Robin Green

I’m been meaning to ask Jewelers Vigilance Committee what’s the best practice for disclosing “used” diamonds. Because as we all know, some of the diamonds that we sell were previously worn. With traceability and provenance in diamond sourcing becoming a “thing” because no one wants to buy or sell a conflict diamond or a banned Russian diamond, I started wondering about our responsibility relative to diamonds that are reused after a melt or return. On the one hand, I don’t believe a consumer has the expectation that we throw away diamonds or gold when they return or trade-in an item. While some of that merchandise gets resold as “estate” jewelry with full disclosure that it was previously owned, most of it ends up getting melted and the gold and diamonds are reused to make new merchandise (generally upstream in the supply chain). For the most part, we as retailers have no knowledge of used or new and frankly neither do many of the manufacturers. For certain larger stones perhaps there’s a lab certification, but for the most part, the diamonds and gold are simply reused and no one is the wiser. Diamonds don’t decay or lose their sparkle like a transistor. Do we have a duty to disclose this, legal or ethical? What if the last person to own that diamond died with it on their finger? Or was killed because it was on their finger? Or they killed someone to get it on their finger? Can a diamond be “stigmatized”? In certain states (California and Texas for example), you are required to disclose if someone died in a property you are selling. I call this the Ghostbuster rule. But it’s on the books. While I’m not aware of such a thing for jewelry, and we all like to tell the beautiful stories about how great grandmas diamond is passed on through generations, we also know of the “curse of the Hope Diamond (https://lnkd.in/gEvTHnYA). While I’m not personally a believer in inanimate objects having bad juju, some people certainly are. And, if there ever were to be an object that absorbed bad karma, probably a diamond would be the most likely target. Perhaps we should add a new disclosure: "This diamond may have a bit of history and may come with its very own friendly ghost. Don't worry, though—our ghosts are known for their excellent taste and sparkling company!"

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I learned a surprising fact: many brides struggle because stylists might not be experts in metal types! Helping brides find their dream wedding look is my passion. Choosing the right metal for your jewelry is just as important as style.  The wrong metal can clash with your skin tone or dress, or worse, irritate your skin! That's why Kavipushp goes beyond the sparkle. We believe every bride deserves jewelry that complements her unique beauty and feels comfortable all day long. 📍 The right metal can enhance your skin tone and wedding dress, creating a cohesive and radiant look. 📍 Certain metals are more hypoallergenic and gentle on sensitive skin, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable throughout your big day. 📍 Bridal jewelry is often an heirloom. Choosing high-quality metals ensures your pieces last a lifetime. We offer a wide range of bridal jewelry crafted with various metals to suit every bride's needs and preferences.  Our expert team can help you find the perfect pieces that not only look stunning but feel amazing too! Brides-to-be, share your dream jewelry look in the comments! Let's help you find your perfect match. #bridaljewelry #weddings #designs #entreprenuer

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💎 Tip of the Day: Shift Your Focus to Natural Diamonds In 2024, retailers should prioritize training their associates in the art of selling natural diamonds. Understanding the unique selling propositions of natural diamonds and highlighting their rarity is crucial. Showcase natural diamonds first, emphasizing their value, even if customers inquire about lab-grown options. Reserve lab-grown diamonds as a last resort, discreetly kept in the back, and presented only after thoroughly explaining the value of natural diamonds. 💍 #DiamondSales #RetailTips #NaturalDiamonds #MeganTellsAll

