to be able to offer more topics with incredible breadth and depth of content in two buildings at JCK Las Vegas," remarks Dave Bonaparte, Group Vice President, JCK Events. "The JCK Show - Las Vegas 2007 is more than a spectacular celebration and bustling marketplace for building new business. The JCK Show is a place to build success and professional enhancement through its unique educational programs. Each year we look to meet our attendees' ever-changing business needs and strengthen the industry as a whole through our educational programs," added Bonaparte.

The educational program held in the ballrooms at the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino on Wednesday, May 30 and Thursday, May 31, from 9:00 am - 4:30 pm will include separate tracks on Diamonds, Gems, Business, Jewelers of America and Jewelers Notebook. The hour-long seminars include such hot topics as "Fancy Cut Diamond Grading" and "Jump Start a Selling Spree with Natural Color Diamonds" (Diamonds track); "Top Five Hot Color Topics" and "GIA Research Update" (Gems track); "Independence on the Web" and "Clienteling Your Way to Core Business Success" (Business track sponsored by Ziva Jewels); "A Realistic Look at Using the Internet to Grow" (JA track) and, "Reaching Higher Platinum Profits" (Jewelers Notebook track sponsored by Arzy). On Thursday, May 31, attendees are invited to kick off their educational program with the IDI Breakfast Panel Discussion "It's All About the Money: The Diamond Industry 2007." Attendees will learn from the industry insiders about the systems, tactics and know-how to benefit from diamond pricing and sales at every level of the pipeline.

On the opening morning of the Show, Friday, June 1 at the Las Vegas Convention Center attendees will be wowed by an incredible breakfast keynote presentation by Suzanne Somers. In addition, a second keynote presentation featuring Shane Decker, Independent Jewelry Consultant, Ex-SELL-Ence, Inc., will take place over lunch at the Las Vegas Convention Center at 12:00 pm on Saturday, June 2. Decker will discuss "Are They Really Just Looking?," the real truth behind building relationships with customers from the beginning even if they don't make a purchase. Complimentary boxed lunches will be available for all attendees.

On Saturday, June 2, from 8:30 am - 10:00 am at the Las Vegas Convention Center there will be an Executive Roundtable Discussion moderated by Matt Runci, President, Jewelers of America. High-powered panelists include Beryl Raff, JC Penney; John Green, Lux Bond & Green; Terry Burman, Sterling; Ofer Azrielant, Jewelry.com; Pete Engel, President, Fred Meyer Jewelers; and Esther Fortunoff, Executive Vice President Merchandising, Fortunoff. Retailers will hear this power panel of industry leaders discuss the most critical topics pertaining to their business such as synthetics versus natural diamonds, the growing impact of the Internet, and business responsibility and accountability. And, from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, there will be a Profit Mastery Seminar focusing on practical tools to evaluate a business and grow its value, by Steve LeFever, Chairman and Founder, Business Resource Services. There is a fee of $295 for this course.

From Friday, June 1 - Tuesday, June 5 at the ETS Equipment, Technology, Services and Supplies Pavilion on Level 1 of the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, the Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) will present "At the Bench Live," a series of hands-on interactive demonstrations conducted by some of the industry's leading jewelers. Equipment and Tool Sponsor is Rio Grande, Albuquerque, NM.

PRODUCED AND MANAGED BY:

The JCK Show - Las Vegas is produced by JCK, the leading producer of trade events in the fine jewelry industry. The series of JCK Events are designed to serve the worldwide jewelry industry by offering the most comprehensive and complete buying and selling opportunities on a business-to-business basis. The JCK Show - Las Vegas will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Sands Expo & Convention Center/The Venetian Hotel Resort Casino, Friday, June 1 through Tuesday, June 5, 2007. In addition to The JCK Show - Las Vegas, other upcoming JCK Events include LUXURY by JCK/PREMIERE (by invitation-only) to be held at The Venetian Hotel Resort Casino, Tuesday, May 29 through Thursday, May 31; Swiss Watch by JCK to be held at the Venetian Hotel Resort Casino from Friday, June 1 through Tuesday, June 5, 2007; JCK New Delhi to be held July 7-10, 2007 at the Pragati Maidan Exhibition Centre in New Delhi, India and Jewellery World Expo to be held August 12-14, 2007 in the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. For more information on any of the JCK Events, visit http://www.jckshows.com/ or simply call 1-800-257-3626.

AGS Heads to Denver for International Conclave 2007

Fri, 20 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From AGS, Las Vegas, Nevada - The American Gem Society’s International Conclave will be held in Denver, Colorado from April 25-28, 2007 at the Denver Marriott City Center. Five ground-breaking speakers will present programs throughout the four-day conference recognized as one of the industry’s premier educational and networking events. Jim Collins, Andrea Learned, Renée Mauborgne, Scott Ginsberg, and Ross Shafer will make an appearance at this year’s Conclave— each exemplifying the highest level of experience and know-how in strategic planning, marketing, advertising, and brand development.

Jim Collins has invested more than a decade of research into successful businesses. Collins has authored four books, including GOOD TO GREAT: Why Some Companies Make the Leap…And Others Don’t, which topped the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Business Week bestseller lists. Collins has developed practical tools for senior executives and CEOs at more than 100 companies, and has also worked with social sector organizations, such as Johns Hopkins Medical School, The Girl Scouts of the USA, and the United States Marine Corps. Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company will sponsor Collins’ appearance at International Conclave 2007.

Author, marketing consultant, and speaker Andrea Learned is the founder and president of Learned on Women, as well as co-author of Don’t Think Pink: What Really Makes Women Buy and How to Increase Your Share of this Crucial Market. Learned’s marketing philosophy centers around the concept of “transparent marketing”— developing a deeper understanding of gender roles, lifestyles, and generational experiences. Companies will develop authentic connections with their market going beyond the stereotypical marketing techniques creating rich, relevant, and lasting relationships with their customers. Diamond Promotion Service will sponsor Learned’s appearance at International Conclave 2007.

Renée Mauborgne is one of the world’s premier experts on business strategy, innovation and wealth creation in the knowledge economy. As co-author of the book Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant, Mauborgne brings business audiences an important breakthrough in strategic business thinking. Mauborgne considers “Blue Oceans” to be untapped markets, and her presentation will focus on how companies can define a new market space for themselves. Hearts On Fire will sponsor Mauborgne’s appearance at International Conclave 2007.

As the only person in the world who wears a name tag all day, every day, Scott Ginsberg has made it his mission to help people be friendlier and more approachable. At only 26 years of age, Ginsberg has carved a niche for himself in the international business community through the publication of three books, as well as speaking engagements, and interviews on the “Today Show,” “CNN Headline News,” and the Wall Street Journal.

Emmy Award winner, author, comedian, and failed pet shop manager turned network TV host, Ross Shafer, is, as his friend Jay Leno put it, “a motivational speaker without the speech.” Schafer, who saw great success with his book Nobody Moved Your Cheese, will be making his second Conclave appearance in 2007. He has written several other books, including the comedic delight Cook Like a Stud. Recently, Shafer founded the Customer Empathy Institute™ focusing on customer service. Shafer has worked with companies such as Microsoft, Nordstrom, Wells Fargo, and Federal Express, just to name a few.

In addition to presentations by internationally renowned speakers, Conclave attendees may attend a Welcome Reception featuring fare by Gourmet magazine, a Fashion Show presented by Vogue, an in-room educational event titled, Breakfast in Bed, sponsored by Wells Fargo Financial Retail Services, and Access AGS, a 24-hour-a-day source for Conclave information hosted by Ross Shafer.

American Gem Society members can register for International Conclave 2007 at AmericanGemSociety.org/conclave. Non-members interested in attending should contact Wendy Stevens at conclave07@ags.org or toll-free at 866.805.6500 extension 1018.

The American Gem Society, founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley, is a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to proven ethics, knowledge, and consumer protection within the jewelry industry. The American Gem Society is the international professional organization for all Registered Jewelers (RJ), Certified Gemologists (CG), and Certified Gemologist Appraisers (CGA). Members are held to the highest ethical and professional standards in the industry

and must pass annual recertification examinations to maintain their American Gem Society titles. Less than five percent of jewelers in the country have met the exacting requirements for membership. For more information regarding the American Gem Society, please call 702.255.6500, or visit their website at http://www.americangemsociety.org/.

GIA Presents 2006 Volunteer Award

Thu, 19 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the world’s foremost authority in gems and gemology, will present its 2006 GIA Chapter Volunteer Award to U.S. Virgin Island Senator Shawn-Michael Malone in recognition of his work in establishing an alumni chapter in St. Thomas. The chapter works to establish the study of the science of gems and gemology on the island in recognition of the importance of jewelry to the tourism industry there. The presentation takes place at the “GIA Rocks Tucson” party, celebrating the GIA Alumni Association’s 25^th Anniversary while raising money for GIA’s Alumni Endowment Fund.

Proceeds from the GIA Rocks Tucson event benefit the GIA Alumni Endowment Fund, which is part of the larger GIA Endowment Campaign. Endowment monies are permanently invested, leaving the interest earned to be disbursed over time to support GIA Alumni Association needs such as continuing alumni education, student equipment loan programs, or other priorities.

GIA – the Gemological Institute of America:

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA can be found on the Internet at http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton 760-603-4112.

Jade is Topic of 5th Annual Sinkankas Symposium

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - For most people, jade evokes an image of a brilliant green gemstone. Surprising to many, it also occurs as luminous examples of many other colors including white, orange, and lavender. Because of its beauty and durability, jade has been treasured around the world for centuries.

Jade has been valued as a gem material for thousands of years. Photo by Tina Hammid.

The public is invited to explore the world of jade at the Fifth Annual Sinkankas Symposium, to be held Saturday, April 21, 2007 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the GIA Robert Mouawad Campus, 5345 Armada Drive in Carlsbad, Calif. Registration starts at 8 a.m. with coffee and donuts. Lunch is included in the price of admission.

This Art Deco jade pendant features diamonds, onyx, rubies and emeralds. The jade beard is finished with an emerald clasp. Photo by Robert Weldon.

The Sinkankas Symposium is co-hosted by the San Diego Mineral & Gem Society and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Named in honor of the renowned gemologist, author and lapidary John Sinkankas, the event will devote a full day of discussions, lectures, and demonstrations to this lustrous gem, led by an impressive list of experts in a wide variety of fields. More than five different local gem and mineral clubs, from Los Angeles to Fallbrook, plan to attend.

The Sinkankas Symposium offers a full day of presentations, covering a wide range of discussions suitable for the novice and expert alike. Topics will range from types of jade, such as jadeite or nephrite, new discoveries, photography, carving, appraising and many other issues. Many jade items will be on display as well.

Some of the speakers and their topics include: Fred Ward, National Geographic author and photographer, on Jades of the World; Si Frazier, author, on Nomenclature of Jade; Don Kay of Mason Kay Importers on Burmese Jadeite Jewelry; and John Koivula, GIA gemstone inclusion expert on the Microworld of Jade.

Also on the list is Richard Hughes, author and gem authority, on Burmese Jade Deposits, Mary Lou Ridinger, Guatemalan jade expert, with the Current Guatemalan Jade Market and George Rossman, professor and mineralogist at California Institute of Technology (Cal Tech) on the Causes of Color in Jade.

Price for admission is $75.00 per person and April 14^th is the deadline for getting a ticket. Past events have sold out. The registration form is available by calling Anne Schafer of the San Diego Mineral & Gem Society at 858.586.1637 or annes@san.rr.com.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA’s website address is http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

Marianne Hunter Lecture at GIA

Fri, 06 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) offered the second address in its 2007 Museum Lecture series, “A Synergy of Art and Science,” on Wednesday, April 3. This special presentation featured award-winning jewelry designer Marianne Hunter, who shared how her techniques combine a variety of materials to create an “Inspirational Interplay: The Collaboration of Arts and Materials.”

This necklace was created by Marianne Hunter with a combination of enamels and natural gem materials. Gift of Marianne Hunter in memory of Sammie Dunn.

“Marianne’s pieces incorporate gemstones, enamel and precious metals with poetry and symbolism that her fans say bring out people’s emotions, imaginations and even inspiration,” said Elise Misiorowski, director of the GIA Museum.

Hunter says her defining moment in life was when she was given a hobby enameling kit after high school. Largely self-taught, she learned the enameling process, metalsmithing, and, through experimentation, came up with techniques of her own.

She says each piece is a story she tells herself while she works. She begins the design process by searching for the theme, and the inspiration can come from anywhere: a gem, a personal experience, a careful study, or the flash of an idea. The sustaining theme is always to articulate the beauty, mystery and benevolence of the world.

Her work includes three to five firings of black enamel over copper or silver for the background, which is then built up and fired with very thin layers of enamels. A piece is finished using very fine mesh of white enamel over black, then colored foils, and more transparent enamels. Additional layers of enamels and foils are built and fired until the full range of desired color, shading and detail is achieved. One completed piece can require from 12 to more than 100 firings.

Each piece is unique and is completed with an engraving of its title, individual number, date and Hunter’s signature. A poem written especially for the piece is etched on the back of the item as well. Each piece is registered to its owner.

Marianne Hunter wearing one of her pieces.

Hunter’s work is on display in several museums in the U.S. (including the Smithsonian), Canada, and Japan and has graced numerous books, including the Art of Fine Enameling and Art Jewelry Today.

Both presentations are typically given to capacity audiences; the student venue accommodates about 75 people, and the evening event about 180. Each evening lecture sells out mere days after the invitation is mailed.

The mission of the GIA Museum is to increase awareness about gems, jewelry, gemology and related technologies through exhibits, lectures and programs that educate and engage the public and the trade. The Museum strives to reach and motivate local, national, and international audiences.

About GIA:

“White Magic” Casts its Spell on GIA through May 2007

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - Since Jan. 19, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Museum has hosted the South Sea Pearl Consortium’s exhibit, “White Magic.” The exhibit will be on display at the Institute’s Carlsbad headquarters through May 15.

Sponsored by the Paspaley Pearling Company, the exhibit features South Sea cultured pearl jewelry by 16 international jewelry designers, including Henry Dunay, Ellagem, Fai Co, Lily Lam, Christian Tse, Stephen Webster, and David Yurman. For the exhibit, Paspaley provided its finest cultured South Sea pearls to each of the specially selected designers.

Piece by David Yurman. Pearls by Paspaley Pearling Company. Photograph by Douglas Dubler for the South Sea Pearl Consortium Exhibition.

Piece by Henry Dunay. Pearls by Paspaley Pearling Company. Photograph by Douglas Dubler for the South Sea Pearl Consortium Exhibition.

Piece by Stephen Webster. Pearls by Paspaley Pearling Company. Photograph by Douglas Dubler for the South Sea Pearl Consortium Exhibition.

According to GIA Museum Director Elise Misiorowski, "White Magic" is a traveling exhibition that has been on display in cities throughout the world, including New York, Milan, London, and Hong Kong.

“We are thrilled to have this extraordinary collection here in Carlsbad,” said Misiorowski. “Because each piece was created specifically for 'White Magic,' we are able to offer the public a glimpse at a unique collection of stunning pearl jewelry that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.”

Known for their luster and size, South Sea cultured pearls are harvested from Pinctada maxima oysters found in an isolated region between Northern Australia and Burma.

The “White Magic” exhibit is free and available to the public through scheduled tours. To sign up for a tour, contactGuest Services at guestservicesmailbox@gia.edu or call 800-421-7250, ext. 4116. Outside the U.S., call 760-603-4116.

###

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

GIA LabDirect Operation Opens in Tokyo

Sat, 31 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America today announced the AGT Gem Laboratory in Tokyo will begin operations as a GIA LabDirect consolidator on Monday, April 2.

GIA announced the creation of LabDirect in August as a way to widen access to its laboratory services by setting up an international network of local take-in windows and consolidators to serve more local areas.

According to Tom Moses, senior vice president – GIA Laboratory and Research, “GIA is expanding its presence internationally and we want to make our services accessible to more people.”

Each consolidator will act as a diamond industry forwarding service by consolidating diamonds from local regions and shipping them to the GIA Laboratory. These local drop-off and pick-up shipment points help the maximum number of clients move their goods to the GIA Laboratory to get the services they want in a safe, expedient and cost-effective way.

A consolidator also prepares the stones for shipping to GIA with an agreed-upon protocol, communicates grading results to the end clients, and is responsible for collecting payment.

Yoshiko Doi, president of the AGT Gem Laboratory, said, “We’re glad to be a part of GIA LabDirect and its efforts to bring GIA’s international services conveniently and safely to customers in Japan.”

Earlier this month on March 8, GIA opened its new Hong Kong Laboratory Service Center that along with providing preliminary processing laboratory work, will act as a take-in window and consolidator for the Hong Kong area.

The AGT Gem Laboratory is located in the Okachimachi CY Building, 2F, 5-15-14 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-0005, Japan. Its website address is http://www.agt.jp/.

About GIA:

GIA's AJP Program: Lower Tuition, Practical Knowledge

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has updated its Accredited Jewelry Professional Diploma Program (A.J.P.) and made it more affordable.

Tuition for the program's three courses is now $125 for Jewelry Essentials, $140 for Colored Stone Essentials, and $130 for Diamond Essentials, for a combined program cost of $395.

The A.J.P. program teaches gem and jewelry product knowledge, demonstratesproven sales techniques, and includes updates that will help sales associates sell diamonds, colored stones, and jewelry more effectively.

A crucial update is the addition of a supplement on GIA’s Diamond Cut Grading System to the Diamond Essentials coursework. An updated Jewelry Essentials course, which features an additional section on watches and includes podcasts about jewelry trends, will debut in spring 2007.

GIA Vice President of Education Brook Ellis said these revisions are in line with the Institute’s efforts to keep coursework current and relevant to the latest developments in the jewelry industry.

“It’s our policy to make continual improvements to all of our coursework with each reprint. I think we’ve taken it a step further with the addition of podcasts, which give the coursework an interactive component and help students stay even more connected to what’s happening in the industry,” Ellis said.

Healso hopes the lower tuition, together with more flexible payment plans, will allow a greater number of future industry professionals to attend GIA and benefit from its renowned education and training.

“We want these programs to beavailable toanyone who has the interest and the commitment,” he said. “We also want students to receive quality education when they study at GIA, which is why we will continue to update our course materials and offer any assistance we can.”

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

INTA Gems Donates Napa-Inspired Design to GIA

Sat, 10 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – Miss California USA 2007 Meagan Tandy, and INTA Gems founders Jerry and Connie Pheng Young with their son Peter Young, G.G., presented the GIA Museum with INTA Gems' "Vinissimo" ruby and diamond necklace Feb. 26. INTA Gems is the official jeweler for Miss California USA and donated the necklace in honor of Tandy.

The Vinissimo necklace, a combination of 3.35 carats of rubies and 1.3 carats of diamonds set in 18k white gold, was created by Peter Young following a trip to Napa Valley, Calif.

“Vino” is the Latin root for wine and each component of the necklace was inspired by the California wine country. The diamond pear shapes represent the leaves of the vineyard. The circles symbolize the many round objects commonly seen in the Napa Valley – from the fermentation barrels and the wine bottles, to the fragrant corks. The red rubies signify the bountiful grapes and berries ripening on the sun-drenched vines.

“We are so appreciative of this gracious gift. It is a beautiful representation of California,and we are pleased to display it in our headquarters,” said Elise Misiorowski, GIA’s Museum director. “This donation was especially meaningful because itcame from a GIA graduate and his family.”

“This design is meant to epitomize the bountiful harvest of the beautiful State of California,” said Peter Young. “I am proud to donate it to GIA, because the education and networking opportunities I received while attending the Institute are the reasons my family is doing so well today.”

INTA Gems, a fine diamond, gemstone, and jewelry company based in Los Angeles, was founded by Jerry and Connie Pheng Young in 1998.

For more information on how to donate in-kind gifts to the Institute’s Museum Collection, contact GIA In-Kind Gifts Director Patricia Syvrud at 760-603-4432 or by e-mail at patricia.syvrud@gia.edu.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

2007 Career Fair's "Working to Win"

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – Set your calendars for GIA’s Career Fair to be held July 27 in New York and October 19^th in Carlsbad.

Career Fair is a showcase of unique employment opportunities specifically for the gem and jewelry industry. More than a job fair, this one-day event presents the jewelry industry’s most respected leaders who will share strategies on how to get and keep a career in the jewelry industry, talk about what employers look for, and share their secrets for success.

