Headlines

The Big Jewelry Firms Left This Major Trade Show — Will They Ever Be Back?

Published

8 years ago

September 13, 2016

This year four “relatively young, contemporary” jewelry houses are exhibiting.

Cartier and a host of other major brands, from Chanel to Bulgari, decided to sit out this year’s Biennale des Antiquaires trade show, which began over the weekend in Paris. And now the New York Times is asking: Will they be back? The companies’ decisions not to participate were thought to have stemmed from moves by organizers to deemphasize the jewelry houses’ presence in favor of antique dealers. The newspaper reported on Sept. 11 that the event was opening with just four “relatively young, contemporary jewelry houses” alongside the antique dealers. They are Nirav Modi of India, Cindy Chao of Taiwan and De Grisogono and Boghossian of Switzerland. Of the jewelry companies that are not participating, most declined to comment or did not respond to the Times. But one — Boucheron — indicated that conversations are underway with a look toward that firm possibly participating in 2017. The evolution of the marketplace may be diminishing the jewelry houses’ perceived need to exhibit at Biennale des Antiquaires, the Times notes. Private events, social media and various international art fairs all provide channels to connect with customers.

Read more at the New York Times

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.”