Multi-location independents trimming branches
New York--The worldwide economic meltdown is forcing some long-standing independent jewelers to close branch locations in an effort to cut costs and streamline operations.
HOF shakes it up with snow globe promotion
Boston--Hearts On Fire (HOF) has created a virtual way for fans of the brand to send holiday greetings while also hinting for a gift of diamond jewelry.
Inventory missing but sales continue at Alpha Omega
Cambridge, Mass.—Troubled Alpha Omega Jewelers is now missing more than its founders.
Reports: Alpha Omega owner flees amid financial struggles
Boston—The owner of a long-standing, family-owned Boston jewelry store chain has reportedly left the country amid rumors his company is in financial ruins.
Federated to sell Bridal Group
Cincinnati—Federated Department Stores has signed agreements to sell its Bridal Group division, based in Conshohocken, Pa., in two separate transaction totaling $850 million.
Long's bridal event to kick into high gear
Boston--Long's Jewelers is putting any recession fears aside and is gearing up for its annual Wedding Band Weekend, an event that the Boston-based retailer is expecting will draw in more than 2,000...
Christofle to expand with three new U.S. boutiques
New York—Fine-silver purveyor Christofle has announced plans to open stores in three U.S. cities in 2009: Boston, Atlanta and Las Vegas.
Alpha Omega files for Chapter 11
Boston—Alpha Omega Jewelers filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Wednesday, three weeks after owner Raman Handa left the United States for India amid health problems and rumors that...
Renowned craft school opens its doors
Boston—One of the nation's oldest schools of craftsmanship, Boston's North Bennet Street School, will hold its annual open house this fall. Visitors will have the opportunity to take an...
Alpha Omega sale approved
Boston—The sale of Boston jeweler Alpha Omega's assets was approved this morning, and at least two of the company's stores will become part of the Ross-Simons chain.
Diamond industry to continue business in Mumbai
Mumbai, India--Condolences and messages of support continue to pour forth for those affected by last week's terrorist attacks in the diamond manufacturing center of Mumbai, India.
Some jewelers downsize as bankruptcies mount
Multi-store retailer Bernie Robbins Fine Jewelers, which closed its store in Short Hills, N.J., in early December, is one of several retail jewelers downsizing to cut costs in light of the worldwide...
Ice.com raises a cool $47 million in new working capital
Ice.com can move forward with its plans to consider acquisitions, build up its e-commerce infrastructure and target new niches, Internet Retailer reported.
JCK honors 'Top 50 Designer Retailers'
Norwalk, Conn.—U.S. Virgin Island-based retailer Verace St. John Designer Jewelry was named "2007 Best Designer Retailer" at the JCK Las Vegas show's annual event honoring the top 50 designer-j...
FY06 same-store sales up at Federated
Cincinnati—On a 52-week basis, same-store sales at Federated Department Stores increased 4.4 percent for fiscal year 2006, ended Feb. 3, the company announced today.
JewelryBrands.net names new president
Beverly Hills, Calif.--Jewelry Brands dba JewelryBrands.net has appointed Lyle M. Rose as president, where he will be responsible for overseeing and expanding the company's special projects.
Saks plans Off 5th prototype
During its fourth-quarter conference call, Saks Inc. announced that the first of its new prototype of discount chain Off Saks will open next month in Orlando, GlobeSt.com reported. Management is...
Luxury expert to speak at WJA breakfast
New York—The Women's Jewelry Association (WJA) will host a breakfast during the JA New York show featuring Luxury Marketing Council Chair Greg Furman.
Judge rejects Blue Nile motion in trademark case
Boston--A federal judge in Boston has denied a request by online diamond seller Blue Nile to dismiss two of the three allegations made against it in the trademark infringement case filed by Hearts On...
De Beers, Swarovski flagships open in Tokyo
Tokyo—De Beers and Swarovski both opened flagship stores in Tokyo this week in an attempt to gain a better foothold in the lucrative but crowded Japanese luxury market.