The New York event will kickoff with the "Working to Win" panel – an insightful discussion held with some of the gem and jewelry business's most successful and influential executives. Led by GIA Chairman Ralph Destino, the panel includes Hoda Esphahani, president of SAFDICO; John Green, president and CEO of Lux Bond & Green; Lowell Kwiat, president of Kwiat, Inc.; and Catherine Coquillard, vice president of Merchandising Jewelry at QVC.

“Career Fair is like no other event in the industry. The connections made during this busy day often lead to dream careers,” said Kathryn Kimmel, GIA vice president – Marketing and Public Relations who also co-founded Career Fair. “The concentration of top tier jewelry companies looking for new employees, highly trained and motivated job seekers, industry experts and VIPs makes Career Fair a unique opportunity for everyone. It should not be missed by anyone serious about a career in the gem and jewelry industry.”

Career Fair was founded by GIA and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California. VNU Jewelry Group is the primary sponsor of the New York Career Fair. Employers interested in recruiting and job seekerscan contact GIA’s Career Services office at 800-421-7250, ext. 4195, or e-mail Dani Oliver. Job seekers can also call GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair hotline at 800-421-7250, ext. 4100, or e-mail Career Fair.

About Whiteflash.com

Inaugural Corporate Citizen Award presented to GIA

Fri, 09 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce introduced a new award called the “Corporate Citizen of the Year” and presented it to GIA at the Chamber’s 85th Anniversary Celebration on March 2. The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerceis the 10^th largest in the state of California.

Paul Thompson, Donna Baker and Gary Hill

Presenting the award, Paul Thompson, chairman of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors said, “In order to be a good corporate citizen, an organization mustgive freely of its time, effort, and experience to make the community a better place to live, work, and play. Our honored Corporate Citizen of the Year has a department charged with leading the way to not only make them a good neighbor but a neighbor of choice.”

For example, the Chamber highlighted three of GIA’s corporate citizenship activities. They are:

Since its inception in 2000, GIA’s Community Development Department has contributed executive time and intelligence to at least 43 organizations or committees, and has participated in well over 450community meetings, activities, and events.
GIA employees have donated thousands of hours to community efforts such as clean-ups, community projects, fund-raising events, and the Carlsbad trails program.
The leadership of GIA has allowed Gary Hill, GIA's director of Community Development to sit on the Chamber Board of Directors for nine years and serve as Chairman of the Board of the Chamber in 2002.

The award was accepted by Donna Baker, president of GIA, and Gary Hill.

“We’re thrilled to be the first organization to receive Carlsbad’s Corporate Citizen of the Year Award,’” said Baker. “In turn, we congratulate the Chamber on the occasion of its 85^th Anniversary, and look forward to working with Chamber members on other community projects in the future.”

About Whiteflash.com

GIA’s 2007 Education Catalog: Guide to Gem and Jewelry Careers

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has released its 2007 GIA Education catalog – the perfect guide for those looking to start or enhance a career in the gem and jewelry industry.

GIA’s Education catalog has information for everyone, whether looking to become a career gemologist, jewelry designer, or business owner. The 105-page catalog explains in detail all of GIA’s courses and programs offered at the Institute’s three U.S. campuses, 11 international locations, as well as those offered through its Distance Education, Online learning, and traveling Lab classes.

The catalog outlines the educational programs of GIA’s School of Business, School of Gemology, and the School of Jewelry Manufacturing Arts. In these sections, prospective students will find information on how to obtain the Institute’s Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree, and the Jewelry Business Management (J.B.M.), Graduate Gemologist (G.G.), Graduate Jeweler (G.J.), Applied Jewelry Arts (A.J.A.), and Accredited Jewelry Professional (A.J.P.) diplomas.

“Whether you enroll in the School of Business, School of Gemology, or School of Jewelry Manufacturing Arts, or a combination of programs from all three, GIA’s unique blend of academic and occupational programs can help you attain your goals,” said Brook Ellis, GIA’s vice president of Education.

GIA first began offering its gemological educational opportunities in 1931. Since then, the Institute has created a learning facility for teaching the principles and practices of gemology, jewelry manufacturing, and business. To date, more than 300,000 students have completed GIA’s courses and programs worldwide.

“You can’t expect to become any kind of force in the jewelry industry without acquiring a solid foundation in gemology, design, manufacturing, and business,” said graduate Gina Latendresse, president of the American Pearl Company. “And there truly is no other school in the world that does that so well as GIA.”

To request a copy of GIA’s 2007 Education catalog, visit http://www.gia.edu/, call 800-421-7250, ext. 4001, or 760-603-4001 outside the U.S. and Canada, or e-mail eduinfo@gia.edu.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

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AGS Labs Enhances Diamond Quality Document

From AGS, Las Vegas, Nevada - AGS Laboratories announced today that they are adding user-friendly explanatory information to their Diamond Quality^TM Document (DQD) that is aimed at benefiting retailers and consumers alike. The enhanced DQD explains all eleven factors of the AGS Performance-Based Cut Grade System.

AGS Labs’ primary goal with this enhanced version of the DQD is to help retail sales associates in their presentations to consumers. During their sales presentation, associates can easily explain all of the factors of the cut grade with the information now readily at hand. The information has been purposefully included in a fold-out data flap located on the side of the document. Sales associates have the option of either displaying the information on the new flap if the consumer wants or needs more detailed information on the cut grade, or they may opt not to show or discuss it, depending on the needs and comfort level of the consumer.

The new data flap shows the Cumulative and Net Lowering Factors of the cut grade. The values given for the Cumulative Factors are totaled together, and include Brightness, Contrast, Dispersion, Leakage, Weight Ratio, and Durability. The values given for the Net Lowering factors affect the cut grade only if they are greater than the Cumulative Sum. Those factors include the Girdle, Culet, Polish, and Symmetry.

Additionally, AGS Laboratories’ has educational material that sales associates can use if they need additional tools to further explain the cut grade to the consumer.

“The AGS Performance-Based Cut Grade System has been a giant leap forward from the Proportion-Based System,” says Peter Yantzer, Executive Director of AGS Laboratories. “Because we went from analyzing three factors to eleven, there are additional challenges for the sales associate at the counter in trying to simply and concisely inform the consumer. Our goal with this new DQD enhancement is to make it easier to explain the cut grade. At the same time, we saw the importance of giving them a choice in how they present their material. The new data flap accomplishes that goal.”

In 2005, AGS released the Performance-Based Cut Grading System for both the round brilliant and princess — the first-ever cut grading system for a fancy shaped diamond. AGS recently added emerald cuts to its cut grade mix, and plans are under way to release other shapes in the near future.

The science supporting the AGS Performance-Based Cut Grade System reflects AGS’s transition from a proportion-based to a performance-based cut grade system, where all facets of a diamond are measured in three dimensions rather than two dimensions. The Lab uses state-of-the-art ray tracing software to trace light traveling through a diamond. The software demonstrates the quantity and quality of the light being returned to the viewer.

For more information on the AGS Performance-Based system, or any of AGS Laboratories’ products and services, please visit http://www.agslab.com/ or email marketing@agslab.com.

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Bloggers on Whiteflash

What people on the world wide web are saying about Whiteflash:

Shop For Diamonds At Whiteflash.com

By Global Warning(Global Warning)
Whiteflash.com Inc is a specialist on-line diamond boutique with a history of offering the discerning on-line buyer diamonds that exceed the world's highest standards for craftsmanship and performance. /diamonds_info.
Diamond World - http://diamond4life.blogspot.com/

Diamonds Are A Grill's Best Friend

17 May 2007 by Vivian McInerney/diamonds_info.
Whiteflash.com sells diamonds. Loose diamonds. Set diamonds. Diamond bracelets. Politically correct diamonds. All kinds of permanent sparklers /diamonds_info.
http://blog.oregonlive.com/fashion/2007/05/diamonds.html

Landslide

3 Mar 2007 by I'm fatafelice/diamonds_info.
The title of this post could refer to one of two things: 1. One of my favorite songs 2. The tiny rock that started all this madness The correct answer is #2. I'm talking, of course, about my engagement ring. Amazing, isn't it, /diamonds_info.
fatafelice - http://fata-felice.blogspot.com/index.html

Whiteflash.com - Diamond Engagement Ring Promotion

28 Feb 2007
Ideal Cut Diamond e-tailer, Whiteflash.com has just announced a new diamond promotion and free diamond solitaire engagement ring giveaway in conjuction with the new romantic dramedy series by Fox called 'The Wedding Bells' /diamonds_info.
Diamond Vues - http://www.diamondvues.com/

Diamond from Online Store

24 Feb 2007 by Ice
Besides getting a diamond from one of the stores in the coutry, one option that exists is to look online at the various more credible diamond websites. This will be a good option considering that quite a few of these sites have gotten /diamonds_info.
Getting My First Diamond - http://myfirstdiamond.blogspot.com/index.html

Getting Engaged - I Helped (Part 1)

30 Jan 2007 by Miss Kiwi
Before the actual engagement (Part 1). Mr. Kiwi and I were together almost exactly two and a half years before we got engaged. The year before that, Mr. Kiwi’s mom gave him the go-ahead to marry me. So, it was after that date I started /diamonds_info.
Weddingbee - http://www.weddingbee.com

A bride's engagement and wedding rings

26 Jan 2007 by Bill Edwards
Picture this/diamonds_info. a historic mansion set in the snowy sparkle of a wintry landscape, 300 guests basking in the glow of candlelight and a bride whose glittering diamond is the stunning inspiration for the ceremony's dramatic winter theme. /diamonds_info.
Gold & Silver Jewelry - http://golddiamondsandsilver.blogspot.com/index.html

Review: Whiteflash Diamond Engagement Rings

24 Jan 2007 by Agathe
It feels kind of strange to review diamonds because I have no experience with them. As any other girl I would not mind owning diamond jewelry, in fact I would love to, but as a student it just has not been a priority. /diamonds_info.
Style Bytes - http://stylebytes.net - References

Hearts and Arrows Diamonds are Loved on Valentine’s Day

10 Jan 2007 by Aria Munro
HOUSTON, Texas — Like true love, a diamond is forever, and online boutique Whiteflash.com offers a specialized round brilliant that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day. Whiteflash ACA diamonds are cut so precisely that facet reflections /diamonds_info.
enewschannels - http://enewschannels.com - References

WhiteFlash.com Raises Awareness For Conflict-Free Diamonds

9 Jan 2007 by Judah Gutwein
Diamond and jewelry e-tailer, WhiteFlash.com has launched a campaign to raise awareness for Conflict Free diamonds/diamonds_info In conjuction with their campaign, Whiteflash.com has produced the 'Dreams of Africa’ diamond pendant to raise /diamonds_info.
Diamond Vues - http://www.diamondvues.com/

Finally recovered from flu/diamonds_info.

4 Jan 2007 by lmv
I'm finally back after being sick for 2 whole weeks, flu viruses are so powerful these days, i think i just havent been so sick for a long long time/diamonds_info. literally unable to crawl out of bed, and even lost my voice/diamonds_info. thank gawd its over. /diamonds_info.
LMV - http://mizairmez.blogspot.com/index.html

Diamonds Set The Stage For Winter Weddings

16 Dec 2006 by diamondemeraldring_318183
Diamonds Set The Stage For Winter Weddings. Picture this?a historic mansion set in the snowy sparkle of a wintry landscape, 300 guests basking in the glow of candlelight and a bride whose glittering diamond is the stunning inspiration /diamonds_info.
diamond emerald ring - http://www.worldwidediamondguide.com/diamonds/diamond-emerald-ring/

Blood Diamonds

15 Dec 2006 by alrdesign
While the film Blood Diamond has gotten rather poor reviews, it has at least given the public more opportunities than ever to learn about conflict diamonds and the horrible reality of their origins. And while I personally think that we /diamonds_info.
Another Limited Rebellion - http://alrdesign.com/blog/

Dreams of Africa - Diamonds for Life: Not Blood

12 Dec 2006 by Aria Munro
HOUSTON, Texas — The movie “Blood Diamond” opened last week, shocking holiday shoppers with explicit violence. Set amidst chaos and civil war in 1990s Africa, it will raise questions about diamonds being purchased this holiday season. /diamonds_info.
enewschannels - http://enewschannels.com

Buy Her That Diamond/diamonds_info.

11 Dec 2006 by Drew
If I was looking for a diamond for Allison right now and I didn't have a jeweler as an uncle then I might get some Diamond Education from WhiteFlash.com. This website has a very comprehensive Diamond Education series of videos that you /diamonds_info.
The benspark - http://benspark.blogspot.com/index.html

Expensive rocks

11 Dec 2006 by maRLinda
I drool when thinking about the baby blue designer shopping bag. Yes, the one that you get when you inside their flagship store over in Rodeo Drive. I drool and I drool, but then, I knew that my husband is not some hot shot millionaire /diamonds_info.
Daily grind/diamonds_info.daily spices/diamonds_info.daily routines/diamonds_info.d/diamonds_info. - http://marlindaradzi.com

Love is in the Air

11 Dec 2006 by Anais
It was two years ago this Christmas that my sister got engaged and there's rumors circulating in the office about a few people who might be doing the same this year. So exciting! When my sister was looking to get engaged, /diamonds_info.
Feel Good! - http://anaisamy.vox.com/library/posts/page/1/

Diamonds

11 Dec 2006 by Becky
Everyone needs a Diamond Education when buying a diamond. Whiteflash.com makes that possible with the information they have available on their website. They have quite a team of experienced people working for them - such as geologists, /diamonds_info.
Joyful Mother - http://womenathome.typepad.com/becky/

Buying diamonds online

11 Dec 2006 by Christine
If you're browsing sites this holiday season wishing you could treat yourself to something nice but are wary of buying gems online, there's a reliable site called WhiteFlash that provides great information about buying diamonds online. /diamonds_info.
bebereviews Daily Scoop - http://daily.bebereviews.com/

Conflict Diamonds And The Kimberley Process

9 Dec 2006 by blackdiamo_874557
Conflict Diamonds And The Kimberley Process. As the world's most concentrated, portable and anonymous form of wealth, diamonds make an ideal vehicle to launder money from and raise money for criminal and terrorist operations. /diamonds_info.
black diamond engagement ring - http://www.worldwidediamondguide.com/diamonds/black-diamond-engag/diamonds_info.

What's shiny and clear and harder than steel?

29 Nov 2006 by Chad Smith
I've been looking at Engagement Rings lately, and let me tell you, there is a lot to take into consideration. First, there's the four Cs. That brings me to my own personal 5th C - cost. The cost of diamonds varies greatly from place to /diamonds_info.
Chad W Smith's Home online - http://chadwsmith.blogspot.com/index.html

Details That Adorned Us

6 Dec 2006 by Mrs. Bird of Paradise
Earrings for ceremony purchased from pearlparadise.com. They are resting on my cousin’s vintage purse. It was what she wore to her prom in the 50’s or so. I used it as my money holder for our money dance. /diamonds_info.
Weddingbee - http://www.weddingbee.com

Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend.

28 Nov 2006 by Beth
The following is a paid review from ReviewMe.com. When I was seven years old, my grandmother bought me a pinky ring with a tiny diamond chip setting. Being so young, I didn’t know the difference between a diamond chip and a real /diamonds_info.
Ramblings Of An Undisturbed Mind - http://afrogtokiss.net - References

Diamond Buying: Emotional Experience Or Math Problem?

28 Nov 2006 by bnewuser_386848
Diamond Buying: Emotional Experience Or Math Problem? Professionals in the diamond industry hear warnings about "commoditization" at our trade conventions. We hear the warnings from traditionalists, from sellers and suppliers, /diamonds_info.
butterfly diamond ring - http://www.worldwidediamondguide.com/diamonds/butterfly-diamond-ring/

Designer Diamond Engagement Rings at Whiteflash.com

28 Nov 2006
This is a sponsored review. A diamond engagement ring is the ultimate symbol of ever lasting love, devotion and commitment between two people. According to Aweddingministers.com 70% of brides receive a diamond engagement ring. /diamonds_info.
Wedaholic.com - http://www.wedaholic.com/ - References

Design Trends: Diamond Engagement Rings

16 Nov 2006 by asschercut_205158
From the grace of halo to the sophistication of micro pave, design trends in diamond engagement rings and wedding band settings are changing, reflecting today's busy lifestyles. Ergonomic designs reign supreme in today's market, /diamonds_info.
asscher cut diamond engagement ring - http://www.worldwidediamondguide.com/diamonds/asscher-cut-d/diamonds_info. - References

Our Rings 2: My Wedding Band

7 Nov 2006 by Miss Bird of Paradise
Since my engagement ring was purchased through Whiteflash, we decided to go to them again for my wedding band. We chose to go the custom route so that the w-band would fit snuggly with the e-ring. The custom process is fascinating. /diamonds_info.
Weddingbee - http://www.weddingbee.com

Our Rings 1: Branded Diamonds

7 Nov 2006 by Miss Bird of Paradise
Miss Apple blogged about Whiteflash so I thought it may be nice timing to blog about our rings. Like Mr. Apple, Mr. BOP went to Whiteflash for his special purchase. He ended up hand picking a Whiteflash ACA - Hearts & Arrows diamond. /diamonds_info.
Weddingbee - http://www.weddingbee.com

Whiteflash

7 Nov 2006 by Miss Apple
When my fiance first mentioned that he was going to purchase my e-ring off the internet, I almost fell out of my chair. I was horrified that he would even consider purchasing such an expensive and meaningful item online. /diamonds_info.
Weddingbee - http://www.weddingbee.com

Diamonds Set The Stage For Winter Weddings

11 Oct 2006 by World of dating
Picture this a historic mansion set in the snowy sparkle of a wintry landscape, 300 guests basking in the glow of candlelight and a bride whose glittering diamond is the stunning inspiration for the ceremony's dramatic /diamonds_info.
The World of Dating - http://world-of-dating.blogspot.com

Getting Married? A Step-By-Step Guide To Picking The Perfect Diamond

11 Oct 2006 by World of dating
Proposing is tough enough, but finding the perfect ring, set with the perfect diamond is even tougher. To eliminate the headache, here are step-by-step instructions from Whiteflash.com, an online diamond and jewelry /diamonds_info.
The World of Dating - http://world-of-dating.blogspot.com

Whiteflash.com and Lionsgate Films Congratulate Jessica Simpson /diamonds_info.

11 Oct 2006 by Aria Munro
HOUSTON, Texas — Jessica Simpson was greeted by flashes and photographers as she arrived at an exclusive party celebrating the pre-screening of her film “Employee of the Month” by Lionsgate. Whiteflash.com worked with Lionsgate to throw /diamonds_info.
enewschannels - http://enewschannels.com - References

Dreams of Africa: Whiteflash.com Names Necklace Design to Honor /diamonds_info.

25 Sep 2006 by Aria Munro
HOUSTON, Tex. — On Friday, September 15, 12 Nobel Peace Prize winners gathered in Denver, Colorado to voice their desire for the building of education and peace in impoverished and war-torn areas of the world. This was the largest-ever /diamonds_info.
enewschannels - http://enewschannels.com - References

Fashion Week Extras

22 Sep 2006 by Ayoka
Calling all fashion die hards! Let’s take a mental trip to NYC’s Olympus Spring’ 07 Fashion Week past. Of course, all of the main fashion and celeb news is currently plastered on all media fronts but I hunted down a few things that /diamonds_info.
Style File - http://www.charlestonmag.com/style

Whiteflash ACA - Launches New Website

20 Sep 2006
www.whiteflash.com, a web based company selling ideal cut diamonds and fine jewelry, has announced today the launch of their newly revamped website. Whiteflash.com is a retail jewelry website that sells superideal cut and hearts and /diamonds_info.
Diamond Vues - http://www.diamondvues.com/ - References

The important question now arises: Had all these dogs

19 Sep 2006 by Administrator
a common origin in a definite parent stock, or did they spring from separate and unrelated parents? Half a century ago it was believed that all the evidence which could be brought to bear upon the problem pointed to an independent /diamonds_info.
In Supports - http://insupports.info

Diamond Buying: Emotional Experience Or Math Problem?

17 Sep 2006 by akmal
ericakmal[dot]com - http://wwwz.blogspot.com

Whiteflash Jewelry Shines on Mira Sorvino at 2006 Olympus Fashion /diamonds_info.

