Tools and Services

Moissanite Marvel, Spectrum Season and More Service News for September

Plus, a dependable source for lab-grown stones from Sy Kessler’s lab-grown diamond portal.

Published

8 months ago

September 4, 2024

INSTORE Staff Instore September 2024 Issue

Moissanite Marvel

Charles & Colvard has allied with the International Gemological Institute (IGI) to introduce comprehensive grading reports for its moissanite gemstones and jewelry. Gemologists will rigorously evaluate and authenticate each moissanite, offering transparency and accountability. igi.org, charlesandcolvard.com

Spectrum Season

The 2024 American Gemstone Trade Association (AGTA) Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards are open for submissions. This year marks an important milestone for the prestigious industry competition: Spectrum’s 40th anniversary! Early bird deadline is Sept. 20 and final deadline is Oct. 9. agta.org

Lots of Labs

Need a dependable source for lab-grown stones? Sy Kessler’s lab-grown diamond portal has over 30,000 GIA, IGI, and GCAL certified diamonds available for memo as well as studs, tennis bracelets, flex bangles, hoops and more! For help with your hunt, ask their friendly personal concierge service to curate a selection of options. sykessler.com

Pack It Up

Stuller has released a new edition of its packaging and displays catalog. Packaging & Displays 2024–2025 introduces new items in complementary colors and finishes that will help you build your brand, make a lasting first impression and elevate the beauty of your jewelry. stuller.com/packaginganddisplayscatalog

Ethically United

Ethical Metalsmiths, the community for responsible jewelry, is now a part of the United Nations Fashion and Lifestyle Network (UNFLN), which helps to advance the UN’s established Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by connecting industry stakeholders, media, governments, and UN entities. ethicalmetalsmiths.org

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.