Author: Angela Oliffe

Ear piercing manufacturer Studex has revealed plans to open a new office in Dublin, known as Studex Ireland.This initiative is intended to provide improved services to existing Irish clients and to establish new partnerships. The Dublin office is expected to serve as a pivotal point for nurturing and expanding the piercing business locally.Leadership and AspirationsThe Irish branch will be under the guidance of John Walsh, a long-serving member of the Studex team, his son Jack, and Caroline, a skilled Studex trainer. They aim to uphold the company’s reputation for exceptional customer service.Potential Advantages for Irish JewellersThe presence of Studex in…

The jewelry industry in Ireland and globally is currently eyeing the unfolding situation concerning the possible ban on Russian diamonds. The ban proposition emerges amidst the escalating geopolitical tensions, with the G7 nations at the helm of the initiative. The repercussions of such a ban could ripple through the diamond trade, affecting retailers and consumers alike.G7 Leading The ChargeThe Group of Seven (G7) wealthy nations is orchestrating the move to ban Russian diamonds from approximately 70% of the world’s markets, a strategy seen as a punitive measure against Russia’s aggressive geopolitical stances. The European Union (EU) is expected to align…

Newbridge Silverware unveiled its latest collection in a launch event held earlier this week, crafted in collaboration with Amy Huberman. The launch was attended by a gathering of Ireland’s esteemed media personalities and influencers, marking a significant moment for both Newbridge Silverware and Amy Huberman.Collection DetailsAmy Huberman, an Irish actress and writer known for her roles in various dramas and films including ‘Finding Joy’, collaborated with Newbridge Silverware to bring this collection to life. This is not her first venture with the brand – she has previously collaborated with Newbridge Silverware on several collections, beginning in 2013The new collection encompasses…

Chupi Sweetman has been commissioned to design the trophy for the KPMG Women’s Irish Open scheduled at Dromoland Castle this September. This collaboration originated from Sweetman’s previous involvement in KPMG’s Going for Growth initiative, aimed at nurturing female entrepreneurship.Trophy DesignIncorporating the elegance of a golf stroke, the trophy aims to epitomizes feminine strength and resilience.Crafted by Irish artisans, it utilises recycled and sustainably sourced materials, aligning with the ethos of supporting women in sports and business. “More than ever, Irish women in sport are finally being supported, recognised and celebrated for the great work they do and their achievements,” Sweetman…

Antwerp-based International Gemological Institute (IGI), part of the Blackstone portfolio, has announced a significant leadership change that will mark the beginning of a new era for the organisation. Roland Lorie, who served as the CEO for nearly five decades, will step down and be succeeded by Tehmasp Printer as the Global CEO, effective October 1, 2023.Lorie’s tenure has been marked by the creation of the largest network of gemological laboratories and schools across the globe, cementing IGI’s position as a leading certification authority for natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, coloured stones, and finished jewellery.Tehmasp Printer: A Seasoned LeaderPrinter brings a wealth…

Dublin-based luxury jewellery and watch retailer, Weir & Sons, has broadened its alliance with French jewellery maison, Messika Pari – marked by the inclusion of Messika Paris’ exquisite collection at Weir & Sons’ showroom in Dundrum, Dublin.Partnership ExpansionThe enhanced collaboration sees the opening of a new door for Messika Paris in partnership with Weir & Sons, situated in Dublin’s largest mall, Dundrum. This strategic move is aimed at bolstering Messika Paris’ local footprint.It aims to seamlessly meld the heritage and retail excellence of Weir & Sons with the contemporary design ethos of Messika Paris, promising a unique luxury retail experience…

Recent data from AIB disclosed a significant uptick in spending at jewellery shops on Valentine’s Day.According to the report, spending in jewellery shops surged by 38%, with the number of transactions rising by 45% compared to a week earlier. The average spend per transaction was noted at circa €140, showcasing a lucrative opportunity for jewellers during love-centric holidays.Gendered Spending PatternsMen emerged as the bigger spenders in jewellery shops, with an average transaction value of around €178.This gendered spending trend reflects broader market patterns, aligning with historical data where men typically spend more on jewellery, especially during romantic occasions such as…

Diamonds Factory is expanding its horizons by establishing a European hub in Ireland, reflecting a significant growth in sales and a strong market presence. This move comes in the wake of a robust financial performance, with sales nearing the £40 million mark in 2022.European ExpansionThe decision to open a European hub stems from the substantial growth Diamonds Factory has witnessed in the Irish market. The expansion follows a significant turnover marking a promising trajectory for the diamond retailer.To cater to the burgeoning demand, Diamonds Factory is not only opening a European Hub but also an Operation Office in Ireland. This…

Goldsmiths has inaugurated a modernised showroom at Victoria Square, Belfast, marking its first new concept showroom in Northern Ireland. The unveiling took place on 1st July 2022, embarking on a fresh chapter for the distinguished watch and jewellery retailer.Showroom HighlightsDesign PartnershipThe showroom’s aesthetic, crafted in alliance with Quadrant Design, encapsulates a serene yet dynamic ambiance. The use of luxurious materials like white-washed oak timber, white terrazzo, and blackened steel, in conjunction with architectural forms inspired by the Goldsmiths logo, underpins the contemporary luxury design.Executive InsightCraig Bolton, President of the Watches of Switzerland Group, UK & Europe, expressed that the new…

Luxury Italian brand Bulgari has marked its debut in Ireland with a pop-up boutique at the esteemed department store, Brown Thomas, in Dublin. The pop-up was launched with an intimate gathering, signifying the first time Bulgari’s iconic range of watches, fine jewellery, and accessories has been made available to the Irish market.Brown Thomas: A Prestigious VenueEstablished in 1849, Brown Thomas has four outlets – in Cork, Dublin, Limerick, and Galway. Launching the pop-up boutique in its Dublin store, the initiative is part of Bulgari’s strategy to introduce its luxury offerings to the Irish consumer base in a high-end retail environment.The…