13 Sep 2006 by Aria Munro
HOUSTON, Tex. — Actress Mira Sorvino, famous for her starring roles in “Human Trafficking,” “Mimic” and “Romy and Michelle’s High School Wedding,” hosted an exclusive Fashion Week party on September 12, 2006 for fashion designer Jason /diamonds_info.
enewschannels - http://enewschannels.com - References

Even More Celebs Trading Up For Conflict-Free Diamonds

30 Aug 2006 by michael
Meat and diamonds are very similar. Both are desired and enjoyed and both are widely misunderstood in terms of how they’re produced, where they come from, and at what expense. Do you think people would feel a little different if they /diamonds_info.
ecorazzi.com :: celebrities caught green-handed - http://www.ecorazzi.com

Party with Ciara & Missy/diamonds_info.

30 Aug 2006 by Cake & Ice Cream
On August 29th Ciara, Missy Elliott, Dre, and Chamillionaire were spotted partying at the WhiteFlash.com "Dripping in Diamonds" after-party. Check out pictures of them below/diamonds_info.
Cake & Ice Cream - http://cakeandice-cream.blogspot.com

LINDSAY TAKES HER PARTYING VERY SERIOUSLY

24 Jul 2006 by arasto
Lindsay Lohan got a visit from beau Harry Morton on the Los Angeles set of her film 'Georgia Rules' on Friday. The couple have been practically inseparable since they began dating on earlier this month. /diamonds_info.
celebrity terrorist. - http://fadedyouth.blogspot.com - References

Lindsay Lohan Stuns in Whiteflash.com Bangles From Life & Style /diamonds_info.

20 Jul 2006 by monte
Lindsay Lohan celebrated her 20th birthday in style, and her favorite gifts were stunning diamond and sapphire bangle bracelets created by Whiteflash.com. Life & Style hosted a "roaring 20s" celebration with a 1920s-inspired theme and /diamonds_info.
MBN, The Monte Bubbles Network, Your News/diamonds_info. - http://montebubbles.net/

Wedding Bands - I-pod weddings

4 Jul 2006 by Administrator
Jun 30, 2006 Hawthorne, 45, are among a growing number of couples tossing traditional wedding music options out with the bouquet. They are shunning DJs and bands in favor /diamonds_info.
Wedding Rings Blog - http://wedding-rings.greatinfoonline.com

Adrianne Curry & Christopher Knight Get Hitched

28 May 2006 by TinaB.
Adrianne Curry decided on a Gothic wedding theme when she married her Brady Boy Chris Knight yesterday {Saturday May 27th} in Joliet, Illinois. According to reports, the couple were expecting more than 250 guests, among them former /diamonds_info.
Glitterati Gossip - http://www.glitteratigossip.com/glitterati/ - References

WhiteFlash Diamond Video Tutorial

8 Mar 2006 by Judah
The folks at Whiteflash have put together a really excellent selection of diamond videos designed to educate consumers on the four diamond "C's", better known as diamond cut, diamond, clarity, diamond carat, /diamonds_info.
Diamond Vues - http://www.diamondvues.com/

Record $235,269 in GIA Scholarships Granted

Sun, 25 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America has awarded 43 scholarships for 2007 valued at $235,269 – the most ever allocated by the Institute.

This record-breaking amount includes three new scholarships, the Michael Beaudry Scholarship, the George W. Juno Scholarship, and the DeYoung Family Scholarship Awards.

The Michael Beauty Scholarship is GIA’s largest single scholarship established to date.New York–native Cynthia Santiago received this $29,560 scholarship, which will fully fund her GIA On Campus Applied Jewelry Arts and Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) programs.

“As president of Michael Beaudry Inc., Michael wanted to inspire those just entering the trade to reach for the success he found through his own GIA education,” said Brook Ellis, GIA vice president of Education. “Through the Beaudry scholarship, others will be able tolaunch their jewelry careers through a GIA education. Cynthia perfectly embodies the spirit of inspiration for which this scholarship was created.”

Santiago, a 16-year-veteran of the social services industry, looks forward to helping people through her new career in the jewelry trade. "I look forward to helping people pick out jewelry to celebrate special occasions in their lives andserving as an asset to the community,”she said.

The George W. Juno Scholarship was created in memory of an enthusiastic 20-year-old jeweler who died in a car accident in March 2006. The DeYoung Family Scholarship fund, established in 2005, provides two resident G.G. scholarships and was named in honor of the J. & S.S. DeYoung family company.

“Scholarships enrich the lives of their recipients far into the future, as well as those of their families and communities,” said Institute Relations Manager Bev Berthoty.

“It’s the generosity and farsightedness of people such as Michael Beaudry that allowed us to offer more scholarships to more students than in any previous year,” said Berthoty. “The world’s best gemological and jewelry education is now available to 43 deserving and creative students who may not have had the opportunity or means to attend GIA otherwise.”

MORE

For more information about GIA scholarships, click here. Applications for 2008 scholarships can be downloaded from GIA's Web site beginning June 15.Qualifications differ for each scholarship. To find out more, visit GIA’s Web site, call 760-603-4175, or e-mail financialaid@gia.edu.

For more information about making a donation in the name of a scholarship, contact Bev Berthotyat 760-603-4170.

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GIA’s Shigley Named to New Title and Role

Fri, 23 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America has named Dr. James Shigley, long-time director of GIA Research, tothe newly created post of “GIA Distinguished Research Fellow.”

Dr. James Shigley

Tom Moses, senior vice president of the GIA Laboratory and Research said, “This new assignment will allow Jim to continue to serve the Institute as a public representative to the media and at trade and technical conferences throughout the world, but in a broader scope. He will have more freedom to teach, to roam, to write, and serve other areas of the Institute. In academia, this is a coveted role, and we’re proud to have Jim represent GIA as our first Distinguished Research Fellow.”

Shigley will lead the gemological characterization of the huge Gübelin Collection acquired by GIA last year, in addition to writing articles and reports about this important group of gems to assist GIA Education and Research. This will offer the public and the industry access to important information on gemological properties that in some instances may not have been previously reported. He will serve as a research advisor and will act as the main liaison with GIA Education to ensure that research results are integrated with education and outreach.

Moses made the announcement as part of several changes intended to better align GIA Research roles to help the Institute meet production and client service needs.

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GIA Recognizes 2007 DETC Graduate of the Year

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - Gemological Institute of America (GIA) graduate Brian Denney, who chose gemology over a medical career two years ago, was recently selected as the 2007 Distance Education and Training Council (DETC) Outstanding Distance Education Graduate of the Year.

This annual award, presented by the DETC, is given to the GIA student who upholds the highest standards of academic and personal excellence. The DETC is the national accrediting commission that accredits GIA’s Distance Education courses and programs.

“Brian was an ideal candidate this year because not only did he excel in his GIA courses, but he is also very involved in developing his family’s business and spends a lot of his time volunteering in the surrounding community,” said Brook Ellis, the Institute’s vice president of Education.

Denney started GIA’s Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) program in 2005 after he studied microbiology at the University of Illinois in Urbana and spent time in the medical field.

“I worked at a hospital for a year and decided I was a person who was emotionally affected by those around me. I wanted to be in a place where people were happy,” he said. “The jewelry industry is blessed in that the clients are celebrating life and moments, and you are able to be a part of that happiness.”

Denney is a third-generation jeweler who serves as vice president of his family’s business, Denney Jewelers. The 26-year-old recently oversaw the store’s move from a small-town retail space to a 10,000-square-foot, free-standing location in Springfield, Ill. Denney is also a member of the Illinois Jewelry Association Board of Directors and frequently visits local elementary schools to teach children the value of education.

“I’m honored and blessed to have received the high caliber of education provided by GIA,” Denney said. “My training has helped put our family in a position to succeed in our new market area, and I know that it will continue to help not only me, but my entire family as we work together.”

# # #

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. More information can be found on GIA’s website at http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

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GIA Winter G&G: Graining, Pearls & Rare Gem Materials

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Winter 2006 edition of the Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) Gems & Gemology,which mailed Jan. 25, features articles on the effect of graining on diamond clarity grading at GIA and the identification of one type of treated “chocolate pearls.” Also appearing in this issue are reports on two unusual gem materials.

Leading the Winter issue is “The Impact of Internal Whitish and Reflective Graining on the Clarity Grading of D-to-Z Color Diamonds at the GIA Laboratory,” by John M. King, technical director at the GIA Laboratory, and co-authors. Unlike many other grading characteristics, clarity grading involving whitish and reflective graining takes into consideration a number of factors beyond examination at standard 10x magnification. Such graining can be significant because it may be the only internal feature present in large, high-color diamonds. In addition to reviewing the types and known causes of such graining, the article also describes the methodology that GIA diamond graders use to determinethe impact of graining on the clarity grade of a diamond.

“The elusive nature of whitish and reflective graining in diamonds has led to confusion in the trade about how these characteristics affect clarity grades,” remarked Gems & GemologyEditor in Chief Alice S. Keller. “This is a must-read article for anyone who handles diamonds, especially top-color higher-clarity stones.”

The second article, “Identification of ‘Chocolate Pearls’ Treated by Ballerina Pearl Co.,” examines this popular new type of treated cultured pearls. With this study, Dr. Wuyi Wang and a team of GIA Laboratory colleagues set out to learn more about the origin of the treated color and determine the means by which these products could be identified. The authors conclude that the Ballerina “Chocolate Pearls” have been subjected to a bleaching process and can be identified based on their unusual coloration, characteristic fluorescence, spectroscopic features, and trace-element composition.

The Winter issue also contains two articles on little-known gem materials. In “Leopard Opal: Play-of-Color Opal in Vesicular Basalt from Zimapán, Hidalgo State, Mexico,” Robert Raymond Coenraads and Alfonso Rosas Zenil summarize the gemological properties of this unusual material, which formed as opal was deposited in porous basaltic lava flows. In “The Cause of Iridescence in Rainbow Andradite from Nara, Japan,” Thomas Hainschwang and Franck Notari study the characteristics of this attractive garnet from southern Japan. The article explains how two different types of microscopic layered structures are most likely the cause of the spectacular iridescence.

MORE

The Lab Notes column features the latest discoveries from the GIA Laboratory, including lizards inimitation amber, an unusual pink diamond that changed from Fancy Deep pink to Fancy Deep orangy pink during testing for ultraviolet fluorescence, and a Fancy White diamond with unusual banded graining. The Gem News International section reports on the current status of diamond trading in Sierra Leoneand gem mining in Mogok (Myanmar), small treated synthetic pink diamonds set in a ring, Sunset quartz from Brazil, and more.

Also included in the Winter issue is the annual index, compiling all material from 2006, and a list of the 2006 Gems & Gemology Challenge winners.

To order the new Winter 2006 issue or to subscribe, visit http://www.gia.edu/ or contact Circulation Coordinator Debbie Ortiz at dortiz@gia.edu or call toll-free 800-421-7250, ext. 7142. Outside the U.S.and Canada, call 760-603-4000, ext. 7142.

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South Sea Pearl Consortium Shares Pearl Secrets

Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Museum launched its 2007 Lecture Series, “The Synergy of Art & Science,” with speaker Carolyn Jacoby’s South Sea Pearl presentation on Jan. 19 at GIA’s Carlsbad campus.

In this year's lecture series, the GIA Museum will devote seminars throughout the year to examining the interaction between artistry and the science of gemology.

Jacoby’s lecture explored this topic by looking into the culturing of South Sea pearls in the isolated region between Northern Australia and Burma. She also discussed the creation of the South Sea Pearl Consortium’s (SSPC) touring pearl exhibit, “White Magic.”

Carolyn Jacoby

“Pearl culturing is a great example of art and science working in collaboration, and we are fortunate to have Carolyn Jacoby of the South Sea Pearl Consortium and Paspaley Pearling Company here to explain the history, lore, and wonder of the SouthSea pearl,” said Elise Misiorowski, GIA’s Museum director.

Jacoby explained how organizations such as Paspaley cultivate pearls in Pinctada maxima oyster shells, which are native to the South Seas. These cultured pearls are then carefully protected in their natural environment for two to six years, allowing them to produce thick nacre, creating the large pearls for which the region is known.

Jacoby advised her audience to explain to customers the “Five Virtues of the South Sea Pearl,” which she lists as size, complexion, shape, color, and luster. “When you show pearls to your customers, demonstrate how light interacts with the pearl's surface by pointing out its luster, sheen, and glow,” she said.

The “White Magic” exhibit, which the lecture inaugurated at GIA, was created to celebrate the 50-year anniversary of the establishment of the first South Sea pearl farm, Jacoby said. The “White Magic” collection premiered in New York in 2005 and has toured cities throughout the world. It is now at its final destination of Carlsbad, where it will be on display until May 15.

“White Magic” was the creation of Suzi Jarrell, communications director of the SSPC, who invited 17 internationally known designers to each createa unique piece of jewelry featuring South Sea cultured pearls donated by Paspaley. This joint collaboration between the SSPC and the designers tookone year to complete.

Jacoby, a Graduate Gemologist (G.G), stressed the importance of a GIA education. “My GIA education gave me access to people and opportunities I never thought I would have.”

She is a 17-year-veteran of the jewelry industry whose experience includes working for the well-known jeweler William Goldberg of Goldberg Diamond Corp. and serving as the director of membership for the Jewelry Information Center. Jacoby was appointed administration manager for the Australian Pearl Center (USA) in 2000 and has served as SSPC senior representative for North America since 2005.

The GIA Museum’s 2007 Lecture Series will continue on April 4 with a presentation by award-winning jeweler Marianne Hunter. Her lecture will be on “Inspirational Interplay: The Collaboration of Artist and Materials.”The entry fee is $10 and all lectures areopen to the public on a space-available basis. To RSVP or to add your name to the lecture series mailing list, call 800-421-7250, ext. 4169.

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About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. GIA’s website address is http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

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Winter 2007 Loupe Highlights Baker, Crowningshield

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The latest issue of The Loupe: GIA World News marks the award-winning publication’s 60th year and is set to release early next month. The cover story is on the Institute’s newly appointed president, Donna Baker, who is the fifth in its 75 years, and first female president.Baker shares her vision to keep service – to students, Laboratory clients and the industry at large – the Institute’s number-one priority.

This issue also includes a five-page tribute to one of GIA’s founding fathers, G. Robert Crowningshield (1919–2006), which tells the story of his life’s work through historic photos and memorable anecdotes from friends and colleagues. Readers will find a list of Crowningshield’s major career contributions and learn how to make a donation in his memory to the Crowningshield Endowment for Research.

The Richard T. Liddicoat Library and Information Center is known as one of the industry’s largest repositories for gemological books and resources. In this issue of The Loupe, some of the Library’s most frequent visitors tell how it has become an invaluable tool in advancing their research.

Also in this issue, readers will find Senior Industry Analyst Russell Shor’s take on the growing number of synthetic colored diamonds on the market; see how an intimate setting and opportune location make GIA Los Angeles a great place to study; and learn what is in store for GIA graduates as the Alumni Association’s Continuing Education program continues to develop.

To sign-up for a free subscription to The Loupe: GIA World News, e-mail LoupeSub@gia.edu. Those attending the Tucson trade shows can also pick up a free copy of the Winter 2007 issue of The Loupe at the GIA booths (#1900 or on the Galleria Level) at the AGTA GemFair Jan. 31–Feb. 5 or at the Rio Grande Catalog in Motion show Feb. 2–5 in Tucson, Ariz.

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About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

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GIA Recognizes 2006 Staff of the Year

Sat, 20 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Pictured are Mari Okada, Jim Shigley and Ramon Nevarez. Photograph by Robert Weldon.

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) recognized five individuals as exemplary employees during its annual Staff of the Year Awards on Dec. 14, 2006 at the Carlsbad campus.

Each year, this Award is bestowed upon staff members who have distinguished themselves by demonstrating significant contribution to GIA, excellence in service, and a professional approach to advancing GIA’s mission.

The 2006 Staff of the Year winners were, in alphabetical order: Lori Geller, On-Campus Operations supervisor (Los Angeles); Ramon Nevarez, Mailroom supervisor (Carlsbad); Mari Okada, Grading Development coordinator (Carlsbad); Sonia Pastoret, Client Service representative (New York); and Dr. Jim Shigley, director of Research (Carlsbad).

“Of the 98 nominees this year, these five stand out for their dedication, exemplary performance, and commitment to GIA,” said GIA President Donna Baker. “They are at the heart of what makes GIA’s service to the public and industry great, and it is an honor to recognize them as the 2006 Staff of the Year.”

Started in 1985, the Staff of the Year Award recognizes individuals whose dedication and loyalty to GIA’s mission and a strong commitment to personal and professional integrity have helped the Institute to achieve its mission. To date, 106 staff members have received this award.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. More information can be found on GIA’s website at http://www.gia.edu/. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.

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Tips for your Diamond Engagement: The Proposal

Be Prepared: A search on Google returns over 32 million pages of clever proposal ideas from fortune cookies to skywriting. This article is designed to strengthen your preparations. Like any good boy scout, at Whiteflash.com we suggest that you BE PREPARED; the moment will be remembered for a lifetime.

The Prime Directive: However you do it, quiet or loud, simple or complex, we believe the proposal should be something that relates to both of you. What brought you together? What interests do you share? What is ‘uniquely you?’ You can reflect these things in the timing, budget, planning, the moment and the celebration.

Timing: Holidays are prime proposal times. So are special dates unique to you as a couple. Unlike busy holidays, a private date may bode well for reservations now and in the future. Remember to take enough time off for planning and consider her after-proposal schedule; she may want time off to celebrate. An item we hate to even mention; if you propose on her birthday or Christmas and things somehow deteriorate she can legally keep the ring as a gift.

Budget: You can skip limousines, fancy restaurants and hot-air balloon rides unless you feel they are ‘uniquely you.’ Remember the prime directive. It’s not necessary to drop a lot of cash. In fact, the most common complaint among new fiancées has nothing to do with luxury, it’s because the proposal was not as romantic as she hoped. Your brain power is worth far more than your spending power in this circumstance. Of course, if a quick trip to Paris fits nicely in your budget she probably won’t mind. Neither will we.

Planning: Choose the place and time wisely. The site can be as simple as your own home or as exotic as a volcano top in Fiji. Places that are ‘uniquely you’ are definitely appropriate, but remember that any site will become forever special afterward; “This is where mommy and daddy got engaged.” Be sure her attention will be on you and you’ll be heard. If the place is busy or noisy you may want to keep the words simple. Visit ahead of time if possible. If it’s a public place make the management aware of your plans. Managers often have helpful suggestions and might offer assistance, like champagne when she accepts. If you will be driving to the destination know where to park in advance. If outdoors, be conscious of weather and consider a backup plan. Enlist the help of a photographer if you want the moment captured. Take him in advance to plan your approach and his position. Plan for the celebration as well; if you’re in the city have a spot picked out and reservations made, if appropriate. Even when you’re close to home you might surprise her with lodging arrangements near the site of the proposal (discretely pack a few toiletries for her if you do this). Finally, depending on circumstances and tradition, you may want to ask or notify her parents ahead of time.

The Words: Unless you are someone who never gets tongue-tied under pressure, rehearse what you will say. Propose at the mirror, in the shower or to the dog, but do practice. We suggest taking a knee to finish your statement with “Will you marry me,” “Will you spend the rest of your life with me,” “Will you do me the honor…” or some similar “Will you…” sentiment. Of course, you can do a ‘uniquely you’ change-up, but the classic kneeling profile and traditional wording are powerfully implanted into our human psyche. That scene and those words may be something she’s been waiting a lifetime for. Either way, you’ll know best what to say.

The Moment: Stay calm. Breathe. When the time is right look her in the eye (drop to your knee if that’s the plan), and say what you have rehearsed. Bring out the ring as she hears “Will you…” The rest is on her shoulders.

The Prerequisite: Sometimes we’re asked “what if she says no.” We suggest this is one circumstance where if you don’t know the answer you probably shouldn’t ask the question. If you’re undecided right now we hope you’ll bookmark this article and visit again when the time is right.

The Celebration: Whether it’s a night on the town or a walk on the beach you’ll both be aglow with your confirmed future. If you’ll want privacy, arrange for time alone. If ‘uniquely you’ is social, celebrate your joy with others. Your families or friends can be stationed at a nearby establishment, waiting for you to join them if it fits your circumstances and style (and her preferences). You can surprise them with the news. Regardless, we suggest the end of the day be yours and yours alone.

The Bottom Line: Your special moment can take place on top of a mountain, at the bottom of the ocean or at your neighborhood cafe. As a seller of premium diamonds and jewelry Whiteflash.com has helped literally thousands of proposal dreams come true. Whether it’s rose petals and candlelight or a quick “will ya?” we hope this advice provides the foundation for a successful proposal and a lifetime of memories.

