Jewelry Navigator™ Podcast
Brenna Pakes
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The Jewelry Navigator™ Podcast delivers valuable jewelry insights for consumers and jewelry enthusiasts.
Sharing inside gem, diamond, and jewelry tips, GIA Graduate Gemologist, Brenna Pakes guides listeners with a welcoming and informative platform for the best in jewelry departures and arrivals!
Available episodes
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Oldest first
Jun 1, 2023
Do You Have a Jewelry Box Graveyard?
This has been one of the most popular episodes, so I'm re-publishing it as a great reminder for a summer project: cleaning out your jewelry box without tossing treasures!
Be sure to get your copy of the Jewelry Box Graveyard Cheat Sheet! You can find it on my Link Tree page through in my Instagram Profile. Click Here for yours!
How many times have you visited your jewelry box to discover twisted, tangled chains, orphaned, earrings, or rings missing gemstones?
Much of our forgotten jewelry is abandoned due to disrepair, but how can you tell what is worth keeping?
What looks like junk may be forgotten treasures!
In this episode of the Jewelry Navigator Podcast, I share a few helpful tips on what to look for to easily identify jewelry of value in your Jewelry Box Graveyard using clues from the metals with which fine jewelry is made.
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May 12, 2023
What Should You Look For in an Emerald and What is the Best Way to Wear Them? Part 2 With Adrianne Sanogo GIA GG
No other gemstone with the same rich, pure green as emerald, like the fine gem quality emeralds from sources like Columbia mines, and other location sources.
Fine quality emerald gems almost glow from within, and it’s no surprise that the verdant gem has enticed and captivated emperors, sovereigns, wealthy celebrities, and gem collectors from the beginning of recorded time.
Today’s podcast continues my visit with Adrianne Sanogo, GIA Graduate Gemologist.
In this second part, we share details about emeralds and the best way to wear and enjoy them, what care and wear considerations to keep in mind, where they are mined, and even some of their interesting internal characteristics that are specific to certain mined locations.
Listening to this episode of Jewelry Navigator Podcast will give you a better understanding of emeralds and prepare you for shopping and caring for them in jewelry.
Here are a few tips we discuss for deeper insights into emeralds and how to best care for this beautiful gemstone:
- The possible treatments and limitations to setting and wearing them in jewelry, especially rings, and bracelets.
- While treatments are widely accepted, some gems like emeralds carry special considerations to protect the integrity of the stone and may need extra care.
- Common and accepted treatments of emeralds include surface fillers and oils for color stability
- Due to their inherent inclusions and sensitive treatments, emeralds may need to be removed from settings during jewelry repairs to avoid possible damage from heating.
Catch up on the first part with Adrianne Sanogo where she shared what inspired her to become a gemologist, and how current issues affect choices for consumers on both sides of the jewelry sales counter.
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May 7, 2023
Gemologist to Gemologist - Celebrating 100 Episodes of Jewelry Navigator Podcast With Graduate Gemologist Adrianne Sanogo
Jewelry Navigator Podcast celebrates 100 episodes with a two-part feature with special guest, Graduate Gemologist, Adrianne Sanogo.
You’re in for a treat!
As Adrianne shared what inspired her to become a gemologist, our conversation meandered into topics of current interest to trade and consumers alike.
Be sure to subscribe and listen to today’s episode and the continuation later this week with insights into emerald - this month’s birthstone.
As two gemologists with the same passion for informing and educating consumers, we enjoyed discussing how to broadcast the benefits of entering the field of gemology and how gemologists serve the jewelry industry from mom-and-pop jewelry stores to large corporations making major investment decisions.
These are just some of the nuggets I reveal in this fun and informal visit with phenomenal and accomplished Graduate Gemologist, Adrianne Sanogo.
Who is the consumer?
The consumer is not always the shopper.
Consumers are also others in the industry who can be served with current or new information.
Growing the future in geology with viable career paths:
- Transitional careers
- Science and Arts
- Jewelry Professionals
- Protecting Interests - forensic gemology
- Appraising
- Horology
- Bench jewelry design and repair
- Vocational interests
- Economic study of gem and mineral resources (geological resources)
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Apr 27, 2023
Rent Luxury Jewelry Treasures for a Celebrity Level Experience With Tanya Canfield of Trejours
Have you ever wanted to feel like a celebrity for a special event, like a milestone reunion, a wedding, or an award ceremony?
Maybe you’d like to experience the feeling of adorning yourself with luxurious or high-end, designer fine jewelry, today’s Jewelry Navigator Podcast guest has the perfect solution!
Tanya Canfield, the founder of Trejours, provides her customers with fine jewelry selections to enrich life celebrations and important occasions at a fraction of the cost.
From Riviera diamond necklaces to stand-out cocktail rings and iconic designer jewelry, Trejours customers can select up to three items to rent. It’s the perfect way to “test wear” or borrow the perfect jeweled accessory for celebrations, award events, and formal galas. In this Jewelry Navigator Podcast, “Rent Luxury Jewelry Treasures for a Celebrity Level Experience With Tanya Canfield of Trejours”, Tanya shares her background in jewelry, what inspired her to start Trejours, and how her customers enjoy the benefits of luxury jewelry for special events with options to rent, and even purchase her borrowed treasures.
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Apr 20, 2023
If Jewels Could Talk and How to Preserve Jewelry Heirlooms With Sherrie Taylor
Sherrie Taylor, Graduate Gemologist, and Registered Master Valuer, of S. Taylor Jewellery Appraisals and Consultation shares how she enriches the appraisal process with an often overlooked aspect of jewelry heirlooms.
While the intrinsic characteristics of jewelry heirlooms determine their replaceable value,
their stories and meanings are what give them irreplaceable value.
In this episode, Sherrie shares how she takes the time to include these often omitted aspects of jewelry appraising that add an enjoyable dimension to her appraisal process.
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Apr 12, 2023
When is a Diamond NOT a Diamond? What You Need to Know About Diamond Substitutes
Did you know that diamond substitutes have been around for centuries? How do you know when a clear gemstone is a diamond?
On this week’s Jewelry Navigator Podcast, Brenna shares the more common diamond substitutes and why it’s important to understand their differences.
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Mar 31, 2023
Aquamarine and Its Gemstone Siblings - The Scoop on Beryl
As the start of a recurring series, this podcast focuses on aquamarine and its related gemstone varieties.
Did you know that aquamarine has a famous gemstone “sister”, known as emerald?
If you were looking for a larger gem to set into a fantastic new jewel, would you know which gem minerals to look to first?
In this episode, we explore the beryl family of gemstones, and what makes each variety unique, making beryl a beautiful bouquet of gem options!
Each month, I will feature a different gemstone, most likely, the featured birthstone of the month, sharing a gemological overview and possible alternative options.
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Mar 23, 2023
It’s About Time - A Unique Twist on Luxury Watches With Kelly Juell of Juell Time Part Two
In this second part of It’s About Time - A Unique Twist on Luxury Watches with Kelly Juell of Juell time, Kelly shares the red flags to watch for when shopping for luxury watches and jewelry in the secondary markets.
She also discloses how the unique market position of low supply and high demand affects retailers of luxury watches and consumers seeking them out.
Some takeaways from my visit with Kelly Juell:
* work with a trusted AD or reputable “gray market” dealer who has an excellent reputation and who will have your best interest at heart
* because of its high demand, Rolex watches maintain and increase in value
* when purchasing from a secondary market, understanding the value of the box, tag, and original enclosures may make a significant difference in a purchase and resale price.
This topic of luxury watches fits within my recurring theme of Trends and Traditions, and there is so much more to come!
I have some guests I’ll be recording within the coming weeks to add more to your working knowledge of jewelry you love, have, and want, so be sure you’re subscribed to the podcast on your favorite platform.
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Mar 21, 2023
Carats and Coffee The Dish on Karats and the Other Kind of Carats in Jewelry
Understanding common jewelry terminology is critical for shopping for and collecting jewelry.
Today on Carats and Coffee, I share what the difference is between two very similar jewelry and gem terms, karat with a "K", and carat with a "C".
Be sure to follow Jewelry Navigator on Instagram and on our Facebook page!
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Mar 16, 2023
It’s About Time - A Unique Twist on Luxury Watches With Kelly Juell of Juell Time Part One
Kelly Juell, Founder of Juell Time, specializes in luxury watches with a different twist.
She customizes luxury watches, like Rolexes with jeweled and specialized alterations, transforming them into distinguished timepieces to complement her clients’ lifestyles.
Her working knowledge and familiarity with fine jewelry, watches, custom design, and jewelry repair provide Kelly expertise and background to succeed in the niche luxury watch market.
Kelly takes pride in the high quality of workmanship her customizations produce, seeking out the most qualified craftspeople who specialize in the high-skill stone-setting and alterations on her clients' watches.
As an advocate for anti-fraud practices, Kelly shares red flags to watch for when shopping for luxury watches in the secondary, or gray market.
