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Trends

Pantone colours of 2016 – a beautiful blend of Serenity and Rose Quartz!

by IJL •

For the first time, 2 combined colours have been set as the Pantone colours of 2016 by the Pantone and Pantone Colour Institute. The harmonious pairing of Serenity (Pantone 15-3919) and Rose Quartz (Pantone 13-1520) has already been seen on the runway of Emilio Pucci, Leanne Marshall, BCBG and Richard James.

Pantone colours

The perfect choices to fit winter and summer, these 2 colours are representative of balance and calmness, the ideal escapism for the stress of modern day life. What could be more fitting for a New Year then to start it with thoughts of mindfulness and well-being!

Look out for these colours on the catwalk, the world of beauty, interior design and accessories.

Here are a few of our jewellery & watch favourites:

Sarah Ho, Paradis Earrings, Platinum and 18ct rose gold with conch pearls and white diamonds.

Sarah Ho earrings
Dower & Hall  Sterling Silver 10mm Round Chalcedony Drop Earrings

Dower & Hall
Storm London, Quella Rose Gold Grey watch

Storm Watch
Alexis Dove, Blue Oval Sapphire ring

Alexis Dove

Fei Liu, Whispering Small Round Rose Quartz Pendant
Fei Liu

Shaun Leane, White Diamond and aquamarine aerial crossover ring

Shaun lean

Gemleys, Swarovski Heart & Golden Bird Necklace.

Gemleys

Happy New Year!

Trends

Tis the season and the tills are ringing…

by IJL •

But what are retailers stocking up on for Christmas 2015?

This year, International Jewellery London (IJL) in conjunction with Domino Jewellery, commissioned the first IJL Christmas buying trends survey of UK jewellery retailers.  

We asked a cross –section of IJL’s UK Jewellery Retailers what they would be stocking in their stores this year in preparation for the busy Christmas season – and the one trend that has really stood out is the importance of UK Craftsmanship.

80% of respondents stated that UK craftsmanship is an important factor when purchasing precious jewellery to stock in-store.

When choosing new Christmas lines, ‘how interesting the design is’ followed by ‘how unique the piece is’ were a priority – ensuring retailers are able to stand out in the marketplace and capture the attention of busy Christmas shoppers.

Pendants are the products which retailers most focus on at Christmas, followed closely by earrings, rings and necklaces in descending order – with wrist wear the least popular.

Not surprisingly, price-point is another major factor when purchasing Christmas lines, with the strongest performing price points falling into the less than £500 category.  It’s definitely the thought that counts when it comes to the Christmas shopper!

And when it comes to the consumer– it’s all about the surprise. Well over half of retailers at 57% said gifts were purchased as a surprise, with 28.6% of pieces requested by the recipient in advance but purchased separately.

With the Christmas season now well and truly in full swing – we hope that whatever ranges you’re stocking this year, at whatever price points – your tills will be ringing over the next 2 weeks, and business will be robust!

We wish you a great Festive Season, from all at IJL.

Read the full survey findings press release

Find out more about UK Craftsmanship from Domino and visit them on Stand D60 at IJL 2016.

People

An Interview with an IJL KickStarter

by IJL • • 1 Comment

The application process for IJL’s 2016 prestigious KickStart is open!

As we start the search for emerging UK designers to mentor and help take their business to the next level, we spoke to Laura Parra, one of last years finalists and the People’s Choice Winner – about what it meant to be part of the competition – and to win the prize of exhibiting at IJL 2016.

IJL: Tell us a little bit about your jewellery background and why you chose to enter IJL’s KickStart

LP: My background is in the arts so studying to become a jewellery designer was a natural progression for me when I first arrived in London. Applying for the KickStart Initiative was an easy decision to make as it really boosts the audience for my designs and is an excellent opportunity to connect with new stockists and buyers. Knowing it is supported by the National Association of Jewellers is amazing, providing an excellent support network to help promote and develop my company.  As a new business this type of help is invaluable.

IJL: Which products did you showcase in the competition

LP: I showcased my Enlace Collection, which is my first, complete collection. It is full of colour – lots of beautiful gemstones in a myriad of shades – and I think, a little different to some of the pieces that are out there at the moment. My designs are all handmade and hand crafted, most of them are unique and distinctive, unlike much of what you can find now which uses a lot of CAD…everything very perfect, angular and geometric. I think my designs stand out because they are quite organic and embrace colour.

