NAJ launches yearbook

The NAJ has announced the publication of its annual yearbook, which aims to celebrate its members and wider industry “through the eyes of NAJ”. While members had previously benefited from its in-house publication, The Jeweller, the Association has now presented members with an “additional reference source, to inform, remind and…

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Austro-Hungarian necklace raises funds for Alzheimer’s Society

An Austro-Hungarian necklace has been sold at Fellows Auctioneers for £900 on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Society. The late 19th Century neo-Renaissance enamel and gem-set necklace “soared” above its initial £600 to £800 estimate and received over 30 bids in Fellows’ Jewellery Sale.  It featured as Lot 29 in the…

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Road closures are ‘accelerating the decline of the high street’, says Bira

Local authorities across the UK are “accelerating the decline of the high street” with “unnecessary” road closures, according to Bira. The group said it has been “inundated” with calls from concerned businesses that post-lockdown accessibility issues are “significantly impacting trade”. Bira said it is now working hard to help address…

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The enjoyment of in-store shopping is a culture we must not forget

Before the pandemic hit, we were already inching closer to the death of the High Street. But with lockdown restrictions and now, new COVID containment measures in place, its demise seems that much more daunting. “Consumer sentiments have well and truly changed,” warns Robert Lockyer, CEO and founder of Delta…

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Two-thirds of consumers look for ethical features in online purchases

Some 64% of UK and Irish consumers are now “actively looking” for ethical or sustainable features when making a purchase, according to new research by PFS and LiveArea.  A further 76% of consumers felt that online retailers and brands have an “obligation” to protect, conserve and benefit” the environment, reflecting…

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Diamonds capture luxury market share, says De Beers

Diamonds have an increased potential to “capture the luxury market share”, according to the third instalment of De Beers’ Diamond Insight Flash Report series. The series of reports aims to look at the consumer perspective on diamonds, and how it continues to evolve following the pandemic.  The latest report includes…

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Frédéric Zaavy monograph to launch in October

The first monograph dedicated to Parisian artist-jeweller Frédéric Zaavy will launch in October 2020.  Entitled ‘Stardust: The Work and Life of Jeweler Extraordinaire Frédéric Zaavy’, the monograph will explore the work of Zaavy, who was chosen as the exclusive jeweller for the 21st Century revival of Fabergé.  The avant-garde jeweller…

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John Pye welcomes highest auction figures in its history

John Pye Auctions has recorded its highest auction figures in its 52-year history, welcoming a 79% sales increase compared to pre-lockdown. The online auction house, which was crowned the UK’s Asset Valuer & Auctioneer for the last five years, said it has seen “unprecedented” liquidations with corporate insolvencies, product returns…

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Laings launches new social platform

Laings has announced the launch of a new social platform, Laings Watches, in a bid to “keep audiences connected to a world of luxury watchmaking”.  The Instagram-based community is a place for “enthusiasts to engage with inspiring and informative content”, according to the jeweller. The @LaingsWatches platform will showcase a…

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Pandora revenues slump in Q2 results           

Pandora has reported revenues of DKK 2.87bn (£348m) in its second-quarter of trading, down from DKK 4.69bn (£569m) during the same period last year. Gross profit also decreased from DKK 3.5bn (£424m) to DKK 2bn (£242m), and Pandora now expects organic growth to be down 20% in 2020. The full-year…

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