for JQ International Magazine
Thailand in 2009: World Jewelry and Gem Hub
By William M. Brandon III
Thai jewelry designers and manufacturers alike are looking forward to 2009 for an opportunity to preserve the hard-earned reputation of Thailand’s Gem and Jewelry Industry and launch the country into a new spotlight with bold designs and creative customer-oriented business plans. With innovators like Sancheti, Agopian and Piat, 2009 will be the year for Thailand to shine.
"Emulate with virtuosity in our art." – Ohanes Agopian"[Thailand] has all of the ingredients for a jewelry industry, skilled and affordable labor, location and raw materials." – Ashok Sancheti
Thai Advantages
Thailand’s rich history in gems and jewelry can be traced back hundreds of years when immense natural resources, especially rubies and sapphires, were discovered. The Thai people envisioned these gemstones as symbols befitting royalty and applied their ancient traditions of craftsmanship and achieved mastery to bring out the very best of each and every gemstone Thailand. While honing their skills, gold and silver smiths made advances that propelled the industry into the limelight of the world’s gem and jewelry industry. Some of the Thailand’s earliest forays into gem and jewelry production began as cottage industries that materialized in the provinces and then spread to Bangkok, making it the world center for the gem and jewelry trade today.
Thailand has also long been renowned as a gem and jewelry exporter. International merchants send large quantities of their gemstones to be cut in Thailand. As a result, the gem and jewelry industry ranked as the fifth largest exporter in 2008. The country has positioned itself as a regional hub for diamond and precious stone cutting, capitalizing on its low-cost labor, skilled craftsmen and its proximity to major colored-gemstone producing countries like Burma/Myanmar, Sri Lanka and India.
Thailand also offers long experience in mining these precious stones. Extensive deposits of blue sapphires in Kanchanburi province provide local industry with a high quality source of the precious stone. Chantaburi province, near Cambodia, yields a steady supply of rubies, further deepening the wealth of experience for Thai businesses and designers.
Looking to the Future
Ashok Sancheti (Pioneer Gems - http://www.pioneergems.com) forecasts, "The big look," with a smaller budget. Investors will continue to purchase "one of a kind designs with rare gem stones [in order to] keep the value of their investment and enjoy the jewelry." Sancheti's Jaipur family has created fine emerald jewels for Indian royalty for many generations. He looks to the industry to, "invest more in research and development," bringing innovative designs to the market and setting Thailand apart for the crowd. "[Thailand] has all of the ingredients for a jewelry industry, skilled and affordable labor, location and raw materials." Pioneer Gems specializes in single stone sizes of natural emeralds, rubies, sapphires and diamonds. Emmy Award-winning journalist, magazine columnist, and anchor for “Access Hollywood” Shaun Robinson wore a dazzling Sancheti emerald ensemble to the Oscars in 2008.
Mr. Ohanes Agopian, an Armenian jeweler and the Founder of Jacob's Jewelry Co., Ltd. (Jacob’s Jewelry Co., Ltd. Thailand - http://jacobjewelry.net/), predicts that some companies will hesitate to release new brands or lines this year. However, he remains optimistic that, "It is time to strengthen relationships with existing customers as well as explore new markets and territories." He challenges Thai designers and jewelers to, "Emulate with virtuosity in our art." Mr. Agopian explains that, "Combinations of colors," will dominate the market with semi-precious stone jewelry. "This implies that we should pay even more attention and listen carefully to customers’ needs." In 2009 Ohanes feels that, "Development of products should be done in a very considerate manner and by making full use of internal skills in order to deliver the highest quality of our creations." Jacob's Jewelry commands 350 craftsmen in Thailand and Republic of Armenia. Mr. Agopian plans to direct all of his energy toward innovation, "Brain storming and action!"
Eric Piat's Rubicon (http://www.rubicon.co.th) combines highly experienced Thai technicians, French flair for design and expertise in selection and re-cutting of gemstones. Rubicon's founder is the son of Daniel Piat the founder of the French Gemological Institute. Piat's aim in the international market is to "produce highly crafted jewelry with attractive color schemes to be worn on all occasions and at appealing prices."
