The gorgeous Katrina Kaif, brand ambassador of Nakshatra – India’s iconic diamond jewellery brand, today unveiled the brand’s new logo and its latest brand campaign – Glow Divine, at a glittering ceremony and amidst much fanfare at the Grand Hyatt. Also present on this occasion were Mr Mehul Choski, CMD, Gitanjali Group, Ms Shardah Uniyal, VP – Marketing, and Mr Sushil Sharma, VP, Internatinoal Brands, Gitanjali Group.  

The unveiling was a spectacular as well as memorable ceremony, also accompanied by a soul stirring performance by singer Kavita Seth, followed by a unveiling of the latest Nakshatra jewellery collection by Katrina Kaif and Mr Mehul Choksi.

Enhancing the existing and emerging personality of the brand the new campaign and identity aims to recreate the heavenly hues and the divine glow connecting the brand with the inner beauty that every woman radiates. “Divine Force” is one of the key attributes of the new campaign – a fresh rendition of the “Divine Luck” philosophy associated with the brand whereby every piece of Nakshatra jewellery carries with it an exquisite beauty that can only be described as preciously divine.

The new look, feel and thought of the campaign is inspired by the perfection and inner fire that each precious piece of Nakshatra jewellery exudes. The campaign is an expression of this ethereal, Goddess like divinity- A divine energy that is sparkling, precious, mesmerizing.  It creates a world where angels live amidst the silver clouds and perfect heavens. A world of exceptional beauty bestowed with a heavenly light that glows divine!

The new brand tagline is ‘Glow Divine’ in keeping with the inner radiance that a diamond emits whilst complimenting the inner beauty that every woman radiates. Keeping in with the philosophy of “Glow Divine” the new brand logo is inspired by the popular floral India n motif and exhibits eternal beauty and brilliance of constellation i n a graphically depicted diamond cluster. The look and feel of the brand logo represents the ethereal beauty of Goddess of divine energy.

Mehul Choksi- CMD, Gitanjali Group said, “The new logo and identity is yet another remarkable milestone on Nakshatra’s journey in symbolizing jewellery that is beautiful, divine and ethereal, exuding divine energy of perfect creations!  It reflects all the values that have been at the core of our brand philosophy as well the vision and direction in which we aim to grow.”

Speaking on the occasion, Katrina Kaif said, “As the brand ambassador of Nakshatra, it gives me immense pleasure to be a part of this momentous occasion. The introduction of a new brand identity and logo simply enhances the divinity and immortality that Nakshatra represents; making each woman feel special and divine- almost like a Goddess! I look forward to a continued great association with Nakshatra and continue to wi sh the brand all the very best”

Commenting on this rebranding initiative, Shardah Uniyal said, “It is a very proud moment for us at Gitanjali and especially for brand Nakshatra. The new ethereal identity and logo lends a new dynamic and divine personality to the brand. It not only reflects but profoundly enhances the brands core values and the new avenues that we intend to venture into.”

About Nakshatra:

Nakshatra, one of the most respected jewellery brands in India, epitomizes jewellery that is ethereal, infinite, immortal, beautiful and radiant. The pieces are crafted around a unique set of floral designs, using the traditional seven stone cluster. First launched in 2000, as a flagship of the Diamond Trading Corporation (DTC), it was subsequently taken over by the Gitanjali Group, and has been awarded Superbrand status since 2008.

The United States is Israel’s leading market for polished diamonds, making the JCK show especially important for the Israeli industry. Last year Israel sold close to 40% of its net polished diamond exports of $7.2 billion to the American market, a total of $2.8 billion. 

The Israel Diamond Pavilion will be located in the Diamond Plaza Booths B3718-B3759 and B3783-B3789. IDI will be represented at stand B3744 within the pavilion. Click here for a virtual tour of the Israeli pavilion. 

