INSTORE

INSTORE Show Spotlight: Ready for a Bench Challenge – with a Twist?

Published

11 months ago

June 20, 2023

INSTORE Staff

A favorite feature of The SMART Jewelry Show returns — with a twist! Designed in partnership with MJSA, the Bench Pressure Challenge includes two separate challenges – one featuring a mystery box of materials, which our competitors will turn into jewelry that will be displayed at the show. There, they will explain their vision and techniques to the audience. The second challenge will take place on-site where competitors will have just three hours to resize a bypass ring shank, attach differently sized and shaped basket heads to the ring, set the heads with stones and apply a final finish.

Join us for The INSTORE Show August 13-15 in Rosemont to watch the competition live on the show floor. When the challenges aren’t running, the stations will be used by bench jewelers for daily demos where you can learn new techniques and ask questions. Don’t miss all the action.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”