Get one free year of the best-loved publication for American jewelry retailers.
Plus one reader wants independent retailers to take a stand against fixing jewelry that was purchased from the major e-tailers online.
These 6 questions will help you decide yes or no.
When you limit your inventory level to your annual gross profit dollars, your bank account will grow.
You shouldn’t put it off any longer.
Some who don’t claim that it’s part of their business model.
Luck is random chance … yet it isn’t. Follow these tips to increase your chances of “getting lucky.”
Creative choices reinforce brand identity.
Plus, entering a crowded market and what to do with a dysfunctional team.
Lab-grown diamonds, gold and colored gemstones were popular.
The call for entries for the 2023 Halstead Grant begins this month.
We’re all in favor of this idea for a January break.
But long pickup times were no match for father-in-law’s memory.
Plus a cool interactive magnetic settings and shanks ring builder by Stuller.
He says he’s found the American dream.
Whether large and loopy or seductively serpentine, these lovely lines will reel your customers right in.
Text platform quickly warns neighbors of potential threats.
Celebrity selections cement Toi et Moi as a popular engagement-ring style.
Create the right conditions to benefit from good fortune.
And an exercise to allow you to “get in your customers' heads.”
Memorable features include Husar Tower and Star of Husar.
Favorite? Familiar faces of longtime clients. Least favorite? Long hours.
Start a Log and Laugh book for all the low and high points that lie ahead.
Senior Independence Month is your chance to reach an under-served market.
Secondary timepiece market holds untapped potential.
Plus an emerging Mexican-American designer who’s inspired by Swedish minimalism and the Bauhaus movement.
Should he do anything about what he knows?
Change your focus from “always be closing” to “always be building relationships,” writes Megan Crabtree.
Use Account Based Marketing to stay connected with your best customers.
'I love the industry, I love the products and frankly, I love dealing with the public,' he says.
“Just roll with it,” advises the Michigan watchmaker.
Planning ahead will help you keep your showcases full, no matter what.
Honesty ensures longevity of century-old Albany, NY, jewelry store.
He courted her in the car he still drives today.
Being `in the zone' leads to bursts of creativity.
And for those customers who just want to vent, try this approach.
Arkansas jeweler launched his business with $1,000.
Wisconsin jeweler’s trademark lederhosen became legendary.
A dollar here and a dollar there go right into your bank account.
Some are dashing, some are subtle and all indicate personal style.
Our readers share their thoughts and questions ahead of the holidays.
It’s trivia about your store.
Some had some pretty creative ideas. Axe-throwing, anyone?
And for the things that don’t go quite so well, we share a fun way to flush them away.
Cheryl King plans events, spearheads merchandising and even takes on the role of store “mom.”
Respect for the team leads to productive company culture.
Lab-grown diamonds were listed by a majority of respondents.
A spurned Christmas gift puts the store owner in a difficult position.
Podcast is available now and offers listeners an intimate and exclusive “peek behind the curtain”.
There’s also a new book dedicated to Bulgari’s latest high jewelry collection.
There’s also a stunning collection based on (and benefiting) the Amazon forest.
The latest tech can make your clients happier and your life easier.
She knew “beyond a shadow of a doubt” they wanted a jewelry store.
Gilles St-Georges Enchanted Jewelry, Plainfield, CT GILLES ST-GEORGES, 88, sold Wise potato chips and launched a horse farm before finding his true calling as a bench...
Lang Antique and Estate Jewelry puts its neighbors first, from food resources to environmental initiatives.
Antiques shop in Arkansas spawned great success, along with termites.
Video library supplements weekly meetings.
Rachel Brosnahan showed off the trend at the Emmys in a Cartier necklace.
When it comes to hiring, you may have to change your mindset.
The subjects of our “8 Over 80” story have led fascinating and impressive lives.
They claim videos get more views and hold attention for longer.
AGS Labs’ contribution to diamond grading will live on, says John Carter.
Check off these action items as you go through the busiest month of the year.
That one thing you’ve been putting off because you were busy during the holidays? Take care of that too.
Set your showroom apart with these proven relationship-building strategies.
Some customers need space before they need help.
And Show and Tell Day is your chance to demonstrate just how important cut is.
From Deco influence to 80s color, these new designs will turn heads this holiday season.
They’ve had concerns about this employee since before she became ill.
In the process, you’ll help your clients with gift-giving.
And they almost always make a statement.
We also talk about considerations in setting up a coffee bar in your store.