IDI Chairman Moti Ganz said, “The US market is showing recovery and we are pleased to see that the demand for diamonds is growing. About one-half of the diamonds sold in the US are Israeli diamonds. Americans appreciate diamonds as a symbol of love and commitment. We are confident in our ability to continue to be the major supplier of diamonds to the US market,” he said.  

IDI Chairman Moti Ganz said that the Israeli Diamond Industry is “an island of stability, in a time of volatility and uncertainty in other centers.” Ganz noted that the Israeli industry has proved its strength and vitality by its remarkable recovery after the world economic crisis.  “Our economic stability makes us a very attractive source for diamonds. This is the basis for our new marketing campaign whose slogan is ‘Welcome to Israel, where stability reigns,’” he said.

Ganz added, “JCK Las Vegas is one of the most important trade shows for our industry. IDI is pleased that this year we have a great turnout of Israeli companies. We look forward to welcoming a gre at many buyers to the Israel Diamond Pavilion and we are confident th at it will be a successful show for the Israeli exhibitors. 

Kenneth MacNeill, President and CEO of Shore Gold Inc. (“Shore” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that the Company’s Board of Directors has appointed Mr. Brian Menell as Chairman of the Board. Mr. Menell joined the Company’s Board of Directors on March 7, 2003.

Mr. Menell is a principal and the CEO of the Kemet Group. Kemet is a group of private companies which invest in and manage a range of mining and other natural resource projects across Sub-Saharan Africa. Mr. Menell has over 25 years of senior level management experience in the diamond exploration, mining and marketing industries. He is a former executive of the De Beers Group having held various executive positions in Antwerp, London, Namibia and South Africa across the mining, rough market management and diamond trading divisions of the company. Following his eight years with the De Beers Group, he returned to his family controlled Anglovaal Group were he was a principal and Execut ive Director of Anglovaal Mining (AVMIN – listed in Johannesburg and London) until his exit from Anglovaal in 2001 to create much of what is now African Rainbow Minerals, South Africa’s largest listed empowerment controlled mining company. Anglovaal’s operations ranged from Precious Metals (AVGOLD, Two Rivers Platinum) to Base Metals (Prieska Copper, Nkomati Nickel) and Ferrous Metals (ASSMANG). Through Anglovaal, he was also the 50 percent partner of De Beers in the Venetia Mine, South Africa’s largest diamond mine. He managed the sale of the company’s interest in Venetia to De Beers for $600m. This remains De Beers’ largest single acquisition in their history. Since disposing of the controlling interest in Anglovaal, Mr. Menell’s African project development portfolio has included a number of diamond exploration and mining ventures, including the development of the Koidu Kimberlite Diamond Mines in Sierra Leone.

President and CEO, Kenneth MacNeill, states: “Brian’s extensive experience in the diamond industry is a gr eat asset to Shore and we look forward to his leadership of the Board of Directors. Mr. Menell assumes this position at a pivotal time in the diamond industry and the Company’s evolution from an exploration company to a potential world-class diamond producer. Shore is presently focused on the completion of the Environmental Impact Statement and the permitting of the Star – Orion South Diamond Project, while simultaneously pursuing development capital.”

Shore is a Canadian based corporation engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties. Shares of the Company trade on the TSX Exchange under the trading symbol “SGF”.

Renowned designer David Yurman, jewelry manufacturing executive Ann Arnold, retail jeweler Lex Graham and leading auction house executive Rahul Kadakia will be panelists at GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) Jewelry Career Fair on July 30 at the Jacob Javits Center in New York. Aspiring jewelry professionals – including those in retail, design and manufacturing – will also be able to meet with job recruiters; attend an expert session on jewelry trends; and spend one-on-one time with volunteer career-coaches. This marks the return of the GIA Career Fair to New York for the first time since 2008. 

The leading industry event is free and open to the public; anyone interested in attending is urged to RSVP prior to the event.

