Jewelry PR Division

September 19, 2006, New York, NY – Today Angara announced the launch of its online jewelry retail site Angara.com, boasting a wealth of fine jewelry, diamonds and accessories ranging from simple to opulent and all reasonably priced. With the philosophy and mission of affordable luxury, Angara provides customers with an easy and convenient shopping experience for superior quality jewelry at sensible prices.

“We are very particular in the pieces we choose to sell on the site,” says Chief Executive Officer, Ankur Daga, “Whether the items are bridal, engagement or in our exclusive Strong Box Collection, each piece is selected with the utmost care.”

A favorite line of accessories editors the world around is "and then take one piece" off referring to the rule of removing one piece of jewelry after you are fully dressed and prepared for the day.

Of course another editor tip through the ages has been stretching a wardrobe of basics through clever jewelry usage. But if you are instructed to constantly downsize your accessorising options for day is it possible that you need a wardrobe of jewelry basics too?

Given the classic popularity of a string of pearls, diamond stud earrings, and the tennis bracelet it seems that jewelry lovers the world over agree. This makes discovering the right pieces of jewelry for your even more critical. Even the classics make different statements. Pearls make any outfit more conservative whereas a diamond stud is a classic touch that ups the elegance factor on any outfit. The same principles of choosing basics in clothing applies to jewelry.

But remember even when the editors appear to know better than we mere mortals do it can be good to break the law sometimes and throw it all on. You can always take a few pieces off at the end of the night. That is still technically following the laws of accessorising right?

STORM Watches is a proud sponsor of this year's EMA's, MTV's European Music Awards has especially commissioned 4 Unique Limited Edition watches that will be your access all areas pass to the legendary MTV Europe Music Awards 2006, being held in the Scandinavian party town of Copenhagen on November 2nd.

You will get the full VIP treatment at the pre-party and then get to see the main event itself, where some of the biggest names in music are performing. Finish the night off in style dancing until the early hours at the VIP after show party.

To enter the competition you must be 18 or over. Competition closing date 14th October 2006.

Please read The Terms & Conditions and enter to win!

Dawn Yanek, editor-at-large, Life & Style magazine visited The CBS Early Show on December 31 to chat with anchor Tracy Smith about her favorite picks for dressing like a star to ring in the New Year. Both Smith and Yanek selected jewelry from Endless Diamonds� to wear on-air as the must-have holiday splurge. Smith and Yanek shared ideas for shining accessories to wear to holiday soirees, and the Endless Diamonds pieces were the favorites to ensure plenty of Hollywood glitz and glam.

“Endless Diamonds allows every woman to feel like a star,” said Louis Price, president, Endless Diamonds by Fantasy Diamond Corporation. “The collection’s patented setting technique features multiple diamonds in an invisible setting process, thereby producing more sparkle than a solitaire stone of comparable weight. The overall effect is absolutely breathtaking.”

All Endless Diamonds designs feature carefully selected diamonds of matched quality, and utilize its exclusive, patented Touch Setting� technique. This technique features diamonds “embracing” other diamonds which produces an endless, uninterrupted flow between stones to create a seamless appearance. The Touch Setting gives an appearance that is three to five times larger than a single stone at a comparable weight.

The Endless Diamonds collection includes an extensive selection of pendants, earrings, and rings, as well as bridal designs. Styles range from classic looks to inventive, fashion forward designs. Almost every design is available in white, yellow, or two-toned gold.

Nothing says "Be Mine" like Tiffany's dazzling diamond designs. Shop for Valentines day jewelry gifts at Tiffanys&Co.

When you can’t get to the beach, bring the beach to you. Beach glass jewelry has become increasingly popular in recent years. Pieces of beach glass jewelry used to fetch for about $10, but can now be found online and in many boutiques from $30 to $100 and sometimes more, depending on the piece.

There’s something calming yet intriguing about jewelry made from glass that was shaped by the waves of our oceans and lakes. Each piece of glass has a history and an origin according to beach glass company, Relish Inc. of Erie Pennsylvania. Relish Inc. handcrafts their 14k gold and sterling silver jewelry from beach glass found on the shore of Lake Erie.

“Vick’s Vapor Rub, Philip’s Milk of Magnesia, canning jars, Blue Coral car wax, and Noxema are responsible for various shades of blue. Depression glass is responsible for the beautiful pastel colors that we find, old Clorox bottles, apothecary bottles and beer bottles give us the brown glass. Clear glass may come from bottles containing anything from milk to shampoo. Rare colors include red, (a coveted find from old boat lights) yellow, orange, purple and teal.”