IJL: How did you feel about being selected the KickStart Peoples Choice Winner

LP: Over the moon? No! To the next galaxy! To receive recognition from the public, to be chosen by them is incredible, I am beyond words.  I am happy to be chosen as a ‘KickStarter’ because the initiative promotes fresh, exciting and innovative jewellery and it’s nice to be given that recognition for my designs.

IJL: So thinking back to Olympia and IJL2015.  How did you find the experience of displaying your collection on the KickStart stand?

LP: I wasn’t sure what to expect so the outcome was amazing, a huge boost to my confidence as a new designer. I received so much positive feedback – as a KickStarter you are visible to so many different people, fellow designers, buyers, potential clients and the press. Everyone has been very supportive which has helped to strengthen my faith in my designs.

IJL: So what has happened since we last saw you at IJL, and what has been the impact of KickStart on your business?

LP: It has been a fantastic experience, I received lot more orders than I expected, I made lots of new connections and the whole experience has helped propel me on to create a brand new collection, my ‘Medieval Collection’. Everything about KickStarter has been brilliant.

IJL: Why you would encourage people to enter KickStart 2016?

LP: I cannot think of a better way to get in to the industry, to gain the support, connections and press coverage as a designer that can help a young designer on to developing a successful business. It has been a truly wonderful experience for me, I couldn’t be more encouraging to new designers – you won’t regret it, go for it!

Laura Parra will be exhibiting at IJL 2016 on Stand Q58, and you can find out more about her collections here www.laparrajewels.com

KickStart 2016

10 up-and-coming designers will be selected by the British Jewellers’ Association and IJL to have the unique opportunity to showcase their jewellery at IJL 2016 on a group stand in the prestigious Design Gallery. With exposure to over 9,000 buyers and leading industry experts at the show, the winners will have the opportunity to attend a special training day before the event, covering all aspects of brand promotion. The BJA will also provide mentoring following IJL.

Find out more and complete the 2016 KickStart Application Form here

LaParra Jewels by Laura Parra Medieval Collection rubies and gold ring31 ring20 pinterest09 pinterest07 pinterest06

Industry, People

IJL Raises a Christmas toast to its Advisory Board Members

by IJL •

The IJL Advisory Board met at Gordon Ramsey’s townhouse, the York & Albany, for a festive toast to the success of an amazing 60th Anniversary Edition of IJL 2015.

 

The perfect place for a Yuletide get-together, Advisory Board Members Stella Layton, The Birmingham Assay Office;  Julia Clarke, Hester Clarke County Jewellers; Barrie Dobson, Lawrence Blunt; Suzanna Hammond,Hammond PR; Eran Shem-Tov, Stubbs & Co; Sarah Jordan, Sarah Jordan Design; Stuart Laing, Houlden Group/ Laings of Glasgow; Jan Springer, Global Marketing Services Ltd; Dax Humberstone, Antwerp Diamonds and Jos Skeates, EC One mingled with the IJL team over bubbly and canapes before sitting down to a festive lunch from the Head Chef Will Stanyer.

 

With the thank you’s out of the way, and the toasts all done, we all got down to the most important business of catching up!  With gripping tales of keeping a jewellery thief talking at the counter until the police arrive, the big Black Friday debate – to join the madness this year or not and what was ultimately best for business, a global search for the purest coloured ruby for a very particular client (we’re not naming names!) and of course plans for the coming busiest weeks of the year – lunch stretched into early evening!

 

Christmas is the most important season of the year– for Retailers and Manufacturers alike, so its always good to hear how everyone if getting prepared  – and also to say how delighted we are that the Advisory Board members take time out of their hectic schedules to be with us at such a busy time of year!!!

 

The IJL Advisory Board is an invaluable part of the IJL Team.  Donating their time, they provide industry insight, input into new initiatives, drive new ideas and act as collective sounding board representing all sides of the jewellery industry as IJL continues to innovate, respond to the ever changing demands of our industry and match the trading needs of both buyers and suppliers year by year, with our passion for delivering IJL’s strategy as the premier jewellery industry event.

 

We’re looking forward to working with all our members again next year – and can’t wait to see all the new ideas come to fruition over the 4 – 6 September 2016 at Olympia.  We’re also hoping  for the effects of a great Christmas lunch to hopefully wear off soon too!