Our visit together provided so many great tips and information that I had to split our visit into two episodes!
Other key points Kelly shares on Jewelry Navigator Podcast are:
* When they customize a watch, Juell Time returns all original parts allowing the option to reinstate it to its original factory design.
* How the term "custom" can be misleading and may often mean a significant decrease in value
* How to research top sellers on secondary marketplaces like Ebay
Be sure to listen to both parts of the episode for ALL the details Kelly shares about how the supply and demand of luxury watches has created an entire sub-culture of jewelry businesses.
For questions and help with your own luxury watch, feel free to reach out to Kelly Juell of Juell Time. https://juelltime.com/
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Mar 14, 2023
Carats & Coffee with Jewelry Navigator - Spring Cleaning and Sneak Peeks
NEW BONUS EPISODES - CARATS AND COFFEE WITH Jewelry Navigator
THIS WEEK: 5 QUICK SPRING CLEANING TIPS FOR YOUR JEWELRY BOX AND A SNEAK PEEK INTO THIS WEEK'S PODCAST EPISODE.
Carats and Coffee with Jewelry Navigator is a weekend bonus episode to be live stream recorded on Saturday mornings.
Come with your favorite morning beverage and jewelry questions for quick jewelry updates and news between weekly episodes.
Join LIVE on Podbean Saturday mornings, 8:30 a.m. EST
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Mar 9, 2023
Digging for Diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas
Since relaunching Jewelry Navigator Podcast a few weeks ago, I came across the perfect recorded conversation I had with a field "interpreter" at the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas.
As the only gem diamond source in the United States of substantial finds, Crater of Diamonds State Park has a fascinating history and makes a unique destination for vacationers, gem and jewel collectors, and spring-breakers.
Significant diamond discoveries have been made by visitors to the park, several of which are over 10 carats!
To plan your visit to dig for diamonds, click the link below!
Crater of Diamonds State Park
https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/crater-diamonds-state-park
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Feb 24, 2023
Jewelry Trends and Traditions for 2023
Jewelry Trends and Traditions for 2023 - An overview of current jewelry trends and steady traditions and how to balance the two for a lasting jewelry wardrobe.
Jewelry Trends and Traditions - Which One Should You Follow?
Jewelry is a personal way we express ourselves in every stage of life.
Trends reflect quick snapshots in time and capture mood and attitude, whereas traditions are more lasting.
I’ll be using the theme of Trends and Traditions as a guide to build on classic styles while blending expressive trends for an eclectic and lasting jewelry collection.
Publication references made in this episode:
"Everything You Need to Know About Traditional Design", By Sienna Livermore, Published October 12, 2018 House Beautiful
https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a23611149/traditional-design/
Harper's Bazaar, "The 2023 Jewelry Trends Experts Say Everyone is Wearing" by Amelia Madden, Published February 10, 2023
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/trends/g422428…
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Feb 16, 2023
Podcast Relaunch and Jewelry Award Celebration With Mary van der Aa and Todd Wacks at the 2023 Tucson Gem Show
Today’s podcast gives you a snapshot of the partnership and team of Tucson Todd’s Gems, and Mary van der Aa Fine Jewels that resulted in THREE AGTA Spectrum Awards.
As vendors at the Pueblo Gem Show began packing their wares to return home, I had a few minutes with Mary and Todd. They shared how their gem and jewelry-making talents overlap resulting in award-winning jewelry.
Mary was selected as a winner in three categories for the AGTA Spectrum Awards - an exceptional accomplishment in the world of fine gems and jewelry.
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Jan 16, 2022
Horsetails and Ant Hills - The Hidden Secrets of Garnets
Horse Tails & Ant Hills - The Hidden Secrets of Garnets
FYI: Gemstones keep secrets, and it all starts with Horse Tails and Ant Hills!
Find out just what these cryptic clues mean in this week’s brand new, and the FIRST episode of Jewelry Navigator Podcast of 2022!
It’s the Year of the Tiger! Are you ready to POUNCE on more gem facts and jewelry stories?!
Listen to Jewelry Navigator Podcast on Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Podbean.
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Dec 8, 2021
Holiday Gift Guide Talk Through LIVESTREAM
As part of celebrating 20,000 downloads of the Jewelry Navigator Podcast, I'm featuring former podcast guests in the Jewelry Navigator™ Gift Guide.
I’m so excited for many of the designers I’ve featured on the podcast who are having record sales this year through their perseverance and collaborative efforts with markets, niche shows, and boutiques.
The Holiday Gift Guide is a celebration of the guests who have made Jewelry Navigator Podcast fun and interesting for 20,000 downloads,
Below is a list of the jewelers and designers along with the categories in which they're featured in the Holiday Gift Guide.
JEWELRY FOR HER: Mary van der Aa Fine Jewels* Nayla Shami Jewelry* Tin Haus* Tracy Trainor Jewellery* Au Xchange * Dana Busch Designs*
JEWELRY FOR HIM:
Mary van der Aa Fine Jewels* Tin Haus * CRASH Jewelry* Tracy Trainor Jewellery* American Chest
SELF INDULGE:
California Girl Jewelry* Elizabeth Moore Jewelry* Cynthia Renée Jewelry* Au Xchange* Emily Kuvin Jewelry* Debra…
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Nov 11, 2021
Costume Jewelry Treasures With Veronica Staudt of Vintage Meet Modern
About Jewelry Navigator Podcast:
Listen to Jewelry Navigator Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, and Google Podcasts.
Brenna Pakes is the creative force behind Jewelry Navigator LLC, a collective platform to guide consumers to smart jewelry choices.
As a GIA Graduate Gemologist with an undergraduate degree in geology, Brenna has enjoyed nearly twenty years of retail jewelry experience as a gemologist and jewelry consultant. Through Jewelry Navigator, she shares an appreciation for designers who create beyond commercial trends and whose designs resonate with shoppers looking to celebrate what makes them unique. Brenna promotes brand awareness and support for independent jewelry designers and artisans through informative media platforms, like Jewelry Navigator Podcast, and digital publication, Jewelry Navigator Passport.
This Episode:
"Costume Jewelry Treasures With Veronica Staudt of Vintage Meet Modern"
Since publishing “What’s in Your Jewelry Box Graveya…
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Oct 21, 2021
What‘s in Your Jewelry Box Graveyard?
How many times have you visited your jewelry box to discover twisted, tangled chains, orphaned, earrings, or rings missing gemstones?
Much of our forgotten jewelry is abandoned due to disrepair, but how can you tell what is worth keeping?
What looks like junk may be forgotten treasures!
In this episode of Jewelry Navigator Podcast, I share a few helpful tips on what to look for to easily identify jewelry of value in your Jewelry Box Graveyard using clues from the metals with which fine jewelry is made.
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Apr 16, 2021
Nan Fusco’s Versatile Jewelry Designs Redefine Luxury Jewelry
Nan Fusco’s Versatile Jewelry Designs Redefine Luxury Jewelry
Like many artists, Nan Fusco didn’t start her jewelry career in gem or design courses.
Nan’s former career and formal training are in graphic design.
Skilled with reading a client’s style and needs, Nan’s ability to design around a concept beautifully highlight the fossils and stones she selects as the focal points of her jewelry.
Making jewelry versatile through aspects of changeability and movement is one of Nan’s superpowers as a jewelry designer.
From her Abacus rings and earrings, to jewelry scarves, and her long necklaces designed with engineering aspects, Nan incorporates appealing design concepts with texture and movement for jewelry creations that are classic fun, and had women buying her creations right off her neck!
We talk about how important it is for designers to educate the boutiques where her jewelry is stocked to the versatility of her jewelry.
We also discuss…
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Mar 28, 2021
Celebrating Women as Jewelry Designers with Azra Mehdi, Founder of Au Xchange
Azra Mehdi is a practicing attorney and balances her family life with her passion for fine jewelry as a designer of timeless gold jewelry.
Azra founded Au Xchange, a platform for sharing fine jewelry created by women designers.
In spite of pandemic obstacles, Azra took advantage of the time during lockdowns to apply for the Zales Designer Spotlight Showcase and won as the only woman designer of color for the showcase.
Originally from India, Azra shares how gold jewelry influenced her path as a jewelry designer, and how her thoughtful designs are welcoming to a wide audience and demographic.
Azra is dedicated to giving back as a representative in support of girls and women with CamFED, Campaign for Female Education through portions of her jewelry sales.
While growing her brand through Au Xchange and as a featured designer in the Zales Designer Spotlight, Azra continues to practice law while raising her two children with her husband.
You can find Azra's jewelry…
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Mar 25, 2021
Relaunch of Jewelry Navigator Podcast is HERE!
HHi! Welcome to Jewelry Navigator! I’m your host, Graduate Gemologist, Brenna Pakes.
Here on Jewelry Navigator, and as a Graduate Gemologist of the Gemological Institute of America, and a jewelry professional, I’m in a unique position to share jewelry tips and stories.
