Jeweller - July 2025

VOICE OF THE AUSTRALIAN JEWELLERY INDUSTRY JULY 2025
Bright & White
Opal Outlook
Nasty or Nice?
SPECIAL WHITE METALS
THE AUSTRALIAN OPAL INDUSTRY
WHICH PATH SHOULD
AND SILVER JEWELLERY SHOWCASE FACES A CRITICAL CROSSROADS NATURAL DIAMONDS TAKE?

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SPECIAL WHITE METALS
VOICE OF THE AUSTRALIAN JEWELLERY INDUSTRY JULY 2025
THE AUSTRALIAN OPAL INDUSTRY
WHICH PATH SHOULD
NATURAL DIAMONDS TAKE?
JULY 2025
Contents
This Month
Industry Facets
9 Editorial
10 Upfront
12 News
26
29
48
10 YEARS AGO
Time Machine: July 2015
LEARN ABOUT GEMS
Around The World: Tourmaline
MY BENCH
Frank Prischl
31 OPALS & OPAL JEWELLERY
Opal steals the spotlight
Opals are increasingly popular among
consumers in Australia and abroad; however,
there are many challenges that the industry
must overcome.
24 Events
Features
31
50
SOAPBOX
Brendan McCreesh
OPALS & OPAL JEWELLERY
The opal industry is at a critical crossroads
39
WHITE METALS & SILVER JEWELLERY
Remarkable jewellery for every occassion
29 TRAVEL THE WORLD
Tricky tourmaline
Tourmaline is one of the most
complicated minerals to study;
however, the gemstone's stunning
array of colours continued to
entice jewellers, consumers, and
gemmologists alike.
Better Your Business
44
44
46
SELLING
RYAN ESTIS encourages you to conduct 'little experiments' within your business.
MANAGEMENT
DAVID BROCK highlights the importance of coaching within business.
MARKETING & PR
SHEP HYKEN reveals the secrets to memorable experiences in retail stores.
47
LOGGED ON
DAVID BROWN says that customer relationship management software is critical.
39 WHITE METALS & SILVER JEWELLERY
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Bright & White
Opal Outlook
Nasty or Nice?
July 2025 | 7

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Editor’s Desk
Natural diamond marketing: Nasty or nice?
Everyone knows that you don't win friends with salad.
SAMUEL ORD weighs in on the debate about natural diamond marketing.
The international jewellery industry
has found itself engulfed in a fiery debate
over the past month, ignited by provocative
natural diamond marketing campaigns.
For many years, the natural diamond
‘camp’, united by a shared resistance to
lab-created diamonds, has urged the
industry to fight fire with fire and
demanded bold marketing strategies.
For many, the fear was that lab-created
diamonds had captured the hearts and
minds of younger consumers with more
than just an accessible price point.
It seems that these consumers are
increasingly unmoved by marketing
campaigns centred around tradition.
Over the past month, it appears that the
natural diamond camp has finally heeded
these cries for a more aggressive stance.
The Antwerp World Diamond Centre
launched a cheeky two-day campaign,
with a gumball vending machine packed
with lab-created diamonds.
It was placed at a busy shopping centre
and passersby could ‘win’ a lab-created
diamond for just five euros. The organisation
insisted that the campaign wasn’t designed
to disparage lab-created diamonds.
Instead, it intended to illustrate a crucial
distinction between the two categories.
Explained simply, the notion is that no one
in their right mind would fill a gumball
machine with natural diamonds.
The World Federation of Diamond Bourses
followed suit, launching a social media
campaign that dismissed lab-created
diamonds as a mere ‘shortcut’.
Finally, the Natural Diamond Council
placed a provocative poster in New York
where natural and lab-created diamonds
were placed side-by-side with a series
of contrasting statements, such as
"for better vs for worse” and “rizz vs fizz.”
These campaigns have sparked debate
across the industry, exposing divisions and
raising broader philosophical questions
about the nature of marketing strategy.
It has been said these campaigns reflect a
profound sense of desperation within the
natural diamond industry. Critics suggested
that ‘mudslinging’ paints an image of an
industry that is out of touch and lacks ideas.
The consensus was that lab-created
diamonds are here to stay. Natural
diamonds must urgently market their
unique worth without alienating younger,
idealistic, and price-sensitive consumers.
Doesn’t every great story need a villain?
It’s understandable that many would
advocate for harmony and ‘fair play’.
These calls for unity are both predictable
and, in some cases, well-founded.
With that said, there are deeper complexities
at play, including the foundational principles
of effective marketing strategy. There are
some fundamental truths about human
nature that are worth remembering.
Firstly, you can’t make everyone happy,
and there are some people who, regardless
of the circumstances, are never happy.
If the so-called natural diamond ‘camp’
stayed the course and continued to largely
ignore lab-created diamonds, they would
be dismissed as stagnant. Now that there
has been a change of direction, critics are
emerging from the woodwork to disparage
the industry as out of touch.
Surprise! It’s impossible to please everyone.
That aside, when discussing marketing
strategy, it’s essential to remember that
humans are wired to define ourselves and
the world around us through contrast.
By determining and comparing opposites,
we establish clear boundaries. We often
come to understand who we are by
recognising who we are not, just as
our preferences are shaped in equal
part by that which we embrace and reject.
Storytelling is critical and every compelling
narrative thrives on the tension created by
conflict. Remember that consumers don’t
just purchase products, they embrace the
identity associated with those products.
People don’t drive cars, they wear them.
Brands that draw lines in the sand flourish
because people want to belong to something
distinct. Something and not everything.
In a crowded market, a peaceful message
often gets lost in the background. It’s the
villain or adversary that sharpens the story.
Portraying the competitor as a villain or
adversary isn’t always morally tidy.
We often come
to understand
who we are
by recognising
who we are
not, just as our
preferences
are shaped in
equal part by
that which we
embrace and
reject.
It can feel tribal and confrontational, because
it is; however, marketing isn’t about morality.
It’s a commercial discipline aimed at
achieving clarity, resonance, and conversion.
Damned if you do, damned if you don’t
With that said, are these natural diamond
campaigns perfect? No, of course not!
In my humble opinion, the AWDC’s ‘gumball’
stunt was a clever demonstration of the value
difference between natural and lab-created
diamonds. It was centred around the most
common talking point, price, and it found
a way to spin a positive into a negative.
The NDC campaign was a swing and a
miss. The language used on the poster was
‘unbecoming’ for a product that is intended
to represent elegance. I suspect that many
readers may not even know what the poster
meant by ‘rizz’.
Relying on stale slang does little to bolster
the natural diamond camp’s bid to appear
culturally relevant. If the goal is to position
natural diamonds as timeless, leaning on
fleeting trends is outright self-sabotage.
The most critical mistake was the visual
comparison of natural and lab-created
diamonds. If he purpose of the campaign
was to underscore their distinctions, the
identical images send a conflicting message.
Rather than demonstrating the difference,
as the AWDC campaign did, this only risks
deepening consumer confusion. More
alarmingly, it draws attention to the fact
that one can achieve the same jewellery
aesthetic at a fraction of the cost!
With that said, I cannot fault the NDC for its
efforts. While the execution may have been
imperfect, the change in strategic direction
was justified. For natural diamonds to remain
relevant, defining the category in opposition to
an alternative is not only useful, it’s essential.
Although the products are chemically
identical, contrasting natural and lab-created
diamonds shows that they are not the same.
Ask any parent of identical twins, and they’ll
tell you: They appear identical, but the truth
is, each is unmistakably different.
And isn’t that the very essence of the
entire controversy?
SAMUEL ORD
EDITOR
July 2025 | 9

Upfront
Rewind: Best Bench Tip
Stranger Things
Weird, wacky and wonderful
jewellery news from around the world
Diamond publicity stunt
The Antwerp World Diamond
Centre has completed a marketing
campaign that features a gumball
machine filled with lab-created
diamonds that can be won for €5.
The controversial two-day promotion,
‘We Protect A Legacy’, aimed to
promote natural diamonds by
highlighting the declining value
of lab-created diamonds. The
gumball machine contained
180 lab-created diamonds.
Shock purple surprise
Rio Tinto has announced the
discovery of an extremely rare fancy
colour diamond in Canada. In a social
media post, the diamond producer
announced the recovery of a 0.45
carat fancy colour purple diamond
at the Diavik Mine in Canada.
“Diavik diamonds are typically white,
so this came as a surprise,” the post
explained. “The purple colour likely
comes from a trace element such
as hydrogen or a twist in the crystal
lattice structure of the diamond."
Time for crime
A platinum and diamond pocket
watch owned by legendary criminal
mastermind Al Capone has impressed
collectors at auction in New York.
The Patek Philippe was sold at
Sotheby’s in New York for $USD92,500
($AUD142,00). It was purchased by
Berry’s Jewellers, a UK retailer, and
managing director Simon Walton
said it was a piece of great historical
significance. The pocket watch is
in Art Deco style and features 90
single-cut diamonds.
SEPTEMBER 2015
“Make what you love
and don’t compromise
on design – chances are
someone else will love it.”
JENNA O’BRIEN
JENNA O’BRIEN JEWELLERY
HISTORIC GEMSTONE
The Great Mogul
According to French diamond
merchant and explorer Jean
Baptiste Tavernier, The Great Mogul
was discovered around 1550 in
the Gani Mine (India) and weighed
780 carats in the rough. Tavernier,
the first European to lay eyes on The
Great Mogul and the imperial treasury,
noted Emperor Aurangzeb's possession of the diamond during
Louis XIV's era. Aurangzeb sent the stone to Venice for cutting by
Hortensio Borgis, resulting in a final shape described by Tavernier
as resembling "an egg cut in half." It boasts nearly 300 facets and
weighs approximately 280 carats. The transformation from its
original 780-carat rough form, marred by flaws, to its reduced size
displeased the emperor. Refusing payment, Emperor Aurangzeb
had the cutter severely punished, leading to his ruin.
Belgian tech company iTraceiT is developing a user-friendly
traceability app for artisanal diamond miners. It says small-scale
producers, often overlooked by other traceability solutions,
can add stones to the blockchain to document their
provenance. "Our mission at iTraceiT has always been
to make traceability accessible to every link in the
chain from multinationals to micro-producers,"
said
Frederik Degryse, the company's CEO. Its
app is designed to be accessible to users with
limited reading or writing skills. The project,
a collaboration with Belgian innovation agency
Verhaert, is part of the City of Antwerp's Diamond
Innovation Opportunity Programme.
Timeless Trends
Australian consumers love
purchasing jewellery from local brands
due to their unique designs, support for
local artisans, and high craftsmanship.
Buying local also fosters community
pride, aligning with increasing values
of authenticity and social awareness.
Campaign Watch
Actress Ana de Armas stars in
Louis Vuitton’s latest High Jewellery
campaign for the Virtuosity collection,
bringing her world-famous charm to a
campaign based around craftsmanship
and imagination. Photographed
by Sølve Sundsbø, the campaign
highlights the collection’s emphasis on
precision and creativity. The Virtuosity
collection features 110 pieces.
Images: Christie Nicolaides
Images: Louis Vuitton
VOICE OF THE AUSTRALIAN JEWELLERY INDUSTRY
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arising from the published material.