Donna Baker, president and CEO of GIA, will moderate a panel entitled “Job Success in Today’s Market.” Panelists David Yurman, founder of David Yurman Inc.; Ann Arnold, CEO of Lieberfarb; Lex Gr aham, a recent GIA graduate and retail jeweler at Betteridge; and Rahul Kadakia, jewelry department head of Christie’s New York will discuss the jewelry business today and their advice for newcomers. Later in the day Paola DeLuca, creative director of Trend Vision Jewellery + Forecasting, will present her fascinating findings on the socio-cultural phenomena of jewelry.

“Career Fair is a rare opportunity for people interested in a career in this dynamic industry to hear from seasoned leaders and new professionals – from David Yurman to a recent GIA grad paving his own way in retail,” said Kathryn Kimmel, GIA vice president, chief marketing officer and co-founder of the GIA Career Fair. “There are many opportunities right now in gems and jewelry, which is why we are back in New York. We encourage anyone with an interest and passion – no matter their background – to explore their options at Career Fair.”

GIA’s New York Jewelry C areer Fair will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 30 at the Ja vits Center. Recruiting will occur from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is sponsored by JA New York.

For more information, visit www.careerfair.gia.edu or call (800) 421-7250, ext. 4100, or email careerfair@gia.edu.

GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair began in 1991 and has taken place at the Carlsbad world headquarters, Bangalore, Las Vegas, Mumbai, and New York.

Bonhams is pleased to announce this spring’s Fine Watches and Wristwatches auction on June 12. This sale features fine enamel pocket watches, gorgeous boudoir clocks, the personal watches of Houdini and Damon Runyon, and many fine examples of modern luxury wristwatches ranging from Patek Philipe to Rolex to Audemars Piguet. With such diversity, rarity and quality, the Bonhams spring watch auction will certainly be a highlight for watch collectors of all interests.

This auction showcases a variety of highly decorative watches and clocks spanning several centuries of watch production. The Bonhams watch department is particularly pleased to offer several fine examples of 18th and 19th century Swiss enamel pocket watches. Prior to Geneva’s development as the center of watch making, it was a city known for its intricate enamel work. These two skills merged later in the 18th century to produce enamel pocket watches of exceptional detail and craftsmanship, such as the flower shaped enamel verge watch (pre-sale est. $40,000-60,000), signed by Breguet. Another fine example of Swiss craftsmanship is a fine gold center seconds cylinder watch (pre-sale est. $60,000-70,000) made by Bovet for the Chinese market during the first quarter of the 19th century.

The Swiss truly mastered the art of watch making through automaton construction, and it is with great pleasure that Bonhams offers an exquisite and important example of Swiss watch construction with the automaton watch of Cooper’s Yard (pre-sale est. $70,000-90,000). When wound, the automaton shows artisans busily making barrels in a Swiss forest – this charming scene seems to celebrate the hard work and intricate craftsmanship that led to the watch’s very construction in the first place. Also on offer are more modern decorative timekeeping items, including some beautiful Art Deco pieces by Cartier, a highlight among them being a rare 18 carat gold gem-set triptych boudoir clock (pre-sale est. $15,000-20,000), circa 1928.

Certain to appeal to all watch collectors with an interest in the history of watches’ technological innovations, is a fine free sprung keyless lever watch (pre-sale est. $5,000-7,000) constructed in 1928 by Hermann Thunig for the Deutsche Uhrmacherschule (German Watchmaker’s School) in Glashütte. Another highlight is Harry Houdini’s 18 carat inscribed yellow gold pocket watch (pre-sale est. $10,000-15,000). Passed down from Houdini’s relatives to Bonhams, this handsome pocket watch’s unique history will certainly have magical appeal at auction. Celebrated New York-based writer, Damon Runyon’s curved tank wristwatch by Cartier (pre-sale est. $18,000-22,000) is an example of Cartier’s classic Art Deco style. Inscribed with the author’s signature, this watch brings to mind Runyon’s classic prohibition era work that inspired the classic Broadway musical, Guys and Dolls.