More than ever, it’s important to support small, independent jewelry designers and businesses.
It’s my pleasure to guide consumers to smart jewelry choices through an informative and entertaining platform.
For sneak peeks into upcoming episodes and features, follow me on Instagram on @jewelrynavigator
In this relaunch episode, I share my role as curator of content for a weekly video feature on Beyond Gems for TheTUNDRA, an informative platform for enthusiasts and those with a general curiosity for topics, themes, and hobbies.
I share guests featured on Beyond Gems so far. It's been a wonderful way to expand and explore geology, gemology, and other relevant fields of interest.
FYI - to watch the full…
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Jul 2, 2020
Jewelry Navigator Explores What Inspires Jeweler and Artist, Christina Grace, Founder of Tin Haus
On a recent Jewelry Navigator Podcast, “Here's to the Men in Our Lives - Jewelry to Celebrate Men and Dads”, I featured jewelry for men.
One of the rings selected is Tin Haus' Andromeda ring, designed and created by today's guest, Christina Grace, founder of Tin Haus, an eclectic collection of jewelry art.
Christina is a Graduate Jeweler from the Gemological Institute of America, an artist, and is currently completing her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree.
What inspires me the most about Christina is the unhindered path she creates for herself.
Her expertise is well-rounded through varied practices of art, including performing art, drawing, and set design.
As a first-generation American, Christina lives and creates her collections in California.
Utilizing her education, background, and connections, Christina is creating a path with which to inspire others to discover and celebrate their unique expression through their own self-discovery.
Christina explained that her upcoming coll…
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Jun 18, 2020
Here's to the Men in Our Lives - Jewelry to Celebrate Men and Dads
Men tend to get overlooked with jewelry -
Watches and wedding bands are the staples for most men, while signet, diamond and gemstone statement rings as signature statements.
Educating consumers with unique selections of gemstones and jewelry has always been a primary focus for Jewelry Navigator.
In this Jewelry Navigator Podcast episode, I'm highlighting designers who've been featured on the podcast, as well as one who will be very soon with jewelry designed to enhance and celebrate the men in our lives.
Designers featured create everything from cufflinks, bracelets, necklaces and pendants and rings.
Tracy Trainor Jewellery
CRASH Jewelry
Mary van der Aa
Tucson Todd's Gems
Tin Haus
Etsy Artisans with featured storage boxes for jewelry and watches:
Buttons and Pearl, Sara Barbadillo, and Fret Work by Darryl.
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May 14, 2020
Missy Graff Ballone of Wellness for Makers Shares How Artists Can Move to Stay Healthy
Missy Graff Ballone of Wellness for Makers Shares How Artists Can Move to Stay Healthy
While the COVID-19 crisis and resulting quarantine have challenged many aspects of our lives, finding positive ways to guide us through to the other side have been inspiring.
While scrolling through Instagram one day, I came across Missy Graff Ballone’s feed, Wellness for Makers.
A metalsmith, alignment based yoga instructor, and licensed massage therapist, Missy shares how makers can work more efficiency using healthy movement habits.
She combines her education and familiarity with the body to show makers and creatives how to care for their hands and avoid common injuries with mindful movement.
In “Wellness for Makers” Podcast, Missy shares tips for makers in and out of the studio, along with inspiring stories of artists and makers who have recovered from injuries.
I’m happy and excited for Missy to share her specialized expertise, and to give back to makers and artists during the COVI…
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May 8, 2020
Retail Survival - Supporting Small Businesses & Indie Jewelry Designers
I hope you’re staying safe and well, and I’m looking forward to when we can return to our places of work, get our hair cut, nails done, and get back to all those services and shops that are part of regular routines.
Part of the normal routine this time of year is shopping for the seasonal celebrations, like Mother’s Day and graduations.
But, shopping from our favorite stores doesn’t have to stop.
This podcast is dedicated to all the small businesses who’ve been doing what they can to serve their customers in spite of “closed doors” and customers sheltered in place.
I know it’s easy to swing by Target or Walmart and pick up what we need, but, small businesses need our support, and many are offering similar, and sometimes better, accommodations with deliveries, pick ups, and custom orders.
Milestones and accomplishments are traditionally celebrated with jewelry and keepsakes. The most unique selections are found in small and independent stores. The point of this podc…
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Apr 17, 2020
Alain Simic Shares His Story and Insights on Successful Jewelry Branding Narratives
My guest in this Jewelry Navigator Podcast episode is Alain Simic, founder of Alain Simic (pronounced Ah-lawn Si-mich) whose specialty is portraying images of jewelry, fashion, fine art, and portraiture.
Alain’s photography speaks through images, allowing his subject’s voice to share stories and impact the lives of those who see his work.
Alain serves his clients and collaborates with his professional community through a unique background based on his perspective gained through professional photography experinece, and first hand life crisis.
Raised in Germany after his family escaped the Bosnian genocide, Alain’s experiences and upbringing enables him to share his client’s narrative through a lens of compassion and understanding elevates his relationships with his clients for successful campaigns and images.
While his photography is used as a marketing tool to create successful branding and product campaigns, Alain also serves the communities in which he works through co…
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Apr 11, 2020
Special Edition Podcast - Celebrating Faith With Seraphima McClean of Gallery Byzantium (Portion re-cap from 12/2019)
This weekend, I chose to share segments of my podcast interview with Seraphima McLean of Gallery Byzantium.
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Her formal background in art history, cast her in the unique role to carry on her family’s Byzantine art jewelry business.
Gallery Byzantium integrates art and history inspired by one of the most influential cultures, the Byzantine Empire.
Creating Christian themed jewelry, like crosses and religious medals, their jewelry designs are often replicated from ancient coins, medallions, and crosses.
As Christians all over the globe celebrate Easter, this weekend, I felt sharing a portion of the story of Gallery Byzantium would resonate with the liturgical celebration of Easter, but also serve as a reminder to stay strong in our faith, regardless of denomination or belief.
The followng is a clip from my Jewelry Navigator podcast visit in early December, 2019, and is part of my effort to support the independent designers and jewelers featured on Jewelry Navigat…
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Apr 9, 2020
Karin Jacobson’s Jewelry Journey and How Origami Plays a Significant Role in Her Designs
Karin Jacobson is a talented jeweler and artist whose open mind and fabrication techniques allows her to interpret visions into beautiful, wearable jewelry art.
Her journey and aesthetic have revealed a unique style that has become unquestionably recognizable as Karin Jacobson Jewelry.
I’ve been a fan of her jewelry for a few years now, and the evolution of her aesthetic has been a joy to watch.
Karin’s stand-out signature aesthetics are hybrid origami halos that bloom from ring wraps, stick pins, earrings, and graceful pendants that drape from neck wires.
The origami features make Karin’s jewelry sculptural, and many of her collectors and clients display them as such in between wear.
Karin has earned many industry design awards, and this year, was only one of three jewelers selected to take part in MJSA’s annual contest, “Mystery Box Challenge”, a fun, but challenging test to create jewelry using fabrication elements contained within the mystery box.
Her resulting e…
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Apr 2, 2020
Coping With the COVID-19 Crisis Using Self-Care Strategies With Dr. Dana Busch
Coping With the COVID-19 Crisis Using Self-Care Strategies With Dr. Dana Busch
Stress. Anxiety. Uncertainty.
These are all dark places that become natural responses to stressful and uncertain times, like the COVID-19 health crisis we’re currently experiencing.
The reason for this podcast is to invite you to take a step back and use internal cognitive tools and rational thought processes to view this time as opportunity, and how to disarm stress and anxiety.
Today, I’m joined by Dr. Dana Busch, my friend, artist, and jewelry designer.
As a former clinical psychologist, Dana shares ways we can tap into what we can do now for ways to move forward.
To access the resources Dana mentioned in the podcast, download the resources, visit jewelrynavigator.com.
RELIEVING STRESS AND PHYSIOLOGICAL TIPS AND EXERCISES TO STRENGTHEN AND CALM
Resources, Articles and Videos mentioned in Jewelry Navigator Podcast Livestream with Dr. Dana Busch
RESOURCES
Resources for Resilience
https://www.…
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Mar 29, 2020
Noor Shamma Combines Beautiful Detail and Sustainable Practices For Universally Appealing Jewelry
As we wrap up Women’s History Month in a couple days, today, I share my visit with Noor Shamma, jewelry designer, single mother, and driven career woman.
Noor is the epitome of self motivation and drive.
She gracefully achieves balance and peace through her persona, jewelry designs, and practices compassion through it all with sustainable practices in the sources she chooses for her jewelry.
While managing a full time career in marketing and communications with motherhood, Noor stays grounded through the creative processes of her eponymous jewelry collection and business, Noor Shamma.
Inspired by childhood creative passions of needlework, Noor combines detail reminiscent of meticulous needlework with the complexity inherent in architecture as main focal points of her aesthetic.
