CIRCA’s Retail Partner Program Grows by 50 Percent

CIRCA, the largest international buyer of fine jewelry, diamonds, and watches, has announced the expansion of its Authorized Purchasing Agent Program. The program, which began in 2009, has expanded by 50 percent annually and now includes 45 of the most distinguished American Gem Society accredited jewelers in 40 cities worldwide.

“The retail partnership offers an added value for everyone involved, from the customer who walks through the retailers’ door to the jewelers who are building customer service and increasing their sales,” said Craig Miller, managing director of CIRCA’s Retail Partners Division. “This model is so successful because retailers are providing their customers with one-on-one advice and expertise from the world’s largest jewelry buyer, in addition to receiving the highest market value for their jewelry or watches.”

Clayton Bromberg, president of Underwood Jewelers in Jacksonville, Fla., was one of the first to become a CIRCA authorized purchasing agent. In the past three years, his businesses have continued to thrive despite the down economy. “CIRCA has allowed us to offer a tremendous service to our customers that we otherwise would not be able to offer,” Bromberg said in a press release. “Our relationship with CIRCA has provided a valuable way for our customers to dispose of old or unwanted items, and use that money to purchase new jewelry from our stores.”

CIRCA’s Authorized Purchasing Agent Program offers annual and semiannual regional buying events, where experts evaluate all jewelry, present an immediate offer and payment or store credit worth more than the value. The program also includes a year-round, mail-in access program offering a direct line to CIRCA’s expertise at all times.

For more information, please visit circajewels.com.

Persona and Zale Corp. Partner in Support of Autism Speaks

First Jewelry Ltd.’s bead jewelry brand Persona, in a charitable initiative with Zale Corp., has announced its support of Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. Persona has created a special collection of beads and charms for sale exclusively at select Zale retail locations, including three Autism Speaks pieces incorporating the trademark puzzle symbol. The charms are sold for between $40 and $50, and $10 from the sale of each charm will be donated to Autism Speaks. The charms are available in stores now.

To find a location, visit zales.com.

Brittany Siminitz

JCK Contributing Editor