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Don’t Get Caught Unprepared This Season 💎 As we approach the peak season for jewelry retail, it's critical to emphasize the importance of proactive planning. Unfortunately, many retailers still wait until the last minute to place their orders, leaving little time to analyze data and forecast accurately for new designs and trends. This often leads to a frantic, panic-induced shopping spree from cash-and-carry wholesalers, making decisions based on availability rather than strategic planning. Why Last-Minute Planning Fails Last-minute orders compromise the ability to curate a collection that resonates with current trends and customer preferences. It also limits the potential for negotiating better prices and ensuring timely delivery. The end result? Missed opportunities and reduced profit margins. Plan Ahead for Success There's still time to make a strategic plan for the upcoming season. Here are some steps to ensure you're not caught unprepared: 1. Analyze Sales Data: Look at last year’s sales data to identify bestsellers and underperformers. Use this information to forecast demand and make informed decisions about inventory. 2. Stay Ahead of Trends: Keep an eye on emerging trends and incorporate them into your offerings. This might mean investing in new designs or materials that are gaining popularity. 3. Order Early: Place your orders well in advance. Aim for delivery by mid-October to allow ample time for pricing, marketing, and display. 4. Diversify Suppliers: Don’t rely solely on cash-and-carry wholesalers. Establish relationships with multiple suppliers to ensure you have access to a variety of products. 5. Plan Your Marketing: A well-thought-out marketing plan can significantly boost sales. Ensure your team has enough time to create compelling campaigns that highlight your new collections. The Clock is Ticking The clock is ticking, but there is still time to turn things around. By taking a proactive approach, you can ensure your store is stocked with carefully curated, on-trend pieces that appeal to your customers and maximize your profitability this season. Take Action Now Don’t wait until the last minute. Start planning today to avoid the chaos and ensure a successful season. Need assistance reach out 🙋🏼🙋‍♀️. #JewelryRetail #RetailPlanning #TrendForecasting #ProactiveRetail #JewelryDesign #SeasonalSales #RetailStrategy #JewelryMarketing #SupplyChainManagement #shimansky

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A small 1.3% rise in sales at US jewelers in April. The increase in revenue was fully spurred by a 2.5% increase in the average consumer expenditure per unit purchased. A few of the figures: Natural diamond jewelry sales rose 1%, Prices of LGD-set DERs declined, Loose LGD was 57% of loose diamond sales, but just 25% of revenue. Here is an issue: LG prices are down, but gross margins and unit sales are up. What does it impact gross profits? We took a look at that and have some findings. https://lnkd.in/dDw4s8MQ

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In this video, I’ll show you how to add notches to the sleeve cap that align perfectly with the body armhole. I'll explain where to add ease and where to avoid it, plus how to place notches for matching the fabric on the outseam. . . . . #fyp #foryoupage #patternmaking #sewingpattern #fashion #fashiondesign #DIY #patternmakingtutorial #sewingpatterns #fashiontiktok #fashiondesigning #diyfashion #fypシ #fashionhacks #patterngrading #patterntips

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For the last several months, I've been doing a series on Fridays called, "Ask Rachel Anything." Full disclosure: I don't get to it every single week, but I try to do my best and show up to answer some of the key questions I'm asked by clients or by our community before I kick off my weekend. This week, I'm rambling about the state of the apparel industry and what I see for the future. I'd love to hear your thoughts on it though! Tell me where I'm wrong, where you agree and anything else in between. I'd love to know where you're at in this discussion! #askmeanything #apparelindustry #fashionindustry

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Are you a fashion buyer or merchandiser? Feeling Burnt Out? I’ve been there … Endless deadlines, dealing with multiple stakeholders, non-stop travel, meetings, meetings, meetings… the list is endless. Remember, burnout is a common experience, especially in high-pressure industries like fashion. By prioritizing self-care and managing your workload effectively, you can prevent burnout and maintain your well-being in the long run. Quick wins: Set your boundaries. Prioritize self-care. Manage workload, delegate what you can. Take breaks! Seek support from a mentor or coach. Reach out now if you want to explore more ways to combat this! #fashionbuying #burnout #fashion #fashionconsultant #consulting #holistic #wellness #coaching #style #luxury #design #entreprepenur #business #growth #transormation #community #fashioncoaching #personalgrowth #holisticbusiness #holisticbrands #consciousleaders #consciousbusiness #womeninbusiness

