RAPAPORT... Designer Patrick Mauboussin launched the diamond “Corset Ring” as part of a collection from the newly formed partnership Patrick M/Kazanjian. These rings showcase big, bold colored gemstones in diamond-encrusted latticework shanks.
Congratulations to the winners of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) 2007 George A. Schuetz Jewelry Design Contest. Named after the men’s jewelry designer, George A. Schuetz, the competition honors original designs in men’s jewelry and accessories. First place went to Ashdod, Israel–based Yael Serfaty for cufflinks made of yellow and white gold and diamonds. Second place was given to Hirata Kiyoko of Ashiya Hyogo, Japan, for a ring comprised of 18-karat white and yellow gold, diamonds and sapphires. Seoul, Korea, native Duck Woo Chun won third place for a matching tie-bar and cufflink set in malachite, onyx, white gold and diamonds. A total of 104 entries were judged by a panel of industry experts, who evaluated the pieces on design, wearability, manufacturability and appeal.
First-season winner of America’s Next Top Model Adrianne Curry was the hostess with the mostest at a launch of Von Dutch Watches at Tourneau in New York City. The model appears in ads for the timepieces. New additions include pink gold and diamond editions as well as the Kobra collection of diamond-decorated timepieces, all inspired by the art of Kenny “Von Dutch” Howard, who achieved cult status as a motorcycle-mechanic-turned-designer who created custom paint jobs for bikes.
Sonya Ooten has been granted a U.S. Patent for her signature metal crochet Cosmos earrings. The earrings, created in gold, also feature gemstones or pearls. Los Angeles, California–based Ooten had her patent pending for three years before the patent office granted it to her for a period of 14 years. She currently has a utility patent pending on her metal crochet jewelry process.
Known for her fashion-forward feminine designs, Elizabeth Showers has launched a new line of 18-karat gold jewelry showcasing diamonds or colored gemstones. All of Showers’ jewelry is created with the mantra “empowering women to feel beautiful.” In addition to looking good, some of the pieces in the Elizabeth Showers line also do good. A percentage of the proceeds from The Hope Star collection will be donated to the National Eating Disorders Association and the Elisa Project, which provides support and education on eating disorders to communities and individuals. A portion of the proceeds from sales of the Promise Collection will be donated to Susan B. Komen for the Cure, which is dedicated to promoting breast cancer awareness and supporting research to find a cure for the disease.
Article from the Rapaport Magazine - October 2007. To subscribe click here.