GIA to Participate in National Museum Assessment Program

Sat, 13 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – TheGemological Institute of America (GIA) Museum has been selected to receive a Museum Assessment Program (MAP) Institutional Assessment Grant.

The MAP program was created to help recipient museums find ways to improve their institutions on every level. It is administered by the American Association of Museums (AAM) through a cooperative agreement with the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

“We are honored to be one of only 48 museums in the U.S.to receive a MAP Institutional Assessment grant this year,” said GIA Museum Director Elise Misiorowski. “Through this grant, the GIA Museum will be able to achieve new growth according to the best practices and procedures and bring GIA one step closer to joining the ranks of the nation’s finest museums who have gained AAM accreditation.”

GIA MAP Team

MAP is a confidential process of self-study, peer review, and implementation. It enables the GIA Museum to evaluate its current practices, enhance its communications throughout the organization, establish priorities to continue achieving professional museum standards, and planhow to best serve the community.

“We congratulate the GIA Museum on their participation in MAP,” said Edward H. Able, Jr., president and CEO of AAM. “This process of self-reflection and improvement is designed to make an already high-performing organization even stronger.”

AAM is the only organization representing the nation’s entire museum community and has been dedicated to promoting excellence within the museum field for over 100 years. The IMLS is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 122,000 libraries and 17,500 museums.

GIA Museum exhibits are free and available to the public through scheduled tours. To sign up for a tour, contact Guest Services at guestservicesmailbox@gia.edu or call 800-421-7250, ext. 4116. Outside the U.S., call 760-603-4116.

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GIA Seminars, and Classes at 2007 Tucson Trade Shows

Fri, 12 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – During the upcoming 2007 Tucson trade shows, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) will offer show goers the opportunity to get acquainted with the latest gemological equipment, attend free educational presentations, and take advantage of the Institute’s special offers available only to trade show attendees.

The Institute will have booths at the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) GemFair at the Tucson Convention Center (Jan. 31–Feb. 5) and at the Tucson Hilton East for the Rio Grande’s Catalog in Motion (Feb. 2–5). GIA will also participate in the invitation-only Centurion Jewelry Show, Jan. 28–31.

In Tucson,GIA’s Alumni Association will celebrate its 25th anniversary during its annual Dance Party and Auction, Friday, Feb. 2 at the Marriott University Park Hotel. Show participants who stop by the GIA Collection booth (No. 1900 at the AGTA GemFair) can pick up a new, limited-edition 2007 GIA Collection poster. The free poster features Bradley Weber’s 2002 AGTA Spectrum award-winning ring titled “Neptune’s Birth.” The ring will also be on display as part of a pearl exhibit featuring loose and set cultured pearls from around the world.

Visit GIA's Tucson microsite, tucson.gia.edu/, for more information.

GIA Brings Classes, Seminars to Tucson

AGTA GemFair participantscan sharpen their skillswith GIA’s classes and seminars. Seating is limited. To register, call GIA at 800-421-7250, ext. 4001, or from outside the U.S. call 760-603-4001.

Gem Identification Lab Class

Attendeeswill get the practical experience needed to accurately identify natural, synthetic, and imitation gemstones during the Gem Identification Lab class. The class will be held in the Tucson Convention Center’s Coconino Room on Monday, Jan. 29 through Friday, Feb. 2, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost to attend this class is $1,150.

Gemology Seminars

GIA Product Manager Andy Lucas will present two seminars in the Coconino Room, Saturday,Feb. 3. During the 9 a.m. “GIA Gemstone Treatment Update: What’s New and What to Do,” attendees will learn about the latest gemstone treatments hitting the marketplace andgain valuable hands-on practice identifying these new treatments using GIA’s microscopes. At 1 p.m., participantscan “Take the GIA Microscope Challenge” and test their gemological knowledge. During this seminar, attendees will identify natural and treated gems, as well as synthetics and imitations. Taken separately, the cost for each of these seminars is $95. Students who enroll for both seminars will pay only $165.

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Free Presentations Provide Research Updates and Consumer Insight

No registration is required for the following classes and updates, but seating is limited by room capacity. Plan to arrive early to ensure seating.

Differentiation Requires More than Being Different

Dr. Tim Malone, associate professor in the GIA School of Business, will offer strategic insight into jewelry customer preference, choice and commitment. Malone will explain how “effective differentiation” leads to competitive advantage and improved performance of ajewelry company, brand, and product offerings. This session is packed with examples of differentiated jewelry offerings and will give attendees “no-cost solutions” to improving performance and earning competitive advantage. The session takes place from 9 to 10 a.m. in the Graham Room at the Tucson Convention Center,Saturday, Feb. 3.

GIA Research to Give Lab Update

In this popular annual presentation, a member of GIA’s Research staff will discuss the latest developments and discoveries bythe GIA Research department, including updates on gem identification and other topics of current interest. This presentation will be held Sunday, Feb. 4, from 9 to 10 a.m., in the Tucson Convention Center Coconino Room.

Show Specials Exclusive to Show Goers

Gems & Gemology

AGTA GemFair attendees can save up to 30% on special subscription packages for GIA’s Gems & Gemology. Each new subscriber will also receive the special Fall issue "Proceedings of the 2006 International Gemological Symposium and the Gemological Research Conference" (a $24.95 value)free with aone-year or three-year subscription. Depending on the package, active GIA students and alumni members will save an additional $10 to $15.

G&G back issues will also be available at special prices – ask about the limited number of out-of-print issues and specials on one, three, and five year sets of back issues.

Also available are special prices on laminated reference charts from the pages of G&G. These charts are excellent reference tools on topics from HPHT-grown synthetic diamonds to GIA’s Diamond Cut Grading System. Those who purchase three or more charts can do so for only $10each, while single charts will be available for $12. The two Gems & Gemology in Review volumes (Colored Diamonds and Synthetic Diamonds) can also be purchased at the G&G booth for savings of up to $24 in shipping costs.

GIA Instruments

GIA Instruments will offer exclusive deals on the most advanced tools of the trade during the AGTA GemFair. Showgoers will save hundreds on microscopes, gem identification instruments, and diamond grading tools.

Visitors will also have the chance to check out the newly released GIA FacetScan™ optical scanner. Booth staff will demonstrate how this powerful yet easy-to-use devicemeasures diamonds, accesses the GIA Facetware™ Cut Estimator Database to return an estimated GIA Cut Grade for round brilliant diamonds, and does muchmore – making it the perfect selling tool for the savvy retailer.

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GIA Calendar

At each of the three shows, attendees can stop by any GIA booth and pick up a free, limited edition 2007 GIA Calendar. This stunning calendar features jewelry and gemstones from the "Celebrating Excellence in Gems and Jewelry" exhibit, a special collection brought together to commemorate GIA's 75th Anniversary.

GIA Education
Attendees can drop off a business card at the GIA booth on the Galleria level for a chance to win a video iPod. The winner will be announced at 1:00 pm on Monday, Feb. 5 and does not need to be present to win.

GIA Alumni Association Celebrates 25 Years with Annual Dinner, Auction, and Dance

The Alumni Association will hold its annual Tucson event on Feb. 2 at the Marriott University Park Hotel. The rock ‘n’ roll themed festivities begin at 6:45 p.m. with a buffet dinner and silent auction, followed by an Industry Awards Presentation and announcement of the Richard T. Liddicoat Scholarship award winners. The live auction kicks off at 8:15 p.m. and the dance party follows. The price for early registration is $40 for Alumni members and $50 for non-members; afternoon Jan. 26, all tickets are $50.

There is still time to donate auction items. So far, bidders can choose from a variety of items including aBerkshire Hathaway Diamond Edition Monopoly Game signed by Warren Buffet and Charles Mungers, courtesy of Borsheim’s Fine Jewelry & Gifts. Two vintage watches, a Rolex and a Gucci, valued at $6,000 and $2,000, respectively, are also available for bid. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the GIA Alumni Endowment Fund.

To register for this event email: events@gia.edu or visit http://www.gia.edu/. For more information about the Tucson Dance Party and auction, contact Global Events Manager Jan Tilton at 760-603-4139 or by e-mail at jtilton@gia.edu.

Giveaways and Prizes

At each of the three shows, attendees are invited to stop by any GIA booth and pick up a free, limited edition 2007 GIA Calendar. This stunning calendar features jewelry and gemstones from the "Celebrating Excellence in Gems and Jewelry" exhibit, a special collection brought together last year to commemorate GIA's 75th Anniversary.

At the AGTA show, attendees can also register to win a video iPod by dropping off a business card at the GIA booth on the Galleria level. The winner will be announced at 1:00 pm on Monday, Feb. 5 and does not need to be present to win.

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GIA to Provide Geographic Origins on Emerald Reports

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) will begin offering geographic origin determinations on its Emerald Identification Reports, effective December 1, 2006.

Shane McClure, director of Gem Identification in GIA’s Carlsbad Laboratory, said, “We are very pleased to be expanding our emerald services to include geographic origin information on our reports. This is another step forward in our commitment to offer GIA’s laboratory and research services to the colored stone industry.”

McClure said, “This is a pivotal step for GIA. The Institute has always held that the intrinsic quality of an emerald was the most important factor in determining its market value.”

“While we staunchly believe that the quality of gem material will always be of primary importance, we recognize that the marketplace perceives the country of origin of an emerald to be of added value, and is therefore a factor in its valuation,” said McClure.

When the tell-tale properties and characteristics of an emerald are present to permit a determination of its geographic origin, GIA will indicate this on its emerald reports. Although this will apply to all emerald localities, initially this service will focus on the distinction of emeralds from Colombia.

Discussions with the colored stone trade have indicated that the greatest demand exists for the distinction of Colombian emeralds. According to McClure, GIA has put in place robust criterion and feels confident in its ability to distinguish emeralds that have originated from this deposit.

As part of this expanded service for emeralds, an introductory fee scale has been developed that is broadly based on the weight of the emerald being tested.

If the geographic origin of an emerald is not determined or not requested, the standard emerald identification fee will be applied.

“In addition, GIA has gone through a process to update the images on its emerald, ruby, sapphire and alexandrite reports,” McClure said. “We’ve gone to great lengths to improve the quality of the images on our reports. We now have a specialized software system in place that maximizes color reproduction and printing to put very high-quality images on the reports.”

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European Union Vows to Tighten Kimberley Process

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

On January 1, 2007 the European Union will assume chairmanship of the Kimberley Process. The body has vowed to strengthen the process and deal actively with any crisis which could compromise its effectiveness. Participating KPCS governments now monitor and certify all rough diamonds in their territory before export and forbid any rough diamonds from entering their territory without an approved KPCS certificate.

The Kimberley Process has dramatically reduced the scope of conflict diamond trade. Some estimates put rough associated with conflict at less than 1% of the global market today. Nevertheless, the trade is vast and the system is not perfect: Kimberly Process fraud was uncovered in Brazil and Guyana this year. In early November NGOs were calling for expulsion of Venezuela.

The European Union vows to tighten controls. Measures will include consolidating peer review visits, publication of statistics and effectiveness of internal controls. One of the EU’s first priorities is to ensure that conflict diamonds from Cote d’Ivoire cannot be laundered through Guyana or Mali. Also of note is the UN Security Council’s decision to maintain its ban on diamond exports from Liberia until the country can adequately track diamond mining on its territory.

The European Commission was unanimously elected to hold the annual chairmanship of the KP in 2007, succeeding Botswana, Russia, Canada, and South Africa.

KP Participants asof December 15, 2006:

There are 47 Participants representing 71 countries (EC represents 25 Member States.) This will change to 45 Participants as Romania and Bulgaria will become part of the European Community.

Angola
Armenia
Australia
Bangladesh
Belarus
Botswana
Brazil
Bulgaria
Canada
Central African Republic
China, People's Republic of
Congo, Democratic Republic of the
Cote d'Ivoire (embargo)
Croatia
European Community
Ghana
Guinea
Guyana
India
Indonesia
Israel
Japan
Korea, Republic of
Lao, Democratic Republic of
Lebanon
Lesotho
Malaysia
Mauritius
Namibia
New Zealand
Norway
Romania
Russian Federation
Sierra Leone
Singapore
South Africa
Sri Lanka
Switzerland
Tanzania
Thailand
Togo
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United States of America
Venezuela
Vietnam
Zimbabwe

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GIA’s Museum Collection Receives Large Turkish Diaspore

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) recently received a 24.60 ct. step-diamond cut, color-change Turkish diaspore that is marketed as Zultanite™. The gem was donated by Zultanite Gems LLC and will become part of the Institute’s permanent Museum collection.

This turkish diaspore appears yellow-green/green yellow in daylight/fluorescent light and shifts to brownish, purplish-pink in incandescent light. Gift of Zultanite Gems LLC. Photo by Robert Weldon. Courtesy, GIA

“This donation is meant to show GIA our appreciation for identifying the first Zultanite crystal two decades ago,” said Murat Akgun, managing director of Zultanite Gems LLC. “Through GIA’s research help, we learned that it is a phenomenal gemstone unique to Turkey. We hope its presence in the GIA Museum will help the public learn more about this special gem and its origins.”

Zultaniteis a transparent gem with phenomenal properties such as chatoyancy and color change, and it has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. The stone appears yellow-green/green-yellow in daylight/fluorescent light and shifts to brownish, purplish pink in incandescent light.

“We are pleased to receive such a large and impressive example of Zultanite,” said Patricia Syvrud, GIA’s director of In-Kind Gifts. “Mr. Akgun’s generous gift, now part of our permanent collection, allows us to share this material with our researchers, students, and the visiting public.”

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Zimbabwe Residents Arrested for Illegal Possession

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Five men, including one Belgian national, were arrested in Zimbabwe, charged with possession of diamonds from the Marange district. That country recently opened up the Marange diamond mine to all residents. Finders of diamonds are supposed to sell discovered rough to the state according to regulations, but the open market may pay more than the state is willing to. In an effort to control possession, police have set up roadblocks to search residents.

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GIA Staff and Students Donate to Local Hospices

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Courtesy, GIA

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) annual holiday gift drive, organized by Institute staff and students, collected more than $7,826 this year in cash, toys, and food. As a result, 360 gifts and 72 dinners will be given to local families in need during the holidays.

The staff and students presented the funds and gifts to two north San Diego County nonprofit organizations, Hospice of the North Coast and The Elizabeth Hospice, on Dec. 13. Both hospice organizations provide physical, emotional, spiritual, and bereavement support for terminally ill patients, their families, and the community.

“We appreciate the generous help GIA is giving the Elizabeth Hospice families this year,” said Julie Schardin, major gifts officer for The Elizabeth Hospice. “Many of our patients are going through intensely vulnerable and emotionally difficult situations, and experiencing financial need at the same time. With GIA’s help, we are better able to provide care and comfort to some of our patients and their families who may be spending their last holiday season together.”

Le Ayn Ingels,executive director of the Hospice of the North Coast, said that GIA’s gift drive will benefit several grieving children of varying ages. “We are grateful to GIA’s staff and students for their kind generosity, and hope their gifts will help make the holidays a little brighter for these children.”

The Institute’s fund-raising efforts consisted of a combined gift, food, and cash drive held during November and December at its world headquarters and Robert Mouawad Campus in Carlsbad.

GIA has organized a charitable drive to aid local families in need over the holidays every year since 1996. Since then, GIA has donated approximately $54,826 in gifts, food, and cash to a variety of community recipients and organizations.

“I am always impressed by the generosity of our staff and students,” said Carol Moffatt, GIA’s Events manager and chair of its holiday committee. “It’s wonderful to help our neighbors in need this holiday season.”

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Blood Diamond has little initial impact on Consumers

Wed, 13 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

According to reports from the Jewelry Consumer Opinion Counsel, after polling over 2900 consumer panelists, 60 percent of those who saw the movie Blood Diamond this past weekend indicated it did not influence their opinion of the diamond industry and 64 percent understand that the industry has safeguards in place to prevent the sale of conflict diamonds in the consumer market.

Two-thirds of those polled say the movie will not have an impact on their willingness to purchase diamond jewelry and nearly 75 percent say their holiday purchasing plans will not be affected.

These are preliminary opinions, as only 11 percent of moviegoers saw the movie on its opening weekend. The film was well-received; 50 percent considered it very good and almost a third of respondents believe it is a possible Academy Award winner. More than two thirds were impressed with Leonardo DiCaprio’s performance.

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Children's "Powerpuff" Necklaces Recalled due to Lead Poisoning Hazard

Wed, 13 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product.

Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. (To access color photos of the following recalled products, see CPSC's Web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/.)

Name of Product: Children's Powerpuff Girls necklaces

Units: About 48,000

Importer: Rhode Island Novelty, of Cumberland, R.I.

Hazard: The recalled jewelry contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled necklaces are multi-colored metal pendants that hang from a black cord. The pendants are in the shape of the head of one of three "Powerpuff Girls" cartoon characters. The packaging consists of purple cardboard with the three Powerpuff Girls cartoon characters and the words "CARTOON NETWORK" and "THE POWERPUFF GIRLS" printed on both sides.

Sold at: Carnivals, amusement parks, family entertainment centers, small discount stores nationwide and at http://www.rinovelty.com/, from March 2003 through November 2006 for about $1.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take this jewelry away from children. Consumers should return the recalled jewelry to the store where purchased for a replacement or contact Rhode Island Novelty for information on how to receive a replacement.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Rhode Island Novelty at 1-800-528-5599 between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at http://www.rinovelty.com/.

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FTC to Consider Amending Use of "Cultured"

Wed, 13 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) in association with 10 other jewelry industry associations filed a petition with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to amend the FTC Guidelines for the Jewelry, Precious Metals and Pewter Industries to add the term “cultured” to the list of unfair or deceptive terms when used in conjunction with jewelry industry products.

The primary reason behind this request is so consumers will not be deceived when the term “cultured” is used in conjunction with products other than pearls: For instance, use of the term “cultured diamond” in association with a with a gemstone grown naturally with human intervention.

Cecilia L. Gardner, president, CEO and general counsel of JVC said,“The jewelry guidelines provide explicit standards for trade practices in the jewelry industry. Given the widespread confusion and misconception found among consumers when asked about the meaning of 'cultured' when applied to products other than pearl, we felt it was important to ask the FTC to amend the Guides. The guides should address the important issue of full disclosure of the true nature of laboratory created jewelry products.“

The American Gem Society, American Gem Trade Association, The World Jewellery Confederation, Cultured Pearl Association, Diamond Council of America, Diamond Manufacturers and Importers Association of America, International Diamond Manufacturers Association, Jewelers of America, Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America, and the World Federation of Diamond Bourses all support this initiative.

The Consumer Enforcement Division of the FTC will consider the contents of the petition in order to determine if there is sufficient grounds to issue a Federal Register notice which could solicit comments from the trade on whether the Guides should be amended.

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Record-Setting Spending Occuring Online

According to comScore Networks, Reston VA, consumer online retail spending on US Websites reached a record-setting $647 million on Dec 4. This represents a 26 percent increase over the corresponding day last year.

During the first 35 days of the season this year total online retail spending reached $13.7 billion, which is a 25 percent increase compared to corresponding days in 2005.

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Belgian Diamond Dealer Dies During Raid

Nikhil Manilal, 46, an Indian diamond trader living in Antwerp, died during a raid at his house by the Belgium Tax Police.

Media reports say that Manilal collapsed soon after police arrived and assistance was not called upon soon enough by authorities to save his life. Afterwards the police continued the search on the orders of a judge.

A well known executive at the Beltaj NV diamond company, Manilal’s death stunned the Antwerp diamond community. Much of that city’s diamond sector was closed for business Friday in protest of Manilal’s death, according to reports.

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OGI - Yehuda Introduce Rough Color Evaluator

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

OGI Systems and Zvi Yehuda, an Israeli developer of color machines, have introduced a colorimeter which will predict color in rough diamonds.

According to reports the accuracy for rough diamonds in the D-K range as well as fancy yellow is +/- ½ color grade. An indication of fluorescence is given and the detects Fancy yellow in the following groups: None, light fancy yellow, fancy, intense fancy, and vivid fancy.

The technology can also detect type IIA diamonds, and determine which are suitable for HPHT. The system is automatic and mobile and connects via USB to OGI’s associated products.

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Children's "Mood" Necklaces Recalled due to Lead Poisoning Hazard

From JCK News - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a voluntary recall of "Children’s Mood Necklaces and Diva Necklaces." Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed, CPSC said in a statement.

The recalled jewelry contains high levels of lead, CPSC said. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects. CPSC said that there are 51,600 units in the market.

