Love (for jewelry) is in the air—and the airwaves, as it were. Tune into the Plumb Club’s latest podcasts for a glimpse of the future (hint: it’s already here). Peruse the designer offerings at the virtual Melee the Show, while enjoying some of its compelling digital events. Then sit back and relax as a host of fascinating online conversations—about art, jewelry, design, and Amazon selling—offer ideas and inspiration for the year ahead.
LISTEN
New Plumb Club Podcasts: Ongoing
The Plumb Club’s two latest podcast episodes examine how jewelers can keep pace with advances in technology and rapid cultural shifts. In “Automating Jewelry,” Ryan Hakimi, vice president of CH Hakimi, makes the case for incorporating automation and technology into a retailer’s overall business. And in “A Changing Industry—What Can You Do To Adapt,” James Schneider, director of sales at Ostbye, tackles topics such as differentiation, community involvement, and digital media, with an eye to helping retail jewelers embrace a future-forward philosophy.
SHOP
Melee the Marketplace: Feb. 15–17 (online)
The second edition of Melee the Marketplace, the virtual edition of the popular design-focused show, takes place on an online wholesale platform that’s accessible year-round. This week, however, a series of virtual events—including a panel discussion about retail opportunities in 2021 and a look at the rocketing popularity of salt-and-pepper diamonds—offer an enticing reason to visit.
ATTEND
92Y Talk With Alice Cicolini: Feb. 17 at 1 p.m. ET, $10 (online)
Jonathan Wahl, director of the 92Y Jewelry Center, continues his virtual conversations with contemporary jewelers with London-based Alice Cicolini, whose coveted enamel jewels make use of techniques borrowed from India. Check back every Sunday through mid-March for info about upcoming guests. Each talk is $10, or subscribe to the series of six for $50.
A WJA Conversation About Art & Gems: Feb. 17 at 5 p.m. ET (online)
The New York Metro Chapter of the Women’s Jewelry Association is hosting a conversation with two gem experts and artists, the replica specialist John Hatleberg and GIA diamond expert John King, about famous diamonds, replicating gems, and the artistry inherent in their work.
JA Seminar on How to Sell on Amazon: Feb. 18 at 11 a.m. ET (online)
Amazon and other third-party marketplaces represent an alluring e-commerce opportunity for jewelers. Kristin Cherry Jackson and Rosemary Mazza from 21C Jewelry Solutions’ e-commerce division offer insights into what it takes for a jeweler to succeed on these channels, with special emphasis on Amazon, which is fast becoming the largest internet jewelry retailer with an anticipated $1 billion in jewelry sales in 2021.
JPDN Member Spotlight With Alexia Connellan: Feb. 19 at 5 p.m. ET (online)
The Jewelry Design Professionals’ Network devotes its latest member spotlight to bespoke jeweler Alexia Connellan, an AGTA Spectrum Award–winning designer whose colorful jewels draw inspiration from her childhood summers in Jamaica.
Top: Malachite heart pendant in 18k gold with diamonds, to benefit World Central Kitchen; $2,500; Harwell Godfrey
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