Thai jewelry designers and manufacturers alike are looking forward to 2009 for an opportunity to preserve the hard-earned reputation of Thailand’s Gem and Jewelry Industry and launch the country into a new spotlight with bold designs and creative customer-oriented business plans. With innovators like Sancheti, Agopian and Piat, 2009 will be the year for Thailand to shine.
Exposure
The two-decade old Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (February 25 - March 1, 2009: for more information - info@bangkokgemsfair.com / http://www.bangkokgemsfair.com) seeks to continue Thailand's reputation as the world's gems and jewelry hub. The 43rd Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair will feature, "1200 exhibitors from over 35 countries such as the UK, Italy, Russia, the United States, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Israel," and a, "dynamic place to conduct good business and network." TGJ Elite Creations, a showcase of Thailand’s most stunning jewelry and objects d’art will be on display during Fair. The TGJ Elite Creations pieces have never been exhibited before and will include necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, brooches, and many other jewel encrusted objects. Each extraordinary piece is crafted by top Thai craftsmen and gives viewers a clear indication of the excellent quality of products produced in Thailand.
*PDF samples available upon request (wmbrandoniii@gmail.com)
7.24.2009
Antique and Vintage Rings
for LuxuryJewels24.com
Antique and Vintage Rings
By William M. Brandon III
Old is new again. A contingency of today’s couples are choosing to mark their engagements with antique or antique-styled rings. For some, this choice comes from a desire for a ring as unique and special as their relationship; others love the sense of old-fashioned romance in design.
Most true “antique” engagement rings on the market today date from the late 1800s through the 1950s.
· Victorian-era jewelry was usually yellow or rose gold accented with simple stones, such as Old Mine-cut or Old European-cut diamonds.
· Simplicity reigned supreme through the end of the century. It was in 1886 that Tiffany & Co.’s introduced its classic diamond solitaire.
· It wasn’t until the early twentieth century that white gold and platinum became a popular choice for engagement rings.
· Edwardian brides (circa 1901 – 1910) often opted for fancy filigree designs—a technique of piercing metal to create intricate, openwork looks.
· Art Deco wedding rings, made between 1910 and 1930, were more geometric in shape, with diamonds set in steps on each side of the center stone.
· Bridal jewelry of the 1940s featured delicately engraved patterns and romantic, feminine carvings.
When shopping for a vintage or estate engagement ring, it is important to inspect the condition of the piece. The prongs holding the center diamond and any small stones should be solid and secure and the shank of the ring should be of sufficient thickness.
Keep in mind that your engagement ring will be worn every day. So, whether you choose a newly made ring with antique styling or a genuine vintage ring, make sure it’s in excellent condition.
*PDF samples available upon request (wmbrandoniii@gmail.com)
Antique and Vintage Rings
By William M. Brandon III
Old is new again. A contingency of today’s couples are choosing to mark their engagements with antique or antique-styled rings. For some, this choice comes from a desire for a ring as unique and special as their relationship; others love the sense of old-fashioned romance in design.
Most true “antique” engagement rings on the market today date from the late 1800s through the 1950s.
· Victorian-era jewelry was usually yellow or rose gold accented with simple stones, such as Old Mine-cut or Old European-cut diamonds.
· Simplicity reigned supreme through the end of the century. It was in 1886 that Tiffany & Co.’s introduced its classic diamond solitaire.
· It wasn’t until the early twentieth century that white gold and platinum became a popular choice for engagement rings.
· Edwardian brides (circa 1901 – 1910) often opted for fancy filigree designs—a technique of piercing metal to create intricate, openwork looks.
· Art Deco wedding rings, made between 1910 and 1930, were more geometric in shape, with diamonds set in steps on each side of the center stone.
· Bridal jewelry of the 1940s featured delicately engraved patterns and romantic, feminine carvings.