 

Happy Christmas from all at IJL.
P1020821Photo2Photo7

Trends

Pantone colours of 2016 – a beautiful blend of Serenity and Rose Quartz!

by IJL •

For the first time, 2 combined colours have been set as the Pantone colours of 2016 by the Pantone and Pantone Colour Institute. The harmonious pairing of Serenity (Pantone 15-3919) and Rose Quartz (Pantone 13-1520) has already been seen on the runway of Emilio Pucci, Leanne Marshall, BCBG and Richard James.

Pantone colours

The perfect choices to fit winter and summer, these 2 colours are representative of balance and calmness, the ideal escapism for the stress of modern day life. What could be more fitting for a New Year then to start it with thoughts of mindfulness and well-being!

Look out for these colours on the catwalk, the world of beauty, interior design and accessories.

Here are a few of our jewellery & watch favourites:

Sarah Ho, Paradis Earrings, Platinum and 18ct rose gold with conch pearls and white diamonds.

Sarah Ho earrings
Dower & Hall  Sterling Silver 10mm Round Chalcedony Drop Earrings

Dower & Hall
Storm London, Quella Rose Gold Grey watch

Storm Watch
Alexis Dove, Blue Oval Sapphire ring

Alexis Dove

Fei Liu, Whispering Small Round Rose Quartz Pendant
Fei Liu

Shaun Leane, White Diamond and aquamarine aerial crossover ring

Shaun lean

Gemleys, Swarovski Heart & Golden Bird Necklace.

Gemleys

Happy New Year!

Trends

Tis the season and the tills are ringing…

by IJL •

But what are retailers stocking up on for Christmas 2015?

This year, International Jewellery London (IJL) in conjunction with Domino Jewellery, commissioned the first IJL Christmas buying trends survey of UK jewellery retailers.  

We asked a cross –section of IJL’s UK Jewellery Retailers what they would be stocking in their stores this year in preparation for the busy Christmas season – and the one trend that has really stood out is the importance of UK Craftsmanship.

80% of respondents stated that UK craftsmanship is an important factor when purchasing precious jewellery to stock in-store.

When choosing new Christmas lines, ‘how interesting the design is’ followed by ‘how unique the piece is’ were a priority – ensuring retailers are able to stand out in the marketplace and capture the attention of busy Christmas shoppers.

Pendants are the products which retailers most focus on at Christmas, followed closely by earrings, rings and necklaces in descending order – with wrist wear the least popular.

Not surprisingly, price-point is another major factor when purchasing Christmas lines, with the strongest performing price points falling into the less than £500 category.  It’s definitely the thought that counts when it comes to the Christmas shopper!

And when it comes to the consumer– it’s all about the surprise. Well over half of retailers at 57% said gifts were purchased as a surprise, with 28.6% of pieces requested by the recipient in advance but purchased separately.

With the Christmas season now well and truly in full swing – we hope that whatever ranges you’re stocking this year, at whatever price points – your tills will be ringing over the next 2 weeks, and business will be robust!

We wish you a great Festive Season, from all at IJL.

Read the full survey findings press release

Find out more about UK Craftsmanship from Domino and visit them on Stand D60 at IJL 2016.

People

An Interview with an IJL KickStarter

by IJL • • 1 Comment

The application process for IJL’s 2016 prestigious KickStart is open!

As we start the search for emerging UK designers to mentor and help take their business to the next level, we spoke to Laura Parra, one of last years finalists and the People’s Choice Winner – about what it meant to be part of the competition – and to win the prize of exhibiting at IJL 2016.

IJL: Tell us a little bit about your jewellery background and why you chose to enter IJL’s KickStart

LP: My background is in the arts so studying to become a jewellery designer was a natural progression for me when I first arrived in London. Applying for the KickStart Initiative was an easy decision to make as it really boosts the audience for my designs and is an excellent opportunity to connect with new stockists and buyers. Knowing it is supported by the National Association of Jewellers is amazing, providing an excellent support network to help promote and develop my company.  As a new business this type of help is invaluable.

IJL: Which products did you showcase in the competition

LP: I showcased my Enlace Collection, which is my first, complete collection. It is full of colour – lots of beautiful gemstones in a myriad of shades – and I think, a little different to some of the pieces that are out there at the moment. My designs are all handmade and hand crafted, most of them are unique and distinctive, unlike much of what you can find now which uses a lot of CAD…everything very perfect, angular and geometric. I think my designs stand out because they are quite organic and embrace colour.