Fixating on specific technologies is missing the point.
Even after the customer leaves, you still have a chance to save the sale.
Plus, a really cool way to reflect on New Year’s Eve.
The open and response rates are vastly superior to email.
Here are three ways to encourage add-on sales and thereby help your clients finish their holiday shopping.
The jewelry features positive affirmations.
It shouldn’t be measured by total sales alone.
Store owners generate excitement with Aurelie Gi events.
Julianne Moore turned up wearing one casually at the 2022 Venice International Film Festival.
Staff, customers and landlords support decision to close on Sundays.
If you’re not part of the Brain Squad, now’s a great day to join.
If you would raise your inventory prices because of inflation, why wouldn’t you raise the repair prices for the same reason?
Zadok family ensures supersized store still feels like home.
From average sale to add-ons, managers need to push salespeople to peak performance.
Close more big holiday sales by offering private appointments.
The owners don’t know whether to hold their ground or not.
And don’t miss EZEC, a new medical tech for jewelry designers.
She brought a fast-fashion sensibility from the apparel world to fine jewelry.
Aim is to expand its “Authenticity Guarantee” service to include fine jewelry from high-end brands like Bulgari, Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier.
And cut the commission on a discounted sale? It’s not that straightforward.
They came inside to say so.
Her inspiration is gathered from the great outdoors.
And don’t miss some terrific tree-inspired jewelry stands.
The recently deceased husband apparently weighed in.
Also, how to recognize when to end a fun conversation with a client.
Plus one reader is tired of “looky-loos.”
Lower prices should attract more young subscribers.
Some say they can’t afford it, while some say consultants just don’t know their business.
And add a coffee bar and chocolate chip cookies to your showroom if you can.
Economic warning signs mean it’s time to prepare for a recession. Here are four ways to start.
The platform offers jewelry and luxury goods manufacturers the fastest way to directly 3D print high-quality jewelry.
And let’s not forget Thanksgiving, the day that kicks off the holiday period.
See 18 new styles to wrap the wrist in jewels.
If you don’t encourage them to make the purchase together, you’re doing them a disservice.
In the lead-in to the holidays, it’s all about inventory and marketing.
Jewelry retailers find success in a wide range of media.
The look has been spotted at the Met Gala, Cannes Film Festival and more.
These were the letters to the editor in September.
And don’t miss the latest from the Accutron Legacy Collection of watches.
From rewarding existing customers to how (and where) to raise prices, here’s how to manage your marketing right now.
Custom design sales and lab-grown diamonds continued to pay dividends.
Single-shared-prong rings, halos and paperclips lead the way.
From the latest stones to where to buy them and how to sell them, this is must-know information for every jewelry salesperson.
It was an exciting month to be the INSTORE EIC.
Owner Marie McCarthy seeks to bring joy to jewelry shopping and a luxury experience to piercing.
It’s also Breast Cancer Awareness Month; time to bring out the pink.
Our October to-do list will ensure you’re ready for the key selling period of the year.
That said, lab-grown diamonds, custom and gold jewelry continue to be popular.
Jewelry lovers may also enjoy wearing the diamond-themed loungewear featured here.
Event is happening on Oct. 20-23.
Independent jewelry retailers grow in “coolness” every year.
Here are 18 luminescent new beauties.
Not only are they highly targeted, but you can measure the results … and pay for only what you get.
Jewelry designers are using the motif to indicate a time of transformation.
And don’t forget to get your inventory in line for the holidays.
Some say business continues to boom.
“I hit submit and waited,” she writes.
These five new collections range from fashion to fine.
Owner Craig Underwood reflects on the family business.
Including three reasons why you should tell your staff early if you’re planning to sell.
Some they could do, but one type is out of the question.
It can help you close customers more quickly while also raising your margins.
Plus a reported breakthrough in precious coral jewelry traceability.
Event included an engagement-ring giveaway.
And don’t miss your opportunity to celebrate the 50th birthday of “The Price Is Right”!
It means clearing out your non-performers and focusing on styles that sell.
Lab-grown diamonds were the most popular answer.
Wining and dining is just the beginning.
Here’s why a digital business card may be a great option for you and your team.
They’re not in a hurry, so don’t rush them.
And who is really “her customer” in this situation?
Jewelry retailers weigh in on crafting a luxury experience.
Plus Gabriel & Co. introduces a limited collection featuring GIA-certified natural diamonds.
It’s called the Goddess Den.
They say there are still customers who “need the ring today.”