When shopping for a vintage or estate engagement ring, it is important to inspect the condition of the piece. The prongs holding the center diamond and any small stones should be solid and secure and the shank of the ring should be of sufficient thickness.
Keep in mind that your engagement ring will be worn every day. So, whether you choose a newly made ring with antique styling or a genuine vintage ring, make sure it’s in excellent condition.
*PDF samples available upon request (wmbrandoniii@gmail.com)
Bangles & Cuffs
for LuxuryJewels24.com
Bigger & Better Cuffs & Bangles
By William M. Brandon III
The hot accessory for summer ’09 is arm-wear. In the fashion rags, bangles are being shown with almost everything…and it seems that these chic accessories have no boundaries. Animal prints and mosaics, in any color, go well with this season's warm weather trends. The season’s best styles simply match a clothing color to one in a coordinated bangle.
Just as singer Taylor Swift donned three of Australian designer Jan Logan’s bangles at the Sydney premiere of 17 Again, these accessories can be mixed, matched, and stacked. Casual or dressy, they can be paired with a plain t-shirt and jeans or put on to make a black dress sparkle. This trend is not subtle! Experimentation with texture, color, size, and shape is encouraged.
A stunning cuff is a sophisticated alternative and will instantly add dramatic effect to an evening dress. This accessory will also add warmth and color to an ensemble. Metals such as gold, silver, copper and brass are being highlighted with cuffs, as well as more prominent use of larger and bolder gemstones. Cuffs are not strictly confined to the realm of formal wear. Since cuffs are not loose-fitting they are also a practical pick for work. Their stylish simplicity can range from minimalist to bold and eye-catching, and they maintain a professional level of personal creativity.
Bigger & Better Cuffs & Bangles
By William M. Brandon III
The hot accessory for summer ’09 is arm-wear. In the fashion rags, bangles are being shown with almost everything…and it seems that these chic accessories have no boundaries. Animal prints and mosaics, in any color, go well with this season's warm weather trends. The season’s best styles simply match a clothing color to one in a coordinated bangle.
Just as singer Taylor Swift donned three of Australian designer Jan Logan’s bangles at the Sydney premiere of 17 Again, these accessories can be mixed, matched, and stacked. Casual or dressy, they can be paired with a plain t-shirt and jeans or put on to make a black dress sparkle. This trend is not subtle! Experimentation with texture, color, size, and shape is encouraged.
A stunning cuff is a sophisticated alternative and will instantly add dramatic effect to an evening dress. This accessory will also add warmth and color to an ensemble. Metals such as gold, silver, copper and brass are being highlighted with cuffs, as well as more prominent use of larger and bolder gemstones. Cuffs are not strictly confined to the realm of formal wear. Since cuffs are not loose-fitting they are also a practical pick for work. Their stylish simplicity can range from minimalist to bold and eye-catching, and they maintain a professional level of personal creativity.
Book Reviews: "Alchemy" by Temple St. Clair and "Cameos Old & New 4th Edition" edited by Diana Jarrett
for JQ Magazine
ALCHEMY: A PASSION FOR JEWELRY – TEMPLE ST. CLAIR
By William M. Brandon III
Captivating photography and St. Clair’s distinct vision make this book impossible to hide on a shelf.
Temple St. Clair is a Southern Girl, “No matter how many decades I have been away from the South, I always think of myself as a Southern Girl.” As a child St. Clair traveled extensively with her parents, often spending summers in Morocco and Bavaria. After attending school in Switzerland she continued to Florence where she received a Master’s Degree in Italian Literature. At this point in her life St. Clair had not been exposed to the world of jewelry making. Her visiting mother asked St. Clair to commission a goldsmith to create a piece of jewelry from a gold coin.
St. Clair went to the Palazzo dell’ Orafo of Florentine goldsmiths and discovered the ancient Italian art of jewelry making. With her education and vast intercontinental experience, St. Clair struck out into her life’s work and began amazing the jewelry world.
