
Balmain Spring Runway 2017. PHOTO COURTESY OF REX/SHUTTERSTOCK
Military looks marched down the spring 2017 international runway in high style army khakis and greens. When these inspirations translate into jewelry, they are anything but utilitarian. Dog tags get a makeover with symbolic references, black diamonds and rough-hewn textures, while all other classifications get a hint of green and brown gems and a salute to tactile interest.

Victor Velyan 24K gold and silver dog tags with green and brown patina and various symbolism including “Hand of God,” “Creation of Adam,” dagger and cross, $3,300-$3,520, victorvelyan.com

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K. Brunini body armor cuffs in sterling silver with camouflage patina and French green beryl center stones ranging from 18.99 to 32.35 carats, surrounded by gray diamonds, $13,850-$18,4750, kbrunini.com

Karen Karch blackened silver and 10K yellow gold medium and large dog tag necklace, $1,600, karenkarch.com
This article originally appeared in the January 2017 edition of INSTORE.
Family Legacy, New Chapter: How Wilkerson Turns 89 Years of History Into Future Success
After 89 years of serving the Albany community, Harold Finkle Your Jeweler faced a pivotal decision. For third-generation owner Justin Finkle, the demanding hours of running a small business were taking precious time away from his young family. "After 23 years, I decided this was the time for me," Finkle explains. But closing a business with nearly nine decades of inventory and customer relationships isn't something easily managed alone.
Wilkerson's comprehensive approach transformed this challenging transition into a remarkable success story. Their strategic planning handled everything from advertising and social media to inventory management and staffing — elements that would overwhelm most jewelers attempting to navigate a closing sale independently.
The results speak volumes. "Wilkerson gave us three different tiers of potential goals," Finkle notes. "We've reached that third tier, that highest goal already, and we still have two weeks left of the sale." The partnership didn't just meet financial objectives—it exceeded them ahead of schedule.