July 2025 | 11

News
Pleasing news for jewellers:
Sales improve during May
Australia’s independent jewellery retailers performed
well in May, with recently published analysis
documenting a 3.9 per cent increase in sales.
Data collected by Retail Edge Consultants
recorded a 3.9 per cent increase in sales over
the past month on a one-year comparison and
3.2 per cent on a two-year comparison.
The average retail sale (inventory only) reached
$273, increasing by 9 per cent compared with
the previous year and 23 per cent when compared
with 2023.
Unit sales decreased by 4.9 per cent on a
one-year comparison, and general manager
Leon van Megen said this signified an ongoing
shift to focused purchasing.
“The shift continues to reflect more intentional
buying patterns — fewer items sold, but at higher
price points,” he explained.
“This growth in average sale value continues
to offset unit volume losses and underpins the
overall sales revenue improvement.”
Regarding specific categories, diamond jewellery
sales increased by 4.4 per cent compared with
the previous year.
“The mild rebound shows tentative consumer
return to big-ticket items but suggests long-term
caution still remains,” van Megen added.
Revenue from colour gemstone jewellery
improved by 26 per cent, while jewellery without
a precious gemstone or diamond modestly
declined (1.2 per cent).
Silver and alternative metals jewellery improved
by 2.9 per cent when compared with 2024.
Analysis of lay-bys revealed an increase between
new orders and pickups or cancellations, while a
decrease was noted in services, such as repairs,
and special orders.
This analysis follows a modest decrease in sales
in April and March, after consecutive increases in
February and January.
Fine print: Major jewellery retailer penalised by ACCC
Michael Hill International is one of three
major retailers that received penalties
for allegedly making false and misleading
representations during last year’s Black
Friday sales in November.
The Australian Competition and Consumer
Commission (ACCC) has confirmed that
three retailers paid a penalty of $19,800
after being issued an infringement notice.
Deputy chair Catriona Lowe said businesses
are legally obligated to describe sales offers
accurately and cannot mislead consumers with
‘small print’ disclaims and terms and conditions.
Homewares retailer GRBA and Hairhouse
Warehouse were also issued with infringement
notices.
“We allege these claims misled consumers that
all goods in the physical or online store were
discounted, or that the discounts were greater
than was actually the case,” she said.
Expertise Events has announced that the
Mystery Box Bench Challenge will return to
this year’s International Jewellery Fair (IJF)
at Darling Harbour.
The competition debuted last year as a way for
emerging artisans to test their skills against a
deadline and in front of an audience.
Eleven students from Design Centre Enmore
TAFE NSW competed for three days in the
2024 Mystery Box Bench Challenge using a
random assortment of materials to design
and manufacture a piece of jewellery.
With $5,000 in prize money on offer, and an
ominous red countdown timer placing added
pressure on the participants, the Challenge
was deemed a great success last year.
Event organiser, Gary Fitz-Roy said, “After an
impressive debut last year, the IJF Mystery Box
Bench Challenge is back for its second year,
shining an even brighter spotlight on the future of
jewellery design and craftsmanship in Australia.
“This exciting initiative was born from a shared
vision: to highlight the importance of jewellery
education and the value of hands-on training.”
Along with the support of the Design Centre
Enmore, the 2025 competition is sponsored by
Chemgold, Combined Jewellery Supplies,
GAA and Palloys.
Last year’s winner was Solomon Gates, a
third-year apprentice with Saffo Jewellery.
He collected $2,500 in prize money.
“This challenge is more than a competition.
It’s a celebration of craftsmanship, education,
and the future of our industry," Fitz-Roy said.
“Advertisements that talk about ‘sitewide’ or
‘storewide’ sales or promise discounts ‘off
everything’ should deliver what customers
expect, and not be used by retailers to hook
consumers under false pretences.”
The ACCC took particular issue with
Michael Hill’s online advertisement that
promoted a sale with the phrase
"Member Event 25% off Sitewide.”
“Michael Hill’s statement may have misled
consumers, and contravened the Australian
Consumer Law, because some of the products
in its online store were not part of the sale and
were not discounted,” Lowe explained.
She added: “During the EOFY sales, retailers
should be aware that we will continue to
keep an eye on sales promotions to ensure
consumers are not being misled, and
retailers may face enforcement action if they
make sales representations that contravene
the Australian Consumer Law.”
Bench jewellers to be showcased at 2025 Sydney Fair
“And this year our aim is to add a professional
category which raises the bar and offers a
unique opportunity to bring the full spectrum of
our talent pipeline together — from emerging
students to seasoned jewellers.”
Last year's runner-up was Lachlan George,
a second-year apprentice from Evan’s
Manufacturing Jewellery while Rachael Behan,
a third-year apprentice from The Little Workshop,
finished in third place.
Following the competition last year, TAFE NSW
head teacher of jewellery design Gina Kind said,
“There are many ways we could expand the
competition over the next few years.
“There have already been discussions about
introducing an ‘open’ category for established
jewellers, as one idea.”
Fitz-Roy said, “It’s crucial that Australia continues
to invest in education for the next generation of
makers so we have a strong anchor here. The
Bench Challenge is our way to spotlight local
talent in an engaging, interactive way.”
12 | July 2025

News
Public Warning: Jewellery retailer slammed by Australian consumer watchdog
An Australian jewellery retailer once popular with
so-called Hollywood stars and local trend-setters is
in hot water after a flood of consumer complaints.
The matter has been sufficiently serious for
Consumer Affairs Victoria to have issued a public
warning on 22 May concerning Shannakian Fine
Jewellery, citing a wave of consumer complaints
about the business.
The government regulator provides a range of
services to support consumers and businesses,
including enforcing laws and conducting
investigations; however, Jeweller can also
report that Shannakian Fine Jewellery is
facing other serious legal issues.
The Consumer Affairs Victoria warning was
published on the regulator’s website and social
media accounts and detailed that consistent
complaints have been received from Australian
and international customers about the conduct of
the Melbourne-based business since February 2021.
“In September 2024, after receiving a spike in
consumer complaints, Consumer Affairs Victoria
issued Shannakian Fine Jewellery an Official
Warning, strongly encouraging the business to
refund affected consumers and address ongoing
consumer complaints,” the statement explains.
“Since 1 January 2025, Consumer Affairs Victoria
received a further 14 consumer contacts about
the unfair business practices of Shannakian Fine
Jewellery. This is in addition to the 28 consumer
contacts received in 2024.”
The public warning was issued by the acting director
of Consumer Affairs Victoria, David Joyner.
The complaints concern several areas of business,
including accepting payment for jewellery but failing
to provide it in a reasonable time, if at all. Other
allegations include failing to provide refunds
when requested and required.
“The conduct of Shannakian Fine Jewellery has
adversely affected the interests of its customers.
I have decided to issue this statement because
I am satisfied that it is in the public interest to do so,”
Joyner explained.
“I urge consumers to be cautious about purchasing
goods from Shannakian Fine Jewellery. I also urge any
current customers of Shannakian Fine Jewellery to be
wary of making further purchases and/or payment.”
What is Shannakian Fine Jewellery?
Shannakian Fine Jewellery is the trading name of
Shannakian Jewellery Pty Ltd (ACN: 674 419 277).
According to Australian Securities and Investments
Commission (ASIC) records, Hovig Shannakian
registered the company on 23 January 2024,
while Arpee Shannakian is frequently cited as
running the business with her husband.
The website explains: “Hovig Shannakian is
passionate about handcrafting superb jewellery from
the finest materials.
“With over 20 years of industry experience, Hovig
opened his Melbourne based Shannakian Fine
Jewellery in 2007, and has become one of
Australia’s most sought-after custom fine jewellers.
Shannakian Fine Jewellery can be described as
a ‘showroom’ business, in this case, a ‘retailer
without a storefront’.
Unlike a traditional jewellery store, customers must
make an appointment to visit the business. This
often involves the customer viewing the products
and/or organising custom jewellery, and the product
is delivered or collected at a later date.
Traditionally, showrooms were used in business-tobusiness
transactions rather than consumer retail.
A showroom does not usually carry stock that a
consumer purchases off the shelf.
The Instagram account for Shannakian Fine Jewellery
states that customers can visit the Melbourne or
Sydney showroom by appointment. Two addresses
are listed for the Melbourne showroom; however,
the Sydney address is unclear despite being
mentioned on social media and in consumer reviews.
According to the company’s website, the business
was opened in 2007 and has become a “go to for
discerning jewellery lovers and celebrities”.
The public warning marks a dramatic fall from grace
for an Australian jewellery company that once enjoyed
significant popularity among fashion trend-setters.
As documented on the company's social media
accounts, Britt Selwood, Bec Judd, Sonia Kruger,
Roxy Jacenko, and others have worn Shannakian
Fine Jewellery products.
The retailer also had international appeal, with
Khloe Kardashian and Kris Jenner spotted wearing
necklaces in an episode of Keeping Up With
The Kardashians in 2019. Other celebrities
photographed wearing the jeweller’s products
include former Miss Universe Australia Maria
Thattil and The Bachelor’s Snezana Wood.
Wind Up Notices
In an interesting conundrum, the company’s website
states that the business began in 2007, despite ASIC
records showing that Shannakian Jewellery Pty Ltd
was registered on 23 January 2024!
Furthermore, ASIC records also note that two
applications to wind up the company have been
filed — the first in July last year and the second in
February this year.
This is a legal document filed with a court to initiate
the process of dissolving and liquidating a company.
Applications are often made by creditors; however,
they may also be initiated by shareholders, directors,
or government regulators and/or agencies.
The first Wind Up application (July 2024) was filed
by an individual; however, the second (February 2025)
was filed by MMDIA Pty Ltd. ASIC records reveal
that Grown Diamonds is the trading name for
MMDIA Pty Ltd, registered in December 2018.
Jeweller contacted Grown Diamonds regarding the
Wind Up application for Shannakian Jewellery Pty Ltd;
however, no response was provided.
Interestingly, despite the Shannakian Fine Jewellery
website offering a broad range of diamond jewellery,
there appears to be no mention of ‘lab-created
diamonds’ or ‘lab-grown diamonds’ on the
business’ website or social media channels.
Social Media & Reviews
Shannakian Fine Jewellery is active on social media,
with accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok,
YouTube, and LinkedIn.
The Facebook account has around 1,000 followers
and was registered on 28 February 2014. Interestingly,
it was registered as ‘Precision Diamond Setters’
before the name was changed to Shannakian Fine
Jewellery on 19 August 2015.
The page has five registered administrators
overseeing management, each from Australia.
Shannakian Fine Jewellery has more than 25,000
followers on Instagram, and the Consumer Affairs
Victoria statement says that many of the complaints
stem from this Instagram account.
Like many jewellery retailers, the Shannakian
Fine Jewellery website has a panel dedicated to
customer testimonials, most of which provide
glowing recommendations.
With that said, the feedback found elsewhere tells
a different story. The retailer has just one Trustpilot
review, which is exhaustive in detail and accuses
the company of misconduct.
The retailer has more than 400 Google Reviews
and a 4.7/5 rating. With that said, in recent weeks,
a flood of negative reviewers have accused the
business of failing to deliver products and refunds,
among other allegations.
A thread on the social media platform Reddit
contains various anonymous consumer complaints,
echoing the allegations detailed in Consumer Affairs
Victoria’s public warning.
Jeweller contacted Shannakian Fine Jewellery
requesting comment from Hovig Shannakian and/or
Arpee Shannakian. No response was provided.
July 2025 | 13

News
Tensions mounting on Swatch board
in long-term strategy dispute
In recent weeks, a special report has highlighted ongoing tensions on the
board of Swiss watch manufacturer Swatch.
The Wall Street Journal has exposed a dispute between the Hayek
family, which founded Swatch in 1983, and US fund manager and
investor Steven Wood.
The report reveals that Wood invested one-quarter of his $USD150 million
fund in Swatch in 2024 following an upbeat face-to-face meeting with CEO
Nick Hayek in 2024.
“Wood, who runs investment firm GreenWood Investors, reached out to Nick
Hayek, the founder’s son, in September,” writes Margot Patrick.
“The next month, the New York-based investor secured a meeting with the
CEO and the finance chief at Swatch’s timber-framed headquarters in Biel,
Switzerland, where they talked for more than two hours over coffee.
“Wood says they discussed marketing strategies, particularly for the high-end
brands, and how the company, known for its minimal contact with investors,
should share more information.”
Wood argues that the company could better emphasise scarcity and exclusivity
with comparisons to luxury brands such as Hermès and Ferrari. He also
suggests that collaborations with designers and celebrities would appeal to
younger consumers.
While these are far from revolutionary ideas, this newfound friendship turned
somewhat sour in March when Wood submitted himself as a board candidate
to represent the company’s minority shareholders.
The report claims that Nick Hayek stopped responding to Wood’s notes.
Swatch chairwoman Nayla Hayek responded to a letter but declined to
meet. Marc Hayek, president of Blancpain and Breguet, agreed to meet;
however, he suggested a date eight months away.
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Ahead of Swatch’s annual meeting, the board urged shareholders to
vote against Wood because he isn’t Swiss, suggesting that his lack of
understanding of corporate culture would be an issue.
Wood received 62 per cent support from minority shareholders; however,
only 19.7 per cent overall because of a dual-class structure, as the Hayek
family has 45 per cent of voting power.
The report continues: “Wood’s lawyers have since written to Swatch to
complain that the vote wasn’t carried out correctly and violated the rights
of minority shareholders.”
“The lawyers claim that minority shareholders should have gotten to approve
their candidate before the broader vote and that the wider shareholder base
didn’t have grounds to reject him.
“Swatch said the vote followed the legally correct procedure.”
The report concludes by revealing that Wood is building support to call
for another vote.

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July 2025 | 15

News
Incredible Cartier exhibition
not to be missed
Historic emerald necklaces command huge returns
A rare collection of more than 350 Cartier pieces,
many with historical significance, is on display
in London.
The exhibition, Cartier: Crafting the Exceptional, is
open at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London
until 16 November. It is the first major Cartier
exhibition in the UK in three decades.
It traces Cartier's evolution from Paris in 1847,
expansion into London in 1902, and present-day
status. It features many pieces from Cartier’s Royal
Collection and private owners, which are rarely seen,
if ever, in public.
“At the risk of sounding materialistic or elitist, the
magic of the exhibit — and of Cartier itself — is in
its most ostentatious, one-of-a-kind pieces,” writes
Louis Staples for The Cut.
“The iconic snake necklace, commissioned by
Mexican film star María Félix in 1968, features 2,473
diamonds that re-create the lifelike movement of the
reptile as it wraps around the wearer’s neck.
“A peacock brooch, emblazoned with rubies,
sapphires, emerald, and diamonds, was custommade
for Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor —
one of Cartier’s most frequent clients.
She continued: “For the exhibit, countless pieces
have been loaned to the V&A by King Charles
himself — such as a diamond microphone charm
gifted to a teenage Queen Elizabeth II by her father,
King George VI, to mark her first live speech on the
radio. In 1937, Cartier made 27 tiaras — an annual
record to this day — most of which were worn to
King George’s coronation.”
Other standouts include the Manchester Tiara,
created by Cartier in 1903. It features more than 400
rose-cut diamonds and was inspired by 18th-century
French design motifs. Princess Grace of Monaco's
engagement ring and the legendary Patiala necklace
are also displayed.
A remarkable 275-year-old emerald necklace
has shattered its presale estimate at auction
in New York.
The carved necklace features five Colombian
emeralds, weighing a combined 1,178 carats,
on gold and magenta cords. The necklace once
belonged to the Iranian ruler Nader Shah.
Shah seized the jewellery after capturing Delhi
in 1739 and taking control of the royal treasury of
the Mughal Empire (1526-1857).
The emerald necklace entered the Christie’s
auction in New York with a pre-sale estimate of
$USD2 million; however, it was sold for $USD6.22
million ($AUD9.66 million).
Head of jewellery, Rahul Kadakia, said the
historical significance couldn’t be understated.
A pink diamond, believed to have been owned by
Marie Antoinette, was the headline of a recent
auction in New York, commanding a huge return.
Marie Antoinette (1755-1793) was the last
Queen of France before the French Revolution,
known for extravagance, controversy, and an
early demise.
The Marie-Thérèse Pink Diamond is a 10.38-carat
kite-shaped fancy purple pink diamond, which
is believed to date back to the mid-18th century.
It headlined a Christie’s auction and returned
$USD14 million ($AUD21.57 million).
“These jewels represent not only the
lapidary mastery and grandeur of
Mughal India, but also a rare opportunity
to acquire some of the most significant
examples ever to come to auction,” he said.
“Tracing the rich legacy of the Mughal
dynasty, renowned for its iconic use of
emeralds, spinels, and pearls, this
collection marks a cultural milestone
and sets a new standard for the treasures
of this extraordinary era.”
A second emerald necklace (297 carats),
accompanied by emeralds, spinel, ruby,
and pearls, also thrilled collectors.
This piece had a presale estimate of
$USD2 million and was sold for $USD5.55
million ($AUD8.62 million).
Pink diamond with unique history stuns collectors
Rahul Kadakia, international head of jewellery,
said that it has been a memorable year for
collectors and enthusiasts.
“This season’s results highlight the tremendous
demand for jewels of exceptional rarity,
provenance and craftsmanship,” he said.
“Private collections and superb jewels were
met with enthusiastic and competitive bidding.”
The 17 June Magnificent Jewels event in New
York returned $USD87.7 million ($AUD135.15
million), setting a record for the auction house.
16 | July 2025