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Introducing THE ARMADILLO Precision Speed Control for Jewelry Designers "The ARMADILLO" is a precision-governed foot pedal speed controller designed specifically for bench jewelers and home jewelry designers. Its innovative design ensures a light touch with speed control, crucial for tasks like cutting ring prongs without risking damage to the setting. Key Features: Precision Control: Achieve the perfect speed for your flex shafts, such as Foredom’s SR ™ series, with ease. Drop-in Replacement: Drop-in Replacement for major foot pedal speed controllers, making installation straightforward. Digital Precision: Linear pedal positioning for accurate control. Governor Switch: Set and reset the speed limit effortlessly to prevent over-revving and protect your equipment. Technical Specifications: Model Name: THE ARMADILLO Voltage In: 120-240 VAC (Auto Select) Voltage Out: Follows voltage in Frequency: 50-60 Hz (Auto Select) Max Current: 6 A Power Max: 1440 W Protection: Double Insulated Operating Temp: 0 to 70 deg. C How to Use: 1.      Connect the pedal: Plug into AC line voltage, connect AC output to the flex shaft, and plug the switch into the ¼” mono audio socket. 2.      Set your desired speed: Press the pedal until the desired speed is reached. 3.      Activate the governor: Press the governor switch to set the maximum speed limit. 4.      Effortless control: The motor won’t exceed the preset speed, ensuring safe and precise operations. Accessories: Push Button Cable Pedal Switch Upgrade your jewelry crafting experience with THE ARMADILLO – the ultimate tool for precision and control.

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Online, you are selling pictures. Not jewelry. Jewelers, designers, remember this. Online, this is the single most important improvement you can make to your site. Your jewelry may be of the highest craftsmanship, with the most exquisite stones - however, your potential clients and customers need to "buy" the picture. Allocate the budget you can to a photographer who specializes in jewelry. Or to photography tools and the commitment to learning the techniques that get you the high quality, well-lit images. Thank you Bob Donofrio, founder of Futura Jewelry for this stunning image. #Jewelry #Gemstones #Diamonds #BusinessStrategy #DigitalMarketing

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Durable computer print, protect your device from scratches and dirt.#Clothingaccessories #Fashionaccessories #Fabrics #Buttons #Zippers #Lace #Embroidery #Trendelements #Matchingskills #Sewingtechniques #fyp #foryou #Handmade

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I am incredibly excited to share with you a groundbreaking tool that is set to revolutionize the jewelry industry! Introducing, the "Ringo" - a virtual ring fitting experience like no other. Imagine being able to try on a two-carat diamond ring, bathed in the mesmerizing hue of rose gold, right from the comfort of your couch. Sounds surreal, right? Well, not anymore! With Ringo, you can experience the thrill of personalizing and trying on your dream ring virtually! In the attached video , you can see how our cutting-edge technology brings the ring to life through an iPad. The video demonstrates how the digital visualization of the ring matches the physical details with impressive accuracy. From the intricate design to the glow of the rose gold, every detail is replicated to deliver a true-to-life experience. 📱👀 What sets Ringo apart is its ability to provide a complete personalization experience. Our clients can now see how the ring looks on their hand, make real-time adjustments and create a piece that truly resonates with their style and personality. No more guessing or imagining - with Ringo, what you see is what you get! And the best part? You can do all this without stepping out of your house. In these trying times, Ringo is our way of bringing the joy of jewelry shopping to your doorstep. We are redefining the way people choose and buy jewelry, one ring at a time. 💗🏠 So, why wait? Experience the future of ring shopping with Ringo today! #VirtualReality #JewelryTech #Innovation #Ringo #RingFitting #Personalization #DigitalTransformation #FutureOfRetail #RoseGoldRing #ExperienceRingo Remember, the future of jewelry shopping is not just about buying, it's about experiencing. And with Ringo, your experience is just a click away! Stay safe, stay stylish! *The Ringo team is here to answer any questions or queries you might have. Please feel free to comment below or drop us a message.*

