Author: Ruchi Singla

Rio Tinto has reported strong results from its second Beyond Rare Tender, The Art Series 02: Colour Awakened. The event featured a curated collection of 76 diamonds across 48 lots, drawing bids from across Australia, Europe, Japan, Hong Kong, the Middle East, Singapore, and North America. The tender highlighted the continued demand for natural fancy coloured diamonds, driven by their rarity and traceable origins.The collection included legacy pink, red, and violet diamonds from the now-closed Argyle Diamond Mine in Western Australia, alongside white and yellow diamonds from the Diavik Diamond Mine in Canada. Notably, the tender introduced seven “Old Masters” –…

The Jewellery Industry Network (JIN) has announced the launch of a new series of training courses at The Centre, its dedicated education and collaboration hub.Located in a purpose-built facility, The Centre has already been supporting the industry with resources and workspace, but the introduction of its first formal training programme in 2025 marks a major development in its offerings.Laura Moore, Managing Director of JIN, highlighted the significance of this initiative: “The Centre has been built to be a hub for the entire industry, regardless of location. We’re excited to launch a full calendar of events and training in 2025 to…

Lucapa Diamond Company has unveiled plans to restart production at its Merlin diamond mine in teh Northern Territory, targeting a phased investment totalling $25 million. The project aims to deliver 314,000 carats over the next five years and includes a new exploration programme to uncover additional deposits.Phased Approach to Merlin Mine RestartThe Merlin mine restart will proceed in two phases. The first phase, scheduled to last 18 months, will target ore extraction from five shallow open pits. This phase requires an investment of $15 million and is expected to produce 67,000 carats valued at $415 per carat. The estimated total revenue…

Nick Selby has announced his resignation as Managing Director and CEO of Lucapa Diamond Company, effective immediately, The West Perth-based diamond miner cited grounds of ill health as the reason for Selby’s departure. His successor, Alex Kidman, formerly Lucapa’s Group Operations Manager, has assumed the role of Managing Director and CEO.Selby’s resignation marks the end of his decade-long association with the company, where he held various roles before being promoted to CEO in July 2023. Selby will remain involved in a technical capacity during the transition period to assist Kidman and the management team.Leadership Transition at LucapaThe Board of Lucapa extended…

Australian jewellery box brand Trove has entered the United States market with the launch of its first flagship store in New York City’s West Village. The Melbourne-based company, known for its vintage-inspired jewellery storage solutions, unveiled the new location at 301 West 4th Street last week.Store Design HighlightsThe flagship store features an interior designed to combine elements of nostalgia with modern aesthetics. The space transitions from a bright entryway with high-gloss, custom-coloured ceilings and tailored wooden furniture to a more subdued atmosphere. Olive velvet wallpaper and floor-to-ceiling glass cabinetry house an array of jewellery collections.Central to the flagship’s offering is…

A Queensland resident’s swift actions following a jewellery theft at a Prouds store in Tweed Heads led to the apprehension of an alleged thief by undercover police officers. The incident began on Friday morning when Jordan Gelbart witnessed an individual enter the Prouds store and allegedly douse the counters with petrol. The suspect reportedly gathered jewellery items and placed them in a bag. Gelbart quickly contacted the police while recording the events on his phone, capturing crucial footage.As the suspect left the store holding a petrol container, Gelbart decided to intervene. “I couldn’t believe what I saw,” he told 9News. Gelbart…

At the CIBJO Congress held from 2-4 November 2024 in Shanghai, China, a delegation of Australian gemstone, mining, and jewellery representatives called for international collaboration on a new Opal Guide. Meeting with the Coloured Gemstone Commission, the Australian delegates outlined their efforts to create a standardised system for classifying and describing opals worldwide. They urged traders in major opal-producing regions around the globe to contribute to the development of this document, which aims to establish a unified reference for opal categorisation.Invitation for Submissions from Global TradersRuth Benjamin-Thomas, President of the Australian Opal Association, addressed the Congress, stating the need for…

Griffith Regional Art Gallery has announced the upcoming launch of “Alchemy: A National Contemporary Jewellery Initiative”, a series of exhibitions running from November to December, dedicated to Australian contemporary jewellery. The exhibitions will focus on various aspects of Australian jewellery design, presenting three showcases that reflect both traditional and evolving styles.National Contemporary Jewellery AwardCentral to Alchemy is the National Contemporary Jewellery Award, Griffith’s biennial competition, now in its 32nd year. This award exhibition highlights emerging and established jewellers from across Australia, with 25 artists competing for a $5,000 prize and a place in Griffith’s National Contemporary Jewellery Collection. The award recognises…

