Opinion

SOAPBOX: Here’s what CAD/CAM has already done to the jewellery industry

In recent issues of Jewellery Focus, several questions have been asked about whether people think CAD will change the jewellery industry, and what it will do to jewellers’ jobs. JACK MEYER from Holts Academy offers some reflections. Given how fast 3D printing and jewellery CAD technology have been changing since these questions…

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Turning obstacles into opportunity

Regardless of what business you are in, it is essential to understand exactly where and how you add value for your customers. For a service company that means understanding the obstacles your customer faces and trying provide solutions as part of your services or products. Over the longer term this…

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COMMENT: A background on birthstones

History of birthstones Each month of the year correlates to a specific birthstone. It is believed that the origins of birthstones date back to the Breastplate of the High Priest written about in the Old Testament. The breastplate had twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. It was thought…

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Why bosses could do with some training

If sales are disappointing and there is older stock that is proving hard to move, could it be that you, the boss, are not doing things properly? LEONARD ZELL asks the question in a characteristically provocative column about training and sales tactics. When I ask bosses how their business is…

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ADVICE: 5 things to consider before starting an eCommerce store

In the wake of news that click-and-collect is set to take the British High Street by storm this Christmas, if you’re thinking about starting an eCommerce shop, here are 5 Top Tips for starting a successful online offering. 1) Images and descriptions Shopping for jewellery is a tactile experience, which…

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COMMENT: Why are diamonds a man’s best friend, too?

The word ‘diamond’ comes from the ancient Greek adámis which means ‘unbreakable’. Known to be one of the hardest substances on earth, diamonds date back billions of years. Diamonds have been treasured throughout history, with a rise in the 19th and 20th Centuries. This increase is due to technological advances, a…

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COMMENT: Rising hallmarking figures are great news but the party may be short-lived

By Scott Thompson, founder and CEO of Carat* There is growing evidence that many parts of the UK are coming out of the great recession. I am pleased that many of my colleagues and friends in the jewellery industry are sounding more upbeat. However there is a risk that the…

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