Their messaging reflects the store brand, regardless of platform.
Curves are in, with ovals, pears, marquise and even heart-shaped diamonds trending.
Looking for a way to shake up sales meetings?
Plus some loved the INSTORE Design Awards while others did not.
But retail jewelers can’t be complacent.
The distinction is whether or not the piece is truly “custom” or a special order.
Unusual fixtures demand attention.
Only 26 percent reported losses.
Plus new jewelry-centric collage art by Lou Taylor.
Not only will you close more engagement sales, but you’ll make clients for life.
Winners will be announced in late August.
These are questions you should be asking when you run your reports.
Kate Middleton wore diamond star earrings to the premiere of Top Gun: Maverick.
It means comparing certain reports to the performance of past years.
Here are two places to potentially find new employees.
Try selling single earrings to those who love to mix and match.
In context of downtown Canton, it looks like a spaceship has landed, owner says.
Those who do share how they find their favorites.
Humor boosts mood, morale, team performance AND your bottom line; here’s how to get more of it in your business.
And don’t miss the final edition in the Rizzoli Timepiece Trilogy.
It starts with setting the stage before they come in, then asking the right questions once they do.
They all combine a message with a plan of action.
“I feel so loved. How many people go to work and have that feeling?”
Also, look into helping your jewelers set up a bench at home so they can work remotely if needed.
As well as a day to celebrate — and profit from — “happy accidents.”
These three techniques could drastically improve your Instagram performance.
The AGTA GemFair will be part of the HardRock Summit Sept. 8-11 in Denver.
Plus one reader is not happy with vendors selling direct to consumers online.
The pandemic sped up e-commerce innovations.
This includes a new approach to handing out criticism that works better than the “sandwich” method.
Marci Bailey’s venture puts personal spin on virtual selling.
One collection incorporates actual bee honey inside the gold.
Some cool educational and networking concepts will make this a next-level trade show.
Today’s consumer wants un-fussy jewelry; necklaces fit the bill.
How can he explain that another customer must have purchased a lab-grown — not a mined diamond as he claimed to his wife — without violating...
Lab-grown diamonds and custom design remained hot.
Team brainstorms to reach out to all segments of community.
It’s encounters like these that make you wish your engraver had a filter.
Also, hand out more “rough” compliments.
Some of the answers are hilarious, while others are inspirational.
Yes, quality and service matter … but how are you talking about them?
Also, the secret to a good thank-you note is revealed.
It may be simple, but it’s turning heads across the country.
Plus a birthstone mug you’ll want to start your mornings with.
There are only six suppliers of Fairmined gold in North America
It means rethinking how you open your store on any given day.
Dua Lipa showed off the trend at the 64th Grammy Awards.
If you’re doing it for inventory, you should definitely do it in the shop.
Response to every activated alarm is critical to jewelers’ livelihoods.
It’s always a good idea to amplify your achievements.
And here’s a reason why you should want to get invited to your clients' weddings.
Strategy and preparation should be at the top of the list during this traditionally slower month.
There’s also a string of back-up dates that give people a second chance to celebrate the important people in their lives.
The first wedding band Wendy Woldenberg made was her own.
It requires focusing on just one need at a time.
Understanding the relationship between sales and costs is only the beginning.
It does require strategic partnerships and some promotion.
Humor, music and tacos combine for a casual experience.
Gabriel & Co. led a crowded pack of “hot brands.”
Figure out the three that could work best for your business.
What would you do in this store owner’s shoes?
Our competition received a record number of entries in 2022.
How creative ideas turn into inspired events.
"Is this just reality and we have to face it and raise all our prices?"
The thing about 80-year-old customers is they often lose their belly rings.
Your storefront is shoppers’ first point of contact; what impression are you making?
And don’t miss what jewelry designers are doing with enamel and gemstones.
One reader introduced a puppy as a “greeter” in their store.
It means socking away savings even when you’re feeling strapped.
A written style guide with examples can ensure consistency in your communications.
Cate Blanchett wore this ultra-modern vibe to the SAG Awards.
Contract with them to be their exclusive retail outlet, then market it.
And be sure to use those Vegas shows to your PR advantage.
Don’t start your day until you check out these five new designs.
Most say the content developed in-store works best.
Increase your margin while accommodating more budgets.
And you could partner with a local business for National Donut Day.
It’s time to get ready for Gen Z’s questions about ethical issues in the industry.
Their popularity is also driving up the size of center stones.