There’s nothing more spectacular than the beauty of glass that Mother Nature has manipulated herself. While the jewelry design may be the same, the uniqueness of shape and size of each piece of glass means there are no two pieces alike. I don’t know about you, but I like to wear things that are unique and stand out among all of the sameness of jewelry trends.

*Photo credit: Relish Inc.

CIRCA, an international buying house that provides a liquid market to the public for previously owned jewelry is opening an office in San Francisco and in the DC metro area. CIRCA has been seducing the world’s finest antique, estate jewelry and diamond sellers since 2001. It is only fitting that the company expands into the bay area and the nation’s capital where a taste for fine gems and jewelry prevail.

CIRCA’s unique service has proven a successful entrée: an expert buying staff, the crème de la crème of customer-service and pricing that is unprecedented. CEO Chris Del Gatto credits CIRCA client’s intense loyalty to the company’s policy of being consumer advocates first. ‘By being honest and transparent throughout the entire process (A process which is daunted with misnomers!), this openness and honesty prevails in each transaction with CIRCA.

Del Gatto’s tenacity has carried the jewelry industry a leap forward. He notes, ‘Through professionalism, honesty, expertise and a tremendous depth of knowledge – CIRCA has set the new standard for caring consumerism. We see an incredible amount of jewelry and our depth of knowledge is truly valuable.’ Because of CIRCA, fine jewelry is now more liquid than anything in a family’s portfolio. Significant items often historically have remained frozen in the vault as ‘non-performing assets.’ At CIRCA once a client accepts an offer, they are immediately presented with a check. No commission charges or fees are deducted. It is a quick, efficient and press-free alternative to the gossipy and expensive atmosphere of the auction house.

As a senior executive that has run the jewelry department of an international auction house and having been in the jewelry business for over 18 years, I've seen that there is nothing else like CIRCA available for consumers,” states Peter Shemonsky Directof CIRCA's San Francisco office and frequent appraiser on The Antiques Roadshow. "The bay area is full of entrepreneurs, actors and socialites, which is the exact demographic that CIRCA would appeal to.”

CIRCA’s access to collections is in steady and solid growth. With offices in New York, Palm Beach, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington D.C., Las Vegas and Hong Kong; CIRCA has plans for cosmopolitan expansion to Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas and Boston; and internationally to London, Paris, Brazil and beyond. CIRCA works with clients from around the world and is not exclusive to the regional office areas. You can learn more about CIRCA at www.circajewels.com.

Tension Jewelry is an art form like no other. A stone seems to float effortlessly as its brilliance catches the refractions of light throughout, all the while it is the jewelry designers craft and skill that knows the perfect amount of tension to create between the metal bands holding the stone to create this illusion.

No one does it better than GelinAbaci. Modern jewelry design meets flawless style, GelinAbaci's Tension Collection boasts perfection in design with the appearance of fluidity of the stones. With only a handful of jewelry companies selling tension jewelry, GelinAbaci is only 1 of two companies found right here in the US; all of their jewelry is designed and crafted within the US as well.

Tension jewelry vs. prong jewelry is always a hot debate, and while the concept of tension jewelry is not new, it appears to be increasing in popularity. Have you owned tension jewelry? Do you feel its benefits outshine traditional jewelry settings?

This past weekend while traveling by plane, I was stopped dead in my tracks while walking through the airport concourse and coming upon an Erwin Pearl jewelry store. The gorgeous sparkle and radiant color of Erwin Pearl’s Rainbow Collection shown brightly through the glass windows beckoning to me.

This colorful collection of cut and pave cubic zirconia in sterling silver is beautiful and eye catching. Peridot, Pink, White and Canary colored CZ’s have an exquisite clarity that creates such a brilliance that any piece worn from this collection is sure to draw attention.

Erwin Pearl jewelry is known for their fashion forward style and creativity. It’s difficult not to want to take out your credit card and purchase several things from their website, such as the Molten Gold earrings and the Turquoise and Freshwater Pearl Multistrand Necklace—so proceed with caution (or at least knowing that you are likely to purchase at least one piece of jewelry)!

* Photo Credit: erwinpearl.com

Ethnic Rocks is an online jewelry boutique that features some of the best designers in their niche. You can find the ethnic designs of Amrita Singh, Allison Daniel Designs and Dagmar by Pavan Anand, among a few others in this eclectic mix of semiprecious gemstones geared towards ethnicity and era.