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July 2025 | 17

News
Massive boost coming for global
natural diamond marketing
An agreement has been reached in the international diamond industry to
create a collective marketing fund to support natural diamonds.
Representatives from countries such as Angola, Botswana, Namibia,
South Africa, Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo
participated in a meeting in Angola to determine the details of what is
known as the Luanda Accord.
The fund will be used to create a generic global marketing campaign
supported by trade associations such as the Antwerp World Diamond Centre,
the African Diamond Producers Association, the Gem and Jewellery Export
Promotion Council, and the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, as well as the
De Beers Group.
The agreement has not been finalised yet; however, it is expected to include a
1 per cent donation of annual rough export value from each producing country.
This will be determined based on Kimberley Process records.
“In total, the fund is expected to exceed $USD80 million, according to sources
at the meeting, and it will be collected on a sliding scale based on the amount
of rough each country sells,” explains Leah Meirovich of Rapaport News.
“It will be up to individual governments to determine, together with the
industry, the mechanism by which each participant will contribute to the
group fund, which the Natural Diamond Council will manage. The
not-for-profit organisation, which industry members fund, was created
to help promote the global natural diamond trade.”
Angola has already agreed to pledge $USD8 million up front, approximately
1 per cent of its rough exports for the year’s first half. This pledge will be
matched by The De Beers Group.
Jewellery retailers at risk of severe fines
under new Australian privacy laws
SUPPLIERS
DIRECTORY
AUSTRALIAN & NEW ZEALAND’S
#1 JEWELLERY & WATCHES DIRECTORY
Australian jewellery retailers are encouraged to review policies associated
with data collection, including loyalty programs, after significant changes
to the Privacy Act.
In November, sweeping Australian privacy reforms contained in the
Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 passed both
Houses of Parliament.
Accounting firm BDO issued a statement encouraging retailers to prepare
for these changes. Forensic services partner, Conor McGarrity, said that
retailers should review loyalty program policies in particular.
“Loyalty programs collect vast amounts of personal data — addresses,
phone numbers, transaction histories, and preferences — often without
revisiting this information for years,” McGarrity said.
“The regulators are now taking a much harder stance, questioning
whether all of this data is still necessary to retain. For retailers, that
could mean facing scrutiny over data that no longer serves a valid
business purpose.”
He added: “The key to compliance will be accountability and transparency —
especially since individuals will now have the right to take legal action if
their privacy is breached. For retailers, this means a sharp focus on ensuring
that customer data, particularly in loyalty programs, is handled properly.”
Among the changes are a requirement for businesses to update their
privacy policy to disclose when decisions are being made using automated
processes, and severe penalties may apply unless proactive steps are
taken to identify, store, or remove customer data appropriately.
Find it 24/7.
You’ll want to bookmark this.
18 | July 2025

News
Seven people indicted for devastating $150 million jewellery heist
Seven people have been indicted for their alleged
involvement in what has been described as the
largest jewellery theft in the history of the US.
Around $USD100 million ($AUD154 million)
in goods was stolen from a Brinks armoured car
in July 2022, with 24 bags of jewellery stolen
from the vehicle while it was parked on the way
to a trade show.
Seven people have been charged with conspiracy
to commit theft from interstate and foreign
shipment and theft from interstate and foreign
shipment. According to the Department of Justice,
some of the stolen jewellery was recovered
during a search on 16 June.
A statement from the US Attorney’s Office for
the Central District of California described the
allegations.
“According to the indictment, on the evening
of July 10, 2022, [some of the accused] scouted
a Brinks semitruck leaving an international
jewellery show in San Mateo, California,
with 73 bags containing millions of dollars of
jewellery,” the statement explains.
“From the evening of July 10 to the morning of
July 11, [they] and other co-conspirators followed
the Brinks truck approximately 300 miles from
that jewellery show in San Mateo to rest stops in
Buttonwillow and Lebec, north of Los Angeles.
“While the truck was stopped in Lebec, those
defendants stole 24 bags from the Brinks truck
containing approximately $100 million of jewellery.
In the following days, all deactivated their cellphone
numbers that they had been using during the heist.”
Two of the suspects are already in custody, while
a third is currently serving a prison sentence for
burglary in Arizona.
Come and see us sharing
with Imperial Jewels on
STAND C30
GIA confirms appointment of new leader
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has confirmed the appointment
of Pritesh Patel as its new president and CEO.
Patel joined the GIA in 2015 as chief information officer and was elevated to
chief operating officer two years later. In his current role, he is responsible
for operational strategy, planning, developing, and implementing innovative
solutions.
Patel will take over the role on 4 August and board chair Lisa Locklear said the
new leader was well-suited to lead the organisation.
“Patel’s outstanding experience, character and understanding of the industry
and the institute are exceptionally well-suited to build upon GIA’s nearly 100
years of service to the industry and consumers, leading GIA to even greater
successes,” she said.
Australia's biggest importer of Antique
Jewellery selling wholesale to the Trade
Paul Hutchinson: 0414 630 012
Email: hutchinsonpaul340@gmail.com
Patel replaces outgoing president and CEO Susan Jacques, who is retiring
after 12 years in the post. Jacques will remain with the GIA as a strategic
advisor until the end of the year.
Locklear said that Jacques’ tenure has left the GIA well-positioned to navigate
the opportunities and challenges of the future.

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July 2025 | 21
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News
IJF Fair Event Line-Up
Sydney Fair 2025: the wait is nearly over!
The International Jewellery Fair is right around
the corner, and organisers Expertise Events have
confirmed a schedule of events and presentations.
The International Jewellery Fair will be held in
Sydney’s Darling Harbour from 23 August (Saturday)
until 25 August (Monday) at the International
Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The event comes hot off the heels of a successful
Australian Jewellery Fair (AJF) on the Gold Coast
in April. Expertise Events has previously confirmed
that after two years in Queensland, the AJF is
headed for Adelaide in 2026.
A central focus of this year’s Sydney Fair will be
the next generation of jewellers, headlined by the
return of the popular Mystery Box Bench Challenge.
The competition was created as a platform for
emerging bench jewellers to test their skills under
pressure and the watchful eye of the public.
In the inaugural edition of the Mystery Box Bench
Challenge, eleven students from TAFE NSW’s
Design Centre Enmore faced off over three intense
days, transforming a random selection of materials
into original pieces of jewellery.
With $5,000 in prize money at stake and a looming
red countdown clock heightening the drama, the
competition was hailed as a resounding success.
Along with the support of the Design Centre
Enmore, the 2025 competition is sponsored by
Chemgold, Combined Jewellery Supplies, the
Gemmological Association of Australia, and Palloys.
Expertise Events manging director Gary Fitz-Roy
said the return of the competition was an easy
choice to make.
“This challenge is more than a competition—it’s a
celebration of craftsmanship, education, and the
future of our industry,” FitzRoy said.
“And this year our aim is to add a professional
category which raises the bar and offers a unique
opportunity to bring the full spectrum of our talent
pipeline together — from emerging students to
seasoned jewellers.”
He added: “It’s crucial that Australia continues
to invest in education for the next generation of
makers so we have a strong anchor here. This
challenge is our way to spotlight local talent in an
engaging, interactive way.”
• The inaugural edition of the jewellery industry’s
‘Big Night Out’ event will take place on the evening
of 23 August (Saturday).
The event is designed for the entire industry –
including independent retailers, buying groups,
suppliers, and associations – to mix, mingle, and
connect in a relaxed environment.
The cruise on the Sydney Harbour includes food,
drinks, and entertainment, departing King Street
Wharf (9) at 7.30 pm and returning after 2.5 hours.
• The traditional happy hour cocktail party is
scheduled to go ahead at 5 pm on 24 August
(Sunday).
It’s an opportunity to engage with industry
peers, exchange insights, and build meaningful
connections in a relaxed and welcoming
atmosphere.
Enjoying complimentary drinks and unwinding
while also expanding your professional network
is an occasion not to be missed.
• Launching this year is the ‘Pick A Pearl
Promotion’, proudly sponsored by Ikecho.
The event will run three times a day during the
Sydney Fair. By entering the raffle, visitors have a
chance to win from a prize pool valued at more than
$5,400 in a unique pearl diving experience.
The major prize is the Opheilia Pendant, valued at
$2,900. The pendant features an Australian freeform
Mabe pearl, showcasing natural beauty and
adding a touch of elegance to every outfit. Made
from 9-carat yellow gold, this piece is designed for
those who appreciate one-of-a-kind jewellery.
• For those seeking education, a special
presentation from Richard Sauerman– more
commonly known as ‘The Brand Guy’ will take
place at 2 pm on 24 August (Sunday).
Sauerman is an expert in branding and believes
that everything you do and say as a business
should be driven and aligned with your strategy
and purpose. This includes the way you conduct
business, treat your staff, customers, and suppliers,
as well as your products and services, and your
marketing communications.
He has more than three decades of experience
working on branding at some of the world’s largest
advertising agencies, including Saatchi & Saatchi,
Ogilvy & Mather, DDB, and McCann Erickson.
He has also worked with companies such as
Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Levi’s, Streets, Toyota,
Nescafe, and Vodafone.
Supporting a worthy cause
In the lead-up to the International Jewellery
Fair, Expertise Events has announced the formal
adoption and promotion of the Hidden Disabilities
Sunflower initiative across its events portfolio.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a recognised
program that allows individuals with non-visible
disabilities to voluntarily and discreetly indicate
they may need additional support, time, or
understanding in public spaces.
It’s said that one in six people lives with a disability;
however, many live with conditions that are not
immediately apparent. The Sunflower symbol gives
those individuals a voice and the opportunity to
indicate their need for compassion and flexibility,
without having to explain.
“Events bring people together – and with that comes
the responsibility to ensure everyone feels seen,
respected and supported,” Fitz-Roy said.
“We’re proud to embrace the Hidden Disabilities
Sunflower to help create inclusive, understanding
environments across all of our exhibitions and
shows.”
Expertise Events staff will display the Sunflower
lanyard and bag and provide staff training, signage,
and resources to foster a welcome and accessible
environment for all attendees.
“Our shows are more than just business – they’re a
platform for connection,” Fitz-Roy added.
“By backing programs like the Hidden Disabilities
Sunflower, we’re not only enhancing the visitor
experience, but also helping build a more
empathetic and inclusive events industry.”
The International Jewellery Fair is sponsored by
Unison Jewellery and SAMS Group Australia.
The event is supported by Australia’s three industry
buying groups – Nationwide Jewellers, Showcase
Jewellers, and the Independent Jewellers Collective.
Collectively, these groups represent more than 600
independent retailers in Australia.
22 | July 2025