The recalled Mood Necklaces are multi-colored pendants shaped as hearts, moons, shamrocks, spiders, butterflies, and lizards that hang from a black chord. The packaging is a black cardboard wrapped in plastic with “Mood Necklace” printed on the front and “Item # JW41001” and “UPC number 898846410011” printed on a sticker on the back. The recalled Diva Necklaces consist of pendants shaped as the words “ANGEL” or “Diva” that hang from a black chord. The packaging is pink cardboard with “Hand Painted” and “Diva Necklace” printed on the front, and “Item # 21800020” and “UPC number 898846200186” printed on the back.

The necklaces were sold by children’s, dollar, and discount stores nationwide from September 2004 through November 2006 for about $1. They were manufactured in China and imported by Really Useful Products Inc., Darien, Ill.

CPSC said consumers should immediately take this jewelry away from children and return it to the store where purchased for a full refund, or contact Really Useful Products for information on how to receive a full refund.

For additional information, contact Really Useful Products toll-free at (888) 484-3444 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.ruproducts.com/.

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Ghana to Tighten Internal Controls

Wed, 06 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

According to reports from the Ghana news agency, that country has inaugurated a Kimberley Process Certification Oversight Committee in an effort to ensure that conflict diamonds will not cross that nation’s borders.

At the Kimberley Process Plenary in Botswana last month Ghana was accused of allowing diamonds from the Ivory Coast (Cote d’Ivoire) to enter the country for illicit export with Kimberley Process certificates. Ghana was given three months to take measures to take action to strengthen internal controls.

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GIA’s Kathryn Kimmel Receives Richard T. Liddicoat Award

Tue, 05 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Kathryn Kimmel, Courtesy GIA

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - Kathryn Kimmel, vice president of Marketing and Public Relations for Gemological Institute of America (GIA), has been awarded the Institute’s Richard T. Liddicoat Award for Distinguished Achievement, the highest honor GIA bestows on an individual.

This award is granted on an infrequent basis and only to individuals who truly exemplify excellence. Kimmel is the 11threcipient of the Liddicoat Award, which was started in 1994.

GIA President Donna Bakerpresented the award to Kimmel during a Nov. 20 ceremony at the Institute’s world headquarters in Carlsbad, Calif. In attendance were GIA’s Board of Governors, executive team, staff, and Kimmel’s mother, Dorothy Geml.

“Kathryn has led the marketing and pubic relations efforts at GIA for 16 years, during which she has elevated the way in which the world sees GIA – and the way we see ourselves. GIA has always had a proud and enduring legacy, and yet Kathryn has taken the Institute’s name, visibility, and global reach to a new height,” said Baker.

Baker continued, “Her perspective, character, integrity, and leadership are exceptional, and she embodies all that is great about the Institute. Kathryn is at once a leader and a team player, and I am proud and honored to know her, work with her, and award her with GIA’s top honor.”

Upon receiving the award, an astounded Kimmel said, “This award is a tremendous honor and holds a deep personal meaning for me. Mr. Liddicoat was an exceptional individual who, through his dedication and kindness, inspired the best work in all of us. I can only hope to live up to the promise of excellence this award implies.”

Kimmel, who joined GIA in 1990 as director of Marketing, has served as vice president of Marketing and Public Relations since 1995. In this position, Kimmel spearheads the Institute’s worldwide marketing, advertising, and public relations efforts.

During her tenure at GIA, Kimmel founded the GIA Jewelry Career Fair, the gem and jewelry industry’s premier annual recruiting event. She pioneered the Institute’s use of the Internet as a communications tool by launching a corporate website in 1997 and subsequently developing a string of interactive tutorials on gem and jewelry subjects. Kimmel was also responsible for the formation of GIA’s Public Relations department. Most recently, she served as the co-chair of the Institute’s 2006 Fourth International Gemological Symposium.

A firm believer in service to the community and the industry, Kimmel has contributed much of her free time and energy to worthy organizations. She is a founding member of the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA), past president of the Los Angeles chapter, and currently serves as vice president on the national board. She also serves on the national board of the Jewelry Information Center and the board of the 24 Karat Club of Southern California.

Kimmel’s accomplishments include the WJA Award for Excellence in Promotion, induction into the WJA Hall of Fame, the American Gem Society’s Distinguished Service Award, and the YWCA’s Tribute to Women and Industry (TWIN) award.

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GIA Elects Rodney Ewing to Board of Governors

Tue, 05 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Robert Ewing, Courtesy GIA

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has elected Dr. Rodney C. Ewing, a professor at the University of Michigan, as the newest member of its Board of Governors. Ewing, whose tenure begins immediately, will become one of the Institute’s 19 governors.

With over 35 years of intensive experience in geology and mineralogy, Ewingis a leading researcher in his field. He has authored or co-authored approximately 500 research publications and has served as the editor or co-editor of seven monographs, proceedings volumes, and special issues of journals.

As a professor in the Department of Geological Sciences at the Universityof Michigan, Ewing’s research involves radiation effects on minerals and ceramics. His current research utilizes a wide variety of solid-state characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and high-resolution electron microscopy.

Ewing graduated from TexasChristian University with a bachelor’s degree in geology in 1968. He went on to receive his master’s degree and Ph.D. in mineralogy from Stanford University. While at Stanford, Ewing held a National Science Foundation Fellowship.

Ewing also holds appointments as a University of Michigan professor in the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences and the Department of Materials Science and Engineering.

In addition, Ewing is an Emeritus Regents’ Professor at the Universityof New Mexico in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, and an Adjungeret Professor at the University of Aarhus in Denmark.

“With his extensive scientific research background and high standing in the field of mineralogy, Rod brings a wealth of knowledge to the Institute and will be a welcome addition to our board,” said Helene Fortunoff, chairperson of GIA’s Board of Governors.

Ewingis also a member of the Board of Nuclear and Radiation Studies of the National Research Council, a fellow of the Geological Society of America, and a fellow of the Mineralogical Society of America. In 2002, Ewing received a Guggenheim Fellowship.

Of his appointment to the Institute’s board, Ewingsaid, “I am honored and excited at the prospect of being able to contribute to GIA.”

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2007 JCK Show Expands to Las Vegas Convention Center

Sun, 03 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The 2007 JCK Show, Las Vegas, will be held June 1-5, preceded by educational sessions on May 30-31. This year’s show will expand to two location: The Sands Expo and Convention Center at The Venetian Hotel Resort & Casino as well as making a debut at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) will open at 9:00 AM each day. It will feature 20,000 square feet of exhibit space occupied by exhibitors from around the world. “Cadeaux: The Luxury Gift Collection” by George Little Management and Reed Exhibitions will be based here. The area will be designed to cater to the needs of jewelry retailers that attend JCK as well as focusing on luxury department stores, hotels, cruise lines and web retailers. The LVCC will also host international exhibitors from Taiwan, Peru, Singapore and Malaysia.

There will be a dedicated transportation system between the LVCC, the Sands and the show hotels.

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837-Diamond Ring Claimed to be World Record

Tue, 05 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Ukraine's Lobortas & Karpova jewelery house displayed a gold ring with 837 African and Yakutian diamonds in Kiev, claiming it is a new world record. The ring, owned by an unidentified Ukrainian businesswoman, is called "The Dance of an Angel". Its value has not been revealed, but similar rings from the collection fetched more than $50,000.

The Dance of an Angel

Lobortas & Karpova wants Ukraine to be a world force in expensive jewelery collections. Igor Lobortas, Head of the Lobortas & Karpova House said: "It is our objective to make Ukraine the third country in the world after France and Russia, because this is going to be a third largest collection after the Faberge Easter eggs collection which has 56 items and the Cartier collection of about 60 pieces."

The jewelery house has applied to the Guinness Book of World Records to register the record-breaking diamond ring.

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PGI Study Shows Internet Jewelry Research Growing

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

According to a study by Platinum Guild International USA the number of people researching fine jewelry on the internet is growing. In fact the internet is the number one resource for Men who are looking for what’s often their first fine jewelry purchase – the engagement ring.

PGI-USA has added a new feature on its websites to assist shoppers called “Find a Retailer.” The section was created to identify reputable fine jewelry retailers offering platinum jewelry.

Two other sections may be helpful to browsing shoppers as well:

The “Design Gallery” displays over 200 designs from dozens of top designers, separated into logical shopping areas: Bridal, Fashion, Anniversary, Advertised Product and a Design Showcase.

The “Celebrity Showcase” features fashion trends seen in Hollywood and among popular celebrities. Consumers are highly influenced by celebrity trends and retailers can keep up to speed on the most recent trends by staying abreast of these pages.

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Whiteflash Blood Diamond Movie Review

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Image: http://blooddiamondmovie.warnerbros.com/

On December 8 the Warner Bros movie 'Blood Diamond' opens nationwide. The film has been predicted to raise questions among consumers about the provenance of diamonds they purchase this holiday season and into the New Year. After a pre-screening we believe those questions can only result in a positive spread of awareness. Here are our thoughts:

Depiction of the Diamond Industry

Some diamond industry professionals were concerned that no temporal context would be given, but wording at the front of the film placed it in 1999 Sierra Leone. For that matter one bar scene showed TV news featuring the Clinton/Lewinsky story, just in case you were getting that $12 popcorn and soda during the opening credits. Close to the beginning is a portrayal of the 12/99 G8 Summit in Antwerp to provide background for the audience. This is artfully juxtaposed with action happening in the story line. A point of contention could be the percentage of world rough affected by illicit trade at the issue's zenith in the late 1990s: The film gives the figure as 15% (from NGO Global Witness) while industry sources have put it considerably lower, reduced to under1% now.

The movie’s diamond industry bad guys are the all-powerful Van Der Kaap cartel (a DeBeers parody). Scrappy arms dealers take illicit rough as payment from rebels and smuggle it to neighboring Liberia. The Van Der Kaap cartel knowingly looks the other way and lets these conflict diamonds be sorted in with legitimate rough. Why? So that they acquire all available diamonds and store them in secret underground vaults in London. This way they control market prices (where have we heard this before?). Greed even drives officers in the legitimate government military, who overrun rebel-held diamond fields and make their own deals with the cartel. Though portrayed as a corrupt entity, Van Der Kaap remains faceless. The movie actually revolves around the plight of its two main actors, who have entirely different motivations for fanatically pursuing the 100 ct pink “Blood Diamond.”

As the film ends it states that the Kimberly Process came into being as a result of the conditions described. There is the caution that "it is still up to the consumer to insist that a diamond is conflict-free." The movie closes by citing that there are still 200,000 child soldiers in Africa. There is discussion about Apartheid and references are made to similar military actions in Africa revolving around ivory, oil, gold and rubber. It is strongly implied that if the greed didn’t revolve around diamonds it would be something else.

We believe this movie can raise awareness about the scope of the issues in the 1990s and help people understand that such conditions still exist. Those who held no opinion before seeing it may want to find out more about the issues - and what they can do to help.

How was the movie?

In a word? Graphic. Especially with regard to violence involving children.

The storyline seems secondary to assuring that viewers are shocked by violence and chaos. It earns every bit of its R rating and the violence is reminiscent of 'Saving Private Ryan.' Perhaps the conditions being replicated are realistic, but we suggest you keep the pre-teens at home for this one. A recurring theme is speeding jeeps loaded with guys wielding AK-47s who blast around killing anyone and everyone in the open. There is sustained random slaying of women and children, and gun-toting children doing the slaying. It’s not shoot first, ask questions later, it’s shoot and keep shooting until nothing moves. When jeeps stop people are jumping out to kill stragglers, cut off limbs and force people to labor camps. Young boys are abducted, told their parents are dead and brainwashed into becoming child soldiers. This is a focal point of the movie. Some of ‘rites of passage’ we see are these children naked and beaten, forced to fight each other, shooting prisoners while blindfolded, advancing side by side with AK-47s slaughtering a yard full of fleeing women and being injected with heroin. The worst siege is a RUF incursion into Freetown, where the now-familiar high-speed jeep attack is accompanied by torching buildings with surface to surface missiles, people thrown from balconies, a prisoner being jeep-dragged in chains and innocents shot by impromptu firing squads of 10-year old boys.

We predict the DVD version will test your sound system. Not five minutes goes by in the first hour without extended running, gunfire, explosions, shouting and screaming.

Yes, there are diamonds in the story but with so much stuff blowing up you rarely see them. A couple of moments do occur: As Leonardo DiCaprio explains how illicit diamonds come into the cartel’s control we see alternating scenes of a couple buying diamonds in what looks like an American or European jewelry store. A similar moment occurs late in the film when one of the film's characters examines diamonds in a London window display.

Positives

When the shooting stops the acting is good, especially from DiCaprio who learned a consistent if not completely authentic accent. Djimon Hounson is very believable. The other cast members support the two main guys just fine, mostly by shooting at them. Maybe Jennifer Connelly could have done more with her role, maybe not…our ears were ringing. The visual effects are Hollywood-great, even with the violent, life-is-cheap angle on steroids. We realize some action video games on Playstation have crazy-violent sensory input too…but the women and children shook us up.

A few memorable lines

“TIA” (‘this is Africa,’ a phrase used to explain-away the chaos).
“Governments only want to stay in power until they’ve stolen enough to go somewhere else.”
“People back home wouldn’t buy a ring if they knew it cost somebody their hand.”
“Let’s hope they don’t discover oil here. Then we’d have real problems.”

Our Hopes

We hope many people will see this movie. It will help professionals and trade insiders spread the understanding that "conflict-free" just scratches the surface. Though dramatically reduced in recent years, hot spots of conflict and suffering remain. The industry aggressively promotes “conflict-free” diamonds. That label may protect consumers from association with conflict, but it doesn’t address the real problem; the people still suffering in Africa.

Our Dreams

We’ve established a program, Dreams of Africa, where 100 percent of profits from the sale of a designer line of conflict-free jewelry is donated to victims of conflict diamonds. This program is growing in scope. Our CEO, Debi Wexler, introduced Dreams of Africa to such luminaries as the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu in September at the largest-ever gathering of Nobel Peace Prize winners on American soil We selected Nobel Laureate Betty Williams’ “World Centers of Compassion for Children International” to be our Dreams of Africa charity partner.

Please visit http://www.dreamsofafrica.org/ to learn more about Blood Diamonds and howWhiteflash is being proactive.

(related articles at the end of this review also have more information)

Our Message

Blood Diamonds still exist. Buying “conflict-free” protects you as consumers but it doesn’t stop the pain. As one company we can’t change governments or politics, but we can create commerce and benevolence to help these people. We can turn diamonds into a gift for life.

Spread The Word

UNICEF is active in Africa. Development diamond initiatives like those proposed by Martin Rapaport are evolving. Our company’s chosen charity partner is theWCCCI and we have a program funding relief for African children. When our family and friends see the movie we intend to pass on that buying “conflict-free” is an important step, but it is only a start. There is more we can do.

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GIA Seeks Auction Items for 2007 Tucson Dinner Dance

Sun, 03 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Alumni Association is asking for auction items for the 2007 Tucson Dance Party, “GIA Rocks Tucson,” on Feb. 2.

The annual GIA alumni event is held during February’s Tucson gem and mineral shows and features dancing, networking, a buffet dinner, and both a live and silent auction. A ceremony presenting Alumni Awards and honoring recipients of the Richard T. Liddicoat Scholarships will also take place.

“All proceeds from the dance partyand auction benefit the Alumni Endowment Fund,” said Rose McKenna, GIA’s Alumni Relations manager. “The fund provides financial support for chapter activities, supplies gemological equipment for our Distance Education students, and helps us bring world-renowned speakers to talk to our chapters.”

Past auction donations have included a Berkshire Hathaway Diamond Edition Monopoly game autographed by Warren Buffett and donated by Susan Jacques, GIA governor and president of Borsheim’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts; a set of Swarovski crystal stem wine glasses with cut crystal bases, donated by Margee Swarovski; and many other items from alumni and chapter associations, such as jewelry, gemstones, mineral specimens, books, and themed gift baskets.

Previous auction winner Michael Quinn, an Accredited Jewelry Professional working on his Graduate Gemologist diploma, said he is honored to help strengthen the Alumni Endowment Fund. Quinn is the owner of Mike’s Jewelry Corner in Salt Lake City.

“The education I’ve received through GIA has helped me better educate my customers, and that credibility is essential in building a foundation of trust with them,” he said. “I feel that I’m contributing to the education of other gem enthusiasts by supporting the auction.”

For more information about the Tucson Dance Party and auction, contact Global Events Manager Jan Tilton at 760-603-4139. To nominate a GIA graduate for the 2007 Alumni Awards, visit http://www.gia.edu/alumni/69/section_main_page.cfm. Awards will be handed out prior to the 2007 Tucson Dance Party.

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First Look at GIA's new Synthetic Diamond Grading Report

Fri, 01 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - As previously announced, GIA will begin accepting synthetic diamonds for grading on Jan. 1, 2007, using the new report format unveiled today.

Courtesy, GIA

GIA Chairman Ralph Destino said that this report is a culmination of a process started last June when he announced to the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) at their Tel Aviv congress that GIA intended to begin the grading of these stones. At that gathering, Destino told the delegates that GIA’s public-benefit mission mandated that the Institute “describe and report on synthetics so that consumers can rely on full and proper disclosure” when they enter the diamond marketplace. The WFDB subsequently voted overwhelmingly that synthetics should indeed be graded and concurred with Destino’s view that “full disclosure can only enhance consumer confidence.”

In developing the grading document, Destino noted that, “We listened carefully to the concerns of leaders in both the natural diamond and laboratory-grown diamond industries, and we were as sensitive as we could be to those concerns. In the end, however, our final decisions were shaped by our 75-year commitment to our fundamental constituency which, as always, is the public at large.”

Courtesy, GIA

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Stars Shine with Whiteflash at Alzheimer’s Charity Gala

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, daughter of film legend Rita Hayworth, is a brilliant star in the fight against the disease which took her mother. On November 14 she shined her brightest in diamond jewelry from Whiteflash at the annual Rita Hayworth Gala; the world’s most successful fund raising event for Alzheimer’s Disease research. Princess Yasmin wore the Whiteflash Mesh Bracelet featuring over 9 carats of Whiteflash ACA superideal sparklers in 9 dancing rows ($19,000). The ring was a 5 carat Whiteflash ACA Hearts & Arrows diamond in a platinum “Champaigne Pave” ($160,000).

Mark Kearney and Princess Yasmin Aga Khan

Donna Dixon, wife of actor Dan Akroyd, looked splendid in a new “Whiteflash Signature W Necklace” and unique “Princess Whiteflash Earrings” sporting a pair of blinding 5 carat Princess-cut diamonds ($310,000). All told, Princess Yamin and Ms. Dixon will set the room ablaze in over a half-million dollars of Whiteflash diamond jewelry.

Donna Dixon and Debi Wexler

Whiteflash.com in association with the Mark Kearney Group also donated two “Dreams of Africa” diamond pendants to the Gala’s silent auction for a total of over $10,000. The Dreams of Africa program was launched in August: Whiteflash is donating 100 percent of profits from sales of a designer range of diamond jewelry and other merchandise to the victims of conflict diamonds in Africa. Whiteflash has partnered with Nobel Laureate Betty Williams’ charity, the WCCCI, to fund relief for children with no red tape or industry in the way. The company’s message to consumers: “As jewelry retailers and consumers we cannot change governments or politics, but we can turn diamonds into a gift for life.”

The 2006 Gala honored former Miss America and Alzheimer activist Phyllis George. Inspired by The Four Tops hit, the evening’s theme, “Reach out, I’ll be there,” featured a performance by Grammy Award winner Michael McDonald, and combined the music and magic of Motown with the renowned style and splendor of a Rita Hayworth Gala.

Since 1985, the Rita Hayworth Galas have raised more than $42 million for Alzheimer’s disease research and support programs.

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Barbara Berk Presents Modern Textile Art

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) 2006 Museum Lecture Series concluded with designer Barbara Berk’s presentation, “Of Potholders and Pigtails: Contemporary Applications of Textile Techniques in Metal." Berk revealed how she applied her childhood love of fabric and sewing to the weaving of precious metals by hand, thereby creating the “fabric” that becomes her jewelry, during her Oct. 18 lecture at the Institute’s headquarters in Carlsbad.

"Aqua Rhapsody," features a 31.08 ct unenhanced Nigerian Aquamarine. Photo by Robert Weldon, Courtesy GIA

“Barbara’s work is an amazing meld of artistry and technology,” said GIA Museum Director Elise Misiorowski. “Her beautiful woven gold and platinum jewelry is often embellished with pearls and carved gems, and combines a love of the fiber arts expressed in precious metal.”