Each jewelry designer found on Ethnic Rocks brings something unique to the boutique. From the Tibetan Craftman's Buddist-inspired pendants to the European-inspired jewels from Satellite Paris (the Mindanao Ring is gorgeous!), you aren't likely to find another boutique with such a variety of culture, style and nature intermixing.

To learn more about this one of a kind collaboration, visit: www.ethnicrocks.com 

*Photo Credit: Ethnic Rocks
Rhonda Kelly Abalone & Smoky Quartz Kimono Set

Stainless Steel gets the Golden Treatment
When I think of stainless steel, skyscrapers come to mind—not luxury jewelry.  The German originated jewelry company TeNo is hoping to change that notion with its luxury semi-precious line that uses the industrious metal as its main ingredient.

I literally stumbled across TeNo's boutique on a recent stroll through SoHo.  The logo on the sign conjured up a flashback to a Vogue ad I’d seen in the 798-page September issue.  Walking in, I was welcomed by friendly staff and a line of semi-precious jewlery that had a natural yet luxurious vibe.

Stainless Steel gets the Golden Treatment
When I think of stainless steel, skyscrapers come to mind—not luxury jewelry.  The German originated jewelry company TeNo is hoping to change that notion with its luxury semi-precious line that uses the industrious metal as its main ingredient.

I literally stumbled across TeNo's boutique on a recent stroll through SoHo.  The logo on the sign conjured up a flashback to a Vogue ad I’d seen in the 798-page September issue.  Walking in, I was welcomed by friendly staff and a line of semi-precious jewlery that had a natural yet luxurious vibe.

The Emmys Celebrate their Diamond Anniversary 

In accoradance with wedding anniversary tradition, the Emmys would be having their “diamond year” with their 60th awards cermony this Sunday, September 21.  Of course the Emmys' red carpet is full of diamond drenched celebs every year, but an extra special piece, the "Platinum Clutch,” will be showcased at the annual Platinum Guild International USA (PGI-USA) Emmy Awards Jewely Preview starting tomorrow, the 18th, running through Saturday, the 20th.

History Repeats itself with Archival Inspired Fine Jewelry Lines

Designers in general often look to their predecessors’ work for inspiration.  This is clearly evident in a number of fine jewelry lines popping up around the world lately.

One example of this window to the past is Van Cleef and Arpels nod to a past collaboration with George Balanchine. Ballet master Balachine’s mystification by the Fifth Avenue Van Cleef and Arpels window display of rubies, diamonds and emerald was the jumping off point for collaboration between dance and precious stones in the 1960s. 

New York City Ballet dancer Suzanne Farrell models Van Cleef - Arpels jewelry with Claude Arpels and George Balanchine in 1976

It seems the belief is that diamonds are no longer a girl’s best friend, as the world’s leading and most valuable diamond mines run by DeBeers have been on a down slope since the start of the year. DeBeers put its Botswana production on hold due to suffering sales in light of the economic downturn.

Many fashion-savvy consumers are heading to the counters to invest in simulated diamonds, Swarovski crystals and even cubic zirconia. Hence, the mines’ total halt of diamond sales in November and “very little” sales in the succeeding months.  DeBeers anticipates the decline to continue until Christmas next year at the earliest and is planning to drastically cut production.

“We are going to significantly reduce production levels to align them with levels of demand,” Stephen Lussier, executive director for external and corporate affairs, said on the fringes of a mining conference in Cape Town according to Financial Times.  “There’s no point digging a diamond out of the ground when you don’t have a client ready to buy it.”  

So does this mean that Victoria's Secret is no longer making their infamous diamond covered bras? We jest of course, as the diamond-laden bra is part of the Victoria's Secret branding.

In order to take advantage of this season’s biggest trend, statement jewelry, gemstones are a must! Best of all, you don’t have the break the bank when trying on this trend. Even Target has great gemstone jewelry. Erickson Beamon for Target has an array of styles, from bold necklaces to shiny earrings, which are sure to catch your eye and budget! The line has nothing over $50, so you won’t have to feel guilty after picking up this trend for spring.

Sikara & Co., an internationally inspired modern fusion jewelry company makes Union Street in San Francisco its new home as a "pop-up" shop.

The pop-up style store front is one of the newest trends to emerge in retail. "This style of store front allows us to open a temporary store in San Francisco and market test our collections as we roll them out nationally; we are very excited to be one of the first pop-up stores in the city," said Mousumi Shaw, Founder and Creative Director.