July 2025 | 23

Events Not to Miss
UPCOMING EVENTS
2025 Calendar
SINGAPORE
Singapore International
Jewelry Expo
Sands Expo & Convention Centre
SINGAPORE
jga.exhibitions.jewellerynet.com
10 JUL
–
13 JUL
JULY
10 JUL
–
13 JUL
07
27 AUG – 29 AUG
Japan Jewellery Fair (JJF) Tokyo
Tokyo Big Sight
TOKYO, JAPAN
japanjewelleryfair.com
29 AUG – 31 AUG
Inova Collection Hofheim Am
Taunus
Messecenter Rhein-Main
HOFHEIM AM TAUNUS, GERMANY
inova-collection.de
25 SEPT – 28 SEPT
JOGS San Diego Gem
& Jewelry Show
San Diego Convention Center
SAN DIEGO, USA
jogsshow.com
OCTOBER
10
06 AUG
–
07 AUG
Singapore International
Jewelry Expo
Sands Expo & Convention Centre
SINGAPORE
jga.exhibitions.jewellerynet.com
09
SEPTEMBER
2 SEPT
–
6 SEPT
10 OCT – 11 OCT
Kosmima Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki International
Exhibition & Congress Center
THESSALONIKI GREECE
kosmima-expo.gr/en
AUSTRALIA
Australian Opal Exhibition
Southport Sharks
GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA
austopalexpo.com.au
23 AUG
–
25 AUG
AUGUST
06 AUG
–
07 AUG
08
Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair
Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition
Centre
HONG KONG, CHINA
hktdc.com/event/hkwatchfair/en
NOVEMBER
11 NOV – 23 NOV
Jewellery, Gem & Technology
in Dubai
Dubai Exhibition Centre
DUBAI, UAE
jgtdubaijewelleryshow.com
12 NOV – 16 NOV
11
AUSTRALIA
International Jewellery Fair
ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
jewelleryfair.com.au/IJF
Australian Opal Exhibition
Southport Sharks
GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA
austopalexpo.com.au
06 SEPT – 08 SEPT
Bijorhca Paris
Porte de Versailles
PARIS, FRANCE
whosnext.com
Jewellery & Watch Show (JWS)
Abu Dhabi
ADNEC Centre
ABU DHABI, UAE
jws.ae
16 NOV – 17 NOV
HONG KONG
ADD EVENT
TO CALENDAR
& REGISTER
2 SEPT
–
6 SEPT
Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair
23 AUG
–
25 AUG
International Jewellery Fair
ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
jewelleryfair.com.au/IJF
13 SEPT – 15 SEPT
Delhi Jewellery & Gem Fair
Pragati Maidan
NEW DELHI INDIA
delhi.jewelleryfair.in
15 SEPT – 21 SEPT
Jewellery & Gem WORLD
Hong Kong
Asia World-Expo & Hong Kong
Convention & Exhibition Centre
HONG KONG, CHINA
exhibitions.jewellerynet.com/9jg
SJAJ - International Exhibition
of Jewellery and Watches
Novi Sad
Novi Sad Fair Center
SERBIA
sajam.net
27 NOV – 30 NOV
JMA Hong Kong International
Jewelry Show
Hong Kong Convention &
Exhibition Centre
HONG KONG, CHINA
jewelryshows.org
Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre
HONG KONG, CHINA
hktdc.com/event/hkwatchfair/en
24 | July 2025

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» THU 7 AUGUST 2025
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July 2025 | 25
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10 Years Ago
Time Machine: July 2015
A snapshot of the industry events making headlines this time 10 years ago in Jeweller.
July 2015
ON THE COVER
PINK KIMBERLEY
Editor’s Desk
Ignore bread-and-butter jewellery
at your own risk
"A generally-accepted definition of
bread-and-butter products is those that
are dependable and regular sellers;
those items that don’t need heavy
promotion and discounting.
"These might differ from one retailer
to the next but all retailers have them.
Bread-and-butter items are the
mainstays of business – reliable income
sources – and suppliers encourage
retailers to replenish stock once sold.
"Suppliers say there are many reasons
why retailers don’t act quickly enough
to ensure they have bread-and-butter
items in stock at all times, and it
frustrates them."
Soapbox
The power of passion
"After looking at dozens of window
displays, I came up with the answer. I had
the silver bullet, the foundation of every
successful design – the halo setting!
"The problem was that instead of being
inspired to create designs that would rival
any high-street window, I was absolutely
bored to death.
"It is here where we have the philosophical
question of what came first: the chicken or
the egg? Why do customers want the halo
setting? It is because they really want it or
is it because it is all we are giving them?"
Mark McGuire
Celestial Fine Jewels
Historic Headlines
Aussie men’s jewellery supplier lands luxury partner
India deals with diamond ‘crisis’
Thomas Sabo jewellery moves into ‘personalisation’
Showcase Jewellers shifts focus
Pandora jewellery renews oldest store
Jewellery fair comp attracts
international talent
Attendees at the upcoming Sydney jewellery
fair will have the opportunity to learn from
an international jewellery manufacturing
competition winner – who has also agreed to be
involved in a new industry contest.
The inaugural Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
Championships (JDMC) is an initiative organised by
the Young Jewellers Group (YJG), with the support
of International Jewellery Fair (IJF) organiser
Expertise Events. The competition will provide
local jewellers with the chance to showcase their
manufacturing skills while competing against
fellow industry participants.
The JDMC, which is loosely modelled on the
US Bench Pressure Challenge held in Chicago,
will require jewellers to complete a number of
manufacturing techniques within a set timeframe
before a live audience.
Jewellers can learn from
Myer’s digital move
The boundaries between physical and online
retailing appear to be diminishing, with retailer
Myer trialling a new digitally-focused initiative in
one of its bricks-and-mortar stores.
‘The Hub’, which is being tested at the Myer store in
Parramatta, Sydney, seems to be an attempt by the
company to reassert its relevance in a digital age
and overcome declining profits.
The company’s six month results to end of January
2015 showed a 23 per cent loss in net profit after
tax and a full year guidance up to 24 per cent lower
than the previous year’s profit.
Commenting on the new concept, a Myer
spokesperson told Jeweller, “[The Hub] brings
together the digital/online shopping experience
with a range of concierge services in one
convenient, in-store location – Myer’s ‘open
kitchen’ of e-commerce.”
STILL RELEVANT 10 YEARS ON
“Most customers will bear an
occasional misstep or problem
that is handled quickly and
with care; however, they won’t
tolerate neglect, rudeness,
broken promises, unnecessary
bureaucracy and inconsistency, just
to name a few examples.”
Jewellery crime gang:
CCTV provides new clues
Police have released CCTV photos and video
footage in the hope of catching a team of brazen
thieves that robbed two salesmen of about
$700,000 in diamond and gold jewellery.
Detectives at the Stonnington Crime Investigation
Unit have released images of a car, believed to
be a Mitsubishi Verada wagon, which may aid in
the ongoing investigation of a jewellery theft that
occurred in South Yarra, Victoria on 14 July.
As previously reported by Jeweller, the incident
involved two Hong Kong jewellery suppliers who
were seated in their car following an appointment
with a jewellery retailer. Two masked thieves
smashed the vehicle windows and stole two
backpacks containing white gold and diamond
jewellery from the back seat.
Apple remains mum amid poor
watch sale rumours
Apple’s decision to withhold exact sales figures for
the Apple Watch has led to speculation that the highprofile
smartwatch may not have performed as well
as expected.
The technology giant’s financial results for the third
quarter ended 27 June 2015 notably lacked distinct
sales details for the Apple Watch, despite the
fact that the device’s launch in April this year was
described by company CEO Tim Cook as a “major
highlight of the past quarter”.
Revenue for the smartwatch was grouped into the
‘other products’ category along with the iPod, Beats
Electronics – a streaming music service and audio
equipment business Apple acquired in May last
year – and other Apple accessories.
The category achieved US$2.6 billion (AU$3.6 b),
a 49 per cent increase compared to the previous
corresponding period’s US$1.8 billion (AU$2.5 b).
READ ALL HEADLINES IN FULL ON
JEWELLERMAGAZINE.COM
26 | July 2025

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Starts with up to date knowledge
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28 | July 2025

REVIEW
Gems
Brazil: The taming of Tourmaline
Tourmaline - this ever-growing and
complex group of gemstones fascinates
and frustrates us in equal measure.
Diamonds may be the most popular
gemstone in the world; however, to be
a gemmologist, one must also love the
many varieties of colour gemstones.
In that regard, surely tourmaline, known for
its array of beautiful colours - sometimes
with multiple colours in the one stone -
would be a firm favourite. However,
tourmaline is also one of the most
complicated groups of minerals to study.
For starters, it is a very large family.
While its most popular members are the
red to pink stones (rubellite), blue stones
(indicolite), green stones (verdelite and
chrome tourmaline), and neon blue,
green, and teal stones (Paraiba), the
scientific sorting and nomenclature
of the stones is much more complex.
The tourmaline umbrella consists of more
than 50 different mineral varieties, which
are classified under three primary groups
(alkali, calcic, vacancy) based on their
chemical composition. Now, it gets tricky.
Let’s say you know a mineral family is proving
difficult when the simplified version of its
chemical formula resembles alphabet soup
and instead is best expressed with the words
“complex boro silicate” - which seems to be
the scientific way of saying “it’s complicated!”
While most of the tourmalines we use in
jewellery belong to either the elbaite (alkali)
or fluor-liddicoatite (calcic) varieties, the truth
is that it is impossible to identify the variety of
tourmaline with standard gemstone testing.
In gemmology, we can separate gemstones
into groups by their constant physical
properties. For example, we know that
members of the crystalline quartz family,
such as amethyst and citrine, will have a
refractive index (RI) of 1.54-1.55 and a
specific gravity (SG) measure of 2.65;
sapphires will have an RI of 1.76-1.77
and an SG of approximately 3.95.
Indeed, most gemstones have identifiable
constant physical properties, despite being
found around the world. The constants vary
and overlap when it comes to tourmaline.
Pinning the different gemstones into
distinct groups and varieties is so tricky
that calling them all ‘tourmaline’’ is easier.
Without access to specialised equipment, we
identify them by their colours, for example,
‘watermelon tourmaline’, a multi-coloured
gem with a pink core and a green outer layer.
With that said, even that has proven fraught.
As exciting as it must have been to discover
the copper-bearing tourmaline in Paraiba
state, in Brazil, in the 1980s, it added yet
another gemstone and chemical variant to
the family.
When similar vibrant neon blue, green
and teal colour tourmalines, also caused
by traces of copper and manganese, were
discovered in the early 2000s in African
countries, it prompted discussion over
whether they could also be called 'Paraiba
tourmaline'.
Technically, the gemstones from Brazil are
‘Paraiba tourmaline’, and the gemstones
with the same composition; however, mined
from African deposits are ‘Paraiba-type
tourmaline’. For most purposes, the naming
convention is to simply call them all Paraiba
tourmaline, with a country of origin listed
on reports.
In some ways, this confusion surrounding
tourmaline continues its long history. For
centuries, tourmaline was often mistaken
for other gemstones, with the green stones
mistaken for emeralds. It wasn’t until 1707
that the name ‘tourmaline’ was recorded
in Western literature.
Gemmology has come a long way since
then, but perhaps it is fitting that the
tourmaline group of gemstones still
confounds scientists today.
Family:
Hardness: 7-7.5
Pleochroism:
Main colours:
Main sources:
Acceptable treatment:
Strong; differential absorption
Pink-red, blue, green, vibrant green, teal
and blue, multi-coloured
Brazil, Madagascar, Tanzania, Mozambique,
Namibia
Heat
NATALIE HAMBLY is a Sydney-based writer and
gemmologist with a background in journalism
and media. For more information on gems and
gemmology, visit www.gem.org.au
July 2025 | 29

30 | July 2025

OPAL OUTLOOK
Future of a National Gemstone
Australia has been the world’s leading source
of precious opal for more than 140 years,
with mining operations spread across the
arid interior regions of New South Wales, Queensland,
and South Australia.
This remote yet iconic landscape, the margins of the
Great Artesian Basin, continues to yield one of nature’s
most distinctive – and now coveted – colour gemstones.
A Gemstone Industry
at a Crossroads
Hidden behind clouds of economic uncertainty,
bureaucratic red tape, and workforce
challenges, there’s a bright future on the
horizon for the Australian opal industry.
DAMIEN CODY
provides a framework for
reaching the maximum potential of opal.
CODY OPAL
Despite the increasing popularity of Australian opal in domestic
and international markets, this unique industry finds itself at a
critical juncture. Facing compounding economic, regulatory, and
structural challenges, critical impositions are threatening the
long-term viability of these mining operations.
Australian opal holds a distinctive place in the global gemstone
hierarchy. While diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and
pearls dominate the upper echelon of consumer awareness and
remain prestigious treasures, opal has emerged as a vital part of
the next echelon of premium colour gemstones.
Its appeal is well-established among leading international
jewellery brands and manufacturers. Australian opal is
increasingly incorporated into these luxury collections, as
designers are attracted by its natural brilliance, unique optical
phenomena, and the romantic provenance of the outback.
» Tiffany & Co.’s Blue Book 2024 featured the ‘Star Burst’ chapter,
complete with jewellery highlighting the chemistry of diamonds
and crystal opal in show-stopping luxury designs.
Chief artistic officer Nathalie Verdeille said the inspiration
for the collection was the brilliant luminosity of galaxies in
the night sky, and explained that exceptional crystal opal
surrounded by diamonds was the best way to represent
this visually striking phenomenon.
» Australian opal has appeared in many designs from
Cartier in recent years. When a new flagship store was
opened in Sydney in 2022, it was complete with the
‘Opal Bar’ – a curved turquoise marble counter where
shoppers can taste cocktails.
In an interview with the Australian Financial Review, creative
director Jacqueline Karachi said she once dismissed opal as far
too ‘common’; however, because of the natural beauty of these
gemstones, it has proven too enchanting to ignore.
» When Louis Vuitton released the Virtuosity collection,
the Savoir suite featured a leading necklace with a
30-carat black opal flanked with the brand’s motifs.
The piece took more than 1,500 hours to complete and is
accompanied by a pair of earrings, a ring, and a bracelet,
each glittering with opal.
Indeed, the rising status of Australian opal as a colour gemstone
of desire in the high-end sphere has given it a firm foothold in
the luxury market. With that said, it’s an industry under pressure.
The broader luxury goods market is facing a prolonged period of
heightened uncertainty, shaped by ongoing geopolitical tension,
macroeconomic instability, trade barriers and disputes,
and shifts in consumer confidence and discretionary spending.
The colour gemstone industry, which relies on discretionary
spending, is often the first to suffer during an economic
downturn and, by extension, is the last to recover.
July 2025 | 31