Shane Fallscheer, former CEO of Lovisa, is set to introduce a new jewellery brand, Harli + Harpa, aimed at the affordable accessories market. Harli + Harpa, supported by Fallscheer Retail Pty Ltd, reportedly plans to open several stores by Christmas, including a location at Sunshine Plaza on Australia’s Sunshine Coast.Fallscheer, who spent over a decade expanding Lovisa to over 550 stores in 20 countries, brings significant experience to his new venture. Harli + Harpa is already actively recruiting staff via social media and is positioned to challenge Lovisa and other players in the affordable fashion jewellery space.Harli + Harpa’s Market ApproachHarli…

Sydney-based jewellery designer Cindy Xu was awarded the “Best Gemstone” title at the 2024 Milano Jewelry Week for her opal brooch, Whirlpool Stingray. Known for her focus on wildlife themes, Xu’s work was prominently featured at the Artistar Jewelry Exhibition held during Milano Jewelry Week.Recognition for Craftsmanship in Opal JewelleryMade with Australian black opal, mother of pearl, and titanium, the Whirlpool Stingray brooch brooch’s design centres on a stingray within a wave motif, emphasising movement and natural elements. Following her win, Cindy commented, “I’m surprised and excited to be recognized on such an international stage, it is an honour… Each stone’s vibrant…

Patons Place Jewellers, located inside Craigieburn Central shopping centre, was targeted by a violent raid on Sunday morning, as thieves armed with metal poles shattered display cabinets and stole thousands of dollars’ worth of jewellery. Store staff responded quickly, with one employee chasing the thieves out with a ring-sizing stick, though the robbers managed to flee in a waiting getaway vehicle.The Incident and Police ResponseVictoria Police were called to the scene shortly after the robbery, which occurred around 11 a.m. in the busy shopping centre. The raid caused widespread panic, with shoppers seeking refuge in nearby stores and other businesses closing…

Shanel Tofaeono, one of the key figures in an alleged staged robbery scheme at a luxury jewellery store in Sydney, has been sentenced to prison. The plot, allegedly orchestrated by jeweller Michel Germani, involved faking a $2.8 million heist at Germani’s Hilton Hotel store in January 2022. Tofaeono, who pleaded guilty, received a sentence of four years and seven months for his role in the incident, which involved terrorising a store employee to make the staged robbery appear authentic.The Staged RobberyAccording to court findings, Tofaeono, along with co-accused Mounir Helou, executed the mock burglary by threatening and restraining a store employee. The…

Linneys has unveiled what it is fair to say is a unique creation: the Argyle Pink Quokka. This limited-edition piece combines the rarity of Argyle pink diamonds with the iconic quokka, a marsupial native to Western Australia. Limited to just three pieces and priced at an eye-watering $500,000 each, the Argyle Pink Quokka is part of the Icon Partner Program initiated by Rio Tinto, the former operator of the Argyle diamond mine.Design and FeaturesThe Argyle Pink Quokka consists of two parts: a quokka statue and a detachable leaf pendant. Crafted from 18-karat yellow and rose gold, the quokka is adorned with 3.39…

Nashwa Ahmed, owner of Blackbox Jewellers, is offering a six-carat diamond ring valued at AUD $30,000 to the buyer of her luxury home in Canning Vale, Perth. This incentive comes at a time when the property market remains competitive, making it an unusual addition to the sale.Ahmed’s Blackbox Jewellers operates five stores across Australia, with a notable clientele including sports stars such as rugby players, AFL athletes, and UFC fighter Israel Adesanya, who recently made a purchase. The six-carat ring comes from her jewellery chain, including it as part of the property sale.A Gesture of Gratitude to PerthSpeaking about the…

Arms of Eve, known for its handmade, tarnish-free gold and semi-precious stone jewellery, is expanding with the opening of a new store in Noosa, Queensland.The new store at 32 Hastings Street will open on 19 September, ahead of the summer season, and will join other locations including Bondi Beach, Bondi Junction, and Mosman. “We’re excited to introduce Arms of Eve to the Noosa community,” said Kerryn, founder of Arms of Eve. The new store will allow Queensland-based customers to experience the brand in person for the first time, extending its reach beyond its online and Sydney-based locations.Diversifying Product OfferingsAlongside its established…