Plus how to apply an “immediacy filter” when deciding whether or not to say yes to an engagement.
Be sure that you present great value to your customers based on your pricing.
Brad Marks reimagines the business with a store update.
Why there’s no such thing as a “quick fix” that lasts.
How inflation, exchange rates and freight charges will impact your business.
Trace Shelton reflects on conversations with a new jewelry salesperson: his daughter, Mayson.
Here are 18 new designs for the ears.
“Shut up and listen” is one way to approach it.
Small graphic elements have big impact.
Three-wheeled “Carat Cart” attracts attention.
Custom design and lab-grown diamonds remain hot.
She didn’t need jewelry; she needed diapers.
Carter’s Jewelry of Petal leans into the future.
Almost 60 percent say they don’t.
Jewelry designers are taking new approaches to the historical icon.
“Stronger Together” is a membership network and shared physical coworking space.
Plus a stainless steel flask with built-in shot glass by Kin & Pebble.
One of them is inspired by ancient armor.
How should the owner react?
An active and engaged customer base can insulate jewelry retailers from any change in consumer mindset.
Plus what’s generally acceptable in non-compete agreements for employees.
Two-thirds of our Brain Squad says they do.
Here’s how to bring the outdoors in.
And Loyalty Day is your chance to repay your best customers.
Just about any game you played as a kid can be turned into a contest for your team.
Tweak your SEO for voice-based search, and while you’re at it, get your take-in procedure up to date.
The jeweler was at a loss for words.
Barry Peterson creates a destination store.
And don’t miss these three ideas to move aged inventory.
Buy more than you think you’ll need.
Affordable yet elegant, it’s no wonder silver is easy to love.
His commitment to the profession is second to none.
And be sure to schedule your emails to go out during business hours.
Two jewelers tell of the jobs they’ve turned down.
Not only that, but they’re easy and cheap to implement.
It involves a live Q & A.
The client subsequently calls the jeweler to angrily demand answers.
Human rights and the environment should be important to all of us.
Plus, the newest catalog from Royal Chain.
Plus a beech wood jewelry holder by French artist Manaaki.
Lab-grown diamonds continue to rise in popularity and acceptance.
And one reader really wants to know how to find employees.
The Brain Squad shares their feelings on how the conflict will affect them.
Plus, the secret of how to get “the small stuff” done without distracting from your more important tasks.
Yes, Katie Diamond is her real name.
Creative segmentation of your marketing efforts can pay off in increased sales.
There’s no reason why you can’t improve your math acuity.
And a tip to ensure you’re not missing the target on National High Five Day.
Take your custom design presentations to another level by following this advice.
Many use graduated steps to encourage their involvement.
Christopher Duquet finds joy in creative challenges.
Many say they could do it, but their time is more valuable elsewhere.
They’re not just about building sales volume (although that is important).
Many jewelry clients are choosing custom design as a means of self-expression.
Plus a new catalog dedicated to wedding party gifts from Kelly Waters.
Plus a jewelry case with an unusual bristle base to keep jewelry untangled.
And don’t miss these cigar band rings with shaker compartments.
Brick-and-mortar retailers can no longer afford to view their businesses from a merchant perspective only.
Malka Diamonds moves from storefront to appointment business.
And what to consider when investing in that expensive new laser welder.
Their online sales have a global reach.
The author’s uncle said that the next person who speaks will give money to the other person.
Zodiac designs and heavy chains are among the styles represented.
Check these areas to see if you can drop more to the bottom line.
There’s a method behind this social media madness.
And here’s why too much eye contact may be a bad thing for certain customers.
You may need to reconsider your philosophy on events first.
And check up on your diamond inventory — bridal madness is ready to descend.
Happy salespeople sell 300 percent more than unhappy ones.
Never say “no” to the client, he says.
Plus the newest updates from the industry.
Stuller led the way.
And tee up your crosses — first communion season is just ahead.
A lab-grown diamond subsidiary of a mined diamond conglomerate was offering them for one-third of the price.
There’s no reason to rely on digital media alone.
Stamp sealed envelopes take your correspondence to the next level.
If succession is the goal, it could get tricky without a solid course of action.
And one jeweler will no longer accept rings bought elsewhere online for sizing.
You can mitigate your risk if you start with these queries.
But many mom-and-pops still do, as well as those who want to retain more control.
Even small words can have a big impact.
Collaborative interaction is a must for today’s sales environment.
Plus a Vachetta leather jewelry box.
A response worthy of The Matrix.
