Julius Klein Buys Ritani DTC sightholder Julius Klein has bought designer jewelry manufacturer Ritani. Ritani is named for designer Harout Ritani. The acquisition gives Julius Klein a marketing outlet and assures Ritani of a steady stream of diamonds.

All jewelry will be manufactured in-house, the companies said. Ritani manufactures matching rings, earrings, and pendants.

WJA honors divas

The Women’s Jewelry Association presented its Diva Awards at its annual Las Vegas party on Friday. The theme this year was “Expressions of America,” and designers were challenged to create pieces that reflected the spirit of the United States.

Shinka Kimura won the First Place award for her “Bracelet Inspired by the Constitution.” Kimura won an award of $2,500. Second Place winner was Keiko Mita for her “Light of the World Trade Center” brooch. Mita won a $1,000 prize. Third Place winner was Naoyo Terada for her “Stars in the Melting Pot” necklace. Terada won $250.

Contemporary design group holds awards presentation

The Contemporary Design Group held its 12th annual Designers’ Gala and High Achievement Awards at the Alexis Park Resort on Friday night.

The Most Valuable Designer Player Award-which recognizes a designer who has created an indelible place in the world of designer jewelry-went to George Sawyer. The Best Designer Advocate Award, honoring an individual who has advanced the designer concept in the industry, was given to Sky Hall, and the Best Designer Retailer Award (recognizing a retailer who has excelled in selling and merchandizing designer jewelry) went to Mary Helene Morrow of M.H. Reinhold.

The Best Designer Supplier Award, which was established in 1999, recognizes a supplier who has done the most to help designers grow their businesses. The recipient was Myron Toback.

The CDG also inducted Alan Revere into the Contemporary Design Hall of Fame, honoring him as an individual who has made great contributions to the world of jewelry design.

JCK