“I take advantage of the physical properties and the working characteristics of the metals to create the sculptures that become my jewelry,” explained Berk.

The designer showed the audience several pictures to demonstrate the weaving techniques she uses. For her “Crown” pendant, which features a 14.07-ct. pink tourmaline briolette and Akoya and freshwater cultured pearls, Berk used both 18K and 22K gold wires to provide “different degrees of malleability or strength.” This dense weave is based on an ancient rug-weaving technique called Soumak, which originated in Shemakha, Azerbaijan, near Eurasia’s Caucasus Mountains.

"Crown" Pendant, Photo by Dana Davis - Courtesy GIA

The San Francisco Bay Area–based designer also uses a technique called "plain weave," which generates a different texture and, according to Berk, “is the simplest of woven structures.”

“If you’ve ever woven a potholder, you’ve done it – those stretchy loops manipulated in an ‘over one, under one’ pattern create a plain weave,” she said. The technique was used on the 18K gold sheet and wire in the “Ruffle” brooch she wore during her lecture.

"Ruffle" Brooch, Photo by Dana Davis, Courtesy GIA

An award-winning designer and GIA graduate, Berk has been honored by such industry groups as the American Gem Trade Association, the Women’s Jewelry Association, and the JCK International Jewelry Show.

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Crowningshield Memorial scheduled for Jan 11

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - On Jan. 11, 2007, GIA will host a memorial for G. Robert Crowningshield, who passed awayon Nov. 8. The service will begin at5 p.m. at the College Hall of the University Club of New York, with areception immediately following.

The University Club of New York is located at One West 54th Street (at 5th Ave.). To attend, please RVSP by Friday, Jan. 5 to memorial@gia.edu or call 760-603-4255. Dress is business attire.

In lieu of flowers being sent to GIA, if you would like to make a gesture of remembrance, please do so through the Crowningshield Endowment for Research.Your donation will be permanently invested and the earnings will be used for GIA’s research programs and projects. To learn more about this fund and how to contribute, contact Bev Hayes Berthoty, GIA’s Institute Relations manager, at bross@gia.edu or call 800-421-7250 ext. 4120, or at 760-603-4120.

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GIA Launches Holiday Site for Consumers

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is easing holiday shopping stress with a new microsite designed to help those looking for that special gift of jewelry.

The microsite, http://www.jewelrytrends.gia.edu/,has something for everyone: information about gemstones, tips for caring for jewelry, and the latest jewelry trends seen on the runways, in magazines, and at stores.

The site's “Featured Gem” is tourmaline, a popular gemstone available in a multitude of colors. Information about tourmaline's various geological sources, history and lore,and proper care is also provided.

In addition, the site describes the seven value factors of pearls – required reading for those looking to give this classic jewelry staple.

“Jewelry remains one of the most popular and treasured gifts,” said GIA Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations Kathryn Kimmel. “With our new holiday microsite, we hope to provide the public useful information that will help them make informed decisions when buying gems and jewelry."

Visit http://www.jewelrytrends.gia.edu/ to browse GIA’s informative holiday microsite. For more information about the Institute, including its world-renowned educational and laboratory services, call 800-421-7250.

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GIA Names Donna Baker President

Sun, 19 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Donna Baker, Courtesy, GIA

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) today announced the appointment of Donna M. Baker to the permanent position of president, effective immediately. Baker had been serving as GIA’s acting president since May 2006.

The announcement came at the opening of the GIA Board of Governors’ regular November meeting in Carlsbad. Board Chairman Helene Fortunoff said, “The Board is very pleased to have Donna’s former interim presidency now made permanent. She has been an effective member of our senior management team for more than five years and has consistently demonstrated a drive for excellence in all aspects of the GIA experience.”

Fortunoff continued, “We have every confidence in her ability to execute the Institute’s commitment to achieve greater transparency, more accountability, a stronger level of customer focus, and a continued improvement in all our business processes.”

GIA Chairman Ralph Destino, who chaired the search committee, noted that, “We screened and interviewed a broad range of very accomplished executives from a variety of fields before reaching our final decision. Our unanimous conclusion was that Donna Baker was the best of the best. Her knowledge of the gem and jewelry industry, and her understanding of the public-benefit, nonprofit role that defines GIA’s mission will serve us well going forward. She has the complete support of our Board of Governors.”

Baker took on the job of acting president last May following the resignation of then-president William E. Boyajian. Prior to that, Baker held the office of GIA’s vice president and general counsel since February 2001.

Of her appointment Baker said, “I’m deeply honored to have been chosen to lead this amazing organization and its dedicated staff. GIA is preeminent in the field of gems and jewelry because of its unshakeable commitment to excellence and public service. I hope my contribution will further the legacy left by Robert M. Shipley and Richard T. Liddicoat, and help GIA move into the future.”

Speaking of her first priorities in assuming the role, Baker said, “The primary focus continues to be improving GIA’s services. To that end, we recently undertook an Institute-wide review of our operations and are now assessing the findings. As president, I look forward to working with the Board and the executive team in implementing a long-term strategy so that GIA can better serve both the public and the trade. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue the work we’ve begun and to lead GIA at this exciting time in its history.”

Baker holds an MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management and a JD from the UCLA School of Law. She was named to the University’s Law Review from 1986 to1988, and was the Chief Comment Editor from 1987 to 1988. She is a member of the American Corporate Counsel Association, the American Bar Association, the California State Bar Association, the San Diego Bar Association and the North San Diego County Bar Association. Baker holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Loyola Marymount University, with a triple major in sociology, psychology, and theology. She graduated magna cum laude.

She also earned her Graduate Gemologist diploma from GIA.

Baker makes her home in north San Diego County, Calif., with husband Bill and son Patrick, 10.

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Jadeite Enthusiast Donates Sculpture to GIA

Wed, 15 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Courtesy, GIA

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has received a carved natural jadeite sculpture of a leaping carp from Sophie Leu, who has made several jadeite donations to the Institute in recent years. The piece will be displayed as part of the Institute’s Museum Collection at the Robert Mouawad Campus in Carlsbad.

“This large sculpture is a beautiful piece made of high-quality, rich green jadeite,” said Elise Misiorowski, director of the GIA Museum. "In Chinese culture, a fish is an auspicious symbol that represents harmony and abundance.”

The sculpture measures approximately 10.5 inches wide, 5 inches tall and 1.5 inches deep. In addition to the carp, it features lingzhi mushrooms and lotus flowers, leaves, and fruit.

“As part of my heritage, jadeite is very special to me. This piece represents prosperity, good luck, and success – all things I wish for GIA,” said Leu. “Also, I think it is important for the Institute to have good examples of jadeite. Through my ability to donate such pieces, it is my hope to share the importance of jadeite and its cultural symbolism with GIA’s students, staff, and the visiting public.”

Leu previously donated a jadeite teapot and four cups, as well as two jadeite rings. She has also loaned a large jadeite bowl and another jadeite sculpture, “The Eight Immortals,” to GIA for display.

“Sophie has been such a strong supporter of GIA, starting with her first donation in 2004,” said Kimberly Vagner, GIA’s In-Kind Gifts coordinator. “Her continuing generosity is helping to grow the GIA Museum’s jadeite collection, and we are grateful for each of her beautiful contributions.”

For more information on how to donate in-kind gifts to the Institute’s Museum Collection, contact GIA In-Kind Gifts DirectorPatricia Syvrudat 760-603-4432.

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GIA's Gems & Gemology Receives PRSA Mark of Excellence

Wed, 15 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - Gems & Gemology, the Gemological Institute of America’s quarterly professional journal, received the Edward L. Bernays “Mark of Excellence” award from the Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA) San Diego Chapter at its annual dinner in San Diego, Calif.on Oct. 19.

Gems & Gemology, which publishes up-to-date technical information about diamonds and colored stones, won the Mark of Excellence in the magazine category.

G&G Staff, Courtesy, GIA

“We’re truly honored to receive the prestigious Bernays Award,” said G&G Editor-in-Chief Alice S. Keller. “This recognition is a tribute to the talent and dedication of the journal’s staff, as well as our many authors, photographers, and other contributors.”

This was the fifth consecutive year that GIA has been recognized in the contest named for Bernays, “the father of public relations.” More than 300 communications professionals from all over San Diego County attended the event.

“The Bernays Awards is an opportunity for the San Diegopublic relations industry to come together to honor their peers for exemplary work,” said Derek Danziger, president of the PRSA San Diego Chapter. “The awards continue to raise the bar for public relations work countywide.”

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Kiplinger's "Get A Diamond Deal Online" Article

Jewelry Career Fair Inspires Attendees to Find Their Niche

Wed, 15 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Courtesy, GIA

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - For 875 job seekers, the Gemological Institute of America’s West Coast Jewelry Career Fair on Oct. 27 was a day for meeting recruiters, learning from experienced professionals, and finding their niche in an industry that ranges from laboratoryto retail to entrepreneurial callings.

These candidates met with 36 recruiting companies from throughout the jewelry industry. “I am proud to say that Career Fair is the largest recruiting event in the industry, and this year is no exception,” said Kathryn Kimmel, Career Fair creator and GIA’s vice president of Marketing and Public Relations.

“GIA Career Fair is the place to meet and screen qualified people in our industry,” said Kalpesh Jhaveri, CEO of K.R. Gems & Diamonds.

In addition to recruiting, several filled-to-capacity seminars featured industry leaders giving insight on how to make it in the trade. In “Starting Your Own Business,” Fine Gems International’s Robert Kane advised, “Always take the time to learn and become an expert.”

Matt Runci, president and CEO of Jewelers of America and panelist in “Working to Win,” told attendees, “There are three words that capture the spirit and essence of the industry – people, dreams, and trust.”

Runci explained that their future success will depend on their relationships with others, fulfilling the dreams of the consumer, and a “commitment to excellence that leaves doubt at the door.”

Throughout the event, job seekers began to establish industry relationships during one-on-one career coaching sessions with 36 seasoned professionals.

“The coaches were incredible. They were so willing to offer help, and if they didn’t have the answer, they found out and got back to me,” said GIA Distance Education student Neysa Fulsome.

In addition to the career-enhancing opportunities, GIA’s Open House portion of the event gave the public a chance totour the Institute’s campus, take in several classroom demonstrations, and view the GIAMuseum exhibit “Celebrating Excellence in Gems and Jewelry.” Among the jewelry on display are several pieces on loan from the Smithsonian Institution and Canada’s Royal Ontario Museum.

Now in its 16th year, Career Fair was founded by GIA and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California. The JCK International Publishing Group and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California are the prime sponsors for GIA’s West Coast Career Fair. For more information about Career Fair,visit http://careerfair.gia.edu/01_home.html.

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Blood Diamond Action website launched by Movie and NGOs

Wed, 15 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Non-Governmental Organizations Amnesty International and Global Witness, along with the movie “Blood Diamond” have launched a website at www.blooddiamondaction.org citing the history of conflict diamonds in Africa, information on present conditions and downloadable information.

The movie’s trailer and still photos are featured on the site, as well as buyers’ guides and sample letters to the US Government and World Diamond Council. Overviews of the Kimberly Process and measures being taken to address the conflict diamond issue are given, with statistics that are significantly different than those provided by government and industry.

The buyers’ guide instructs consumers to ask the following questions of their jewelers:

How can I be sure none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
Can I see a copy of your company’s policy on conflict diamonds?
Can you show me a written guarantee from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict-free?

According to the site's designer, the site will be plugged on an upcoming episode of "Oprah."

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New NCDIA Website Launched

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Natural Color Diamond Association has launched a new website. Featuring tips on buying, a store locator and design examples, the website provides consumers with education and insight about these increasingly popular gemstones. The frequently asked questions section includes answers about rarity, origin of color, value, affordability and authenticity.

NCDIA Executive Director Sam Merksamer hopes the new site will become the “number one consumer resource on natural color diamonds.”

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WJA Names Anna Martin as 2007 Hall of Fame Recipient

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Anna Martin of ABN AMRO has been named the Women’s Jewelry Association’s 2007 “Hall of Fame” recipient.

Martin is a past president of WJA and a board member for six years. She is senior VP of the America’s Diamond, Jewelry & Precious Metals group at ABN AMRO Bank in New York City, a leading player in diamond and jewelry industry finance. She is a member of the board of directors of the Gemological Institute of America, Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America and Jewelers for Children. She is a League of Honor sovereign of the GIA, a member of the Diamond Industry Steering Committee’s “Diamond Hall of Fame,” recipient of the “Premier Patron” award from the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association and received the Community Acievement Award from American ORT’s Jewelry Chapter.

Over 40 years at ABN AMRO Martin significantly increased the bank’s diamond lending and diversified the portfolio to include jewelry manufacturers and retailers. She will be honored at the WJA’s annual Awards for Excellence gala at Pier Sixty in New York City on July 29, 2007.

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Kimberly Process Plenery Agrees to Strengthen KP

Mon, 13 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The World Diamond Council, along with representatives of 71 nations and civil society met November 6-9, 2006 in Gabrone, Botswana at the annual Kimberly Process plenary meeting. In a statement, participants reported progress and agreements to strengthen KP.

Participants called for stronger internal controls regarding trade, cut and polished diamonds. The plenary agreed to offer clearer guidance on implementation of controls from mine to export and will spot check industry compliance. The plenary will publish the names of participants who regularly fail to submit their statistics and develop stronger measures to penalize non-compliance. They approved the immediate release of Kimberly Process summary data on trade and production by value and volume and certificate counts for 2004 and 2005.

The Working Group on Statistics reported that the Kimberley Process monitored $37.6 billion in rough diamonds exports in 2006, representing more than 500 million carats of rough diamonds. Participants issued 59,000 certificates to accompany those shipments. The WGS says that participants are reporting data regularly and the quality of the data and the analysis has improved.

New Zealand and Bangladesh were welcomed as new participants in the Kimberly Process. Seven countries are seeking participant status. Liberia reported on progress in establishing a diamond certification scheme to satisfy the criteria of the Kimberley Process as requested in UN Security Council Resolution 1521.

Concern was voiced that diamonds mined in rebel-held territories of the Ivory Coast are making their way to international markets via Ghana. A plan was approved to research Ghana’s internal diamond control processes and will send a review mission to Ghana in three months to verify compliance. Ghana officials committed to do what is necessary to maintain the integrity of the Kimberly Process. The Working Group of Diamond Experts (WGDE) reported development of “footprints” which can characterize diamond production from the Ivory Coast. Further work will be done to develop similar “footprints” for other West African diamond producers.

A review mission will be sent to Venezuela in order to investigate compliance. Brazil agreed to meet with Venezuela to address regional diamond trade concerns regarding internal diamond controls. Guyana indicated strong interest in participating in the regional meeting.

The Kimberley Process Chair's authority was transferred to the European Community for 2007. India was elected Vice-Chair for 2007. Russia was appointed to chair the Rules of Procedure committee.

All decisions made by the Plenary will be considered to have been formally adopted once they have been translated into the official languages of the Plenary (English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Russian), in accordance with Rule 26 of the KPCS Rules of Procedure, and made available to all Participants.

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Legendary GIA Gemologist Robert Crowningshield Dies at 87

Wed, 08 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. – The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) today lost one of its founding fathers as G. Robert Crowningshield, brilliant gemologist, legendary research scientist, and industry pioneer passed away at age 87 in New York.

Former vice president of the GIA Laboratory, Crowningshield is considered the father of modern gemological research in spectrometry. One of the original founders of the GIA Laboratory in New York, Crowningshield was a paramount scientist who established hard-hitting, results-oriented, ongoing research as a key tenet of the Institute. For over 55 years, he gave selflessly to GIA and its people, building a body of gemological knowledge personally and deliberately, gemstone by gemstone.

Tom Moses, senior vice president of the GIA Laboratory and Research said, “This is a sad day for people throughout GIA and the industry. We have been extremely privileged to work with such a great man for so long. He gave us his talent, his time, his intensity, his quest for perfection, his drive for precision, and we will be forever thankful.”

Crowningshield made thousands of significant contributions to the study of gems. His achievements helped lay the foundation of modern gemological research, instilled credibility in the jewelry business, and made Crowningshield one of the most respected and honored men in the industry.

His career was distinguished by an extensive list of “firsts,” including groundbreaking findings in the spot method of refractive index determination on Rayner and similar refractometers; spectroscope recognition of treated colored diamonds; a comprehensive study of gem-quality synthetic diamonds; and dyed jade. Crowningshield was also renowned for his expertise in nomenclature and is widely recognized for his contributions in that field, including an acclaimed 1983 treatise, “Padparadscha: What’s in a Name?”

He made fundamental advances in the understanding and identification of treated and synthetic diamonds; of colored stones such as tanzanite and amethyst, padparadscha sapphire and heat-treated corundum; and of natural and cultured pearls.

He also helped develop and teach the GIA diamond grading system, now the standard system worldwide. Along the way, he shared his wealth of practical experience in hundreds of articles, lectures and industry presentations. Crowningshield’s prodigious body of published work over five decades, much of it published in Gems & Gemology, included landmark articles on his discoveries and more than 1,000 entries in the Lab Notes section alone.

Crowningshield was the recipient of many prestigious industry awards including the American Gem Society’s Robert M. Shipley Award (1983), Modern Jeweler’s Lifetime Achievement Award (1995), and the American Gem Society Lifetime Achievement Award (2003).

In recognition of Crowningshield’s immeasurable contribution to the science of gemology, GIA in 1997 formally named its research facility the G. Robert Crowningshield Gemological Research Laboratory. Acknowledged as one of the finest gemological research centers in the world, it continues the tradition of scientific advancement begun by Crowningshield in areas of gem identification and detection. It also continues to build a vast compendium of gemological information on more than 100,000 gemstones in a growing database that began with Crowningshield’s own hand-drawn spectrographs of thousands of gemstones he personally identified.

In summing up Crowningshield’s contributions to gemology and to GIA, Tom Moses said, “He taught us how to look for the truth, and to find the core qualities in both gemstones and in people. He was an important man in our field, but he was also our friend, our teacher, and one of our leaders. He was brilliant. He was kind. He was a true gentleman. We will all miss Bob deeply.”

GIA and its leaders, employees, students, and alumni acknowledge their own immense respect for and deep gratitude to G. Robert Crowningshield, with whom it was their privilege to share more than five decades of friendship and collaboration.

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JCK Events sets 2007 Dates

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Jewelers Circular Keystone has announced dates for its 2007 events. JCK Events offer buying, selling and networking opportunities for trade members and press.

The JCK Invitational will take place at the New York Hilton Hotel February 4-6, 2007, in conjunction with the Rapaport International Diamond Conference. This event is an opportunity for retailers to meet with leading manufacturers.

LUXURY by JCK will be held May 29-31 at The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. LUXURY is by invitation-only; only the world’s most renowned designers and elite retail jewelers attend. Prestige Promenade will present PREMIERE, taking place in conjunction with LUXURY.

The JCK Show Las Vegas will be held Jun 1-5, with Educational Sessions preceding on May 30-31, at the Sands Expo & Convention Center, the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. This is JCK’s primary event and one of the most comprehensive jewelry gatherings in the world. Over 3000 exhibitors and tens of thousands of wholesalers, manufacturers and retailers from all aspects of the industry gather to attend this trade-only event.

Swiss Watch by JCK will also take place June 1-5 at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. The most elite Swiss watch brands meet with retailers to build relationships by-appointment-only.

JCK New Delhi will occur July 7-10 at the Pragati Maidan Exhibition Centre in New Delhi India. Manufacturers, suppliers and producers of jewelry from around the world come together with domestic Indian jewelry retailers.

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CRJP Names Catherine Sproule Director of NA Operations

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices (CRJP) has named Catherine Sproule Director of North American Operations, as of November 1. Based in Toronto, Sproule completes a global triad of CJRP leaders including CEO Michael Rae, operating from Australia, and Program Director Santiago Porto stationed in Europe.

CRJP Photo

Ms. Sproule has served as Executive Director of Canada’s jewelry trade association where she influenced the organization’s efforts in the mining and government sectors of her country. She also built a profile for the Canadian jewelry market in the international arena. Previously Sproule held a senior position with CBC, Canada’s national television and radio broadcaster and was the Canadian Public Relations Director for the Diamond Trading Company’s Diamond Information Center. She joins the CJRP to manage finances and administration as well as interfacing with the organization’s members and stakeholders in the United States and Canada.

The Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices (CRJP) is an international non-profit organization that promotes responsible ethical, social and environmental practices throughout the diamond and gold jewelry supply chain from mine to retail.

Whiteflash.com is a retail member of the CRJP.

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Palladium Alliance International (PAI) Introduces Newsletter

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Palladium Alliance International (PAI) introduced a newsletter to interested jewelers and journalists in October containing information about applications of the precious metal palladium, its use and developments related to this metal in the jewelry trade. A second issue will be mailed in December and the organization plans to take the newsletter online in 2007. Anyone interested in receiving the newsletter can email info@luxurypalladium.com to get on the mailing list.

The PAI is also partnering with the Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) to sponsor a Palladium Distinction Award at the 2007 MJSA Vision Award Design Competition. Other initiatives being developed include consumer literature regarding palladium and signage for booth displays in retail outlets.

The PAI was formed to promote the use and sale of palladium in jewelry.

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Internet to Influence Almost 30% of Holiday Purchases

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

According to a survey conducted for the National Retail Federation (NRF) Internet purchases will be at an all-time high this holiday season. Shoppers saying they will make 29 percent of purchases online. Nearly half of consumers plan to make at least one holiday purchase on the internet, up from 36 percent three years ago. Almost all consumers (88 percent) indicated they examine products on the internet before buying in a store.

The NRF forecasts put spending at an average of $791 per shopper on holiday merchandise. According to BIGResearch, who conducted the survey, retailers see websites as the initial connection with shoppers and will decorate their websites to give holiday shoppers incentive to purchase gifts.

The most popular starting points for shoppers included Google.com (24 percent), Yahoo.com (7 percent), Amazon.com (6 percent) and eBay (4 percent).

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Diamond-Studded Mercedes Worth $4.8 Million

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

This diamond-studded, mink-furnished Mercedes SL600, worth $4.8 million, was unveiled at a Dubai auto show to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Mercedes Benz SL550 in 2007.

The car is the property of Saudi Prince (Amir) al Waleed bin Talal bin Abdul-Aziz, one of the top 10 richest people in the world according to Forbes. Prince Waleed has 50 cars in his collection. The diamond-studded Mercedes is his 38th.

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Ellen Barkin’s “Breakup” Jewelry Nets $20.3 Million at Auction

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Actress Ellen Barkin put 103 pieces of jewelry accumulated during her five-year marriage on the auction block at Christie’s this month and netted $20.3 million.

Barkin and billionaire Ron Perelman married in 2000. Their split in January of 2006 was not amicable, with Perelman posting guards to prevent Barkin and her family from entering his property again.

Included in the auction was her wedding ring, a wide band set with four rows of bell-cut diamonds topped in 18k gold, which sold for $130,000. Other pieces of note were topaz earrings, sold for $710,400 and two pieces by Paris jeweler Joel Arthur Rosenthal. These ‘JAR’ designs were a diamond band which sold for $156,000 and an oval shaped 22.76 ct diamond ring for which an American collector paid $1.8 million.

According to Christie’s, the $20.3 million total amounts to the highest single-owner jewelry sale in the US in the past 15 years, and is among the top four in global history. The auction house reported that Barkin was “thrilled” with the sale’s outcome.

Barkin is best known for her roles in the films, "The Big Easy" and "Sea of Love.” Ron Perelmen is chairman of Revlon Inc. and has a reported value of more than $6 billion.

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Fabrikant & Salant to become Salant Group Ltd

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

In 1986 M. Fabrikant & Sons partnered with Salant of Israel to become the Fabrikant & Salant Group. The Salant family has announced its full acquisition of the partnership now and the company name will change to Salant Group Ltd.

These two companies have a rich history in the industry. The Salant family has existed since 1948, operating in the Israeli Diamond Exchange. M. Fabrikant & Sons operated out of New York beginning in 1895 as a small wholesaler in the Bowery and expanded over five generations into a global operation headquartered in Rockefeller Plaza. The Fabrikant & Salant Group became a DeBeers sightholder in 1990.

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JIC Announces Fifth Annual Gem Award Recipients

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Jewelry Information Center will award Jack Heuer of Tag Heuer with the fifth annual JIC Gem Award for Lifetime Achievement. The Award for Enduring Achievement will go to Kwiat, celebrating its 100^th anniversary and the Robb Report’s Jill Newman will receive the Excellence in Journalism Award. All recipients will be honored on Friday, January 12, 2007 at a gala awards dinner at Cipriani in New York City. Over 600 guests are expected to attend.

The JIC Gem Award recipients are selected by a committee of industry peers. For more information or to make reservations, email events@jic.org, or call 646-658-0240

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Smithsonian Gem Curator to speak at JM in Wisconsin

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company will host free presentations by Jeffrey Post at 4:30 and 7:30 PM on November 1 at their office in Neenah, Wisconsin.

Post has worked at the Smithsonian for over 20 years and has been curator of the National Gem and Mineral Collections since 1991. Over six million visitors per year visit these collections, which include items of natural and historical significance such as the Hope Diamond and Marie Antoinette’s earrings. Mr. Post has authored many articles as well as a book on the National Gem Collection, published by the Smithsonian. His lecture will address particulars about many of our nation’s notable gems and minerals. The presentations are free to the public, by reservation only.

Also free and open to the public is gallery of gems and minerals in Jewelers Mutual’s lobby. Recently renamed the R. Harder Gallery in honor of CEO Ron Harder who will retire from the company in May, it houses one of the nation’s largest privately owned collections.

Post’s lecture is part of Jewelers Mutual’s “biannual community presentations” which began in 1998. Reservations can be made at (920) 521-2301.

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WDC Calls For Differentiation between Synthetic and Natural Diamonds

Thu, 26 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Ernest Blom, President of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, believes the diamond industry must develop uniformity in the way synthetic diamonds are differentiated from natural diamonds. Blom said in an October statement: “While synthetic diamonds are a legitimate product with its own market niche to fill, they must always be identified as synthetic diamonds, and when they are graded the documentation and terminology should be recognizable at a glance as referring to synthetics.”

The Gemological Institute of America will begin accepting synthetic diamonds for grading as of January 2007. Blom has met with GIA acting president Donna Baker to discuss nomenclature for synthetics which will avoid them becoming confused with natural diamonds.

“Our interest, first and foremost, in agreeing that labs grade synthetics, is to provide accurate and unambiguous information to the jewelry consumer” said Blom. “If different labs adopt different strategies, and see a variety of different nomenclature, then the consumer will be presented with a range of mixed messages. That is exactly what we need to avoid.”

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5.47 Carat Diamond Found at Crater Of Diamonds State Park

Mon, 23 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A 5.47 carat diamond was found at the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro on October 14. According to Tom Stolarz, park superintendent, it is a bright yellow canary diamond with no visible flaws.

AP Photo

Bob Wehle of Wisconsin found the diamond and will take it home as a souvenir. Crater of Diamonds is the world’s only publicly operated diamond site where visitors are allowed to keep any gems they find.

This is the second largest diamond found this year. The largest was a 6.35 carat brown diamond found last month by a couple from Texas.

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GIA to House Bronze Bust of Edward J. Gübelin

Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The late Dr. Edward J. Gübelin has been immortalized in a bronze bust donated to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) by Rober E. Kane, president and CEO of Fine Gems International in Helena, Montana.

Photo by Robert Weldon, GIA

One of the world’s most honored and accomplished gemologists, Dr. Gübelin was born in 1913 and passed away in 2005. During his 65-year career he revolutionized gemology. Best known for his pioneering work on gemstone inclusions, he wrote extensively on nearly all aspects of gemology, recording his observations in 13 major books and more than 250 articles. A widely traveled explorer, he visited and reported upon many of the world’s most important gem localities. He was an influential educator, a major gem collector, an innovator in gem-testing instruments, and one of gemology’s most ardent and respected global ambassadors.

Award-winning sculptor Lyle Schwabauer created the bronze statue, which is mounted on a marble, freestanding base, depicting Dr. Gübelin looking through a loupe at a sapphire in a pair of tweezers. Edward Boehm, Dr. Gübelin’s grandson, loaned Schwabauer his grandfather’s 1965 gold and diamond Certified Gemologist lapel pin and 1950s Kruss loupe to make molds for the bust. A bronze-plated pair of Swiss gem tweezers was incorporated into the piece. The sculpture is on display in the Salvador J. Assael Grand Atrium at the Institute’s Robert Mouawad Campus in Carlsbad.

Mr Kane, a former manager of Gem Identification at GIA’s West Coast Laboratory and former director of the Gübelin Gem Lab in Lucerne, Switzerland, is a longtime supporter of the Institute and was a close friend of Dr. Gübelin's for more than 26 years. He commissioned the 32-inch-tall sculpture to honor Dr. Gübelin and celebrate the Institute’s 4th International Gemological Symposium and 75th anniversary.

“GIA is the ideal place for thousands of people each year to see this magnificent bronze sculpture of Dr. Gübelin,” said Kane. “Like the indelible legacy Dr. Gübelin left behind through his prolific writings and photomicrographs, gem collection, laboratory, and the organizations he helped establish, perhaps this sculpture also will inspire future generations of gemologists.”

Kane presented the bust to GIA Acting President Donna Baker, Museum Director Elise Misiorowski, Gems & Gemology Editor-in-Chief Alice Keller, and Director of In-Kind Gifts Patricia Syvrud on Aug. 24. Boehm also attended the presentation.

“Bob has again demonstrated his longstanding dedication to GIA by donating this beautiful sculpture of Dr. Gübelin, one of the century’s most important gemologists, to grace our halls,” said Syvrud. “His generosity enhances the presence of Dr. Gübelin’s gemstone collection, which recently became a part of GIA's permanent collection.”

In addition to the bronze bust, Kane and Fine Gems International sponsored a travel grant for the 2006 Gemological Research Conference. Kane is also a frequent donor to the Richard T. Liddicoat Gemological Library and Information Center and GIA Research, and is well known for his many Gems & Gemology articles on diamonds, colored stones, and gem identification.

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Blood Diamond Movie Enjoys Diamond Industry Publicity

Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

According to the Los Angeles times the diamond industry is boosting awareness of the forthcoming Leonardo DiCaprio film, “Blood Diamond,” scheduled for release in theaters December 15.

DiCaprio’s publicist claims that awareness created by DeBeers and the diamond industry in general is helping the film more than Warner Brothers could do with advertising.

Warner has not yet publicized the film, although the international trailer has been released on the internet.

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JA Survey Shows Jewelry Sales Dropped in 2005

Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Jewelers of America (JA), a national organization for retail jewelers, has released their 2006 Cost of Doing Business Survey, which analyzes member stores’ financial data from 2005.

According to JA the growth of sales in this country took a drop in 2005 to 3.9 percent. This is down from 6.1 percent in 2004. The survey analyzed data from independent high-end retailers (27.8 percent), independent mid-range stores (56.9 percent), chain stores (6.4 percent) and designer, artist and custom firms (6.1 percent). Chain stores and high-end retailers saw the most growth at nearly 5 percent, while mid-range stores experienced growth of 2.5 percent. Store profitability gained slightly to 4 percent in 2005, compared to 3.9 percent in 2004, but gross margins decreased to 48.4 percent in 2005 as opposed to 49.2 percent in 2004. The 2005 figure is the lowest mark since 47.4 percent in 2000.

Diamonds capture the greatest share of sales. Diamond jewelry accounts for 33 percent of all sales in 2005 and loose diamonds accounted for 15 percent. Colored stone and gold jeweler, at 10 and 9 percent respectively, commanded the next two largest shares of sales.

A dramatic increase was the amount of sales brought in by repairs: 10 percent in 2005 up from 1 percent in 2004.

The traits of high-profit firms were identified. High profit firms spent less for operating expenses such as occupancy; 4.7 percent as opposed to 5.6 percent for low profit firms. In terms of total operating expenses high profit firms spent 39.4 percent, whereas low profit companies spent 45.6 percent. High-profit firms spent an average of 18.8 percent on payroll, compared to a 20.7 percent overall average. High-profit retailers are typically those who choose products with the greatest return, turn over inventory more frequently and sell more per square foot. These initiatives combine to allow them more sales growth (7.1 percent) than the typical store (3.9 percent).

JA released these figures and other data as part of its “2006 Cost of Doing Business Survey.” The 75-page report can be ordered by calling Jewelers of America at 800-223-0673, or visiting JA online at www.jewelers.org. JA members who participated receive the survey for free.

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Kassoy names Slawistky President

Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Kassoy, LLC, has named Joanne Slawitsky their new president. Formerly VP of Sales and Marketing, Slawitsky has been with the company for 11 years. Based in Hicksville NY, Kassoy supplies the jewelry industry with tools, supplies and labal and bar code solutions.

Peter Gollon, the former president, is moving aside after more than 20 years with the company to pursue other projects. He will continue with Kassoy as a consultant.

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GIA to Begin Grading Synthetic Diamonds in 2007

Mon, 16 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Gemological Institute of America’s Laboratory will start accepting synthetic diamonds for grading after January 1, 2007.

Acting GIA president Donna Baker commented, “The final synthetic diamond grading report has now been accepted by stakeholders on all sides of this issue, and is totally consistent with GIA’s high standards of science, public service, education and professionalism.”

According to GIA more details will be released as they become available.

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Famous Golden Nugget Collection to be Sold at Auction

Mon, 16 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The famous “Golden Nugget Collection,” which has been on display for almost three decades at the landmark Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV, will be offered at auction on December 3 in Los Angeles CA.

The collection, also known as the gold nuggets of businessman Arthur J. Sexauer, includes 32 pieces selected for their beauty and folklore in his home of Fairbanks, Alaska.

Gold nuggets are valued as gemstones rather than gold due to their rarity. According to specialists less than two percent of mined gold is found in nugget form.

Famous pieces in the collection include the 21.61 oz “Parrot Head,” the 12.07 oz “Eagle’s Head,” a fifteen-nugget watch chain and the 6.5 oz “Worry Stone.” Renowned Las Vegas businessman Stephen Wynn invited Sexauer to display the collection at the Golden Nugget behind bulletproof glass in 1979. It was removed in August as the property undergoes renovation and expansion.

The auction house of Bonhams & Butterfields will be offering the collection as a single lot as part of their Natural History sale on December 3. Pre-sale estimates are available upon request.

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Boyajian Honored by 24 Karat Club

Mon, 16 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Bill Boyajian

Bill Boyajian, the longtime President of the Gemological Institute of America, will be honored by the 24 Karat Club of Southern California on October 28, at the club’s 62nd Annual Fall Dinner Dance in Beverly Hills.

Boyajian is now the Managing Director of the World Jewelry Center which is under construction in Las Vegas, NV. Planned as a global jewelry shopping and business destination, it is scheduled to open within four years.

Also honored at the Dinner Dance will be Leonard Friedman of Sarah Leonard Jewelers of Los Angeles.

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Whiteflash.com throws VIP party for Jessica Simpson

Jessica Simpson was greeted by flashes and photographers as she arrived at an exclusive party celebrating the pre-screening of her film "Employee of the Month" by Lionsgate. Whiteflash.com worked with Lionsgate to throw the celebration at the Tenjune lounge in New York City and congratulated the star with a triple set of matching yellow sapphire, amethyst and diamond bangle bracelets valued at $3500, which she wore to the event.

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"This jewelry is so pretty. I love them. I want to wear them all the time!” gushed Jessica as she tried on the bangles. Dressed in all black with bangles flashing, the top selling recording artist and film star celebrated with her father Joe Simpson and cast members Dane Cook, Andy Dick and Dax Shepard.

Born in Dallas, Simpson and Houston-based Whiteflash are joined by even more than their Texas roots; both are involved in humanitarian efforts in Africa. Jessica recently returned from an Operation Smile medical mission in Nakuru, Kenya, and Whiteflash is partnered with the World Centers of Compassion for Children International, funding relief for children in African nations through their "Dreams Of Africa" pendant.

Debi Wexler, CEO of Whiteflash.com had great praise for Simpson. “We congratulate her for her new film,” she said. In addition to the bangle bracelets, Simpson was presented with a stunning pendant necklace set with 160 diamonds worth $2800, to be worn at a future event.

Additional Photos. Additional Coverage.

Swiss Watch-making Society launches Extensive Internet Site

Fri, 13 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Switzerland’s Society for Fine Watch-making (Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie) has unveiled a new website, www.hautehorlogerie.org.

The site covers over 700 years of watch-making history and is supported by thousands of pages in English and French, images, technical terms and descriptions, video documentaries, articles and commentary from experts.

Billed as the "most extensive knowledge base" for fine watch-making on the internet, the content was designed for anyone wanting information on watch history, manufacturing and retail.

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GSI Opens Lab in India

Wed, 11 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Gemological Science International, (GSI) New York, has opened an office in the Opera House area of Mumbai, India. The lab is located in the Platinum Arcade, Ground Floor, 96/93, J.S.S. Road, Opera House, Mumbai 400004.

GSI markets its grading services mainly to large manufacturers, major jewelry chains, department stores, and online jewelers. It is headquartered at 581 Fifth Avenue, Fourth Floor, New York, NY 10017. According to President/CEO Mark Gershburg, GSI can print grading reports in New York or India regardless of where grading is done. GSI will also have the ability to print joint GSI/GemEx reports.

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JCOC Reports Consumer Awareness on 'Hot Topics'

Mon, 09 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Only 29 percent of consumers have heard of “blood” or “conflict” diamonds, according to a survey done by the Jewelry Consumer Opinion Council (JCOC). 7223 United States and Canadian panelists participated in the survey, conducted in real-time last month during GIA’s 4^th International Gemological Symposium, held August 26-29 in San Diego.

A majority of respondents believe the conflict diamond issue holds significant consequences for the jewelry industry. 17 percent of consumers said the reputation of the jeweler and certification from a third-party organization would give them the greatest assurance that they are not buying conflict diamonds.

Nearly 50 percent cited “country of origin” as important, but the survey showed that many consumers are unaware of where diamonds come from. 51 percent believe most diamonds come from South Africa while 9 percent believed Canada was responsible for most diamonds. Nearly 60 percent did not know where most colored stones are mined.

On the issue of synthetic and man-made diamonds, other hot industry topics, 58 percent of consumers knew that synthetics are available to consumers, but over a third of respondents (37 percent) did not know man-made, lab-created diamonds exist. 59 percent believe diamond synthetics like cubic zirconium (CZ) are the same as lab-created diamonds. 24 percent of consumers said they would not consider purchasing a man-made diamond. 45 percent said they would.

The research was conducted in response to trade requests. JCOC did report that there is more awareness now than compared to a study conducted in June. For more information on the study, visit www.jcoc.info.

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603 Carat Rough Diamond Sells for $12.36 Million

Mon, 09 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The 603 carat "Lesotho Promise," a rough diamond uncovered at the Letseng Mine in the small country of Lesotho sold for $12.36 million to Graff Jewels at auction in Antwerp today. According to the BBC, bidding for the diamond began October 4 and continued until the last moment.

Lesotho Promise is the 15th largest rough diamond discovered to date. Greff Jewels is based in London, with a dozen locations worldwide.

Reuters Photo

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GIA Updates Reporting of Laser Manufacturing Remnants

Sat, 07 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The use of lasers in the diamond manufacturing process has become increasingly common. During the process unintentional marks can be left on a finished diamond. These marks are different in nature than deliberate laser “treatments,” used to alter a diamond’s clarity grade or appearance.

GIA will update its method of reporting to differentiate between deliberate treatments and unintentional characteristics of the manufacturing process, called “remnants.” Previously, GIA reported internal remnants as “laser drilling” and surface remnants as “laser grooves.” This implied that diamonds with simple manufacturing remnants had laser treatments.

Now:

Unintended surface remains will be covered in the assessment of polish.
Unintended internal remains will show up in the clarity portion (rather than being noted in the “comments” field).
Intentional laser drilling, both internal and surface-reaching, will be reported as usual.

People who have a diamond accompanied by a GIA report with entries in the comments field noting ”internal laser drilling” or “laser grooves” may resubmit those diamonds to the GIA Laboratory at no charge for a reevaluation of the characteristics and how they are reported. Please indicate that the diamond is being submitted for review of laser characteristics and include the original report.

For more information about this free service, please contact GIA Laboratory Customer Service at 760-603-4500 ext. 7590 in California or 212-221-5858 ext. 3724 in New York. Or e-mail labservice@gia.edu.

Platinum Discovered in Sierra Leone

Wed, 04 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Platinum has been discovered in the western part of Sierra Leone. According to Mohamed Swarray Deen, that country’s minister, the government has sent security and personnel and geological teams to that area to prevent illegal mining. Coltan, a mineral used in producing electronic components and most notable for use in cellular telephones, was also discovered. Sierra Leone is renowned for naturally occurring diamonds and deposits of gold, bauxite, iron ore and chromite.