Adelaide-based jeweller, Roberts Jewellers, has taken over the former Archer & Holland premises in Adelaide’s City Cross, following the latter’s closure in July. The family-owned business, led by second-generation jeweller Craig Roberts, will continue to offer the services previously provided by Archer & Holland, including a free ring cleaning service for former customers of the now-closed jeweller.Preserving a Family LegacyCraig, who runs the business alongside his wife Kirsty, brings nearly 20 years of experience in jewellery making, having learned the craft from his father, John M Roberts, a master jeweller in Adelaide since 1968. After working with his father for over…

Michael Hill International has reported a substantial decline in its financial performance for FY24 across its global footprint. The company experienced a 101.4 per cent drop in net profit after tax (NPAT), resulting in a loss of $479,000. This significant downturn was accompanied by a 75.8 percent decrease in operating profit (EBIT), which stood at $14.2 million. These results come in the wake of challenging economic conditions, with inflationary pressures and rising input costs cited as the primary factors impacting the group’s profitability.Revenue Growth Offset by Market ChallengesDespite these setbacks, the group reported a 2.4 per cent increase in overall revenue,…

Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) posted solid results for FY24, including a 17.1% increase in revenue to $699 million and a 20.9% rise in net profit to $82.4 million. Despite this, the company’s share price dropped by over 15% following the announcement, closing at $31.066.Global Expansion and Store GrowthLovisa expanded its operations throughout FY24, opening 128 new stores, bringing its global store count to 900 across 46 countries. Key markets for store growth included the United States, Australia, and France. In addition, the company opened a 5,000 square metre warehouse in Columbus, Ohio, to support its growing operations in the Americas,…

Jeweller Calleija has partnered with Maserati Brisbane for a week-long pop-up event at the Maserati showroom in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. The event, running from Saturday 17 August to Saturday 24 August 2024 (excluding Sunday), will display Calleija’s jewellery alongside Maserati automobiles.Event DetailsThe pop-up will be held at the Brisbane Maserati Showroom on Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. Attendees will have the opportunity to view an exclusive selection of Calleija’s jewellery pieces, paired with Maserati’s luxury car range, as well as be able to enter a draw to win a weekend with the Maserati Grecale, along with…

First State has recently launched an auction featuring rare pink diamonds from the now-closed Argyle mine in Western Australia.Highlight of the Auction: The 0.94-Carat Pink DiamondThe star of the auction is a 0.94-carat radiant-cut fancy intense pink diamond with VS1 clarity, estimated to sell for between $700,000 to $800,000 . This diamond, graded 6P on the Argyle Pink Diamond Colour Guide, was part of the final Argyle Pink Tender in 2021, a collection of 70 diamonds representing the best of the mine’s last production year.Gemologist Riya Takaya of First State Auctions highlighted the exceptional nature of the stone: “This is an…

Georgini has unveiled its latest offering, the Sydney Soirée Collection. This new collection marks Georgini’s third-anniversary collection and celebrates twenty years of the brand’s dedication to crafting jewellery for significant life moments.Key Features of the Sydney Soirée CollectionThe collection is headlined by the Fairwater set, named after a renowned estate in Sydney. This set features mother-of-pearl elements and a distinctive double-sided stone setting. Comprising five versatile pieces, the Fairwater offers a modern twist on the classic clover design, providing brides with unique styling options.Another key piece in the collection is the Elaine, featuring an elongated cushion-cut stone in a detailed…

The winners of the 2024 Australian Opal Awards unveiled a James Bond-themed gala event held in Lightning Ridge. Attended by over 250 guests, the awards celebrate jewelry design and carving featuring Australian Opal, with entrants from across the world entering for a chance to win a share of $35,000AUD of cash and prizes.“The Open Prestige Jewellery category is open to all shapes of Australian opal including cabochon, freeform and undulating opal, with the category receiving significant support from the Australian opal industry, funding the $15,000AUD first prize,” according to Kavitha Barron, President.The top prize was taken out by Artisans Bespoke Jewellers…

Luxury jewellery brand SARAH & SEBASTIAN has opened its flagship store in Perth, expanding into Western Australia.Founded by Sydney designers Sarah Munro and Robert Sebastian Grynkofki, the store offers various services, including ear alchemy piercings, soldered jewellery, and bridal consultations.Store Design and FeaturesThe new SARAH & SEBASTIAN store is situated in a heritage-listed building on King Street, one of Perth’s most prestigious retail precincts. Designed by Akin Atelier architects and interior designers, the store includes seating, a long display cabinet, and a piercing lab. The store’s interior reflects the brand’s connection to the ocean. Creative director Sarah Munro said, “We’re unveiling a…

