Sotheby’s coming to source jewelry for auction

Could the Philippines be the source of the next world record-setting price for a piece of jewelry sold in an auction?

Jewelry has been fetching headline-making prices at recent auctions, and auction house Sotheby’s visits Manila this July to find potential jewelry consignees.

Sotheby’s broke records in May at its “magnificent and noble jewels auction” in Geneva. It’s likely hoping to replicate—and perhaps even surpass—them when it holds its autumn auctions in Hong Kong in October.

According to Sotheby’s, jewelry auctions have grown exponentially in Asia since the 1990s, and Hong Kong now stands alongside New York and Geneva as one of the major jewelry auction centers, where the world auction record prices for jadeite (US$27.4 million) and a fancy vivid pink diamond ($17.77 million) were made in 2014.

In 2013, the Hong Kong saleroom also sold a 118.28-carat oval D-color flawless diamond—the biggest diamond ever sold at an auction—for $30.6 million, also a world record.

Jewelry sales is on an upward trend. In 2014, it accounted for 21 percent of Sotheby’s auctions in Asia, amounting to $189.3 million.

High demand

“Now’s a good time to sell,” said Brett O’Connor, Sotheby’s senior director and senior international jewelry specialist, via phone from Geneva. “There are more buyers than sellers. There’s high demand and the supply is finite. The market is strong at the moment.”

O’Connor, a 22-year industry veteran, will visit Manila July 9 to source jewelry for sale and meet up with prospective consignees.

Based in Hong Kong in the early 2000s, he made similar sourcing trips to the Philippines in those years. He said he found Manila to be “a rich source of classical 20th-century pieces.”

This time he is on the lookout for “very high quality stones, single or set with pavé,” possibly from quality jewelers like Cartier and Van Cleef and Arpels.

At recent auctions, trend has shown collectors’ continued interest in colored gems, such that the 25.59-carat “Sunrise Ruby,” which fetched $30.3 million in Geneva in May, more than tripled the previous record for a ruby, set only in November also in the Swiss saleroom. It also set the record price per carat for a ruby.

The “extremely rare” Burmese ruby also set the world record price for a jewel by Cartier. The previous record was made in Hong Kong only last year, for the Hutton-Mdivani jadeite bead necklace, which sold for $27.4 million, more than double its estimated price.

World auction records

Recent headliners at the Sotheby’s salerooms also include the 8.72-carat “Historic Pink Diamond,” believed to be from the collection of a niece of Napoleon Bonaparte I, which sold for $15.9 million also in May; a pair of Burmese sapphire and diamond ear clips, a combined 32.67 carats ($3.4 million); and a 30.23-carat Kashmir sapphire and diamond brooch by Cartier ($6.1 million). It also sold a two-strand natural pearl and diamond necklace for a record $7 million.

O’Connor cited Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand and Singapore as good sources of jewelry for sale, with a special mention of Bangkok for colored stones. All pieces sourced in the region are auctioned in Hong Kong, he said.

For jewelry sales at Sotheby’s Hong Kong, total transaction value from the Philippines, including buying and selling, more than tripled from 2010 to 2014, according to the auction house.

O’Connor, however, denied that there’s correlation of his visit to next year’s elections. An election year is a time when, typically, the economy seems rosier and buoyant for buyers, and property sellers are on a huff to divest or get stuck with the goods until after the elections.

The jewelry expert, who will do free valuations at Discovery Primea in Makati (contact Jennie.Leong@sothebys.com, tel. +85228228112 for details), said he’s looking for pieces valued at a minimum of $5,000. He typically asks for the story behind the piece, how it was acquired, or any other special details relating to the jewelry. Usually, potential sellers bring receipts.

“We respect privacy, and we understand if the consignee wishes to remain anonymous,” he said. “We also avoid controversy,” he added, such that they don’t deal with pieces of questionable provenance.

There are several factors that influence the spike in jewelry auction prices, he added, citing rarity, quality and beauty, as well as the piece’s history.

There’s also a broad range of auction buyers, including serious jewelry collectors and individuals looking for specific pieces, like an engagement ring, but don’t want to pay retail prices.

“You see, when you buy in an auction, you’re essentially paying for the sale market price,” he said.

“And we don’t use the word ‘investment’ when it comes to jewelry.” While it’s true that jewelry has the potential to appreciate in market value, he said, it’s not true all the time. The market can get flooded with a certain gem, for instance, which could bring down prices.

Instead, he said, you raise your paddle only for jewelry that you like.

source: lifestyle.inquirer.net

These bangles were made for stacking (and giving)

Kristel Cue first met Alex and Ani founder Carolyn Rafaelian as a student in New York in 2006. “She welcomed our college organization in her office for an inspiring career talk,” Kristel recalled.