TIFFANY & CO.
PINK KIMBERLEY
UNITED VOICES
JEWELLER - JULY 2024
Please don’t forget
about the little guy!
Opal cutting is a specialised field, and
while there are lapidary clubs across Australia
that are educating the next generation, we
need more.
Lapidary involves all manner of machines,
cutting and polishing wheels, and dremels –
and another workforce of people provides
these tools and services.
The next level is the buyers, who travel around
the country purchasing opals. They fly in and
fly out, hiring cars, staying in motels, and
eating in restaurants, and so we see the flowon
impact for tourism and accommodation.
From there, we meet the industry level
you’re likely familiar with — suppliers and
retailers. Jewellers turn the opal into works
of art, which they then sell to consumers at
the retail level.
Many buyers from exotic locations in every
corner of the earth travel to Australia to
purchase opals.
It doesn’t matter whether it’s a king or a
queen, an emperor or a president; when you
see influential, high-profile figures abroad
wearing Australian opals, these are the people
who bring it to them.
These buyers are spreading the word about
our gemstone on the international stage.
The same could be said for television shows
like Outback Opal Hunters. They’ve done an
excellent job increasing awareness about the
industry.
Anyone who comes to Winton and looks at
our visitor book will see the terrific number
of people travelling from overseas to witness
firsthand a uniquely Australian industry.
Alison Summerville,
QUEENSLAND BOULDER
OPAL ASSOCIATION
SOKLICH & CO.
Trade fairs are the traditional commercial engines
of the opal trade. Events in Tucson, Hong Kong,
Las Vegas, and Geneva, to name but a few, have
seen diminished attendance and transactional
activity over the past two years for varying reasons.
The more pressing, structural threat to the
industry lies in a significant and sustained
decline in production.
Australia’s opal production has contracted sharply
over the past five years. While part of this decline
is attributable to the finite nature of opal-bearing
ground, the predominant cause is the decreasing
number of active miners and prospectors.
The reasons for the decline in the overall
workforce are complex. Rising operational
costs, such as diesel, equipment, and labour,
have contributed to this issue, as has restrictive
environmental and land access regulations and a
lack of practical and financial support for smallscale
operators.
Many miners have left the opal fields to take up
work in coal, gas, and mineral ore production
operations around various parts of Australia.
These experienced miners are understandably
attracted to the higher wages, favourable working
conditions, and, perhaps most importantly, regular
and sustainable income. Furthermore, the opal
industry is demographically skewed.
The average age of an opal miner is increasing,
and newer entrants to the gemstone fields – the
next generation of the trade – are exceedingly rare.
Despite a valuable boost in visibility from several
popular television series, such as Outback Opal
Hunters, the realities of a high-risk, high-cost,
and bureaucratically complex working
environment are deterring the next generation.
Indeed, opal mining is a very easy pursuit to
romanticise with its sense of adventure, discovery,
and freedom.
26.3 CARAT
BLACK OPAL
CODY OPAL
However, there are other factors that weigh heavily
on those considering making the leap.
Regulatory Red Tape & Land Access Challenges
The opal mining industry faces mounting friction
with competing land-use interests and policy
frameworks. Government decisions in recent
years have constrained access to proven and
prospective opal fields.
• One example is the permanent closure of
Mintabie in South Australia, with the land returned
to the APY (Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara)
people.
The opal fields at Coober Pedy, Mintabie, and
Andamooka, once supplied most of the world’s
precious opal, with significant exports headed to
Asia, Europe, and the US.
The Pitjantjatjara Land Rights Bill 1980 recognised
that opal mining would continue in Mintabie and
included provisions to control that activity.
Nearly four decades later, in 2018, the state
government declared that it would not renew
any leases in the town. All land was leased from
the government, meaning this amounted to a
compulsory closure of the town in 2019.
Management of the land was reverted to the
local Aboriginal land council, Anangu
Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara.
• More recently, the conversion of Vergemont
Station, a large area of productive ground in
Queensland, into a protected National Park,
was a devastating blow for local miners.
Vergemont Station, located 140 kilometres west
of Longreach, was acquired in a joint purchase
by the Queensland government and the Nature
Conservancy. The purchase was finalised after
an anonymous donation of $21 million.
The 352,000-ha property had been for sale
since 2016.
32 | July 2025

July 2025 | 33

Opal Outlook | FUTURE OF A NATIONAL GEMSTONE
IKECHO
ELLENDALE
DIAMONDS
UNITED VOICES
JEWELLER - FEBRUARY 2025
ELLENDALE
DIAMONDS
There’s nothing more
expensive than a
missed opportunity
We now face a new challenge: meeting the
supply demands this passion has created.
It is becoming increasingly difficult for our
industry to do so.
It’s a complex issue; I won’t pretend to have
all the answers!
The view from the ground floor shows a
shortage of younger people entering opal
mining as more experienced veterans of
the trade retire.
Exploration and mining are costly practices,
and methods such as drilling are expensive
and do not guarantee results, making it
harder for smaller miners to survive.
Unlike other adjacent mining industries,
where large companies drive scientific
advances, the opal industry is dominated
by smaller independent operators.
There’s a need for more efficient and
scientific approaches to prospecting, such as
using satellite imaging or ground-penetrating
radar, to identify areas of promise.
The industry needs greater government
support, particularly in removing the
bureaucratic hurdles and ‘red tape’ that
prevents miners from getting to work.
Current processes, such as lease approvals
and compensation agreements, can be slow
and costly, which hampers production.
This issue is exacerbated by the many
different ways opal mining is governed in
Queensland, South Australia, and New
South Wales.
A more uniform approach across these
states could help the industry grow, as
miners from different regions would be
able to communicate and collaborate to
resolve issues.
Erik Madsen,
AUSTRALIAN OPAL CENTRE
Two neighbouring stations, Tonkoro (138,200ha)
and Melrose (73,048ha) - were also purchased
by the state government and added to existing
national parks.
These purchases led to speculation within the
opal industry that Vergemont would be converted
into a national park — speculation that has now
been proven accurate.
Queensland’s environment minister, Leanne
Linard, said the government would work with
the industry to ensure the future of opal mining.
The opal mining industry had little faith in this
commitment.
Queensland Boulder Opal Association president
Alison Summerville described the purchase as a
‘nuclear bomb’ striking the mining industry.
• Meanwhile, in New South Wales, a prolonged
shutdown of opal mining occurred due to
administrative errors affecting lease renewals,
highlighting severe concerns for the future of
the industry.
Hundreds of opal miners had their livelihoods
threatened after the discovery of an administrative
error rendered their government-approved
licences invalid.
A government notice stated that small-scale
mineral claims granted or transferred between
January 2015 and February 2023 were affected.
The review uncovered more than 3,300 mineral
licences deemed invalid, impacting businesses
in Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs.
Minister for Natural Resources Courtney
Houssos apologised for the incident and
commissioned a review.
The review was completed by former Land and
Environment Court Judge and NSW Attorney
General, Terry Sheahan AO.
Key figures in the opal trade criticised the
recommendations, suggesting they would
cripple an already struggling industry.
A working group featuring opal miners,
landholders, and other key stakeholders was
established to review these recommendations
and advise the NSW Government.
For now, the industry anxiously awaits the
outcome of this process, hoping that some
positive results will eventuate as recognition of the
economic potential this trade presents to these
regional communities and the nation at large.
Paradox: Opal Supply & Demand
Unlike many commodity markets, opal has
historically defied classical supply-demand
economics. During its production peak during
the 1980s, greater availability counterintuitively
stimulated global demand.
With more opal in circulation and a consistent
supply available to jewellers and dealers,
an expansion of consumer awareness and
appreciation followed.
7.07 CARAT
RED ON BLACK
CODY OPAL
MINING IN KOROIT
In other words, it was a virtuous circle of
volume and price appreciation. This historical
insight supports an argument that revitalising
production, rather than limiting it, can
strengthen market depth and pricing.
There is more opal out there waiting to be
discovered. If barriers are removed and mining
is encouraged, a significant opportunity
is on the horizon.
If opal miners are rewarded with better prices,
there will be an increase in the production of, and
by extension a stimulus in the promotion of this
uniquely beautiful Australian gift from nature.
As mentioned, some of the world’s leading
figures in the luxury market – Tiffany & Co.,
Louis Vuitton, and Cartier, to name just a few
– are ready to play their part.
Beyond these luxury ‘titans’, it is also important
to consider the market impact of opal jewellery
for traditional retailers.
With diamonds facing structural disruption
from the ‘noise’ created by lab-created diamond
alternatives, retailers are turning to colour
gemstones, where margins are better and
prices are stable.
Furthermore, consumers are increasingly willing
to ‘experiment’ with non-traditional options for
important luxury purchases, such as engagement
jewellery.
Consumers are also increasingly attracted to
natural and untreated gemstones with a clear
and easy-to-understand provenance and verifiable
ethical sourcing credentials. Opal is ticking all
the right boxes!
Indeed, Australian opal meets these criteria.
It is not treated or enhanced, and is mined
under one of the world’s most transparent
and environmentally regulated frameworks.
34 | July 2025

LOUIS VUITTON
This positions the gemstone to capture a share in the shifting luxury
consumer landscape, particularly among younger, values-driven
customers.
That said, emerging consumer markets, including China, also
represent an opportunity. Opal has gained traction on social
commerce platforms such as Little Red Book and Alibaba.
This is fuelled by influencer marketing and increasing consumer
literacy and knowledge of gemstones.
However, restrictive duties, taxes, and capital controls currently
impede larger-scale market penetration. Improved trade arrangements
or tariff concessions could unlock significant expansion in this
high-potential region.
Industry Leadership
For far too long, the Australian opal industry has suffered greatly
from the tactics of unscrupulous traders who have passed off dyed
or smoked hydrophane opal, and even synthetic black opal,
as ‘the real deal’ – authentic black opal.
Similar issues have been noted within the industry regarding unstable
porous opal, which is deceptively traded as solid Australian light opal.
The inconsistent and haphazard use of terms and deceptions for
opal types has enabled these deceptions and scams to succeed at
times, and consumers and jewellery store owners are being misled.
Industry stakeholders, including representatives from the Gemmological
Association of Australia, the Australian Opal Association, and the
Jewellers Association of Australia, have held consultations.
The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) has been provided with a
framework to classify opal from all of the world’s deposits.
A team of Australian representatives is now working with CIBJO to
develop a comprehensive Opal Guide that will provide the standards for
opal classification and nomenclature.
It’s hoped that this framework will standardise the language used
in the colour gemstone and opal industry and, as a result, reduce
opportunities for these aforementioned unscrupulous traders to
employ misleading and deceptive practices, which trade a
‘quick buck’ for consumer faith and trust in the industry.
PEARL & OPAL JEWELLERY STYLED BY NATURE
wholesale.ikecho.com.au | 02 9266 0636 | enquiries@ikecho.com.au