Alchemy: A Passion for Jewelry (222pp.; $50; bn.com) chronicles the continent-spanning story of a woman chasing inspiration and capturing it. Alchemy has the feel of a photography book more than an autobiography. The rich and stunning photographs of S. Clair’s work dominate the pages. Every seductive twist and turn of precious metals propels the story along, and overwhelms the eye in shining splendor. St. Clair’s narrative never fails to impress, whether it is her rich, early-American heritage, her life’s epiphany in Florence, or her unbridled dissection of ancient Renaissance art, it is clear that her passion matches her artistry. The captivating photography and St. Clair’s distinct vision make this book impossible to hide on a shelf.
Victoria’s Other Secret
By William M. Brandon III
Cameos are an art form whose origins precede the Egyptian Empire. Though most people associate the cameo with Victorian Age clothing, its lush history spans millennia.
Anna Miller’s Cameos Old & New (4th Edition – Diana Jarrett, G.G., RMV – GemStone Press/February 2009/Quality paperback/$19.99/360pp.) is an extensive journey into the fascinating and ancient world of Cameos. This comprehensive work covers the history of this unique form of jewelry making, and continues with in-depth instruction regarding the manufacturing process, complete guides to appraisal, as well as tips for collectors on authenticity and popularity of various genres of Cameos.
Diana Jarrett’s 4th edition elaborates on Miller’s insights regarding building and caring for a cameo collection, “circa dating”, as well as quality ranking. The 4th Edition features new photography, resources for collectors and professionals and instruction on how to buy cameos whether from a retailer, an antique dealer or on the internet.
The most striking part of this book is Miller’s ability to disseminate a great deal of information to the reader without ever falling into the perilous textbook style of language. Miller’s casual and passionate tone takes you on a relaxed journey through the centuries-old genesis and evolution of Cameo making. From there Miller takes us through the intricate processes involved in dating and appraising this ancient art form. Her style lends itself to interested reading and the book’s format makes it easy to flip-through and pinpoint information.
It is difficult to place Cameos Old & New in either an academic or pleasure category. Though it is indeed a pleasure to read, the extensive glossary of jewelry terminology, chronological history of gemstones, in-depth bibliography, and robust “suggested reading” appendix combine to make this a powerful reference book for beginner and expert alike.
*PDF samples available upon request (wmbrandoniii@gmail.com)
ALCHEMY: A PASSION FOR JEWELRY – TEMPLE ST. CLAIR
By William M. Brandon III
Captivating photography and St. Clair’s distinct vision make this book impossible to hide on a shelf.
Temple St. Clair is a Southern Girl, “No matter how many decades I have been away from the South, I always think of myself as a Southern Girl.” As a child St. Clair traveled extensively with her parents, often spending summers in Morocco and Bavaria. After attending school in Switzerland she continued to Florence where she received a Master’s Degree in Italian Literature. At this point in her life St. Clair had not been exposed to the world of jewelry making. Her visiting mother asked St. Clair to commission a goldsmith to create a piece of jewelry from a gold coin.
St. Clair went to the Palazzo dell’ Orafo of Florentine goldsmiths and discovered the ancient Italian art of jewelry making. With her education and vast intercontinental experience, St. Clair struck out into her life’s work and began amazing the jewelry world.
Alchemy: A Passion for Jewelry (222pp.; $50; bn.com) chronicles the continent-spanning story of a woman chasing inspiration and capturing it. Alchemy has the feel of a photography book more than an autobiography. The rich and stunning photographs of S. Clair’s work dominate the pages. Every seductive twist and turn of precious metals propels the story along, and overwhelms the eye in shining splendor. St. Clair’s narrative never fails to impress, whether it is her rich, early-American heritage, her life’s epiphany in Florence, or her unbridled dissection of ancient Renaissance art, it is clear that her passion matches her artistry. The captivating photography and St. Clair’s distinct vision make this book impossible to hide on a shelf.
