Author: Ruchi Singla

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…

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 Traders Ruth Benjamin-Thomas, President of the Australian Opal Association, addressed the Congress, stating the…

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 Award Central 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.…

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 +…

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 Jewellery Made 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…

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 Response Victoria 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…

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 Robbery According to court findings, Tofaeono, along with co-accused Mounir Helou, executed the mock burglary by threatening and restraining…

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 Features The 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…

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 Perth…

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…

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 Legacy Craig, 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…

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 Challenges Despite these setbacks, the group reported a 2.4 per cent increase…

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 Growth Lovisa 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…

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 Details The 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…

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 Diamond The 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…

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 Collection The 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…

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…

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 Features The 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…

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 Sale Under 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…

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 Metrics Retail Segment Performance in Australia Segment 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 Commentary Daniel Bracken, Managing Director…

Cullen Jewellery, a Melbourne-based company, is expanding with new stores opening both in Australia and internationally. Domestic and International Expansion Cullen 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 Sapphires The company has introduced a new range of lab-made sapphires. These sapphires are available in various hues,…

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 Collections The 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 Services In addition to showcasing their signature pieces, Harlin Jones offers bespoke jewellery…

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…

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 Involvement The 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…

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 Flagship The 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…

The Griffith Regional Art Gallery has officially opened the call for entries for the National Contemporary Jewellery Award (NCJA. Held biennially, this award recognises the work of contemporary jewellery practitioners from across the country. Award Details and History Established in 1992 by Griffith City Council, the NCJA aims to showcase contemporary jewellery and contribute to the National Contemporary Jewellery Collection, which is housed at the Gallery. The award features two prizes: a $5,000 cash prize accompanied by the acquisition of the winning piece into the National Contemporary Jewellery Collection, and the Design Excellence Award, which includes a $1,000 cash prize.…

Michael Hill has launched a new concept global flagship store at Chadstone Shopping Centre, the first in a planned rollout of new concept stores across Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, reflecting the updated brand design introduced earlier in April. The opening was led by CEO Daniel Bracken, along with brand founders Sir Michael and Lady Christine Hill and also included the unveiling of ‘Infinity, 2024’, a commissioned artwork by Australian artist Dina Broadhurst. The artwork represents a blend of Michael Hill’s heritage and its vision for the future. Design Philosophy and Layout During the event, CEO Daniel Bracken discussed the…

In a significant consumer rights case that has captured widespread attention, Rogelio Villarreal, a 27-year-old doctor from Tamaulipas, Mexico, successfully purchased a pair of rose-gold, diamond-studded earrings valued at over $21,000 for just $21 due to a pricing error on Cartier’s website.  This unusual transaction has spotlighted the enforcement of consumer protection laws in Mexico and their implications for international luxury retailers. Incident Details The earrings, typically priced at 237,000 Mexican pesos, were mistakenly listed for 237 pesos. Villarreal, intrigued by the drastic price difference while browsing through a social media advertisement, proceeded with the purchase. Upon realisation of the…

Detectives from the Robbery & Serious Crime Squad are investigating an armed robbery that occurred at a jewellery store on Sydney’s Lower North Shore. The event took place at approximately 3:30 PM on Thursday, 28 March 2024, involving two individuals who threatened employees with a firearm before leaving with stolen items. They were last seen escaping in a silver Holden Commodore, registered in Victoria. Incident Details The robbery unfolded at a store located on Birdwood Lane in Lane Cove. Reports indicate that two individuals clad in dark attire and masks, one armed, entered the store and threatened the staff. They…

Bevilles has announced that it is set to relocate its corporate head office and distribution centre from Melbourne to Brisbane. This move, slated for completion in July 2024, follows less than a year after the retailer was acquired by Michael Hill for $45 million. Leveraging Synergies with Michael Hill The relocation aims to capitalise on the existing infrastructure of Michael Hill Australia’s distribution and support centre in Brisbane. According to the Michael Hill group, this strategic move is expected to yield considerable cost and operational efficiencies. It reflects a broader trend of businesses seeking to streamline operations through geographic and…