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The Benefits of Just In Time Jewelry Manufacturing 💍. One of the most significant advancements in our industry is the adoption of Just In Time (JIT) jewelry manufacturing. This approach offers a multitude of benefits, enabling retailers to showcase extensive collections online without substantial upfront investments, appeal to a larger audience, and ultimately increase their customer base. At Shimansky, we are proud to be your perfect partner in this revolutionary approach, guaranteeing 14-day delivery on most orders from design to manufacturing in platinum and gold. Showcasing Extensive Collections Online One of the standout benefits of JIT jewelry manufacturing is the ability to present a vast array of products online. Traditional inventory models require significant investments to stock a wide range of items, tying up capital in unsold inventory. With JIT, you can display an extensive collection on your website without the need to physically hold the stock. This approach allows you to offer a diverse selection that caters to various tastes and preferences, enhancing the shopping experience for your customers. Online shoppers are no longer constrained by geography; they can explore and purchase from your collection regardless of their location. This expanded reach not only increases your potential customer base but also strengthens your brand presence on a larger scale. It's a powerful way to attract new customers who may have never visited your physical store. Increasing Your Customer Base. JIT manufacturing is a gateway to introducing new customers to your store and brand. As they explore your online collection and experience the seamless purchasing process, they become acquainted with the quality and craftsmanship that define your brand. This positive first impression can lead to increased foot traffic in your physical store as online shoppers seek to experience your products firsthand. At Shimansky, we understand the demands of modern jewelry retail. Our JIT manufacturing process ensures a swift 14-day delivery on most orders, from initial design to the final product, in both platinum and gold. We are committed to providing exceptional service and support to our retail partners. Additionally, we offer assistance in creating and sharing digital assets such as images, videos, product descriptions, and order flow guides. This support ensures a hassle-free onboarding process, allowing you to focus on what you do best, delighting your customers. If you are USA 🇺🇸 & Canada based Contact Us for More Details Ready to elevate your jewelry retail business with the benefits of Just In Time manufacturing? Contact me for more details on how Shimansky can be your trusted partner in this journey. Revolutionize your online presence, expand your customer base, and deliver exceptional jewelry that resonates with your audience. #ondemandjewry #onlinejewelry #shimansky #jewelryretail #jewelryecommerce #custommadejewelry

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80% penetration of extended warranty is impossible! In any industry!! And especially in jewelry!!! Or so I thought… Signet Jewelers reported Q1 earnings last week. While Wall Street slammed the stock price nearly 20% (down 9.2% in Same Store Sales in North America is pretty dismal), I thought there were some intersting tidbits and learnings beyond the basic EPS. Most notably, CEO Gina Drosos mentioned how successful their push into “Lifetime Service Plans” has been, even citing an 80% penetration in engagement rings (https://lnkd.in/gyN7Nv_S.) I was certain she misspoke. How can you possibly achieve 80%? But later that day, on Mad Money (https://lnkd.in/gV9Jns6b), she doubled down on the statistic so I’m both impressed beyond words and dumbfounded. If you aren’t familiar with lifetime service plans, they are basically extended warranties (think of AppleCare on your iPhone). For a fixed upfront cost (Signet charges between 10-25% of the sales price), they promise to service the item for life (resizing, rhodium plating, retipping prongs, etc - https://lnkd.in/gS6P4D5a). Notably, Signet’s plan excludes diamonds or gemstones that are lost from the mounting.(Shameless Plug: Daniel’s includes lost stones in our lifetime warranty program!) Anyways, extended warranties are generally highly profitable and also a great way to get customers back in the store (free cleanings, free inspections) so most jewelry retailers focus on selling these and have for many decades. But 80% penetration??? I verified that I don’t have a single SKU at 80% penetration, much less my entire bridal department! What Signet is reporting is darn near incredible! They should be applauded. Back of the envelope, the numbers check out. They reported about $717M in Lifetime Service Plans in fiscal 2023 which is about 10% of their total revenue, and Engagement is about 50% of their sales, so $3.6B in engagement times 80% penetration times 15% of revenue equals $430M or about 60% of their total Lifetime Service Plan revenue. But to achieve that, they somehow have convinced 8 out of 10 in-store engagement customers to buy an extended warranty. Think about that for a second: 8 out of 10?!? I can’t even get 8 out of 10 people to agree the sky is blue! I want to know what their secret sauce is, especially since they must also be selling high percentages to their non-bridal customers to make up the rest of their service plan revenue. Whatever hypnotic power of persuasion is in the water coolers at their stores I want. Anyone have any insights???

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