Victoria’s Other Secret
By William M. Brandon III
Cameos are an art form whose origins precede the Egyptian Empire. Though most people associate the cameo with Victorian Age clothing, its lush history spans millennia.
Anna Miller’s Cameos Old & New (4th Edition – Diana Jarrett, G.G., RMV – GemStone Press/February 2009/Quality paperback/$19.99/360pp.) is an extensive journey into the fascinating and ancient world of Cameos. This comprehensive work covers the history of this unique form of jewelry making, and continues with in-depth instruction regarding the manufacturing process, complete guides to appraisal, as well as tips for collectors on authenticity and popularity of various genres of Cameos.
Diana Jarrett’s 4th edition elaborates on Miller’s insights regarding building and caring for a cameo collection, “circa dating”, as well as quality ranking. The 4th Edition features new photography, resources for collectors and professionals and instruction on how to buy cameos whether from a retailer, an antique dealer or on the internet.
The most striking part of this book is Miller’s ability to disseminate a great deal of information to the reader without ever falling into the perilous textbook style of language. Miller’s casual and passionate tone takes you on a relaxed journey through the centuries-old genesis and evolution of Cameo making. From there Miller takes us through the intricate processes involved in dating and appraising this ancient art form. Her style lends itself to interested reading and the book’s format makes it easy to flip-through and pinpoint information.
It is difficult to place Cameos Old & New in either an academic or pleasure category. Though it is indeed a pleasure to read, the extensive glossary of jewelry terminology, chronological history of gemstones, in-depth bibliography, and robust “suggested reading” appendix combine to make this a powerful reference book for beginner and expert alike.
*PDF samples available upon request (wmbrandoniii@gmail.com)
Simon G
for JQ International Magazine
G. Force
By William M. Brandon III
Simon Ghanimian came to America with $200 in his pocket with the ambition of studying Civil Engineering. When tuition proved to be much more expensive, however, his family members in Lebanon encouraged him to turn to the activity that had been his hobby since the age of 14: making jewelry. A generation later, the name Simon G. has come to represent a beauty that is timeless.
Although he has decades of dedication behind him, Simon G. has spent only the last few years in the limelight. It was in 2005 that celebrity came calling, when Jerry McConnell purchased a 5 ct. fancy yellow oval mounting to propose to Rebecca Romijn. Soon after, Britney Spears and Toni Braxton asked the designer to provide jewelry for their live shows. In quick succession, Taraji P. Henson wore a pair of Simon G.’s onyx earrings (right/left) while promoting “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” His work was then spotted on the red carpet when Charles Bronson’s daughter, Keely, and Madeleine Martin both wore pieces from the line to the Golden Globes. Most recently, the collection was featured in David Alexander’s runway show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week - Los Angeles.
Last year, the Angeleno turned his attention to New York, partnering with Marie Claire to sponsor the opening night of the Broadway production of Arthur Miller’s “All My Sons” starring Dianne West and Katie Holmes. Their male co-stars, John Lithgow and Patrick Wilson, even wore Simon G., sporting the designer’s bracelets at the after-party.
Now, the company has set its sights on Las Vegas. This May, Simon G. will be holding a customer appreciation celebration, which will host celebrity guests Kim Kardashian and Matthew Perry. “Instead of using the traditional ballroom setting, we partnered with the Palazzo Hotel to put on a lively party,” explains Simon’s son, Zevan Ghanimian, who is deeply involved in the company’s operations.
The brand has just as much substance as style. Despite its A-list clients and celebrity connections, Simon G. is still very down-to-earth, favoring face-to-face meetings and personal contact. Utilizing a hands-on approach, the company does frequent trunk shows and offers one-on-one training for retailers. The caring company is also a sponsor of the Lili Claire Foundation, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to “helping children living with neurogenetic conditions, while providing hope and resources to the families who love them.”
The daughter of founders Keith and Leslie Litt-Resnick, Lili Claire, “lost her battle with Williams syndrome when she was only five-and-a-half months old.” The couple created the foundation to aid families in similar situations and to enrich the lives of the children stricken with neurogenetic conditions. As parents of a son living with Down Syndrome, Simon and his wife Sylvia have a personal attachment to the Foundation’s work.