At the time I recorded my conversation with Noor, she had recently completed several shows and engagements with Noor Shamma jewelry, from New York at Metal and Smith to London Fashion Week.
Between the…
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Mar 11, 2020
My Jewelry Discoveries from the Tucson, New York, and Baltimore Shows
Welcome back to Jewelry Navigator Podcast!
It's been a few weeks since I last published a podcast episode and the last one was the pre-departure for my Tucson trip and that was in February.
We're rolling into the second week of March, and I wanted to catch you up on what and who I saw in Tucson.
You can follow along with my Instagram feed as I’ve posted support content that will coordinate with the podcast.
Another thing I want to mention that I'm creating, I'm really excited about, it's sort of like a magazine feature that will be on a devoted page to the Tucson show. I started to create a new category on my website which will be devoted to shows and the designers that I meet and feature from the shows.
02:16 So let's get busy! If you're unfamiliar with what trade shows are for the jewelry industry, they're essentially the same as trade shows and conferences are to every other industry in that they offer a lifeline through which industries can learn th…
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Jan 30, 2020
Gem Show Pre-Departure Lounge 2020
Gem Show Pre-Departure Lounge 2020
Welcome to the first Jewelry Navigator Podcast episode of 2020!
It’s been a while since you heard from me. I took some time off during the holidays, and now that everyone’s settled back into school and work, it’s time to get down to jewelry business!
Trade shows have been centralized events for various industries to learn about and share the latest resources, network, and celebrate.
The Tucson Gem Show just kicked the jewelry industry trade shows off, and this weekend, in New York City, the NYNow Show is hosting a myriad of luxury accessories and gifts.
As my heart and enthusiasm will always be with gems, I’m choosing to attend the Tucson Gem Shows, which is a conglomerate of many shows held throughout downtown Tucson.
In this podcast, I share a sample of designers who will be exhibiting at either the Tucson or NYNow Shows.
All those featured have been guests on Jewelry Navigator Podcast, and I’m excited to sha…
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Dec 12, 2019
How to be Your Own Elegant Rebel With Sue Oster, Founder of Feral Jewelry
Sue Oster is the fearless force behind Feral Jewelry.
She shares an interpretation of life’s strength and vulnerabilities using her signature collections created with sustainable and ethically sourced precious materials, combining design elements to celebrate who we are and what makes us unique.
She IS the Elegant Rebel, and her MO of highlighting anomalies and unexpected elements are the thread with which she shares her creative vision and inspirations, defined by her philosophy of, “If a diamond is forever, life is eternal”.
“Susan Oster launched Feral Jewelry in 2016. After twenty years working in interior design, she turned her attention to jewelry, focusing on her love of nature and animal forms. Feral is her unbridled look at what it means to be both glamorous and undomesticated - to love the great outdoors and also be completely feminine. It is a fearless approach to self expression and statement of strength. Each piece is handmade is the USA; all parts are organ…
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Dec 6, 2019
Stephen M Goldsmith, Master Polisher, Shares His Story and Expertise, From the Crown Jewels to World Famous Jewelry
As a boy, Stephen Goldsmith had dreams of being a cartoonist.
His aptitude for art was innate, but his journey would take a detour to become a master of polishing and finishing national treasures and museum quality jewelry.
Stephen Goldsmith is a Fellow of the Institute of Professional Goldsmiths, and shares his nearly 50 years of knowledge and experience as a master polisher with peers and students alike through his trade acclaimed book, Polishing and Finishing for Jewellers and Silversmiths, published by Crowood Press.
While Stephen has had the privilege of working with jewelry created for royal families and celebrities, his real treasures are created in the classroom and studios where he demonstrates to artisans how to bring their jewelry visions and stories to life.
Polishing and Finishing for Jewellers and Silversmiths has become a bench Bible of sorts for silversmiths, and Stephen very generously shared two copies of his book which he signed personally to give away to two Je…
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Dec 1, 2019
Seraphima McLean of Gallery Byzantium Brings History to Life With Religious and Secular Jewelry
Jewelry is a powerful touchstone and conduit by which we define ourselves within our life stories, family, and community.
Acknowledging this concept with symbolism and icons are reminders that we're connected to a higher power that guides us in how we choose to live our best lives.
This week my guest on Jewelry Navigator podcast is Seraphima McLean of Gallery Byzantium, a small jewelry design and manufacturing business in Ipswich, Massachusetts, dedicated to conserving and sharing the Byzantine aesthetic in both religious and secular jewelry.
As an art history major, Saraphima was a natural fit to re-establish the jewelry design business her father, an Orthodox priest started in 1991.
He established Gallery Byzantium to honor the rich history and aesthetic of Byzantium art in jewelry to share and celebrate his faith.
As we celebrate our faith through the year, and especially during the Christmas holiday, I felt sharing the story and jewelry of Gallery Byzantium was the perfect time…
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Nov 21, 2019
From Corporate Engineer to Full Time Jewelry Designer With Tonya Powell of Pareure
Clarity, insight, and wisdom are three qualities I feel this week’s Jewelry Navigator Podcast guest exhibits naturally.
Tonya Powell is founder and creative initiator of Pareure, a collection of jewelry designed for women who define themselves with confidence, and reach beyond limitations.
Her classically simple signature circular designs are the embodiment of her tagline, “Be Seen. Be Heard, Be Bold”.
I’m excited to share Tonya’s story on this week’s Jewelry Navigator Podcast episode, and if you’re in the Washington DC Metro area the first weekend of December, you can see and shop her jewelry firsthand at the Holiday Sugarloaf Crafts Festival in Chantilly, VA, December 6-8.
You can find Pareure online at pareure.com and on Instagram @pareureofficial.
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Nov 14, 2019
Cynthia Renée Jewels - Life and Love Stories Through Gems and Jewelry
Telling stories with gems and jewelry is like speaking an enchanted language.
Hidden for millennia, gems are treasures that speak a universal language.
Cynthia Renée Marcusson is my guest this week understands the hidden language of gemstones.
Geologist turned jewelry designer, Cynthia’s adventures began with her curiosity of rock formations and unusual terrain from the car window of her family vacations.
As part of her geologic studies, she mapped two of the biggest gem producing mines in the U.S., and has thirty years experience working in the jewelry industry on various professional levels.
She discovered jewelry design while selling and presenting colored gems stores and businesses across the country.
Now she creates one of a kind jewelry pieces for clients to tell their stories with gems to celebrate the beauty we’re meant to reflect by wearing them.
Listen to Cynthia’s story on Jewelry Navigator Podcast TODAY!
You can find Cynthia Renée Jewels on her website, cynt…
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Nov 7, 2019
From Psychologist to Jewelry Designer - Dana Busch Creates Wearable Gemstone and Sculptural Jewelry Art
Before departing for a creative career in jewelry design, Dana Busch enjoyed a professional career as a doctor in clinical health psychology.
After completing a masters program in art therapy, she chose to focus on public health, and spent her career in medical centers creating programs focusing on lifestyle choices for patients with chronic conditions.
While she enjoyed helping her patients with programs she developed, she left the corporate politics and bureaucracy behind to reinvent her purpose through her own jewelry design company, Dana Busch Designs.
Borrowing the practice in art exhibits, Dana creates collections, and uses descriptive titles for each piece, which are influenced by the colors and patterns in the gems she hand selects for each piece.
Each titled piece is a reflection of the natural landscapes for which they’re named.
By incorporating picturesque, patterned, and texturally interesting gemstones and fossils, Dana’s jewelry designs combine colorful and sculp…
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Oct 31, 2019
The Not So Scary Truth About Opals (Replay Halloween 2018)
Some people keep away from wearing opals, believing the ancient rumor that they cast bad luck on anyone who wears one without it being their birthstone.
No one is certain where opal obtained its bad reputation, but in today’s Jewelry Navigator Podcast, I’m replaying last Halloween’s podcast, “The Not So Scary Truth About Opals With Matt Hopkins, of Hopkins Opal”.
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I’ll be back next week with a brand new Jewelry Navigator Episode, featuring Dana Busch of Dana Busch Designs.
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DON’T FORGET to check out my WHEELS & SQUEALS virtual trunk show with @crashjewelry
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Oct 24, 2019
Emma Hoekstra of Emma Elizabeth Jewelry Shares Her Story and the Challenges that Led Her to Winning the 2019 Halstead Grant
Emma Hoekstra is my guest this week on Jewelry Navigator Podcast.
Founder of Emma Elizabeth Jewelry, and winner of this year’s Halstead Grant, it seems everything is going well for her.
While we hope joy and celebration prevail in our lives, loss, grief, healing, and discovery remain unavoidable to the human experience.
After the loss of her boyfriend in a tragic car accident, Emma reclaimed her joy and purpose through a process of healing through jewelry design, which eventually led to the winning submission of this year’s Halstead Grant.