IJL: How did you feel about being selected the KickStart Peoples Choice Winner

LP: Over the moon? No! To the next galaxy! To receive recognition from the public, to be chosen by them is incredible, I am beyond words.  I am happy to be chosen as a ‘KickStarter’ because the initiative promotes fresh, exciting and innovative jewellery and it’s nice to be given that recognition for my designs.

IJL: So thinking back to Olympia and IJL2015.  How did you find the experience of displaying your collection on the KickStart stand?

LP: I wasn’t sure what to expect so the outcome was amazing, a huge boost to my confidence as a new designer. I received so much positive feedback – as a KickStarter you are visible to so many different people, fellow designers, buyers, potential clients and the press. Everyone has been very supportive which has helped to strengthen my faith in my designs.

IJL: So what has happened since we last saw you at IJL, and what has been the impact of KickStart on your business?

LP: It has been a fantastic experience, I received lot more orders than I expected, I made lots of new connections and the whole experience has helped propel me on to create a brand new collection, my ‘Medieval Collection’. Everything about KickStarter has been brilliant.

IJL: Why you would encourage people to enter KickStart 2016?

LP: I cannot think of a better way to get in to the industry, to gain the support, connections and press coverage as a designer that can help a young designer on to developing a successful business. It has been a truly wonderful experience for me, I couldn’t be more encouraging to new designers – you won’t regret it, go for it!

Laura Parra will be exhibiting at IJL 2016 on Stand Q58, and you can find out more about her collections here www.laparrajewels.com

KickStart 2016

10 up-and-coming designers will be selected by the British Jewellers’ Association and IJL to have the unique opportunity to showcase their jewellery at IJL 2016 on a group stand in the prestigious Design Gallery. With exposure to over 9,000 buyers and leading industry experts at the show, the winners will have the opportunity to attend a special training day before the event, covering all aspects of brand promotion. The BJA will also provide mentoring following IJL.

Find out more and complete the 2016 KickStart Application Form here

LaParra Jewels by Laura Parra Medieval Collection rubies and gold ring31 ring20 pinterest09 pinterest07 pinterest06

Industry, People

IJL Raises a Christmas toast to its Advisory Board Members

by IJL •

The IJL Advisory Board met at Gordon Ramsey’s townhouse, the York & Albany, for a festive toast to the success of an amazing 60th Anniversary Edition of IJL 2015.

 

The perfect place for a Yuletide get-together, Advisory Board Members Stella Layton, The Birmingham Assay Office;  Julia Clarke, Hester Clarke County Jewellers; Barrie Dobson, Lawrence Blunt; Suzanna Hammond,Hammond PR; Eran Shem-Tov, Stubbs & Co; Sarah Jordan, Sarah Jordan Design; Stuart Laing, Houlden Group/ Laings of Glasgow; Jan Springer, Global Marketing Services Ltd; Dax Humberstone, Antwerp Diamonds and Jos Skeates, EC One mingled with the IJL team over bubbly and canapes before sitting down to a festive lunch from the Head Chef Will Stanyer.

 

With the thank you’s out of the way, and the toasts all done, we all got down to the most important business of catching up!  With gripping tales of keeping a jewellery thief talking at the counter until the police arrive, the big Black Friday debate – to join the madness this year or not and what was ultimately best for business, a global search for the purest coloured ruby for a very particular client (we’re not naming names!) and of course plans for the coming busiest weeks of the year – lunch stretched into early evening!

 

Christmas is the most important season of the year– for Retailers and Manufacturers alike, so its always good to hear how everyone if getting prepared  – and also to say how delighted we are that the Advisory Board members take time out of their hectic schedules to be with us at such a busy time of year!!!

 

The IJL Advisory Board is an invaluable part of the IJL Team.  Donating their time, they provide industry insight, input into new initiatives, drive new ideas and act as collective sounding board representing all sides of the jewellery industry as IJL continues to innovate, respond to the ever changing demands of our industry and match the trading needs of both buyers and suppliers year by year, with our passion for delivering IJL’s strategy as the premier jewellery industry event.

 

We’re looking forward to working with all our members again next year – and can’t wait to see all the new ideas come to fruition over the 4 – 6 September 2016 at Olympia.  We’re also hoping  for the effects of a great Christmas lunch to hopefully wear off soon too!

 

Happy Christmas from all at IJL.
P1020821Photo2Photo7