The temporary store features globally inspired designs that fall into four collections: Indian, Italian, Mexican and Egyptian. Limited edition pieces will also be available for the holiday, many of which are exclusive to the Union Street pop-up. Sikara & Co. has partnered with San Francisco Stylist, Jill Siefert, as she will be helping customers most Mondays in the store with free styling tips.

"My travels have inspired me to work with a network of international designers to present a truly unique line of jewelry. When a person purchases a piece, they also learn about the history and culture pertaining to the country where the designer of the piece originates," said Mousumi Shaw, Founder and Creative Director.

Now you can surround her with the strength of your love, with Love's Embrace, a new jewelry collection from Kay Jewelers. In its unique design, a brilliant solitaire is encircled by an elegant precious metal swirl that symbolizes the comfort we get from love's embrace. It is a reminder that no matter what life brings, you are always surrounded by love. The new collection is available online at Kay.com and in all Kay stores across the country, just in time for the holidays.

Love's Embrace is an exclusively designed collection with the romantic and enduring message, "You will always be surrounded by the strength of my love." You can celebrate the power of your love with a diamond, a symbol of constancy and strength, wrapped in 10 or 14 karat gold, or sterling silver. It is the perfect symbol of the comfort we get from love's strength.

Classic, timeless designs are crafted into necklaces, earrings and rings. The collection includes an assortment of more than 20 items, in the shapes of tear drops, circles and hearts, ranging in price from under $130 and up to $3,000.

"A gift from the Love's Embrace collection is the perfect way for a couple to express their everlasting love to one another. It says our love gives me security and strength because in this changing world around us, it gives me hope and faith for the future," said Dawn McGuire, Kay Jewelers' Vice President of Merchandising. "It is truly a design for today and for all time, and it's the perfect gift this holiday season to show your loved that no matter what life brings, you are always surrounded by my love."

MAYORS, the leading luxury destination for fine jewelery, timepieces and gifts since 1910, is pleased to announce the launch of the MAYORS GOLD EXCHANGE.

With the price of precious metals at historic highs, the MAYORS GOLD EXCHANGE offers one of the industry's most competitive prices for precious metals. In addition, as one of the most trusted companies in the south-eastern United States, clients can rely on MAYORS for safe and secure transactions.

Through www.mayorsgoldexchange.com, clients can sell their old or unwanted gold, silver, and platinum jewelery online for cash. It is fast, easy, free, and secure.

"We are pleased to offer this exceptional opportunity to our customers. We take pride in being a full service luxury destination built on years of integrity and trust. The MAYORS GOLD EXCHANGE will be no exception" adds John C. Orrico, Senior Vice President.

Birks & Mayors Inc. (Amex "BMJ") is a leading operator of luxury jewelry stores in the United States and Canada. As of November 26th, 2009, the Company operated 35 stores (Birks Brand) across most major metropolitan markets in Canada and 30 stores (Mayors Brand) across Florida and Georgia, as well as two retail locations in Calgary and Vancouver under the Brinkhaus brand. Birks was founded in 1879 and developed over the years into Canada's premier retailer, designer and manufacturer of fine jewelry, timepieces, sterling and plated silverware and gifts. Mayors was founded in 1910 and has maintained the intimacy of a family-owned boutique while becoming renowned for its fine jewelry, timepieces, giftware and service. Additional information can be found on Birks & Mayors web site, www.birksandmayors.com.

For over a decade, JamesAllen.com has prided itself as a pioneer in cutting edge, user-friendly technological innovation. Continuing in that rich tradition, we are pleased to announce this holiday season that JamesAllen.com is making it easier than ever to find the perfect diamond engagement ring. Our new 3D developments will provide consumers with the ultimate visual experience - all James Allen engagement rings will "come to life" in a remarkable and dazzling way. This state-of-the-art technology will bridge the gap between in-person and online shopping, by providing a near-tangible presentation.

We've also been making intuitive improvements to our user interface that will assist in each customer's unique search. Now every James Allen shopper will be appropriately directed to pages on the site best suited for his or her needs.

To avoid traffic jams, long lines, and limited product selections, consumers are increasingly turning to the internet for their shopping needs. It is an ideal way to get James Allen engagement rings, loose diamonds, diamond jewelry, and wedding rings at better prices. "Shopping for diamonds online is actually becoming the standard. Why pay more and settle for lesser quality diamond rings when you can enjoy the discount, quality, convenience and 30 day return money back guarantee of online shopping at James Allen? Thanks to the exclusive new innovations on our site, finding the perfect diamond engagement ring is going to be a breeze," says James Schultz, President and founder of JamesAllen.com.