Using metal smithing and jewelry fabrication as forms of expression and cathartic therapy, Emma worked through her grief, and emerged with an ability to intertwine feeling, aesthetic, and dimension into jewelry collections defined by her signature tagline,, “Confident - Edgy - Unique”.
Emma’s courage and focus are inspirational, and her jewelry is unique and captivating.
To see her latest collections and bespoke cr…
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Oct 17, 2019
Steve Moriarty Shares His Gem Adventures, Jewelry Journey, Expertise on Gemstone Faceting, and What to Look for When Shopping for Colored Gemstones
This week’s Jewelry Navigator Podcast is unique and exciting!
If you love colored gemstone, or want to learn more about them from source to store, you’ll be mesmerized what today’s guest shares on Jewelry Navigator Podcast.
My guest has an established gem and jewelry store as well as a successful online gemstone and jewelry business.
Steve Moriarty is an accomplished gemstone cutter and jeweler in Crown Point, Indiana, about an hour southeast of Chicago.
His story begins with early childhood memories of collecting rocks in his wagon near railroad tracks close to his home.
His interest and passion in rocks and gems continued into college, when he took jewelry arts classes at Ball State University, then joined his older brother in a small gemstone importing business serving fine jewelry stores.
The quality of faceted goods they imported were often poor, so he learned how to cut and facet them himself.
From there, he began wholesaling to the indust…
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Oct 10, 2019
Catering to Established & New Clients in Q4 (and Beyond) for Jewelry Sales Success With Kathleen Cutler - You’ll Be Surprised How Simple It Is!
Now that we’re in the last quarter of the year, we need to capture the attention of our clients and customers to optimize income potential as jewelry brands and businesses.
If you haven’t kept ahead of your marketing plans, it’s not too late!
Kathleen Cutler of Bespoke Commerce, and CEO of Kathleen Cutler Strategy shared valuable strategies that will be easy to scale to the time and client list you already have.
Kathleen is a former bench jeweler and has worked in a myriad of roles within the jewelry industry.
We talk about what jewelry designers, brands and stores can do to navigate the current retail climate to merge independent jeweler’s efforts between online, location and connecting with their ideal clients.
Kathleen shares 5 simple actions you can take to have a successful holiday sales season to set yourself apart with loyal clients who are happy to provide referrals and return for future jewelry purchases.
The underlying purpose and focus of our visit is t…
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Oct 3, 2019
The Passion Behind Anastasia Simes’ Dramatic Jewelry Designs & How Her Frustration to Find the Perfect Gift Led to Her Jewelry Career
The Passion Behind Anastasia Simes’ Dramatic Jewelry Designs & How Her Frustration to Find the Perfect Gift Led to Her Jewelry Career
Anastasia is as lovely and captivating as her jewelry!
I found her background and story fascinating, and felt the dramatic aesthetic of her jewelry is a perfect fit for October!
I’m so grateful for her taking the time with me to visit for both the podcast and in person in her studio, because she’s a VERY busy woman!
For jewelry images and show notes to the show, be sure to find the blog post on jewelrynavigator.com
Besides her jewelry projects, Anastasia’s most recent costume and set design can be seen in a unique presentation of Synetic Theater’s wordless interpretation of Shakespeare’s The Tempest on a stage of water!
You have to see it to understand - so please see the links in bio for more, and if you’re in the DC area, and love dance and theater, consider attending one of the performances - through October 20.…
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Sep 26, 2019
Laryssa Wirstiuk of Joy Joya Jewelry Marketing Shares Tips for Successful Holiday Marketing For Jewelry Brands
Laryssa Wirstiuk of Joy Joya Jewelry Marketing Shares Tips for Successful Holiday Marketing For Jewelry Brands
Laryssa Wirstiuk of Joy Joya Jewelry Marketing is my guest this week on Jewelry Navigator Podcast.
She shares what small brands and designers can do to get in front of their ideal customers in time for the upcoming holiday gift season using tools and techniques you’re probably already using alone with others you may not have though of.
Laryssa shares the basics of what experiential marketing is, and what the main objective is.
Emerging designers often handle most of the day to day business tasks, including keeping up with social media.
Laryssa shares ways designers and brands can easily follow a schedule, making it easier to merge tasks and strategies.
To see some of the tools Laryssa shares in the podcast, visit the coordinating blog post for show notes including her recommendations, and where you can find her and her podcast, Joy Joya Jewelry Mark…
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Sep 19, 2019
Tracy Trainor Sculpts Motion & Life Into Wearable Jewelry Art
Tracy Trainor became a jewelry designer and maker as she meandered across the globe, and uses inspirations from her formative years in Japan, to the countryside of Ireland, where she currently resides.
What captures my attention with Tracy’s jewelry is the movement she coerces from wax carving, to casting, down to the texture.
When challenged to make a butterfly ring unique to her own aesthetic and creativity, she crafted a 3-dimensional butterfly that appears to be taking flight from one’s finger, complete with subtle veining in wings, to slight wind adjustments.
I’m delighted to share Tracy’s story today on Jewelry Navigator Podcast, and also, that she’ll be featured in Milan Jewelry week in the prestigious Artistar Jewels Show October 24-27.
You can find Tracy’s jewelry on her website, tracytrainorjewellery.com as well as on Facebook, and Instagram.
I wish Tracy a wonderful time and best of luck in Milan!
Be sure to keep watching my Instagram fe…
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Sep 12, 2019
Nayla Shami Shares Life’s Experiences Through Her Jewelry Designs
Nayla Shami Shares Life’s Experiences Through Her Jewelry Designs
In last week’s episode, I mentioned a few jewelry destinations for upcoming podcast stories.
Today’s jewelry designer’s story is influenced by traditional hand fabrication methods passed down from generation to generation of Lebanese goldsmiths and jewelers.
Nayla Shami is a delightful jeweler and designer based in Lubbock, Texas.
Originally from Lebanon, Nayla’s jewelry story grew from her appreciation of jewelry gifts received as a child, then later, as the designer.
I met Nayla almost two years ago at a Metal and Smith Show in New York.
Her selection and use of colorful gemstones set in her unique animal and nature inspired jewelry commanded my attention.
In today’s conversation, Nayla shares stories of A Burro, A Herd of Goats, Dancing Jeweled Flowers, and Marbles Encaged in Gems, all from her collections inspired by joyful childhood memories, and return visits to Lebano…
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Sep 6, 2019
ABCs of Jewelry Selection, Care, Alternatives to Class Rings, and Upcoming Jewelry Arrivals
Even though it’s small, jewelry carries big meaning and represents connections from our past, into our present, and future.
In this episode of Jewelry Navigator Podcast, I talk about showing your school spirit with jewelry, and I shared how I wear color and theme relevant jewelry to the Penn State football games with pieces by CRASH Jewelry, Emily Kuvin Jewelry, and
Mary van der Aa.
Staying with the school spirit theme, and for those who want alternatives to traditional class rings, we talked about the importance of choosing gemstones with high hardness to withstand long term wear, and we also talked about how quality speaks to the importance of the longevity of the piece.
I shared tips on jewelry wear and upkeep, like cleaning, care, and ring sizing.
Jewelry doesn’t last forever, but by choosing well made pieces, and making wise choices for stones, settings, and metals, jewelry can sustain wear for multiple generations.
I’m so grateful for all the art…
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Aug 28, 2019
Elizabeth Moore’s New Collections Redefine Her Passion as an Independent Jewelry Designer
Elizabeth Moore’s New Collections Redefine Her Passion as an Independent Jewelry Designer
Our conversation starts from a mention she made I picked up on during our meeting at JA, where she mentioned the concept of the Circle of Fifths as an element in her new collection.
Elizabeth’s new collection explores a deeper meaning of symbols she feels strengthens the important connections in our lives.
And I love how she shares what she’s doing to navigate today’s retail landscape as an independent designer.
Elizabeth’s formal training was in performance arts, which led to a career in modeling.
Her perspective on fashion gives her a bird’s eye view of how trends work, and how to make the most impact with the mission she shares with her jewelry designs.
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Aug 27, 2019
Jewelry Navigator Summer Jewelry Adventures: From Florida to New York Jewelry Week
Jewelry Navigator Summer Jewelry Adventures: From Florida to New York Jewelry Week
Between summer vacations, I visited jewelry designers this summer, and this video shares my jewelry adventures with them!
There is a coordinating video on Jewelry Navigator’s website, as well as on YouTube.
Jewelers, Designers, & Stores included in my adventures are:
Mary van de Aa
Anastasia Simes
Lily & Co Jewelers
Gigi Ferranti Jewelry
K8 Jewelry
Petite Baleine Jewelry
Eden Presley Jewelry
Elizabeth Moore
Noor Shamma
Sam Woermann
M. Kita Designs
Julie Lamb
Emily Kuvin Jewelry
For the most up to date jewelry adventures and news, subscribe to Jewelry Navigator Podcast, and follow Jewelry Navigator on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!