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603 Carat Rough Diamond Uncovered in Africa

Wed, 04 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The largest diamond unearthed in 13 years was found on August 22 at the Letseng Diamond Mine in Lesotho, a small kingdom completely surrounded by the nation of South Africa.

Named “Lesotho Promise,” the diamond will go on sale today in Antwerp. A small group of the world’s top diamond cutters will be allowed several hours to examine the diamond before submitting bids. Described as “a third bigger than a golf ball,” a valuation cannot be determined until it is known how many cut diamonds will be fashioned from it. The winning bid will be announced on Monday.

The largest rough diamond ever found was the Cullinan, at 3106 carats. Second largest was the 995 carat Excelsior, both uncovered in South Africa. Lesotho Promise is the largest found since the 777 carat Millenium Star which was discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1993.

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History of Wedding Rings & Diamond Engagement Rings

In 1477 the Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond ring. He married her the following day. Little did he know his diamond ring tradition would be wildly popular around the globe centuries later.

Maximilian’s gesture may be the first recorded diamond given for betrothal, but the exchange of wedding rings dates back much further. The ancient Romans gave each other iron bands to signify marriage. Iron changed to gold in the second century AD. Couples in the Roman Empire were the first to place betrothal, or ‘truth’ rings on the fourth finger of the left hand; believing that a vein in that finger, the ‘vena amoris’, runs directly to the heart.

In the Middle Ages, a man would keep a betrothal ring suspended from the band of his hat, ready to give to a chosen maid. Wedding rings started to be set with colored gemstones. ‘Posy Rings,’ inscribed inside with poems or love messages, were a Middle Age invention and continued to be popular through Victorian times. Inscriptions inside wedding bands endure to this day.

The choice of the diamond to symbolize eternal devotion was engendered by affluent people like Archduke Maximilian during the Renaissance, but the only known diamonds came from India, and the common man didn’t have access to such wealth. Metal rings continued to be popular and evolve. The gimmel, made of interlocking rings joined by a pivot to slide together into one, was often exchanged between lovers about to separate for long periods of time. The fede, or faith ring, was a gimmel with the hoops ending in clasped hands. This style is still seen in modern claddegh rings. Jewish wedding ceremonies of the period featured rings of elaborate detail, often with bezels worked in the shape of a synagogue or Solomon’s Temple.

Detailed engraving and the use of motifs such as hearts occurred during the Romantic era of the 17th and 18th centuries. Crosses, stars, leaves and branches were all in style and wealthy Europeans showed a taste for diamonds and rubies, symbolizing eternity and love. The discovery of diamonds in Brazil increased the supply in Europe and as they became more available rings grew more elaborate, set in fleur-de-lys, rosettes, bows and stylized letters. Diamonds were even set in natural, rough form. In 1761 King George III presented a second diamond band as a ‘guard’ to Queen Charlotte. This was the predecessor of our modern day wedding anniversary band.

The Victorian Era saw the continued use of intricate metalwork and a rise in colored gemstones as the choice for engagement rings. In 1870, a plentiful supply of diamonds was discovered in South Africa. This, coupled with the wealth generated by the Industrial Revolution, made the ultimate symbol accessible and affordable for the public, and diamonds quickly became the rage. In 1886 Tiffany introduced the six-prong diamond solitaire engagement ring.

Early in the 1900s the ‘princess ring,’ featuring three to five large diamonds in a row became fashionable in the US (three-stone rings are still quite popular today). The 1920s and 30s saw wedding bands engraved with orange blossoms and wreaths. The chosen metal for engagement rings in the early 1900s was platinum, because of its durability. However, during WWII platinum usage became restricted to military purposes, and there was a rise of gold used in bridal jewelry. In the past 10 years platinum alloys have made a dramatic comeback. WWII also saw the revival of an old European custom where the groom and the bride both receive wedding bands. This tradition continues today. In 1947 DeBeers introduced a marketing slogan that vaulted the diamond engagement ring into ultimate prominence. The slogan “A Diamond is forever” resulted in a diamond movement that is still growing 60 years later. Today an estimated 78% of all engagement rings sold are set with diamonds.

In recent decades engagement rings have shown incredible variety in form, shape, setting details and ornaments surrounding the diamond. Antique, classic or modern, any choice today is correct as long as it is a reflection of the wearer’s personal taste and style.

The ring has been a symbol of love and commitment between two people since ancient times. The diamond tradition, while younger, is present in many cultures and represents the durable, everlasting qualities of the bond of matrimony.

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Steven Kretchmer’s Work Lives On Past His Death

On July 8 renowned jewelry designer Steven Kretchmer was killed when his motorcycle was struck by a car. Overcoming this recent tragedy, the Steven Kretchmer design studio has released a new addition to its Inner Secrets collection called Spherule Halos.

Spherule Halos fit between the Inner Secrets bands which are crafted from Polarium, a magnetic platinum alloy of Kretchmer’s creation. The halos come in several alloys and can be set with different gemstones.

Kretchmer is most famous for his unparalleled work in developing the tension setting. In a statement, his design house stated: "While we mourn the loss of our leader's tragic passing this summer, we continue to follow through with the many inventions and innovations that Steven had set in place before his untimely accident. Through his wife, daughter and loyal employees, his legacy will continue on in the quality and detail that he instilled in every piece."

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'Blood Diamond' Movie Trailer Released

Mon, 02 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A trailer for the forthcoming movie ‘Blood Diamond,’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio, has been released. The trailer shows violent fighting, helicopters, jeeps, explosions and a young child aiming a gun at DiCaprio. Set to somber music, a voice-over intones “…all who touch it are left with blood on their hands.”

Though no historical context is given, the movie depicts events that took place during the 1990s civil war in Sierra Leone. The diamond industry, led by the World Diamond Council, has been actively preparing for the film’s release in December. A website, www.diamondfacts.org, was established to show what steps have been taken in recent years to stamp out ‘blood diamonds.’

Cecilia Gardner, general counsel for the WDC says it is up to the industry to put things in perspective: "The violence depicted is horrific and this is exactly why the industry responded in the way that it did close to the time that these events were occurring.” says Gardner. "We want to make sure nothing like this ever happens again, and that's why we worked so hard on the Kimberley Process and the system of warranties."

The Kimberly Process, a United Nations resolution targeting areas of illicit diamond trade, went into effect in 2003. Since that time the amount of “conflict diamonds” on the world market has been reduced from an estimated 4% to less than 1%.

Gardner feels educating consumers is in the diamond trade’s best interest: “We think it's important to bring historical context to the movie so people know what's happened since that time.”

To see the trailer, click: Blood Diamond trailer

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Andre Agassi Donates Harry Winston Watch to Charity

Mon, 02 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Harry Winston jewelers honored tennis star Andre Agassi by creating a one-of-a-kind watch, called “The Agassi Aesthetic.” According to press releases the watch is “both sporty and sophisticated.” Agassi played his final match at the US Open earlier this month after a legendary 20 year career.

Agassi has donated the watch to the 11th Annual Grand Slam for Children, a charity auction set for Oct. 7 in Las Vegas. Proceeds will be used to benefit abused, at-risk and underprivileged children.

The auction is run by Agassi’s own Charitable Foundation. For more information visit http://www.agassifoundation.org/

Andre Agassi

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GIA West Coast Career Fair - October 27

Sat, 30 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Gemological Institute of America will put on its West Coast Career Fair on Oct. 27 at the Carlsbad, CA headquarters from 8:30AM – 3:00 PM.

Tiffany & Co., Movado, Whitehall Jewelers, Zale Corp., the American Gem Society Laboratories and GIA will be among many industry employers onsite to conduct interviews with prospective students, current professionals and interested job-seekers at all levels.

The East Coast Fair took place in New York City on July 28.

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JCOC Reports Consumer Jewelry Sizing Problems

Sat, 30 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Jewelry Consumer Opinion Council (JCOC) has released a new study indicating that 18% of consumers have problems finding the correct fit for jewelry. The report cites problems with available jewelry being either too big or too small.

24% reported ring sizing problems and 19% reported problems with bracelets. An overwhelming majority of respondents disliked adjustable and sizable rings, but over half of all respondents voiced approval for sizable bracelets and necklaces.

12% reported not knowing what ring size they wear, while nearly 25% wear a ring size of seven to seven and a half. 18% prefer a size seven bracelet and 27% do not know what size bracelet they prefer.

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Lazare Kaplan Rides Shotgun with NASCAR

Sat, 30 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Lazare Kaplan will appear on the hood and trunk of the 49 car in the Nextel-NASCAR racing series and in an online contest intended to drive potential customers to the LK website, http://www.lazarediamonds.com/. Lazare Kaplan International has entered into this promotional partnership with NASCAR in an effort to target racing enthusiasts as future clients.

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GIA Symposium 2006 Honored with Diamond Mosaic

Thu, 28 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Jorge Brusa used 5,460 melee diamonds totaling 77.5 carats to construct a diamond mosaic commemorating the Gemological Institute of America’s fourth International Gemological Symposium.

The piece was presented to Helene Fortunoff, GIA’s Chairman of the Board, at a VIP lunch on Aug. 28, during the Symposium. It will become a part of the GIA Museum’s permanent collection.

Photo Courtesy of GIA

52.5 carats of natural yellow and colorless diamonds and 25 carats of color-enhanced blue and green diamonds were used to create the commemorative piece. The center diamonds, when exposed to ultraviolet light, fluoresce the letters “GIA.”

Brusa, a Brazilian diamond dealer, has collaborated with GIA’s Gems & Gemology for several years, translating articles from English into Portugese for his own publication, the Brazilian trade magazine Diamond News. According to Brusa, the inspiration for the mosaic came from these collaborations. The piece was constructed using “Diamond Craft,” a technique Brusa created to set gems into works of art.

"We are very pleased to have the 2006 symposium logo preserved by Mr. Brusa in this beautiful gem mosaic," said Alice Keller, symposium co-chairwoman and Gems & Gemology editor in chief, in a statement. "We are in awe of the artistry and skill that went into its preparation."

GIA Symposium Logo

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GIA to offer Bachelor of Business Administration Degree

Thu, 28 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Gemological Institute of America will begin offering a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree on October 9.

Prerequisites include an Associate’s degree or equivalent from an accredited learning institution. The BBA will focus on the business of fine jewelry and includes classes in Marketing Management, Human Resources, and Global Business Management.

The BBA program will be offered on the Carlsbad campus and online beginning October 9. For more information, visit visit www.gia.edu, or call 760-603-4000, ext. 4001.

The Robert Mouawad Campus, Carlsbad CA - GIA Photo

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Consumers Warned of Internet Diamond Pyramid Scheme

Thu, 28 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Australian Department of Consumer Protection issued warnings about a pyramid trading scheme involving diamonds being promoted on the internet. The company, calling itself Canadian Diamond Traders (CDT) asks people to invest $100 and to recruit others to join.

The website shows how participants move to the top of the pyramid to acquire $3000 and a diamond. The “10 steps of the trading program” involve terms like Miner, Cutter, Polisher and Collector, and promise “colossal discounts on high quality diamonds” in return for continued deposits of money into the program. Specifics about diamond quality and weight are not available on the site, and there is no discussion regarding how people from outside the diamond industry will be able to market diamonds without some education and knowledge.

Strict international laws govern the trade of diamonds. Australian consumer protection commissioner Patrick Walker says participants risk being prosecuted if they become involved in the scheme. “At this stage, we aware of no-one /diamonds_info. who has actually /diamonds_info. participated. But we're very concerned. This is an attractive proposition. It's well designed, it's cleverly marketed - particularly with the lure of a diamond - and we think it could catch on.”

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Botswana Foreign Minister Praises Diamonds, Kimberly Process

Wed, 27 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Lieutenant General Mompati S. Merafhe, Minister of Foreign Affairs for Botswana, addressed the United Nations General Assembly, describing the Kimberly Process as “one of the best examples of global cooperation.”

Botswana celebrates its 40^th year of independence this year and enjoys the highest average economic growth rate in the world; averaging about 9% annually from 1966 to 1999. Diamond mining is the foundation of this growth, which has been bolstered by prudent internal and cautious foreign policies. According to international watchdog, Transparency International, Botswana is rated the least corrupt country in Africa.

From Merafhe’s address: “Botswana has been blessed with one of Africa’s major natural resources: Diamonds. It must be stated that 65 percent of the world's diamonds, worth $8.3 billion US dollars per year, are sourced from African countries. I am pleased to state that diamonds have and continue to do good in Botswana. The diamond industry in Botswana has been at the cutting edge of human development and transforming lives for the better, in all fields of human endeavor. We continue to prudently manage the revenue from the sale of diamonds and to effectively use such revenue to educate our people, provide potable water, healthcare and build a network of infrastructure such as roads, telephones and rural electricity. This is the good that diamonds have and continue to do.

“As a participant in the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme and current Chairman, Botswana is strongly committed to working alongside other participant countries to maintain the credibility of the scheme and the legitimate diamond trade. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme is one of the best examples of global cooperation. The Scheme is the embodiment of global consensus, unrelenting political will and determination of members to do the right thing underpinned by strong support and resolutions of the Security Council. This is important because about 10 million people globally are either directly or indirectly supported by the diamond industry. In Southern Africa more than 28,000 people are employed by this industry.”

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GIA Museum Exhibit "Celebrating Excellence" Through Nov 2006

Wed, 27 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

An exhibit called “Celebrating Excellence in Gems and Jewelry” is on display at the GIA Museum in Carlsbad CA now through November, 2006.

“Celebrating Excellence” showcases some of the world’s finest and most unique gems and jewelry. Highlights include a Kokoshink tiara on loan from Cartier, a fancy-colored diamond floral brooch by Bulgari, on loan from the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, a ruby and diamond necklace owned by famed soprano Maria Callas on loan from Kathryn Bonanno-Patrizzi, and the Hooker emerald brooch and Bismarck sapphire necklace, both on loan from the Smithsonian Institution. GIA’s Gübelin Collection of gems is also on display. Steinmetz contributed the 108ct, D-Flawless emerald-cut diamond (pictured above - GIA Photo), as well as a diamond-studded steering wheel the company debuted at this year's Monaco Grand Prix.

According to GIA Museum Director Elise Misiorowske, each jewelry piece in the collection is exceptional, whether through historical significance, unique origin, outstanding design or other feature. Private collectors, museums and design houses around the world contributed to make the exhibit possible.

Rapaport Conference to Occur at JCK NYC

Wed, 27 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Rapaport International Diamond Conference (IDC) will take place on Monday, February 5 2007, in coordination with the JCK Invitational, scheduled for Feb 4-6 at the Hilton Hotel in New York City.

Rapaport Conference topics will include “Blood Diamonds,” “The impact of the Internet on Profits” and “Branding – Defining the Opportunity.” All profits from the IDC will be donated to the Jeweler’s For Children charity.

The JCK Invitational is a winter jewelry show where manufacturers and designers showcase styles and trends in colored gemstone and diamond jewelry, diamond engagement rings and other fine jewelry. Speakers, clinics and social events round out the schedule for attendees.

This will be the fourth annual Rapaport IDC and second annual JCK Invitational. Registration for the IDC is $495 per person and can be done through the Rapaport Group at (877) 987-3400 or email conference@diamonds.net. All net proceeds will be donated to the Jewelers for Children charity. IDC Registration includes access to the JCK Invitational exhibit floor and keynote education sessions.

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Diamonds.Net article regarding Whiteflash & WCCCI

Tue, 26 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Online diamond retailer whiteflash.com along with the World Centers of Compassion for Children International (WCCCI) launched an initiative in Denver, Colorado, in which 100 percent of proceeds from conflict-free diamond pendant go to WCCCI.

The $4,400 Dreams of Africa(TM) diamond pendant will only be available from whiteflash.com

"Our Dreams of Africa are not for partial peace. They are for total peace," said Debi Wexler, CEO of whiteflash.com. Wexler along with WCCCI's founder Betty Williams are jointly working towards building safe and nurturing environments for children "who need a second chance in life. If we start teaching peace at the beginning of these young children's education, we will help these children to shine like brilliant diamonds for the world."

Specifically, the partners will focus upon helping children who have suffered from conflicts in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and other countries in Africa.

"We need consumers to understand that there is a huge difference between blood diamonds and conflict-free diamonds," said Wexler. "Not all diamonds are ill-gotten. When diamond mining is undertaken in the correct manner, without child labor or government conflict, the profits build infrastructure and serve as a source of livelihood for hundreds of thousands of people. As a socially responsible design company in the diamond industry, we believe it is our duty to support children who have suffered under blood diamond conflicts and to create awareness in order to combat such illicit diamond trade."

Wexler and Nobel Laureate Williams joined the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu to speak out against global conflicts and increased military spending at the expense of human health and welfare.

Whiteflash.com and WCCCI will work to establish the first learning center, headquartered in Italy, which will provide scholarships for children from Sierra Leone and other locations across Africa, and to instill values of peace and understanding during these children's early education. Italy’s government donated land to build the learning center.

Whiteflash Dreams Of Africa™ to Honor New Charity Partner

On Friday, September 15, twelve Nobel Peace Prize winners gathered in Denver, Colorado to voice their desire for the building of education and peace in impoverished and war-torn areas of the world. This was the largest-ever gathering of Nobel Laureates on US soil. Luminaries such as the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu attended to speak out against global conflicts and increased military spending at the expense of human health and welfare, especially children’s rights.

Debi Wexler, the 14th Dalai Lama & Betty Williams

As a part of this momentous conference, Debi Wexler, CEO of the premier online diamond retailer Whiteflash.com, presented the new Dreams of Africa™ pendant to WCCCI founder Betty Williams, a 1976 Nobel Peace Prize winner, to support the company's commitment to providing safe havens and educational opportunities for children. Signifying the beginning of a charitable partnership between the two organizations, 100% of the sales proceeds of this $4,400 conflict-free diamond pendant necklace (available exclusively at www.whiteflash.com) will be donated to the WCCCI in the creation and support of learning centers to provide a second chance for children to be educated about peace.

“Our Dreams of Africa™ are not for partial peace. They are for total peace,” Wexler said. “Betty and I are aligned in our vision to build safe and nurturing environments for children who need a second chance in life. If we start teaching peace at the beginning of these young childrens' education, we will help these children to shine like brilliant diamonds for the world.”

Specifically, Whiteflash.com will focus on efforts to help children who have suffered from conflicts in Sierra Leone, Liberia and other African countries. Conflict or "blood" diamonds are illicitly smuggled diamonds, the sales of which are used to finance wars against countries’ legitimate governments.

“We need consumers to understand that there is a huge difference between blood diamonds and conflict-free diamonds,” said Wexler. “Not all diamonds are ill-gotten. When diamond mining is undertaken in the correct manner, without child labor or government conflict, the profits build infrastructure and serve as a source of livelihood for hundreds of thousands of people. As a socially responsible design company in the diamond industry, we believe it is our duty to support children who have suffered under blood diamond conflicts and to create awareness in order to combat such illicit diamond trade.”

Desmond Tutu, Betty Williams & Debi Wexler

In coming months, Whiteflash.com and WCCCI will work to establish the first center for learning, headquartered in Italy, with the purpose of providing scholarships for children from Sierra Leone and other African countries, and to instill values of peace and understanding during these children's’ early education. Land has already been donated by the Italian government to start these centers until hot spots of conflict stabilize in vulnerable areas of Africa.

Whiteflash.com and WCCCI will also work to develop a web site that features the Dreams of Africa™ pendant as well as information on the largely-successful United Nations resolution, the “Kimberly Process,” which uses rigorous tracking to ensure that illegal blood diamonds are not available for sale around the world.

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CRJP Releases Code of Practices

Mon, 25 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Council for Responsible Jewelry Practices released a 16-page Code of Practices on Thursday, September 22, which outlines the ethical, social and environmental guidelines the CRJP will expect members to adhere to.

According to chief executive Michael Rae, implementation will include the use of independent third-party monitors to demonstrate that the practices of its members are responsible. The CJRP expects its "Responsible Practices Framework" to be fully operational in early 2008. To see the complete Code of Practices, visit www.responsiblejewellery.com

The CRJP was founded in May 2005 with members from a cross section of the diamond and gold jewelry supply chain. Council Members are committed to promoting responsible business practices in a transparent and accountable manner throughout the industry from mine to retail to build consumer confidence and trust.

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