"We understand that buying engagement rings can be a confusing process. That's why we're constantly working to make it easier. These exciting changes at JamesAllen.com are going to provide all the benefits of in-store shopping from the comfort of your home."

This holiday season, find exactly what you're looking for on JamesAllen.com - you won't believe your eyes!

Bergio International, Inc. announces today that Berge Abajian, CEO and Designer of Bergio International, Inc. will make a personal appearance at Neiman Marcus in Paramus, New Jersey Friday, December 18th and Saturday, December 19th. Neiman Marcus exposes Bergio to its existing name recognition and brand awareness catering to the upper echelon consumer. "It is an exciting opportunity to interact with the elite consumers and customize their next upscale piece of jewelry. Unveiling the new Bergio Safari Collection will broaden revenue opportunities with these consumers," stated Berge Abajian, CEO of Bergio International.

It seems that no matter how rich and famous you are, there is still one truth about women no matter their social status: diamonds are a girl’s best friend. This Christmas socialite, Paris Hilton, received diamonds from her boyfriend, Doug Reinhardt. And as a good portion of the social media savvy do, Paris took to Twitter to not only tweet about the gift of diamonds, but also the store the custom made jewelry was purchased from: XIV Karats.

Diamond Ideals recently produced what I like to call, “the guys guide to buying ice.”

We all know that men are no strangers to online shopping. But, when it’s time to purchase the most important and life-changing item of their lives – the engagement ring – they may need a little guidance on choosing the ring that makes the grade.

Just in time for the spring wedding season, Diamond Ideals created must-have tips to arm all guys with the necessary information to choosing the perfect piece of bling for brides-to-be when shopping online. In fact, buying engagement rings online is proving to be more beneficial than buying it in a brick-and-mortar store. Choosing an engagement ring goes way beyond the cut, color and clarity.

Snippets of the useful and practical tips from Diamond Ideals for engagement ring e-shopping include:

Leon’s Fine Jewelry, Beverly Hills, California, welcomes all visitors and holiday shoppers to visit their boutique on Beverly Drive for an unforgettable fine jewelry experience. A fixture and “best kept secret” in Beverly Hills, Leon’s has expanded its holiday gift selections of diamonds, pearls, precious gems and fine jewelry. As one of a few authorized jewelers, Leon’s carries the De Beers Everlon Diamond Knot Collections within their extraordinary jewelry showroom that has been a hidden gem in Beverly Hills for almost ten years.

“We appreciate loyalty and strive to provide an environment that is warm, inviting, friendly, and personalized to each of our client’s needs. Leon’s is family - we love to see our customers again and again”

“Shopping is a unique pleasure at Leon’s Fine Jewelry. This beautiful retail salon in Beverly Hills is the culmination of our thirty years of passion and commitment to excellence in jewelry design, workmanship and customer service,” said Leon Haytayan, founder and President of Leon’s Fine Jewelry. “When we opened the boutique, we opened our hearts to all residents, shoppers and visitors of this magnificent city to experience and enjoy our first class service and indulge in our affordable luxury.”

Nestled in a romantic storefront reminiscent of summertime in Provence, Leon’s offers a selection of exquisite merchandise that is unparalleled in the fine jewelry industry. The boutique is centrally located in Beverly Hills, just a short drive from Orange County, the San Fernando Valley, and the greater Metropolitan Los Angeles areas.

Through unique innovations and a forward-thinking approach, JamesAllen.com has firmly established itself as a leader in the online diamond retail industry, providing customers with top-quality diamond rings for substantially less cost. Simply put, James Allen offers the very best classic and contemporary diamond engagement rings. The option to design your own ring provides customers with what they want – a perfect expression of love, exactly how they imagine it. This year, James Allen is thrilled to present even more exciting changes.

In 2010, James Allen is expanding its inventory to include hundreds of new designer rings. From glamorous wedding rings to one-of-a-kind engagement rings, you'll be amazed by the rich variety and elegant design of their dazzling new jewelry. Like Tiffany's, Cartier, Harry Winston and De Beers – at James Allen you'll find amazing designer rings with certified diamonds that reflect graceful taste and refined sensibilities.

The thrill that comes from selecting the perfect engagement ring is incomparable. With so many different types of diamond rings to choose from, it's fun to let friends take part in the excitement. That's why James Allen has taken a huge step into social media – now customers can ask for their friends' opinions, comments, raves and reviews on Facebook.