For more information on any of the designers featured in the video, reach out to them, as I know they would be delighted to help you with your dream jewelry designs!
All images and videos by Brenna Pakes, Jewelry Navigator…
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Jul 25, 2019
Pam Waill of Petite Baleine Jewelry Shares Her Jewelry Business Journey and Tips on Trade Shows
Today, I’m sharing my visit with Pam Waill, of Petite Baleine Jewelry,
She’ll be showing at the New York Now Show next month, August 10-14 at the Javits Center in booth 1442.
Pam’s jewelry design business precipitated from her marketing background and an affinity for artistic creativity.
A serendipitous visit to a local boutique in her hometown of Katonah, NY, was the springboard for Petite Baleine Jewelry.
As a mother of teen and adult children, she works her jewelry business around her family and their dog, who
you’ll hear in the background occasionally through the podcast, but I love that!
It shows that we don’t have to live in a perfect, sterile world to have both a career doing what we love and a personal, family life.
With the support of family and peers, we can enjoy both our personal and professional lives, which is just as exciting as it is empowering.
Pam is endearing and approachable, and it was
a delight visiting with her…
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Jul 11, 2019
Asia Nail, of iRock Gems, Rocks Jewelry With a Passion for Diversity & Inclusion
This week, my guest on Jewelry Navigator Podcast Guest is Asia Nail of iRock Gems!
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She’s an active advocate for diversity and inclusion, and shares how it’s become her passion project.
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After celebrating our independence, focusing on diversity is perfect timing.
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As a working mom of two littles under 3, Asia is gracious, generous, and beautiful, and I’m looking forward to sharing her story this week! 💋
#womensupportingwomen #workingmoms
Mentioned in this Podcast:
Women's Jewelry Association
Abby Sparks Jewelry
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Jun 30, 2019
Melissa Dusenberry Shares Her Gem Brilliance About Pearls
Melissa Dusenberry presents informative gem and jewelry information in welcoming and interesting formats on her website and Instagram Feed, All the Brilliants.
Her Gem Information Series on pearl caught my attention on her Instagram Feed.
With the help of Eve Streiker, or Original Eve Designs, Melissa shared how pearls form, what makes them unique, and their many varieties.
While Melissa’s mission of All the Brilliants is to educate consumers, her platform also serves women in the jewelry and science industries.
For an easy to follow pearl buying guide, subscribe to All the Brilliants to receive yours!
https://www.allthebrilliants.com/
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May 30, 2019
Part 2-Debra Navarro's Leap of Faith Into an Award Winning Jewelry Design Career
In this second of a two part episode, “Debra Navarro's Leap of Faith Into an Award Winning Designer", Debra continues from how her Barefoot Collection ties in to the theme of her Watu Collection.
Debra Navarro LInks Arms With Gem Legacy
In this second part of my visit, Debra shared her connection with Gem Legacy, and how her East African gem excursions with Roger Dery, his wife, Ginger, and daughter, Rachel Dery revealed ties that paralleled her career path with lives within the mining communities she visited and enriched with the Gem Legacy team.
Gem Legacy grew from initiatives that serve the mining communities rich in natural gem resources, but face challenges to access and process them.
Debra's Watu Collection
"Watu" means “people” in Swahili.Debra shares how each Watu design is named for a person significant to her during her visits to East Africa, and how Gem Legacy is an integral part to her jewelry career and business.
Debra Navarro Jewelry Gives Back to Gem Legac…
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May 28, 2019
Debra Navarro's Leap of Faith Into an Award Winning Jewelry Design Career
I usually publish new episodes on Thursday. This week, my guest is Debra Navarro.
In February, 2019, she earned JCK’s Industry Choice Award for her Vincent Ring - a rough, but elegant statement ring set with a green berylj, sprinkled with natural color diamonds from her signature Watu collection.
Then, just recently, this Spring, InStore Magazine announced their In Store Design Awards, DEbra earned first place for her Hinged Jackson earrings set with over 23 carats of beaming scapolite and diamonds.
Funny enough, Gigi Ferranti, who was my guest last week on the podast, won 2nd place for her Rosetta Star ring in 18K rose gold with star ruby cabochons, round brilliant rubies, and pink and orange sapphire, and both designers are premiering in Vegas at Premier’s inaugural show this week at the Las Vegas Convention Center May 30 through June 3.
In this first part of two, Debra shares how she broke through roadblocks in her career, and how her collections are interpre…
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May 23, 2019
Gigi Ferranti, Graduate Gemologist and Jewelry Designer: How Fashion, Architecture, & Italian Heritage Influence Gigi Ferranti Jewelry
Gigi Ferranti, Graduate Gemologist and Jewelry Designer: How Fashion, Architecture, & Italian Heritage Influence Gigi Ferranti Jewelry
From an early age, Gigi has been influenced by Italian architecture and jewelry design.
As a fashion marketing and business major, Gigi began her career in management within a large retail clothing chain.
She owned and ran her own high end boutique for twenty years, dressing and supplying her clients for special events and personal styling.
After getting a taste of supplying her boutique with jewelry from the JA New York show, she transitioned into jewelry design, starting by acquiring her Graduate Gemology credentials from GIA New York.
She worked briefly for David Yurman selecting gemstones for their prominent pieces, then returned to GIA to learn jewelry design.
She launched Gigi Ferranti Jewelry in 2015, and hasn’t looked back!
I met Gigi last summer at the JA New York show, and next week, she’ll be showing in…
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May 16, 2019
Inside Jewelry Trade Shows & Marketing With Liz Kantner, Curator & Designer Consultant for the Premier Show
Inside Jewelry Trade Shows & Marketing With Liz Kantner, Curator & Designer Consultant for the Premier Show
Liz Kantner is the designer consultant to rising, independent designers for Emerald Exposition’s jewelry trade shows, JA New York, and is heading up their debut Premier Show in Las Vegas, May 30 through June 3rd, 2019.
A few of the designers attending the show have been guests on Jewelry Navigator Podcast, like Samantha Jackson of Heavenly Vices Fine Jewelry, and Kate Hubley of K8Jewelry.
Other designers featured are Emily Kuvin Jewelry, and Debra Halperin of May Came Home Jewelry, as well as industry insiders, Roger and Rachel Dery of Gem Legacy, and Roger Dery Gems.
Liz had extensive experience with digital marketing before she started her journey in the jewelry industry.
She moved to Denver from Philadelphia, and answered a Craig’s List ad for a social media and marketing position with Todd Reed Jewelry.
She advanced to marketing manager for Todd Reed. She compared h…
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May 9, 2019
William Travis Kukovich - Innovative Jeweler and Designer
Jewelry designer, William Travis Kukovich, of William Travis Jewelry is my guest on the Podcast today.
He’s earned over twenty industry awards for his designs using colored gemstones, unique design elements, and metal combinations.
His jewelry is unique on its own, and is difficult to pin down with a description, and appeals to both men and women alike.
From his studio in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Travis creates custom designs for clients looking to define their own style.
He also operates outside the ordinary retail experience by offering in-studio, behind the scenes tours every Saturday to visitors and curious customers.
This podcast has been a work in progress between his busy schedule since last December, but I’m excited to be sharing his unique story here on Jewelry Navigator.
While we face life challenges, we all hope we can use them to better our lives, and Travis has done just that.
Between a traumatic childhood brain injury that’s im…
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May 2, 2019
Paul Bierker - Renaissance Jeweler & Founder of Geek Jewelry
Paul Bierker - Renaissance Jeweler & Founder of Geek Jewelry
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Paul Bierker is the founder of Paul Michael Jewelry in Pittsburgh, as well as Geek Jewelry, a line of super hero and science fiction inspired jewelry.
A kind of modern day renaissance jeweler, with equal parts inventor and anthropologist, Paul shares his insight on how he merges new design and maker methods with traditional bench skills and a genuine interest to create jewelry treasures based on what’s most important to his clients and their wishes.
If you’re a fan of the Avenger movie series or Star Wars, Paul makes jewelry to celebrate your fandom.
Other pop culture stories he uses for his jewelry inspiration are Dr. Who, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Anime, game characters, and more.
I found his jewelry online a few years ago, and did one of my first blog posts about him and his jewelry.
This weekend, we’re traveling to Pittsburgh, and I’ll be visiting Paul in his studio on Butler Street in…
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Apr 25, 2019
Spring Fling Jewelry & Accessory Gift Guide
Besides Mother's Day and Father's Day, spring often brings many other reasons to celebrate, like graduations, weddings, anniversaries, and the birth or adoption of a baby. When given or received as a gift, or purchased for ourselves, jewelry allows us to reflect on our life celebrations long after the cake is gone, and streamers are torn down.
Do you have a special anniversary or birthday this year? Is something worth celebrating happening soon? Is someone close to you graduating from high school or college?