NATIONAL OPAL COLLECTION
UNITED VOICES
JEWELLER - JUNE 2025
19.89 CARAT
CRIMSON ROSELLA
CODY OPAL
Good fortunes:
The living spirit of
the Australian opal
industry
Nowhere is this more evident than in
the opal industry, a vibrant and uniquely
Australian trade that captures the essence of
what it means to live in ‘the lucky country’.
It’s a privilege to be a part of this remarkable
gemstone industry, a space defined not
only by the captivating natural beauty of
Australia’s national gemstone, but by the
character and camaraderie of the people
who keep the wheels turning.
The opal industry is comprised of an
extraordinary tapestry of individuals from
all walks of life and corners of the globe.
It is founded on dreams, grit, and
determination that define many of
Australia’s iconic trades.
What sets the opal industry apart, however,
is the sheer individuality of its people.
The vast majority are self-employed
small business owners – be they miners,
cutters, traders, or jewellers – and it’s this
entrepreneurial spirit that gives the industry
its distinctive nature.
There’s a unique form of generosity that
runs deep within the opal community. An
impressive variety of skills and expertise
accompany the ‘can-do’ attitudes that thrive.
These range from geology and gemmology
to gemstone-cutting and expertise in
jewellery design and retail.
What binds everyone together is a shared
resilience – a collective ability to face
the inherent risks of the trade with good
humour, adaptability, and support for one
another.
Maxine O’Brien,
AUSTRALIAN OPAL EXHIBITIONS
Ethics & Values
Seven years ago, I co-authored an article with
Dr. Laurent Cartier and opal expert John
Winch, published in InColor magazine.
The purpose of the article –
‘Australian
Opal Mining: A Model for Responsible
Mining’- - was to outline the sustainability
credentials of the opal industry.
While the world has dramatically changed over the
past decade, the facts outlined in that article remain
critically relevant today. They highlight how the
uniquely homegrown provenance of opal is a major
victory for all stakeholders — miners, jewellers, and
consumers.
Explained simply, today’s consumers are spoiled
for choice when shopping online for luxury goods,
including colour gemstone jewellery. Many modern
consumers have embraced responsible sourcing
and sustainable mining as important factors during
the purchasing decision.
Colour gemstones are diverse in species and source
distribution. Many are found in underdeveloped and
remote locations.
The varying geography, political environments,
and socio-economic conditions of these locations
have created a fragmented supply chain.
This means that tracing most gemstones
throughout the supply chain is difficult,
raising uncertainty among consumers.
Australian opal defies these conditions.
Opal mining in Australia is regulated under strict
work, health, and safety laws.
There is separate legislation in Queensland, New
South Wales, and South Australia. Safety training is
mandatory, contributing to a strong record, with few
fatalities reported in the trade’s 140-year history.
Federal and state acts govern environmental
protection, and miners must rehabilitate sites and
follow strict operational standards. Native Title
and Indigenous Land Use Agreements ensure
traditional owner involvement and the protection
of Aboriginal cultural heritage.
Indeed, the Aboriginal peoples of Australia
maintain the oldest continuous living cultures in
the world. Opal features in some belief systems
and dreamtime stories that involve the Rainbow
Serpent, the creator of Aboriginal mythology.
As mentioned, miners must comply with workplace
laws and most operations are undertaken by the
owners. Historical mining areas are also preserved
as cultural heritage sites, celebrating the resilience
of early pioneers.
Environmental and community initiatives highlight
the social responsibility displayed by miners. The
opal industry plays a vital role in sustaining remote
communities, many of which owe their existence to
mining.
Australia’s ethical, legal, and governance
frameworks support transparent and fair trade.
Treatments are minimal, with strict disclosure
requirements ensuring consumer protection.
These facts have not changed. The opal industry
upholds high safety, sustainability, heritage
preservation, and ethical conduct standards.
“The Australian opal mining industry has strong
credentials as a responsible and sustainable gem
mining industry. Consumers buying Australian
opal can do so with the assurance that the
gemstone they are buying is an ethical gemstone,”
the article concluded.
“This reputation provides a strategic advantage
in a global marketplace where ethical sourcing
and transparency are no longer optional —
they are expected.”
Strategic Imperatives & The Future
The Australian opal industry has a compelling
product, deep cultural roots, and a powerful
global reputation; however, it requires strategic
support.
To thrive into the next generation, the following
key priorities must be addressed:
» Regulatory reform: Streamline and clarify
lease approvals, environmental compliance,
and Native Title procedures.
» Financial support: Provide training
programmes and financial incentives for new
miners and relief for operational cost burdens.
» Land access policy: Ensure opal-bearing
lands are not arbitrarily restricted for other
uses without thorough consultation with all
stakeholders and impact assessment.
» Trade policy: Pursue favourable trade
arrangements, particularly with emerging
Asian markets.
» Marketing investment: Support coordinated
international campaigns that promote opal’s
ethical sourcing, natural rarity, and design
versatility.
Australian opal remains one of the world’s most
vibrant and aesthetically beautiful gemstones. It is
a product of the country’s landscape, natural riches
and pioneering spirit — and it is a product worthy of
preserving and promoting.
If state and federal governments act in partnership
with industry stakeholders, Australia can ensure
that this iconic gemstone continues to glitter on the
world stage, both as a commercial success and as a
model for responsible, small-scale mining.
The industry’s challenges are significant, but so
too is its potential. With the proper policy
framework, opal can continue to illuminate not only
jewellery showcases, but also regional economies
and Australia’s identity as a trusted global
gemstone supplier.
Damien Cody
CODY OPAL
36 | July 2025

GET EDUCATED – NEW COURSE:
GAA launches ground-breaking
new opal education course
Experience a blend of Swiss precision and Australian
contemporary design in every Classique watch.
As Australia’s longest established watch brand,
Classique is proud to showcase our single-slice
Australian opal dials, a true reflection of
uniqueness and luxury.
The Gemmological Association of Australia (GAA) has announced
the launch of its Certificate in Opal Studies, described as the
world’s first comprehensive, expert-led online course.
Responding to the increasing demand for opal education, the GAA
has spent three years developing this course. It is designed to
educate a broad range of people, including gemstone professionals,
jewellers, valuers, traders, researchers and enthusiasts.
The course, which has 11 interactive modules, includes information
about opal origins, historical significance, identification, and
classification, among many other areas.
Terry Coldham, federal patron of the GAA, said this type of formal
education was invaluable.
“This program bridges gaps in understanding and allows anyone,
anywhere in the world, to obtain accurate, detailed and practical
knowledge about this remarkable gemstone,” he explained.
The program is self-paced, and participants have up to six months
to complete it. It is completed online with interactive modules and
assessments, and a globally recognised GAA Certificate is provided
upon completion.
Enrollment for the program is open year-round. Comprehensive
program details and enrolment information are available at www.
gem.org.au/opal-studies or by contacting learn@gem.org.au.
GET READY – OPAL EVENT
2025 Australian Opal Exhibition
06 AUG
–
07 AUG
AUSTRALIA
Australian Opal Exhibition
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GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA
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Become a stockist today 02 9290 2199
July 2025 | 37

Long live
Australian
Quality
Expert craftsmanship.
Australian owned and operated.
Trusted partnerships.
Toll Free. 1800 888 585
CustomerService@becksgroup.au
becksgroup.au
38 | July 2025
For nearly 50 years, BECKS has partnered
with Australian retailers to help them
succeed by providing expertly crafted,
high-quality men’s and women’s rings
that customers trust and value.
As a family-owned manufacturer with
Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC)
certification, we understand what it
takes to deliver jewellery that stands
the test of time and builds lasting
customer relationships.
Styles shown: HR3872, HR4006.
Proudly Australian Made
Owned and Operated
When you stock BECKS, you’re
offering more than rings — you’re
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commitment to quality, reliability
and long term support.
Partner with BECKS today.
Long live love.
Long live love — Since 1976

WHITE METAL JEWELLERY
Silver, Steel & Style
T
he sheer versatility of precious
white metals is remarkable. In a
jewellery market where consumers
appear to be increasingly polarised
between luxury attainment and price
sensitivity, white metals collectively
bridge the gap with precision.
A brilliant, luminous finish accompanied by
diamonds and colour gemstones can evoke
timeless elegance and sophistication. It’s hardly
a surprise that platinum, palladium, and white
gold are popular choices among jewellery
designers aiming to express prestige.
At the same time, the generous price points
and accessibility of other white metals enable
retailers to cater to customers seeking
opulence without overspending.
Whether it’s a family heirloom, an engagement
ring, or an affordable everyday adornment, the
adaptability and allure of white metals ensures
the challenge can be met in all circumstances.
Of course, each type of white metal has its
distinct strengths, weaknesses, and nuances.
Platinum, palladium, and white gold rest at the
luxury end of the spectrum and remain prized
for their enduring beauty.
At the same time, budget-friendly options such
as stainless steel, silver, and titanium can
offer surprising depth and durability, proving
that elegance doesn’t have to come with an
intimidating price tag.
Platinum is a true treasure of the Earth. One of
the rarest elements found in the planet’s crust,
only a few hundred tonnes are mined each year,
mainly in South Africa.
Without a doubt, this scarcity elevates the allure
of platinum; however, the appeal goes beyond
rarity. As one of the least reactive metals,
it exhibits remarkable resistance to tarnish.
It also handles heat,
and wear and tear. It’s
often described as the
‘noble’ metal, largely
because it stands the
test of time.
For retailers, this means that
platinum jewellery offers unrivalled
durability and evokes feelings of timeless elegance
– a compelling choice for consumers seeking
jewellery that is designed to last a lifetime.
Meanwhile, white gold is a sophisticated fusion
of tradition and innovation – an alloy of gold blended
with other metals such as nickel, silver, and
palladium. The exact properties depend
on the combination of metals, allowing for
customisation in strength, hue, and durability.
What makes white gold special is its luminous
sheen, which beautifully enhances the brilliance
of diamonds or the enchanting character of
coloured gemstones.
Beloved by high-end jewellery and popular
with discerning consumers, white gold remains
popular for engagement jewellery and statement
pieces alike. Many retailers report that consumers
are specifically drawn to the radiant finish and
refined aesthetic.
Affordable Luxury
Selling jewellery doesn’t need to be complicated.
Broadly speaking, retail can always be reduced to
three basic principles: Giving people what they want,
when they want it, and how they want it.
So, what does the consumer of today want?
In recent years, the answer to this all-important
question has had a theme – Affordable Luxury.
Affordable luxury, in the context of jewellery, refers
to products that boast a high level of craftsmanship,
quality materials, and aneye-catching design at a
lower price point, making these pieces accessible to
a broader audience.
This can be a challenging benchmark to reach;
however, materials such as stainless steel,
silver, and titanium can pass the test.
These products must strike a perfect balance
that allows customers to indulge in the pleasures
of luxury without straining their hip pocket.
For example, silver jewellery has been popular
for thousands of years because it represents
timeless beauty, while remaining malleable
enough for intricate designs. A bright and
lustrous finish ensures a complementary piece
that suits various styles.
Earlier this year, Vogue Business conducted a
quantitative survey of more than 900 readers,
asking questions about the state of the modern
luxury industry.
The findings of this research were fascinating.
More than three-quarters of readers
(77 per cent) agreed that the cost of luxury
products has noticeably increased over the past
12 months and confirmed that this has impacted
their purchasing patterns.
More than one-third of respondents
(37 per cent) reported shopping for luxury
products less frequently than they did
12 months ago, and two-thirds (66 per cent)
stated that they are now more likely to
wait for discounts and sales events to
make a purchase.
The research found that the most influential
factors for purchasing luxury products are
quality (80 per cent) and design (74 per cent).
These two factors were consistent among all age
groups, despite younger consumers reporting a
stronger appetite for luxury products than their
older counterparts.
Affordable luxury can still feature diamonds
and colour gemstones, usually presented in
unique design elements that don’t carry the
same price tag as top-tier products.
Stainless steel has proven popular because
of its durability, affordability, and resistance
to tarnish and corrosion. It’s a low-maintenance
and sleek method for showcasing a sleek
and modern look.
Similar arguments can be mounted in favour of
titanium. The exceptional strength, lightweight
feel, and hypoallergenic properties are all
winning factors in the search for a
contemporary everyday piece.
These products work because they satisfy the desire
for fine jewellery while remaining
within the financial reach of those who desire
something beyond cheaper mass-market products.
Said another way, affordable luxury in jewellery
offers an experience that blends quality, design,
and craftsmanship without an extreme price tag.
It’s about allowing consumers to experience
prestige and exclusivity without making a large
budgetary sacrifice.
Said another way, you shouldn’t be forced to eat twominute
noodles for three months to own a beautiful
necklace or ring!
SEE NEXT PAGE
July 2025 FOR | BUYING GUIDE 39

ADVERTISING FEATURE
White Metals Buying Guide
4G COIN &
DAGGER CHARMS
GUESS JEWELLERY – DESIGNA
designaaccessories.com.au/guess
An everyday piece with power, purpose,
and undeniable presence. Crafted in
sleek silver-tone metal, this men’s
necklace features our iconic quattro G
logo motif and a dagger pendant for a
sharp, modern edge.
ANGEL PENDANT
ATHAN
athan.com.au
This 18ct angel medal offers a
refined take on traditional religious
jewellery. Its polished, timeless
design makes it a meaningful
addition to any customer’s collection.
Wear with your choice of our Italianmade
chains for an elegant, personal
piece your customers will cherish.
COEUR DE LION
COEUR DE LION – TIMESUPPLY
coeurdelionjewellery.com.au
The iconic Bauhaus inspired
GeoCubes from Coeur de Lion – an
award-winning, highly recognisable
style that has become a fashion icon.
Designs offering natural stones,
Swarovski Crystals, and pearls, set in
hard-wearing stainless steel for ease
of wearing and longevity.
BUYERS CATALOGUE
White
METALS
White metal jewellery shines bright at every
opportunity. Jeweller presents a buying
featuring the latest releases from suppliers.
EMERALD & WHITE
GOLD SET
GERRIM INTERNATIONAL
gerrim.com
From Gerrim, a stunning 9-carat
white gold pendant and ring featuring
a vibrant emerald-cut green emerald
as the centrepiece. The central stone
is surrounded by a halo of brilliant
white diamonds, which enhance the
depth and brilliance of the emerald.
FURLA MIASFERA
CHARMS NECKLACE
FURLA – DESIGNA
designaaccessories.com.au/furla
A delicate fine chain with a striking
pendant. The Furla Miasfera Charms
necklace features a silver-tone finish
on stainless steel 316L, combined
with a crystal pavé semisphere and
encircling ring, making this piece an
instant classic.
HALF ROUND RING
BECKS
becksgroup.au
Legato by BECKS range is a premium
enhancement of the traditional Classics
wedding rings, where craftsmanship meets
modern elegance. Each ring features a
contrasting offset or centred metal inlay,
tied together with the main band and a
personalised engraved message of love.
The Legato range, available in various widths
and three distinct profiles, is designed to
commemorate life’s milestones.
40 | July 2025

JULES EARRINGS
SAPPHIRE DREAMS – SAMS GROUP
sapphiredreams.com.au
The Jules hoop earrings feature a
stunning channel-set row of princesscut,
green Australian sapphires, neatly
set in white gold. These earrings add
a chic pop of colour to your daily style,
and can be effortlessly paired with other
earrings for a modern look.
LADIES’ DIAMOND WEDDER
BECKS
becksgroup.au
BECKS’ timeless collection of ladies’
diamond rings celebrates the journey of love.
From elegant diamond wedding bands to
fitted and eternity styles, each piece is crafted
to mark life’s meaningful milestones. Made
in white gold and available in yellow and pink
gold with natural or lab-created diamonds.
LONDON BLUE &
SWISS BLUE TOPAZ RING
GERRIM INTERNATIONAL
gerrim.com
This 9-carat white gold ring from
Gerrim has a vibrant setting of London
Blue and Swiss Blue Topaz.
MULTI PEARLS & 4G
BRACELET
GUESS JEWELLERY – DESIGNA
designaaccessories.com.au/guess
Elegant and feminine, this silver-tone
bracelet features luminous pearlinspired
accents and the iconic quattro
G logo motif at its centre, perfect for
wearing solo or stacked with your
favourite GUESS watch and bracelets.
July 2025 | 41

