Author: Ruchi Singla

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…

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 HistoryEstablished 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.“We are pleased to…

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 LayoutDuring the event, CEO Daniel Bracken discussed the flagship’s design, “Our…

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 DetailsThe 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 error, Cartier attempted…

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 DetailsThe 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 then departed in…

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 HillThe 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 logistic consolidation.“The…

Michel Elias Germani, owner Germani Jewellery, remains at the centre of legal scrutiny as owner Michel Germani faces charges over an alleged staged robbery of his store, situated inside the Hilton Hotel. Germani, accused of orchestrating the incident to claim insurance on goods valued at $2.8 million, continues to be denied bail, reflecting the serious nature of the allegations.The Heist UnravelledAccording to authorities, Germani, who has previously crafted pieces for international celebrities and royals, allegedly staged a robbery at his store located in Sydney’s George Street. The incident, which supposedly occurred in January 2022, involved two individuals who, posing as…

Swatch has significantly expanded its retail footprint in Australia with the opening of its largest flagship store yet, situated in Melbourne’s CBD. This move not only underscores the Swiss watchmaker’s commitment to the Australian market but also signals a new chapter in its retail innovation and customer engagement strategy.A New Retail BenchmarkThe Melbourne flagship store, offering 315 square meters of retail space, aims to set a new benchmark for the brand’s presence in Australia. It stands out for its unique architectural design, featuring open walk-through spaces, seven glass brick totem walls, and dedicated product collection islands, culminating in a shopping experience…

Archer & Holland, one of the oldest family-owned jewellers in Adelaide, is closing its doors, marking the end of a significant chapter in the city’s retail history. This decision was made by Bill Whiting, great-grandson of co-founder Herbert Holland, and Meredith Whiting, who have steered the business for over four decades and have now opted for retirement.Historical Legacy and ImpactEstablished in 1918, Archer & Holland set its foundation at the prime location of King William Road and Hindley Street, quickly cementing its status for crafting distinctive and exquisite jewellery. Beyond its commercial success, the company played a pivotal role in…

A Sydney airport employee has been implicated in the theft of over $50,000 worth of luxury items from a Cartier store located within the airport’s international terminal. The incident, unfolding over the festive period between December 21 and January 4, has raised alarms within the jewellery retail sector about internal security measures and the implications of such incidents on brand reputation and consumer trust.Chantelle Elizabeth Carrington, 39, of Kingsgrove, is at the centre of the allegations, charged with larceny by a clerk or servant. Following a complaint lodged by Cartier, the Australian Federal Police (AFP), which oversees law enforcement within…