And there’s a fascinating new engagement ring collection from 12th House Jewelry.
And it’s all legal.
Jewelry designers continue to push the bounds of color combinations.
How should the store owner respond?
This exercise will help you turn buyers into fans.
Fun colors highlight this trend.
That’s the reason jewelry retail likely won’t see a pronounced downturn when the pandemic recedes.
And don’t miss this artwork entitled “Ear-rings from Mars.”
Everyone needs one, but many won’t admit it.
The pandemic has taught us we can live and even thrive on less. Here’s how to do it.
Temporarily turn your back on technology and reap the mental benefits.
This is also a good time to get an independent appraisal of your inventory.
The focus is on the customer experience.
Don’t neglect this important branding opportunity.
2/22/22, a.k.a. Twofer Day, is your chance to double your marketing bang.
You had a great holiday season, now a salesperson wants a pay raise. What to do?
Diamonds led the way, as usual.
Despite a strong year last year, many jewelers are pessimistic about 2022.
It’s part of a national marketing plan.
Dick Abbott of The Edge has advertised since INSTORE’s inaugural issue in 2002.
Many reported larger and earlier sales than usual.
It’s also the 160th anniversary of the first greenback — give away spiffs.
Plus Kit Heath introduces its Entwined collection.
Brain Squad members tell what it’s like to be part of “the squad.”
Here’s why it works for them … and why others choose not to do so.
Plus, 2021-2022 catalog from Royal Chain.
In Shane Decker’s final regular monthly column, he shares wisdom from his dad.
She was disappointed in the “young'uns” for not knowing.
The Korean War vet, great-grandfather and parade grand marshal is retiring … but he thinks he’ll probably still go into the store to help.
Professional follow-up is key to referrals and repeat purchases.
But he wants everyone to be clear: he’s not retiring!
We’re all in this thing together.
It means marketing for talent the same way you market for customers.
Lab-grown diamonds, custom and repairs continue to be strong.
Long, boldly colored drops have returned to fashion.
This is your guide to what “contemporary cool” looks like inside retail jewelry stores.
Experts and retailers agree that these developments have disrupted the jewelry Industry.
She might just laugh and dance and curse, she says.
Spoiler alert: Story has a happy ending for Mrs. Grinch and the jeweler.
And, of course, they talk about their holiday sales so far as well.
The idea is to have them totally rethink the way they do things.
What should this young man do now?
There’s more to customer service than just ringing up the sale.
This year, put an emphasis on keeping your staff, promoting custom and clearing out old inventory, he says.
It means a careful approach to displays, lighting, color and more.
Also, how much trust should you extend another person in the jewelry industry?
A changing retail landscape demands that store owners challenge themselves.
Plus a collection designed by a former graffiti artist/tattoo designer.
In-store experiences include a friendly ghost.
Plus a good reason to set an alarm to beep at you every hour.
Taking risks and becoming more vulnerable can lead to growth.
These are the latest pieces in gold, from 18K to plated.
It will also allow you to train your salespeople more effectively.
The more personal you make the connection, the more likely you are to close the sale.
Including a heritage-inspired engagement collection from Kirk Kara.
One says he’s not happy with the current goings-on in Washington D.C.
Here are 11 contest ideas to get your employees excited about selling.
These were your letters from November.
Plus, how to make time for creative thinking.
And they also described which jewelry sold best for them.
And as your biggest fans, the team at INSTORE is cheering you on from the sidelines.
While most transactions were lucrative, others were just odd.
Every facade has a brand story to tell.
Add some fun to the holiday season with Ugly Sweater Workday.
3M put $3 million on the line … protected by nothing more than its glass wrap.
It’s accomplished through a method called “habit chaining.”
Plus JMI launches The Zing Report.
Plus limited-edition jewelry boxes.
Custom chandeliers appear to be dripping with diamonds.
Rox Jewelers' owner learned the business from her parents.
Jewelers seem to be split 50/50.
Special moments with clients top the list.
As a perfectionist, she knew the vendor would recognize the giver.
Both store and product share a wow factor.
From sleek to bold, these are the latest in masculine adornments.
The answer includes recommended websites and jewelry schools to try.
Plus, why using the phone can be the best choice in certain situations.
Follow this advice in your showcases to help clients with their shopping.
Create a contest that incentivizes your sales team to “save sales” they didn’t originally make.
Take advantage of this month to set yourself up for a successful year.
And don’t miss National Smith Day if you’re a goldsmith!