WHITE METALS | BUYING GUIDE
NUMILLA NECKLACE
SAPPHIRE DREAMS – SAMS GROUP
sapphiredreams.com.au
Unique and beautiful, the Numilla
necklace showcases an arrangement of
marquise-cut Australian sapphires and
a single sparkling white diamond. This is
the perfect pendant to elevate any look.
NOMINATION ITALY BANGLES
NOMINATION ITALY – TIMESUPPLY
nomination.au
Beautiful Italian-designed, ready-to-wear
collections such as the sterling silver, cubic
zirconia-set Shine on Me range, featuring
much-loved icons such as sparkling hearts,
butterflies, dragonflies, or the ever-popular
Pretty Bangles range with durable and
attractive stainless steel designs set with
sparkling cubic zirconia in a range of styles.
PAVÉ HALF MOON HOOPS
ROSEFIELD JEWELLERY – DESIGNA
designaaccessories.com.au/rosefield
These rhodium-plated stainless steel
316L hoop earrings are embellished
with Swarovski Crystal pavé details that
curve into a flattering half-moon shape. A
radiant combination to complement your
look for a night out.
PLAYFUL DIAMONDS
CRYSTALS BRACELET
ROSEFIELD JEWELLERY – DESIGNA
designaaccessories.com.au/rosefield
The rhodium-plated stainless steel 316L
chain bracelet features a collection of
Swarovski Crystals for subtle elegance
and shine. Stacking effortlessly for
everyday wear with your other bracelets,
it’s also the perfect accessory to
complement your timepiece of choice.
SPIRIT RINGS
BECKS
becksgroup.au
BECKS Inner Spirit collection embodies
the profound connection between heritage
and personal identity. A tribute to strength,
wisdom, and cultural roots, this collection
celebrates the essence of who we are. Inner
Spirit rings are available in a range of widths
in white, yellow, and pink gold, as well as
modern metals like Zirconium and Tantalum.
UNODE50
UNODE50 – TIMESUPPLY
unode50.com.au
Natural organic styling features in the
beautiful UNOde50 unisex designs. These
unique creations, handmade in Spain,
make a distinctive and bold statement.
42 | July 2025

Helping Jewellery Businesses Thrive
Jewellery is just the start.
Your business runs on tech, too!
Visit us at Stand 44, Retail Edge Village for all your printing, scanning, and
ticketing needs – and save 10%* when you order and pay at IJF! (credit card only).
*GST excluded.
Come & See What’s New
Kim Ridley | 0499 775 708
sales@retailedgeconsultants.com.au
www.retailedgeconsultants.com.au
4/60 Nerang St, Nerang QLD 4211
July 2025 | 43

BUSINESS
Selling
Conducting little sales experiments
How do you break free of stagnation? RYAN ESTIS encourages you
to shake things up in small yet significant ways.
Sustainable development in business
doesn’t happen in a single leap.
It’s built in motion, through small,
purposeful tests that push us beyond
what’s comfortable.
That’s what little experiments are for.
They’ve become a core part of navigating
change, challenging my assumptions,
and learning, especially when the path
ahead isn’t clear.
This isn’t about high-stakes bets or
sweeping strategy shifts. It’s about
something far more sustainable:
making iteration a daily habit.
Small experiments help us stretch
without snapping. They create
momentum, surface fresh insight,
and drive the adaptability that
today’s environment demands.
Why do small experiments work?
If the last few years have taught us
anything, it’s this: waiting for the
perfect moment is a losing strategy.
The pace of change is relentless,
and uncertainty is constant.
The most successful leaders aren’t the
ones with perfect plans. They’re the ones
who stay in motion. Little experiments
offer a way forward. They help you:
• Make decisions faster with feedback
• Test ideas safely and adjust quickly
• Build confidence and resilience
• Stay sharp, curious, and ready
And perhaps most importantly: they keep
you learning. In a world where success
is increasingly iterative, experimentation
becomes an operating system for
innovation.
So, how do you do it? How do you make
experimentation part of your everyday
rhythm instead of something you only talk
about during strategic planning retreats?
You start small, stay curious, and treat
motion as the goal.
These five practices are simple by design;
however, they are powerful in application.
They’ll help you stay flexible, responsive,
and forward-moving even when the
future feels fuzzy.
Tweak a routine: We are creatures of
habit. That’s good for efficiency; however,
it’s not always ideal for growth.
Changing even one small thing about how
you operate can rewire how you think and
what you notice. Maybe it’s moving your
creative work to the morning instead of
cramming it between meetings.
Perhaps it’s flipping the order of your
staff agenda or running a customer
check-in as a walk-and-talk.
Small disruptions spark fresh thinking,
which can lead to real breakthroughs.
Test an idea before it’s ready: You don’t
need a polished pitch to start sharing.
And you don’t need to be 100 per cent
confident to act.
Run the experiment anyway. Float the
concept. Ask the question. Bring the
slide that’s only halfway built. Trying
before you’re ready shortens the learning
loop and teaches you what works in the
real world, not just in your head. Permit
yourself to make mistakes.
Progress beats perfection — every time.
Schedule one hour of learning: If it’s not
on your calendar, it’s not real. One hour a
week - that’s it - make it count.
Use it to explore something unfamiliar:
a podcast on customer psychology,
a new sales enablement tool, a webinar
you’d usually skip. Or use it to reflect
and recalibrate.
Development and improvement aren’t
an event. It’s a rhythm.
Track what you’re learning: A key part
of any experiment is reflection. What
happened? What surprised you?
What did you learn? What would you
change next time?
The most
successful
leaders aren’t
the ones with
perfect plans.
They’re the
ones who stay
in motion.
Writing it down turns motion into insight. It
also improves one's ability to connect dots,
iterate faster, and communicate what one
is learning to others.
Feedback is fuel. Don’t skip this part.
Celebrate the stretch: Not everything
needs to be a win to be worth doing. In
fact, one of the best things you can do for
yourself and your staff is to reward the
effort, the courage, the creative risk.
Talk about what didn’t work. Share what
you learned. Shine a light on the experiment
that didn’t hit the mark but got everyone
thinking differently.
When you reinforce the stretch, you
reinforce the behaviour. That’s how
habits — and growth — stick.
Need inspiration?
Sometimes, the most challenging part is
knowing where to begin. If you’re looking
for small, low-risk ways to test something
new, try one of these.
• Replace your afternoon scroll with
a 15-minute industry podcast.
• Ask one customer a question you’ve
never asked before.
• Block an hour for deep work before
checking your emails.
• Rotate meeting responsibilities
among staff members for one month.
These aren’t revolutionary moves; however,
they shift how we think, connect, and grow.
That’s what makes them powerful.
Little experiments are how we condition
our ‘change readiness’ muscle so that
when disruption shows up - and it always
does - we’re already in motion.
Here’s your challenge for the week:
What three little experiments will you
run right now? Write them down. Share
them with your staff and take action on
one of them today.
RYAN ESTIS is keynote speaker and
management consultant with more
than 20 years’ experience as a sales
professional and leader.
Visit: ryanestis.com
44 | July 2025

BUSINESS
Management
What does coaching mean in your business?
When was the last time you stopped to teach someone in your business something new?
DAVID BROCK highlights the importance of focused coaching.
I’m sure we can all agree that coaching
is important; sadly, we invest too little
time in high-impact coaching.
Spending an hour each week per person
is hardly adequate; however, this article
is not about the time we spend, it’s about
how we spend it.
I find people confused about coaching.
The examples we see of coaching and
the tools people leverage in their
coaching don’t seem to capture its heart.
Is coaching ‘call intelligence’ and
helping someone understand and
analyse their calls, or whispering
into their ears during a call?
We see how people have behaved in
the past, how they have responded, the
consistent challenges they face, where
we may have made mistakes, and how
we continue to improve our coaching.
Coaching is as much for the coach as
it is for the person being coached. We
constantly learn and improve in the
process.
We get deeper insights about the people
we are coaching. We learn about ourselves
through the eyes of the people we coach,
and from that, we improve.
Coaching is as much about receiving
feedback as it is giving it.
Is the coaching role play assisting
people in practising and executing
better? Is coaching reviewing a
performance dashboard?
Each of these activities represents how
we can apply our coaching skills, and
our people can use coaching. However,
contrary to what people might want you
to believe, these represent the smallest
coaching moments.
So, let’s start with fundamentals.
What is coaching? At its core, coaching
is the act of helping someone become
more capable of thinking, deciding,
and acting effectively.
It applies to everything they do. How do
they spend their time? How do they do
their jobs? How do they work with their
peers, partners, and customers?
How do they use resources, methods,
systems, processes, and tools effectively?
How do they grow and develop?
How can they better align with the
organisation's values, culture, and beliefs?
How can they better align and more deeply
understand their customers? How do
they deal with challenges, struggles,
and not achieving their goals?
For coaching to have a massive impact,
there must be through lines across all
these elements.
We can’t coach individuals in one area and
then coach them in the opposite way for
something else. That’s not coaching; that
isn’t very clear. Consistency in what we
coach across all areas of our coaching is
critical to achieving the goals we share.
Our coaching can sometimes be
overwhelming. We must focus on the
top two or three areas we and the
individual seek to change and improve.
Then, we must apply those in each area
we coach. As the student begins to
master these areas, we move on.
Coaching is not telling the person what
to do. It’s guiding them to figure out how
to do things right, improve, change,
learn and grow.
Again, it’s improving their capability to
think, decide, and act effectively. The best
analogy is “Give a person a fish, they eat
for a day, teach a person to fish, they eat
for the rest of their lives.”
Guiding them to figure things out
themselves enables them to grow
and develop constantly.
Coaching is not limited to our “coaching
sessions.” When you look at the data
under time pressure and constraints,
unfortunately, the first thing managers
eliminate is coaching.
This is probably bad judgment; however,
that is the reality. In high-impact coaching,
we integrate coaching into every encounter
with our people.
Coaching is always based on a context.
While we have the through-lines of our
two or three key improvement areas,
we adjust that coaching to the specific
context or situation we are discussing.
Coaching is built on memory or history.
Consistency in
what we coach
across all areas
of our coaching
is critical to
achieving the
goals we share
with those we
coach.
Coaching is not about finding things
right or finding wrong things.
It’s about continually developing the
capabilities of the people we coach,
helping them do more of the right things,
the right way, at the right time with the
right people. It’s about learning from our
failures and figuring out how to improve.
Share your wisdom
Coaching is not training; however, it
supports and reinforces training and
may adapt it to the individual.
Where training focuses on what we need
to do, coaching explains why it is essential
and how we might improve our actions.
We must be coachable people –open to
learning, growth and change to coach
effectively.
I think it’s important to understand what
coaching is. It’s not just one thing. It
doesn’t focus on just a specific aspect of a
job, like reading performance dashboards.
While those incorporate coaching for that,
they are insufficient by themselves.
Without being interconnected with the
other elements of high-impact coaching,
they do not allow us to help our people
achieve their full potential.
DAVID BROCK is CEO of Partners
In Excellence, a global consultancy
focused on helping organisations
engage customers more effectively. He
writes at partnersinexcellenceblog.com
July 2025 | 45