Also on offer are several fine examples of modern luxury wristwatches. Highlighting the group is an extremely desirable Patek Philipe 2499 yellow gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch (pre-sale est. $350,000-400,000) complete with box, setting pin and instruction books. Another highlight for modern wristwatch enthusiasts is a handsome Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Platinum Juan Pablo Montoya chronograph wristwatch (pre-sale est. $80,000-120,000). Finally, Bonhams will offer a very fine group of mint condition watches from a distinguished collector, mostly ranging from $5,000-25,000. This collection features examples from the following top brands: Rolex, Breguet, Audemars Piguet, Blancpain, Richard Mille, Urwerk, Patek Philipe and Vacheron & Constantin.

Other highlights include: a striking Tiffany gold, pearl and emerald pocket watch designed by Paulding Farnham for display at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, from the late 19th century (pre-sale est. $25,000-35,000); a rare 1930s lipstick watch by Cartier (pre-sale est. $4,000-6,000); an exquisite early 18th century enamel pocket watch, depicting the Holy Family by P. Dutens (pre-sale est. $35,000-45,000); and an Audemars Piguet yellow gold Juan Pablo Montoya chronograph (pre-sale est. $65,000-75,000).

All 60 Jewels from the personal collection of Suzanne Belperron (1900-1983) sold at Sotheby’s Geneva for the outstanding total of CHF 3,224,950 ($3,459,307), more than tripling the pre-sale expectation of CHF 902,000-1,365,000. The sale – the most significant collection of jewels by Suzanne Belperron ever presented at auction – was a “white glove sale”, with 100% sold by lot and value. Demand for seminal pieces from Suzanne Belperron’s oeuvre was intense with international bidding driving prices well above estimates.

Speaking after the sale, David Bennett, Chairman of Sotheby’s Jewellery Department in Europe and the Middle East and Co-Chairman of Sotheby’s Switzerland, commented:  “It has been a great pleasure to bring to sale the personal collection of Suzanne Belperron, who is in my view the most talented and influential female jeweller of the 20th  century. This collection included some of Suzanne Belperron’s most celebrated desi gns and very intimate items which illustrated her unique style and creative virtuosity. We hope that the success of today’s sale will highlight the immense talent of this great artist and her unique contribution to jewellery”.

FDI up to 100% is permitted under the automatic route in Mining and Exploration of diamond and precious ores, subject to the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulations) Act, 1957, as per para 6.2.3.1 of the Consolidated Foreign Direct Investment Policy Circular 1 of 2012 dated 10th April, 2012 issued by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, the Minister said

The Silver Institute has commissioned a new report on the Chinese silver market.  The report will focus on China’s growing importance in the global silver industry and on identifying emerging trends that may impact the broader market over the next several years.

Twenty years ago China accounted for some 3 percent and 5 percent of global silver demand and supply, respectively.  In 2011, according to “World Silver Survey 2012″, those figures climbed to 16 percent and 14 percent, making China the world’s second largest consumer and third biggest producer of the white metal.

Many knowledgeable observers of the Chinese market believe that silver demand will continue to grow significantly over the rest of this decade, therefore increasing China’s importance to the global market.  For instance, it is noteworthy that the country switched in 2007 from being a net exporter to a grow ing net importer of silver bullion.

“This report will describe the dramatic rise of China as a source of both supply and demand, and analyze what the trend in these variables is likely to be over the next few years,” stated Michael DiRienzo, Executive Director of the Silver Institute.

The report will be produced for the Silver Institute by Thomson Reuters GFMS and released in October.

The Silver Institute is a nonprofit international industry association headquartered in Washington, D.C.  Established in 1971, the Institute serves as the industry’s voice in increasing public understanding of the value and many uses of silver.  For more information on silver please visit www.silverinstitute.org.