Simon designed a unique 18K tri-tone gold pendant, set with white and fancy yellow diamonds—called “Lili’s Dream”—to symbolize the dreams that the Litt-Resnick family has for their little girl. The designer says that he is “honored to gift a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each pendant” to the foundation.
It is a cause that is clearly close to Hollywood’s heart, as well. Celebrities Jenny Garth, Angie Harmon, Rachael Leigh Cook, Kris Jenner, and her daughters (Kim, Khloe, and Kourtney Kardashian) show their support for the foundation and its cause by wearing pieces from the limited edition collection to “send a message through fashion.”
*PDF samples available upon request (wmbrandoniii@gmail.com)
G. Force
By William M. Brandon III
Simon Ghanimian came to America with $200 in his pocket with the ambition of studying Civil Engineering. When tuition proved to be much more expensive, however, his family members in Lebanon encouraged him to turn to the activity that had been his hobby since the age of 14: making jewelry. A generation later, the name Simon G. has come to represent a beauty that is timeless.
Although he has decades of dedication behind him, Simon G. has spent only the last few years in the limelight. It was in 2005 that celebrity came calling, when Jerry McConnell purchased a 5 ct. fancy yellow oval mounting to propose to Rebecca Romijn. Soon after, Britney Spears and Toni Braxton asked the designer to provide jewelry for their live shows. In quick succession, Taraji P. Henson wore a pair of Simon G.’s onyx earrings (right/left) while promoting “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” His work was then spotted on the red carpet when Charles Bronson’s daughter, Keely, and Madeleine Martin both wore pieces from the line to the Golden Globes. Most recently, the collection was featured in David Alexander’s runway show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week - Los Angeles.
Last year, the Angeleno turned his attention to New York, partnering with Marie Claire to sponsor the opening night of the Broadway production of Arthur Miller’s “All My Sons” starring Dianne West and Katie Holmes. Their male co-stars, John Lithgow and Patrick Wilson, even wore Simon G., sporting the designer’s bracelets at the after-party.
Now, the company has set its sights on Las Vegas. This May, Simon G. will be holding a customer appreciation celebration, which will host celebrity guests Kim Kardashian and Matthew Perry. “Instead of using the traditional ballroom setting, we partnered with the Palazzo Hotel to put on a lively party,” explains Simon’s son, Zevan Ghanimian, who is deeply involved in the company’s operations.
The brand has just as much substance as style. Despite its A-list clients and celebrity connections, Simon G. is still very down-to-earth, favoring face-to-face meetings and personal contact. Utilizing a hands-on approach, the company does frequent trunk shows and offers one-on-one training for retailers. The caring company is also a sponsor of the Lili Claire Foundation, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to “helping children living with neurogenetic conditions, while providing hope and resources to the families who love them.”
The daughter of founders Keith and Leslie Litt-Resnick, Lili Claire, “lost her battle with Williams syndrome when she was only five-and-a-half months old.” The couple created the foundation to aid families in similar situations and to enrich the lives of the children stricken with neurogenetic conditions. As parents of a son living with Down Syndrome, Simon and his wife Sylvia have a personal attachment to the Foundation’s work.
Simon designed a unique 18K tri-tone gold pendant, set with white and fancy yellow diamonds—called “Lili’s Dream”—to symbolize the dreams that the Litt-Resnick family has for their little girl. The designer says that he is “honored to gift a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each pendant” to the foundation.
It is a cause that is clearly close to Hollywood’s heart, as well. Celebrities Jenny Garth, Angie Harmon, Rachael Leigh Cook, Kris Jenner, and her daughters (Kim, Khloe, and Kourtney Kardashian) show their support for the foundation and its cause by wearing pieces from the limited edition collection to “send a message through fashion.”
*PDF samples available upon request (wmbrandoniii@gmail.com)
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)