Listen to the fabulous jewelry and accessory gift options by talented designers and jewelers featured in the podcast and coordinating post on Jewelry Navigator.
Tour the galleries for unique jewelry and accessory gifts – either for someone special, or yourself!
http://bit.ly/SpringFlingJewelryGuide
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Apr 15, 2019
How Spring Cleaning Your Jewelry Could Save You Thousands of Dollars
This podcast shares how you can save thousands of dollar with jewelry that’s been abandoned or forgotten in your jewelry box, as well as the jewelry items you wear on a regular basis.
Spring is the time of year we start fresh by cleaning inside and out, and clearing out old, worn out items.
The same should go with then contents of your jewelry box.
How many rings, earrings, chains and bracelets have been left to tarnish in the shadows of your jewelry box and drawers?
Did you know you could save thousands of dollars just by going through what’s in your jewelry box, and taking care of the jewelry you wear on a regular basis?
Join me in learning how you can turn what you already have into “new” treasures and jewelry gifts!
Cash Register sound effect by and downloaded at https://www.zapsplat.com
Show Notes:
For more information about gold purity and FTC jewelry policies for consumers see
https://www.ftc.gov
Calla Gold Jewelry on Pearl Restrining
https://www.callagold.…
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Apr 4, 2019
The Amazing Jewelry Talents of Gemologist and Jeweler, Mary van der Aa
Custom design jewelers, like Mary van der Aa, create jewelry to reflect your unique style characteristics, with your gem, and metal specifications.
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The beauty of working with jewelers like Mary, is that not only does she do all the casting, setting and finishing work herself, but she also has access to custom-cut gemstones by her partner, Todd Wacks, of Tucson Todd Gems.
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As a woman designing and making jewelry, she shares a common perspective we have for beauty, style and balance.
It also doesn't hurt that she designed the pageant crown for Miss Denmark, complete with over 2500 hand-set melee stones!
Be sure you're subscribed for your on-time arrival every week to hear jewelry tips and stories! New episodes are released every Thursday.
Special aircraft cabin sound effects by ZapSplat Aircraft in-flight interior ambience as aircraft makes final approach – Airbus A340 commercial jet 2
https://www.zapsplat.com
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Mar 28, 2019
Bridal Jewelry and Industry Trends With 3rd Generation Jeweler, & Designer, Sarah Hodson of Sarah Michiko Designs
Sarah Hodson of Sarah Michiko Designs, and CADs by Sarah Michiko shares how she brings fresh perspective to her family’s 3rd generation jewelry business.
At the time of this podcast, bridal season in full swing, she also shares rising trends with engagement rings, changes for men’s wedding bands, and advice for women starting out in the jewelry industry.
Her command and expertise in design and jewelry manufacturing allows her to see complex and custom jewelry requests through to happy and return clients.
You can find Sarah’s designs at Sarah Michiko Designs on her website as well as on Instagram, or reach out to her at her family business, Platinum Plus Designs.
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Mar 20, 2019
Travel Safety Tips For Jewelry and Personal Belongings
Spring vacation is here, and part of enjoying your travels includes knowing your belongings will be safe.
Making sure your jewelry and valuables are safe while traveling is as necessary as having your passport and credit cards.
In this episode, I share tips from a few of my travel and safety professional friends and crew members on how you can stay safe and keep your personal belongings, like jewelry and identifications safe while on travel or holiday.
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Mar 14, 2019
Blooming Jewelry With Bella Campbell of Campbellian Collection
Bella Campbell overcame the challenges of language barriers when she arrived in the States over thirty years ago.
Originally from Georgia, the former republic of Russia, she arrived with a degree in physics, and transitioned into the fashion and jewelry career stream, starting as a buyer for Macy’s jewelry department, then a buyer for a major gemstone company.
Now, she has her own line, and creates one of a kind jewelry with enchanting color combinations of bright gemstones and precious metals.
For all the courageous women everywhere who leave their homeland to pursue dreams, here’s to Bella, who exemplifies the spirit of women everywhere doing their best to blend career and family.
Be sure to hear last week’s episode, a compilation of many of the women and designers I’ve featured on the podcast over the past year in this week’s podcast, “Celebrating International Women’s Day With Women From Jewelry Navigator Podcast Stories“ available on iTunes, Spotify, Podbean, a…
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Mar 7, 2019
Celebrating International Women's Day With Women From Jewlery Navigator Podcast Stories
This month is the one year anniversary since the start of the Jewelry Navigator Podcast.
Jewelry Navigator remains on a course to connect shoppers to unique jewelry and share the stories of the designers who create it.
The episode explorations and destinations have been:
Jewelry made from luxury cars, like Ferraris and Maseratis, with Christi Schimpke of CRASH Jewelry.
The story of an architect who sees buildings as jewelry, with Emily Minton of MINTON with premium architecturally inspired jewelry.
Emily Kuvin, a former journalist and lawyer, who returned to her passion of jewelry design, and now creates the jewelry of her dreams.
Rachel Dery, a young woman, and gemologist, making a difference for East African miners with holisitic sourcing, and forging gem legacies.
California Girl Jewelry, a mother - daughter jewelry and gemology team who create exclusive jewelry with rare and beautiful gems.
Samantha Jackson, and her jewlery company, Heavenly Vices' wearable jewelery treasur…
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Feb 28, 2019
Episode 32: The Intrigue of K8 Jewelry With Kate Hubley
Kate Hubley is the designer and goldsmith behind K8 Jewelry.
Based in Montreal, Canada, Kate holds the prestigious FGA gemmology designation from the Gemmological Association of Great Britain.
Originally a professional within advertising, Kate began taking courses in design and jewelry gold smithing.
Kate is a delight to visit with, and she creates jewelry using captivating concepts with a twist of light hearted whimsy.
With collection names like Precious Time, Lumina, Carnival, and more, Kate’s designs are versatile, and offer styles for a range of interests and demographics.
Join me in this podcast to hear how Kate interpreted a friend’s drawing of medieval torture weapons into one of her most meaningful collections.
You can find Kate's jewlery at www.k8jewelry.com and she's on Instagram as @k8jewelry.
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Feb 22, 2019
Treasures of 2019 Tucson Gem Show
Jewelry Navigator’s Adventure at the 2019 Tucson Gem Show
Every year in February, thousands of rockhounds, jewelers, gemologists, and artists attend gem shows in Tucson.
Since its beginning, the show has grown to over 40 separate shows.
For jewelers and fine gemstone buyers, the shows are in venues, like the AGTA Gemfair, in the Tucson Convention Center.
Other shows are inside mazes of large white tents along roadsides, others take over complete hotels, using guest rooms as temporary shops.
It was an experience that surpassed my expectations, for sure!
For those of you who aren’t familiar with this show, it’s a mecca for jewelers - both professional and hobbyists, and rock hounds.
It was a fantastic experience, and besides seeing gemstones I’ve only dreamed of, I also met and made new friends through Gem Legacy’s Launch on February 8, at the JW Marriott Resort Starr Pass.
Note: Podcoin
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Jan 17, 2019
Episode 30 Gem Legacy Making a Difference One Gem at a Time With Roger and Rachel Dery
Whether you love jewelry and gems as much as I do, you may wonder sometimes about where the gems are found.
Knowing where gems are found is traceable
Knowing who finds the gem crystals, and exactly where to look is harder, and has been more difficult to trace - until now, and unless you make that your mission.
Today, I’m very excited and honored to be sharing my visit with Roger and Rachel Dery.
Their gem story goes so much deeper than the depths from which the gems they feature are discovered.
The Dery family, Roger, Ginger, and Rachel launched Gem Legacy, last fall, and 501 c 3 non-profit company.
In Tucson, next month, Roger, Ginger and Rachel will be celebrating the launch of Gem Legacy.
Their mission is to make the lives of the miners, families and communities that are supported through Gem Legacy better, and more enriched through their treasured resources by means of educational and guided support by Gem Legacy.
With the demands of…
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Jan 10, 2019
Episode 29 Jewelry Appraisals With Fred Van Doren, Graduate Gemologist and Certified Jewelry Appraiser
Is your jewelry covered by accurate and legitimate appraisals?
If you lost your engagement ring tomorrow, would it be adequately covered by your insurance for it to be replaced as close to the original?
These are questions that are answered with a proper appraisal that is current and accurate.
Part of why I share the information related to jewelry is so you don’t feel intimidated by shopping for and caring for your jewelry.
You should always feel comfortable with the jewelry professionals you trust, and feel they have your best interests at heart.
That brings up the subject of ethics, which should be the barometer that underrides the practice of personal property and jewelry appraisals.
Knowing who to trust, and who will appriase your jewelry fairly and honestly should be your first priority when choosing an appraiser.
I’m so excited to share my visit with today’s guest, Fred Van Doren, Graduate Gemologist, and Certified Jewelry Appraiser.