After the talk, Carolyn gave each of the students a bangle. “It was to remind us to pursue our passion,” said Kristel, who got a Fleur de Lis bangle in Rafaelian Gold—something she still wears today.

Six years later, Kristel and her business partner Celine Tang decided to bring the brand, which has a solid following around the world, to Manila. “We saw a market in the Philippines for a lifestyle brand with real meaning to the wearer. Very few brands, especially in fashion, focus on creating a positive impact as its core mission,” said Kristel.

Their store in SM Aura has been a huge hit, both with long-time customers of the brand who discovered it while abroad and with new Alex and Ani fans.

Women stop by regularly to create their stacks. Yes, Alex and Ani bracelets are meant to be worn in a pretty pile on your wrists. Some women choose to build slowly, choosing bangles with charms that have a special meaning for them, while others amass an impressive collection in just one visit.

Kristel said, “They say building a stack can be quite addictive—which is true! It’s also a perfect gift item.”

In the Philippines, the bestsellers have been the Mother Mary and Four Leaf Clover designs, but Kristel’s favorite is The Path of Life: “I like what it symbolizes—strength, motivation, knowledge. Our Gypsy 66 wrap is also a great layering piece.”

On Dec. 14, Alex and Ani will hold a Christmas shopping event at SM Aura to celebrate the release of their newest collections—Night’s Mosaic, Buffed Epoxy and the highly anticipated Monopoly collection that was inspired by the classic boardgame.

Kristel loves talking to customers: “Hearing why they are purchasing Alex and Ani—whether for themselves or someone dear to them—can be heartwarming. The stories have been amazing, and we feel very lucky to be able to share this positive energy with people in the Philippines.”

Positive energy is important to founder Carolyn Rafaelian. She said, in this e-mail interview with Super: “From the beginning, the company’s purpose has been to create pieces that have meaning and a positive impact. To me, positive energy is love, kindness and making the best of each situation. It’s the driving force behind all things Alex and Ani, as well as in my own life.”

We asked Carolyn about the brand that she named after her daughters, her passions and her favorite bangles.

What inspired you to start Alex and Ani?

My father opened a jewelry factory, Cinerama, in Rhode Island in 1966. Working in the jewelry industry is a family tradition and something I’ve always been a part of. I grew up in an extremely creative environment with a supportive family. During the time spent in the factory, I experimented and created my own pieces. Ultimately, my passion became my enterprise.

What’s the most unforgettable thing your father taught you about jewelry?

That each piece you create is an expression of yourself, your individuality. I design each piece with the intention of empowering and inspiring others.

How does it feel to know that your brand has a lot of fans in the Philippines?

The whole experience is a blessing. The growth and progression of this company was very organic. As it grows around the world, I feel gratitude in my heart. It’s wonderful to know that our products hit home for so many around the world. It’s exciting! I plan to visit Asia soon and look forward to experiencing such a beautiful culture.

Which pieces are your personal favorites?

The “One People” bangle that both the Dalai Lama and I have. I created two: one for him and one for me. He blessed them, which was one of the most incredible moments of my life.

What’s your favorite stack to wear? Do you mix your metals?

I prefer to wear gold, but I do adore how the mixed metals look together; silver and gold definitely complement each other. My fathers’ gold chain bracelet and the One People bangle are always on my wrist. I wear what I am drawn to each day. New designs and other treasures that inspire me enhance my stack. These pieces are dear to my heart and soul…

We love that Alex and Ani has a lot of charity bangles. How do you choose which organizations to work with?

Ultimately it’s an organic process guided by the extraordinary team at Charity By Design (CBD). Each inquiry we receive is considered and valued. CBD   empowers nonprofit organizations to reach their goals by sharing what we do best, harnessing the power of positive energy through innovative, creative design. It’s also at a price point that could potentially attract new philanthropists. We’re currently working on making Charitable Bangles available worldwide.

You use recycled material for your jewelry. Is the environment something you feel passionate about?

Yes, definitely. Using sustainable materials is another way of saying, “Product made with integrity.” Knowing where something is made, who’s making it, and what their intentions are make all the difference. We make a conscious effort to remain environmentally sustainable, support local economies, and through thought, prayer and intentions, create the finest American products.

What else are you passionate about?

Living a life that’s a real example of the power of positive energy. Outside of Alex and Ani, my passions include spending time at Sakonnet Vineyard, creating wines from the oldest vines in New England, and restoring a Rhode Island historic landmark, Belcourt of Newport. I love absolutely everything about my job. I’m truly living my dream.

What’s the best thing people have said about your jewelry?

My favorite story is when someone gives a bangle to a friend (or stranger) right off their wrist. This is so cool! It’s like this great, pay-it-forward effect where someone is like, “Hey, you’re dealing with something, I dealt with something similar… put this bangle on and let it remind you that you have what it takes to get through it.” This is powerful…

Do you have any tips for people who are starting to build their stack or buying bangles for their loved ones?