Millennial-age consumers—the generation comprising the primary bridal jewelry market—are both far more conscious of social responsibility than previous generations, and far more demanding that the companies they do business with behave responsibly and give back.  For jewelers, this means not only being able to reassure customers that your diamonds are conflict-free, but also knowing the good that diamonds do and being able to communicate that message to your customers. 

The Diamond Empowerment Fund, an international nonprofit organization that raises money to support education initiatives in African diamond-producing nations, will present a panel discussion during the upcoming JCK Show in Las Vegas, focusing on diamond-funded educational opportunities for the youth who will become the next generation of African leaders and contribute to their countries’ economic, political, and social development.

The June 2 ses sion, moderated by JCK senior editor Rob Bates and featuring a panel of leaders from the diamond, retail, education, and philanthropy sectors, will examine how diamonds contribute to the development of both individuals and communities in Africa, and present strategies for jewelers to bring this important message back to their customers. 

Phyllis Bergman, president of the Diamond Empowerment Fund and CEO of New York City-based Mercury Ring Co., will present opening remarks, followed by Bates, who will monitor the panel discussions.

The panel includes:

• Varda Shine, CEO of the Diamond Trading Company, who will discuss the social and economic growth of Botswana as a result of the diamond industry

• David Bouffard, vice president of public relations for Sterling Jewelers, who will explain how train store sales staff to connect the “diamond s for good story” with customers

• Joseph Munyambanza, a student at the African Leadership Academy, one of three DEF-funded schools, who will tell his personal experience with how diamonds help develop future leaders for Africa

• Dr. Benjamin Chavis, senior strategic advisor for the Diamond Empowerment Fund, who will discuss “Development Diamonds,” a case study of diamonds used to educate, empower, and transform an entire community.

• Cecilia Gardner, CEO and general counsel of the JVC and general counsel of the World Diamond Council, who will address how the U.S. chairmanship of the Kimberley Process can bring an added emphasis on development and an added level of credibility.

The event will be held Saturday, June 2, 2012, 4:00 – 5:15 p.m., Tra dewinds B Ballroom, Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas. Attendance is free.

Demand for palladium in industrial applications increased marginally in 2011 to 2.48 million ounces. Recovering demand in the chemical industry in China led to new orders for palladium  process catalyst charges. In the electrical sector, purchasing of palladium softened as competition from cheaper alternatives eroded palladium’s market share.  

Purchasing of palladium by the global jewellery industry declined once again in 2011. Palladium continued to suffer from a lack of  positioning in the key Chinese market. In Europe and North America, demand responded to price increases; palladium traded on average 39% higher than in 2010, leading manufacturers to offer lower weight and lower fineness alloys to meet retail price points.  

Investment demand for palladium turned negative in &nbsp ;2011, returning 565,000 oz to the market. Deep  liquidations in exchange traded funds, especially in the final quarter of the year when prices were falling, left physical investment demand in starkly negative territory by the year-end. This was in contrast to the high level of net investment in 2010.  

Recycling of palladium in the autocatalyst, electrical and jewellery sectors increased by 495,000 oz to 2.35 million ounces. Recovery from end-of-life vehicles soared by 26% to 1.66 million ounces as highly-loaded gasoline car catalysts were returned for recycling, particularly in North America. Palladium jewellery recycling more than doubled as a result of returns from unsold retailer stock and old consumer jewellery. 

The pa lladium market is forecast to swing back into deficit this year. We expect that there will be one further year of sales from Russian state stocks in 2012, albeit at a much reduced level than previously, which will represent the bulk of the remaining government-controlled inventories. Gross demand for palladium in autocatalysts is expected to rise in line with higher gasoline vehicle output and greater use of the metal in light duty diesel emissions control systems, resulting in a modest increase in overall gross demand and pushing the market into a deficit. The positive fundamentals are likely to support the price between $620 and $800 per ounce and on average at $715 in the next six months. 

Platinum 2012 is Johnson Matthey’s latest free surve y of the platinum group metals market. Johnson Matthey is the world’s leading authority on production, supply and use of the platinum group metals.