De Beers Group has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its iron ore royalty rights related to the Onslow Iron project in West Pilbara, Australia. This move aligns with De Beers’ Origins strategy, focusing on streamlining operations and divesting non-core assets. The royalty right will be acquired by Taurus Funds Management for a total consideration of up to $150 million.Details of the SaleUnder the terms of the agreement, Taurus Funds Management will acquire De Beers Exploration Australia, the subsidiary that owns the iron ore royalty, for an upfront cash payment of $125 million. An additional $25 million in deferred consideration…

Michael Hill International Limited has released its financial results for the 52-week year ending 30 June 2024. Despite challenging retail trading conditions and macroeconomic pressures on the discretionary retail sector, particularly fine jewellery, the company has reported positive sales momentum across all markets in recent months.  Key Financial MetricsRetail Segment Performance in AustraliaSegment revenue in Australia, including Bevilles, increased by 10.5% year-on-year and 12.0% in the second half of the year. There were 171 stores (including 36 Bevilles stores) operating at the end of FY24, compared to 172 in the previous year.CEO CommentaryDaniel Bracken, Managing Director and CEO of Michael Hill…

Cullen Jewellery, a Melbourne-based company, is expanding with new stores opening both in Australia and internationally.Domestic and International ExpansionCullen Jewellery plans to open six new stores by the end of the year. These new locations include Adelaide and Sydney within Australia, and Auckland, New Zealand; San Francisco, USA; Toronto, Canada; and London, UK. This expansion follows the establishment of four showrooms across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth since the company opened its first physical store in 2019.Introduction of Lab-Made SapphiresThe company has introduced a new range of lab-made sapphires. These sapphires are available in various hues, including Kashmir Blue, Flamingo…

Harlin Jones Fine Jewellery, a New York-based jeweller, has opened a new studio in Sydney’s heritage-listed Trust Building. This move marks the brand’s first expansion outside of New York and highlights its ambition to establish a presence in the Australian market.Showcasing Signature CollectionsThe Sydney studio will feature Harlin Jones’ signature collections, including engagement rings, wedding bands, and statement pieces. Known for their craftsmanship and unique designs, these collections have a dedicated following in New York and are expected to attract similar clientele in Sydney.Customisation ServicesIn addition to showcasing their signature pieces, Harlin Jones offers bespoke jewellery services at the new…

Lucapa Diamond Company has announced the sale of its 70% stake in the Mothae diamond deposit in Lesotho to Lephema Executive Transport, a local company that has provided long-term mining services at Mothae, for a nominal fee of AUD 10,000. Additionally, Mothae Diamonds, the site owner, will pay Lucapa AUD 1 million. Lephema will also assume all liabilities and obligations related to the deposit.Following the completion of the agreement, expected by 30 September, Lucapa will provide technical services for Mothae for a minimum of three months. The deal does not require approval from the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) or shareholders.Continuation of…

Showcase Jewellers has formally announced its involvement in the forthcoming Jewellery Industry Fair (JIF), scheduled to occur at Sydney’s Carriageworks on the 17th and 18th of August. This announcement is a significant commitment from the group to the Australian jewellery sector, underlining its support for industry growth and independent retailers.Event Overview and Showcase’s InvolvementThe JIF in Sydney is acknowledged as a pivotal event for innovation, networking, and business opportunities within the jewellery industry. Showcase Jewellers’ participation will notably focus on providing educational resources and growth opportunities. The fair will host workshops, educational talks, and product launches, aimed at supporting the professional development…

Family-owned jewellery house Lannah Dunn has opened two new boutiques in Queensland, expanding its presence in the Sunshine State.The new flagship store is situated on Russell Street in Toowoomba, while a second boutique has been established in Brisbane’s Tattersall’s Arcade. This expansion reflects the brand’s focus on offering a more personalised experience for its clientele.The Toowoomba FlagshipThe flagship boutique in Toowoomba is located in a restored Art Deco building at 14 Russell Street. This historic site has been updated to reflect the style of high-fashion houses in Europe, featuring hardwood floors, oak shutters, and a restored antique French chandelier. Founder…