Alex and Ani products are created for wearers to feel empowered, enlightened and beautiful. Words are powerful, symbols are powerful and the wearer can experience this heightened sense of inspiration through our pieces. The best advice I would give is to select symbols that resonate with you or the loved ones in your lives.

source: lifestyle.inquirer.net

Helen Hunt Wears H&M (and $700,000 Worth of Jewelry) to the Oscars

Never has the term high-low dressing been more applicable. Oscar nominee Helen Hunt hit the red carpet in a gown with a label we never expected to see on the Academy Awards red carpet: H&M.

But she didn’t skimp when it came time to accessorize the mall-store gown, adding a Martin Katz diamond brooch to the back of the dress, plus a necklace and bracelets from the jeweler, which Hunt noted totaled up to $700,000 worth of jewelry.

Looks like Sharon Stone will have to give up her title of Most Frugal Oscars Dresser. (The actress famously stunned when she showed up at the 1996 Academy Awards in a Gap turtleneck.) Hunt has out-bargained Stone by wearing this midnight blue silk and satin strapless dress.

source:  http://stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com/2013/02/24/oscars-2013-helen-hunt-dress/

A luminous affair

MANILA, Philippines - When it comes to diamonds, a girl’s best friends are Marco Bicego and Roberto Coin, the foremost jewelry names at Rustan’s Silvervault.

An 18-karat yellow-gold diamond bracelet from Marco Bicego makes a stunning and sparkling Valentine’s gift.

Roberto Coin features diamond-adorned bangles, tennis bracelets, rings and necklaces.

For a classic Audrey Hepburn vibe, Yvel’s assortment of South Sea Pearl jewelry can be mixed and matched to dress up any outfit.

To gift a man this V-Day, Rustan’s Silvervault offers Montblanc and Piaget stainless-steel watches to complement his personality and ensemble on any occasion.

Silvervault is located within Rustan’s Department Stores.

source: philstar.com

Rock Chic Fashion Trend

There is no particular dress design for the rock chick look. It's all about feeling better in what a person wears and being able to pull off any style. Some suggestions that will help you don the look of a rock star:

• Try a pair of Converse shoes or any hip hop kind of shoes. Wear them along with skinny jeans for a good contrast. Pair it with something like tight top.
• Purchase over-sized sunglasses. You can find these types of inexpensive glasses in any shop. Try to get some fluorescent or silver precious metal rims to offer your attire the added edge.
• Chunky jewelry: Chains look incredible, and so try pendants with crosses. Be cautious with these, due to the fact some people may mistake you for being a Gothic follower.
• Rock group T-shirts are a must-have! Or instead music group T-shirt, how about a high collar tee with old style 70s design?
• Try to prevent wearing way too many colors as this will make you look like a hippie. If you are planning to don the rock chic look then try to stick with dark colors.
• Leather leggings are totally "Rock Chic". Pair them with a baggy pants and off-the-shoulder top and pair it with an 80's seam.
• Skinny jeans: A lot of skinny denim is available. Try to get a few pairs in various washes or even patterns.

Consider these two items to polish your rock chic look:

Leather-based Bomber Jackets:

• It is regarded as one of the most desirable fashion clothing for fashionable men as well as women's wardrobe.
• This kind of jacket has gone through a lot of changes in all these years from aviation to rock and roll then to the rocker's coat.
• All teenagers prefer to possess at least one bomber jacket.
• Leather bombers are so stylish that you can create your own fashion trend with this jacket, pair this with a t-shirt and faded denim jeans and you will be writing of a brand new style in the fashion planet.
• These jackets come in suede, sheepskin or lambskin ideal to provide warmth and comfort.

Leather Pants:

• The one craze that by no means goes out of style is leather pants. Carefully crafted high quality grain leather when changed into a pant is certainly going to get your attention and the wearer never goes unnoticed.
• These types of leather jeans however have a warning, although they are trendy, for e.g. if you do not fit into skinny natural leather pants then do not put them on and if you are uncomfortable wearing low rise or perhaps low cool huggers then do not buy them.
• Leather pants even though they are fashionable they have to match and enhance your body type; otherwise you may need to face significant consequences for being poorly dressed.
• Buy a cut denim mini-skirt, it's amazing and can be worn for many occasions with any kind of top.
• Set a statement. It's not a must have, however it will increase your style in a major way! Everyone loves something different, as long as you look and feel comfortable in it.

Have fun trying out these guidelines, but remember not to over do it.

William Turner is a renowned designer and columnist. Growing up in the middle-class Minneapolis suburb, He loved to watch how leather grew and adapted itself to different ages and genders. It is with this passion and knowledge that he opines regularly in leather biker jacket, leather coats and leather pants women.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_G_Turner