BUSINESS
Marketing & PR
Creating a 'Remember When' experience
for your customers
How do you ensure that your customers will return? SHEP HYKEN reveals
the secret to creating a memorable interaction.
Why do customers return to
the companies they love doing
business with?
That’s what we asked more than
1,000 customers in our annual
consumer experience research,
and here are some of the top reasons.
• Employees who are helpful
• A friendly experience
• A convenient and easy experience
• A personalised experience
• Employees who show empathy
Customers can decide to return based
on any one or a combination of these
experiences, or anything else they deem
to be positive. And as good as these
experiences are, are they good enough
to get customers to return?
Recently, I read an article about creating
emotional connections through customer
experience (CX) memories and how
business-to-business and business-toconsumer
companies are winning over
customers with 'memory-driven CX.'
The article's point was that, more than
just creating a good experience, it is the
memory of the experience that drives
repeat business and potential loyalty.
Some companies understand this better
than others. Consider Netflix, which once
a year sends its subscribers a ‘What We
Watched’ summary of the shows and
movies they watched.
Or Starbucks, which sends its ‘members’
a free drink or food item for their birthday.
These companies, and many others,
have engineered a follow-up experience
that recalls the experience, creating a
'Remember When' moment.
This moment triggers a memory and
creates an emotional reaction that
makes the customer want to repeat
the experience.
Identify key touch points: Your journey
map will help you identify your main
interactions with your customers.
If you haven’t created your customer
journey maps, stop here and do so!
What should the customer remember?
Not all touch points need to be
memorable. Sometimes it’s just a few
– maybe even just one.
Identify these key interactions and
engineer them to be memorable. For
example, a restaurant might bring a small
plate of chocolate with the bill, capping
off a wonderful dining experience. Last
impressions leave lasting impressions.
Design a follow-up campaign: Similar to
Netflix, remind customers why they love
doing business with you. Don’t combine
this with a sales pitch; this is meant to
create the Remember When experience.
Measure the impact: Be sure to find
out if the customer agrees with your
memorable moments.
Furthermore, determine if the
follow-up campaign is working.
I’ve written about the 'I’ll Be Back'
experience. If you want your customers
to return, create the experience that
gets them to do so. Then remind them
about the experience. That will help
bring customers who say, “I’ll be back,”
to return.
This moment
triggers a
memory and
creates an
emotional
reaction that
makes the
customer want
to repeat the
experience.
Some customers might still be angry that
you do not have what they want. And even if
they aren’t, whether the item is out of stock
or you don’t carry it, that doesn’t mean you
can’t make the customer happy.
Before we go further, let me quickly recap
how to deal with any upset or complaining
customer. This is my five-step process for
handling complaints:
• Apologise for the problem
• Acknowledge what the problem is
• Discuss the resolution
• Accept ownership
• Act with urgency
Is the item the customer wants temporarily
out of stock? If so, when will it be in, and
when can the customer expect to receive
it? Giving customers information gives
them a sense of control.
What if you’re out of the item and won’t
be able to get any more in inventory? This
is an opportunity to shine. If you can’t
suggest a reasonable alternative, does a
competitor have what the customer wants?
Yes, I’m suggesting sending the customer
to a competitor. Even if the sale goes to
a competitor, the customer will realise
you’re more interested in getting them
what they want and need rather than
making a sale, which can go a long way
in building trust that takes the relationship
to a higher level.
Whenever a customer is unhappy or has
a complaint, it’s an opportunity to resolve
the problem and turn a 'Moment of Misery'
into a 'Moment of Magic'. For inventory
issues, it’s an easy fix.
Always think to yourself, even if you
must give up the sale to a competitor, “Is
what I’m doing right now going to get the
customer to come back?”
When you have the customer’s best
interest in mind, they will!
To do this, you don’t need to be a big
business like Netflix or Starbucks.
Here’s a simple five-step process to get
you thinking about how to create the
Remember When experience:
An experience worth remembering:
If you don’t have that, stop here and
start working on your overall customer
experience.
Frustration into satisfaction
I recently responded to a question on
LinkedIn: A customer is furious about an
out-of-stock item. How do you turn their
frustration into satisfaction?
I added a second part to that question.
What if what the customer wants is
something you’ve never had in stock?
SHEP HYKEN is a speaker and New
York Times and Wall Street Journal
best-selling author who works with
companies to build loyal relationships
with customers and employees.
Visit: hyken.com
46 | July 2025

BUSINESS
Logged On
Customer Relationship Management Software:
It might be your best asset
Are you making the most of the business tools at your disposal?
DAVID BROWN encourages you to maximise the opportunities presented by software.
An effective customer relationship
management (CRM) system can be
transformative for a business if used
effectively.
Unfortunately, many businesses fail to fully
exploit this powerful software despite its
potential to increase sales and manage the
customer experience.
It often finishes as a data collection point
that needs to be revisited during the year.
This article outlines several of the benefits
of CRM and how you can use it entirely in
your business beyond its current scope.
Segment customer data: Not all
customers are the same, so why
treat them that way? Use your CRM to
segment your customer database based
on demographics, purchase history,
preferences, or engagement levels.
insights ensures you stay competitive and
responsive to market changes.
Build brand loyalty: You can integrate your
CRM software with your loyalty program to
centralise customer data.
Food for thought
A CRM is only as good as the people using
it, so ensure you provide comprehensive
training to your team on effectively using
your system.
Cover everything from data entry and
reporting to interpreting analytics and
using the advanced features available.
When your staff is confident and proficient
in using the CRM, they can leverage its
full potential to drive sales and improve
customer relationships.
You need them on board to get the full
benefits the system can provide. It’s also
important to regularly clean up your
database by removing duplicate records,
updating outdated information, and
verifying contact details to get the most
out of it.
Building stronger relationships and
increasing conversion rates is essential.
You can use this data to personalise
marketing plans, offer targeted
promotions, and enhance your customer
retention rate.
There are few limits on how you can
tailor your message to customers,
reflecting their unique individuality, buying
preferences, and behaviours. This allows
you to target email campaigns, SMS alerts,
or other marketing messages accordingly,
driving better conversion rates from your
marketing spend.
Automate repetitive tasks: One of
the most significant advantages of
CRM software is its ability to automate
repetitive tasks.
Take advantage of automation features
to streamline processes such as lead
nurturing, follow-up emails, and customer
support. Automation not only saves
time but also ensures consistency in
communication and enhances efficiency
across your organisation.
Tracking key metrics: Your CRM software
is a goldmine of data—use it wisely.
Track key metrics such as sales
performance, customer acquisition costs,
conversion, and retention rates. Analyse
these metrics to identify trends, spot
opportunities for growth, and make datadriven
decisions.
Regularly reviewing and acting upon these
This integration allows you to seamlessly
track purchase history, reward points, and
customer preferences.
Monitor sales performance: Utilise CRM
analytics to track sales performance
metrics across products, stores, and
sales staff.
Identify top-selling items, assess sales
trends, and measure the effectiveness
of promotional campaigns. Use these
insights to refine your sales strategies,
allocate resources effectively, and
maximise revenue generation in your
retail store.
Customer surveys and feedback: CRM
tools can be a great way to conduct
customer surveys and gather feedback on
shopping experiences.
Analyse survey responses to identify
areas for improvement and address
customer pain points within your business.
Implement changes based on customer
feedback to enhance satisfaction levels
and strengthen brand loyalty. You can’t ask
these questions if you don’t know who your
customers are.
Maximise your marketing returns:
There is an old saying that half of every
marketing dollar spent is wasted—it’s just
hard to know which half.
While not making marketing 100 per cent
effective, a good CRM system will make
the process more measurable.
Regularly
reviewing
and acting
upon these
insights ensures
you stay
competitive
and responsive
to market
changes.
Set up processes to ensure data accuracy
and integrity, such as regular data audits
and validation checks. Clean, accurate data
enables more targeted marketing efforts,
improves sales forecasting accuracy, and
enhances overall CRM effectiveness.
It’s essential to respect customer data
and ensure it complies with data privacy
regulations. Safeguarding customer data
is critical, including obtaining consent
for marketing communications and
providing customers with transparency
regarding data usage through your terms
and conditions.
Adhering to regulatory requirements
builds customer trust and protects your
retail store from legal liabilities.
Your CRM software is more than just a
database—it’s a powerful tool that can
transform how you manage customer
relationships and drive business growth.
By integrating it effectively within your
organisation, you can maximise the value
of your CRM investment.
So, roll up your sleeves, dive into your
CRM, and unleash its full potential to
supercharge your business success!
DAVID BROWN is co-founder
and business mentor with Retail
Edge Consultants. Learn more:
retailedgeconsultants.com
July 2025 | 47

My Bench
Frank Prischl
Elan Jewellers
• AGE: 47 • YEARS IN TRADE 28 • TRAINING: Certificate 3 Jewellery Manufacture and Design • FIRST JOB: Apprentice at PGK Jewellery Productions
TOURMALINE RING
I don’t believe in any specific signature piece; however,
this is one of the many bespoke pieces to come from
our benches to a lucky customer: an 18-carat rose and
white gold bi-colour tourmaline and diamond set ring.
FAVOURITE GEMSTONE: Opal & Fire Opals.
FAVOURITE METAL: 18-carat white gold.
FAVOURITE TOOL: NSK Emax micro motor
and hammer attachment!
BEST NEW TOOL DISCOVERY: Swiss torch –
thank you, Mr Law, at Jewellery Tools and Boxes.
BEST PART OF THE JOB: Turning customer’s old
family treasures into something modern and unique
for them to wear and enjoy.
WORST PART OF THE JOB: Running out of wire
or a certain size stock gauge mid-way through a job,
and having to melt, roll and draw to finish it off.
BEST TIP FROM A JEWELLER: Have a go at new skills.
Challenging yourself is all part of learning, and you
should never stop learning.
BEST TIP TO A JEWELLER: If a job goes pear-shaped
and isn't working out, put it down, move on to something
else, keep thinking of solutions and then come back to it.
BIGGEST HEALTH CONCERN ON THE BENCH: Eyes and
hands – they always need to be in good working order!
LOVE JEWELLERY BECAUSE: It is an incredible
combination of structure and art and you create
something meaningful for someone who will
enjoy it forever.
48 | July 2025

July 2025 | 49

OPINION
Soapbox
Behind the curtain: A journey
into Jaipur’s finest cutting houses
Behind every gemstone is a story desperately waiting to be told.
BRENDAN MCCREESH encourages you to step out of the store and into the world.
Every gemstone has a story —
where it comes from, who shaped it,
and the culture it’s tied to.
These details don’t just add charm,
they add real meaning and value.
As a jeweller, sharing these stories can
create a more memorable experience
for your customers. And so, whenever
possible, it’s important to get out from
behind the desk, counter, or bench
and journey into the real world.
After decades of travelling to Jaipur
in India to source gemstones, forging
countless friendships and professional
ties, I have earned an informal yet
invaluable access.
This ‘clearance’, if you will, has opened
doors to truly remarkable experiences
in recent years.
For the past three years, I have been
immersed in an ongoing photography
project, seeking permission to enter the
inner sanctums where the world’s finest
gemstones are meticulously shaped.
These efforts have led me into intimate,
hidden spaces where cutting, drilling,
stringing, slicing—and the artisans
behind them — come together in a
quiet symphony of skill.
In my earliest visits to Jaipur, I often
suspected that the demonstrations
offered to visitors were choreographed
displays — performances designed for
tourists, much like the puppet shows
at the historic havelis now converted
into boutique hotels. And indeed,
I’ve since learned this is partially true.
You're often shown what they think
you want to see. There is relatively
open access to those working with
quartz, ornamental stones, and
glass-filled rubies.
These encounters are no less fascinating
to me; however, it is not just the
gemstones, but also the people and
their stories that interest me.
One such moment occurred enroute to
a high-end tanzanite cutting house,
when I stumbled upon a room where
three artisans were crafting large
imitation emerald and sapphire doublets.
I seized the opportunity to photograph
and film as much as possible — footage
that will undoubtedly be of great value
to my staff and gemmology students.
That same day, my hosts and I ventured
beyond the ancient walls of the Pink City,
driving eastward through a labyrinth
of narrow, bustling streets.
As we entered a predominantly Muslim
quarter, the attire of those we passed
shifted markedly, reflecting the vibrant
diversity of Jaipur’s communities.
We arrived mid-morning, strategically
avoiding the chaos of rush hour and
the disruption of prayer times to
ensure a respectful visit.
Our destination was a modest yet robust
building on a lively side street. There,
we were met by brothers Basheer and
Zaheer, central figures in the operation.
The thick stone building opened into a
large, tiled room that offered immediate
relief from the heat outside. Rows of
neatly arranged shoes lined the wall —
a subtle sign of the common harmony
between home and workplace in Jaipur.
Beyond a heavy iron-gated doorway lay
a central open courtyard, flanked by
various rooms and corridors, with
three additional stories rising above.
This compound serves both as a
workplace and a multi-generational home
— an arrangement not uncommon in the
city, where space is often multifunctional.
I could hear the familiar whir of cutting
machinery echoing from distant rooms;
however, on this visit, I was to see just
one: the primary cutting room where
the most skilled artisans worked.
Inside, an extended, low workbench —
painted a striking orange — held three
faceting laps. The vivid green of the
polishing compound offered a visually
striking contrast. Each lap could be
accessed from both sides, allowing for six
cutters in total. On this day, four were at
work, seated cross-legged on cushions.
Basheer and Zaheer sat opposite each
other, while two more cutters shared the
third lap. The quiet rhythm of faceting,
inspecting, and measuring was hypnotic.
These
encounters
are no less
fascinating to
me; however, it
is not just the
gemstones, but
also the people
and their stories
that interest me.
Small batches of tanzanite, their hues
ranging from exquisite violet-blue to deep,
regal purple, waited in line, dopped and
ready for the next stage.
Zaheer alternated between two delicate
tasks. First, he expertly affixed tanzanites,
ranging from 5 to 18 carats, to green,
cigar-like dops using dopping wax
melted over a candle. With precise,
near-microscopic adjustments, he
aligned each stone by eye. Then, once
faceted, he gently submerged the stones
in iced water before deftly detaching
them with a flick of his thumbnail.
This seemingly casual motion belied the
precision and timing required — too long
in the cold, and thermal shock could ruin
a gemstone of considerable value.
This cutting house enjoys a stellar
reputation, supplying gemstones to some
of the world’s most prestigious jewellers.
The three hours I spent photographing
the artisans were a rare privilege — one
I hope to repeat. With greater familiarity,
I plan to return to capture formal portraits
of each cutter, images worthy of their
talent and dedication.
The following day, I returned for a different
purpose: to select calibrated and single
gemstones for our upcoming tanzanite
collection. The quality across all parcels
of calibrated sizes was exceptional.
Unlike the shallow cuts preferred by
mass-market manufacturers, who
prioritise weight over craftsmanship,
these stones displayed a superior
balance of depth, colour, and artistry.
It must be said that knowing the
craftsmen and artisans who shaped
them only deepens my appreciation.
Their skill, dedication, and quiet mastery
breathe life into each gemstone —
and that, above all, is what makes
them truly special.
Name: Brendan McCreesh
Business: O’Neil’s Affiliated
Position: Owner
Location: Australia
Years in the industry: 30+
50 | July 2025

July 2025 | 51

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52 | July 2025
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