His story starts in a chemistry…
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Nov 29, 2018
The Fun Verstility of Julie Lamb Fine Jewelry With Julie Lamb
Julie Lamb is a fun and highly experienced jewelry designer in New York City.
She’s been making jewelry since childhood. After attending an art magnet school in the city, she began her jewelry career and journey working as project manager and marketing specialist for big name companies.
Her jewelry company, Julie Lamb Fine Jewelry, contains a versatile selection of collections. From whimsical lamb themed jewelry (a play on her last name with the “Be Ewe” collection), to her Metropolis and City collections, her jewelry is refreshingly unique.
Julie won second place in the MJSA Vision Award for designers in the 1-3 Years in Business category for her “Entrepreneur” ring, which reflects her sophisticated designs in her Limited Edition and Elements Collections.
Julie was a joy to talk to, and I was honored that she took time with me to share her story.
You can find Julie Lamb Fine Jewelry at julielambny.com, and on instagram, @julielambny.
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Oct 31, 2018
Episode 27 The Not So Scary Truth About Opals With Matt Hopkins of Hopkins Opal
The Not So Scary Truth About Opals
Anne of Geierstein, also known as The Maiden of the Mist is a novel written by Sir Walter Scott, in 1829, and cast an unlucky shadow onto opal.
The story told of a young princess who wore an opal pin in her hair.
When she was happy, the opal radiated with its signature flashes of colors. When she was mad or sad, the opal faded in light and color.
Convinced she was evil or bewitched, holy water was sprinkled onto the opal to break the jewel’s spell, and at once, the princess fainted and collapsed.
The next morning, there was only a heap of gray ashes where she had been laid.
From that point on, opal was believed to be bad luck, and it suffered in popularity.
It regained attention and jewelry status to be pushed again by the jealous diamond industry, so it is speculated.
Today, opal is enjoyed by many for its fiery display and wide variety.
The most recent variety uncovered is a transparent, jelly variety,…
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Oct 18, 2018
Episode 26: Emily Kuvin's Jewelry Designs Are Shining Stars
I met Emily Kuvin at the Jewelers of America Jewelry show in New York this past summer.
She was featured as one of a select few designers in the New Designer Gallery, curated and selected by Liz Kantner.
She’s been featured on Gem Gossip’s site with her Stella jewelry, and now I’m so excited to have her as today’s guest on the podcast.
What I find so interesting about Emily is how she balances the business and design side of her jewelry with the skills and background from her education and prior careers.
With a degree in history and English, she continued into the field of journalism, and was a news broadcast journalist.
She returned to school for a law degree, and practiced law before deciding to pursue a long lasting interest of jewelry design.
Her career experience and research skills as a journalist and in her law profession serve her well in her jewelry business.
She seamlessly balances a mix of aesthetic understanding with business practicality.
Currently, her two…
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Sep 27, 2018
Episode 25 The Architectural Jewelry of Minton with Architect and Jewelry Designer, Emily Minton
What started out as a concrete jewelry for an architectural thesis project for her graduate program turned into a line of jewelry created by Emily Minton.
Now, Emily is a full time practicing partner at an archticecture firm in Baltimore, where at night and on weekends, you can find her designing and managing the manufacturing of her jewelry from NYC.
Recnetly, her jewlery was featured on the models for Flying Solo's late summer fashion show.
I was surprised to learn that Emily is both the model and photographer for all her photo shoots for her jewelry.
From scenes that look like a moonscape, to the contrast of straight and curved lines set in the cornfields of Nebraska, Emily's photos on her site and Instagram feed are inspiring and make shoppers intrigued to know more about her jewelry.
You can find Minton online www.shopminton.com, and follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
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Sep 20, 2018
Episode 24 Making Smart Choices for Jewelry That Lasts
Episode 24 Making Smart Choices for Jewelry That Lasts
Busy people need to make smart choices for jewelry that lasts.
In this episode, I share tips and features to make jewelry selections that will save you from costly repairs, and ensure a lifetime of wear and enjoyment.
Thanks so much for joining me, and enjoy the episode!
About Brenna, the Jewelry Navigator
A Graduate Gemologist with a degree in geology, Brenna has worked in the retail sector of jewlery for nearly 15 years.
With a heart for the small business owner and independent designers, Brenna fills the gap between trade show and shopper looking for unique jewelry to define life and experience.
By sharing the missions, stories and creations of artisan and independent jewelers, Jewelry Navigator brings jewelry to the shopping public that may otherwise go undiscovered.
Visit jewelrynavigator.com for more, and follow on Instagram @jewelrynavigator
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Sep 13, 2018
Episode 23 AP Gemology and Jewelry with Thesis Gems
AP Gemology & Jewelry With Thesis Gems
Last week’s episode was all about alternative jewelry to the class ring.
I shared so many other ring options that would be worn and not destined for the jewelry graveyards of forgotten jewelry box drawers.
This week, we continue with the school theme with a Thesis.
According to the Oxford dictionary, and Thesis is
“A statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved.”
I vehemently stand by the thesis that jewelry is worth more than the money we pay for it.
Jewelry speaks the words we don’t have to tell someone how special they are to us.
Jewelry is like wearing a mini monument that continuously celebrates our most important life events.
Cate Claus is the creator and designer behind Thesis gems, and brings more validation to my theory
Cate thoughtfully and throughly sources the materials used to create her jewelry, using only the finest gems recovered in…
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Sep 6, 2018
Episode 22: No Ring Left Behind - Alternatives to Class Rings
Episode 22: No Ring Left Behind - Alternatives to Class Rings
Do you still have your class ring? Has it been abandoned in a drawer or jewelry box?
Class rings aren't as popular as they were in the height of their popularity, say in the 1950's through the 1980's.
For decades, graduating from high school and college had been celebrated with a coveted class ring.
West Point Military Academy began the tradition in 1835, and from there, other schools adopted the concept with their own rings.
The first class rings were all metal, or set with gemstones like onyx and carnelian.
Today, many students are choosing to forego class rings.
Some reasons may be cost, lack of interest, or opting for other gifts, like electronics or cash.
Whether you or your student decides to show school pride and celebrate academic merits, graduating from high school and college is a big deal, and worthy to be celebrated with jewelry.
In this podcast, I share alternative rings that will hold interest and have…
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Aug 14, 2018
Episode 21 And the Winners Are...!!! Juler's Row Giveaway and A Look Back
Episode 21 And the Winners are…!!! Juler's Row Giveaway, & A Look Back
As promised, today, I’ll be announcing the winners of the Julers Row Giveaway.
If you missed it, last week, in the Jewelry Navigator Boarding Lounge, Julie Bishop of Juler’s Row and Katherine and Josephine shared her story of how she successfully runs two jewelry businesses, IN
Episode 20 Back to School Jewels With Juler’s Row Home Decor Jewelry Art
We ran a giveaway contest for one of two of her jewelry theme decor items, of either a cushion cut diamond tote bag, or an Opal watercolor rendering canvas print, both with a retail value of $145, and both items are perfect for back to school = the tote bag with its big, beautiful cushion cut diamond, and the opal watercolor print to brighten up and add sparkle to any dorm or apartment wall!
In the contest on Instagram, instructions were to like the posts, follow both me and Julie at Juler’s Row, and tag 3 friends to enter.
Al…
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Aug 7, 2018
Episode 20 Back to School Jewels With Juler's Row Home Decor Jewelry Art
Welcome to the 20th episode of the jewelry navigator podcast!
Today’s guest is Julie Bishop, creator and designer behind not just one designer jewelry business, but TWO - Juler’s Row, and Katherine and Josephine.
To help celebrate the 20th episode, and bring some extra sparkle to back to school, I have a very special back to school jewel giveaway, collaborating with my guest, Julie Bishop, and her Juler’s Row home decor items.
Juler’s Row started as a blog, and a way to explore multiple areas of jewelry design.
With bench, metal smithing and design experience, Julie understands the processes from concept to jewelry.
As her career’s evolved, she’s gained more hands on experience from behind the scenes as well as from the boutique counter, assisting clients with custom designs.
Using the concept of the variety one finds in a jewelry district, along with her name, Juler’s Row is a line of jewelry art - both wearable and decorative - for yourself and your home!
The j…
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Aug 1, 2018
Episode 19 Fun & Colorful Jewelry of May Came Home With Deborah Halperin
May came home is a fresh and colorful jewelry line designed by the versatile and talented jeweler and designer, Deborah Halperin.
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Inspired by the e.e. cummings poem, “maggie, millie, molly and may,” Debbie brings the joy of discovering the beauty around us through colorfully graphic jewelry designs of enamel jewelry created in both sterling silver and 14kt yellow gold.
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Lucky clovers, tiny bunnies, suns, moons, and doves are just a few of the whimsical themes within her colorful jewelry.
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Episode 19 shares how Debbie’s journey and second degree in graphic design has delivered her to where she is in her jewelry career today.
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I met Debbie and her jewelry at the JA Show in New York recently, and am so glad I did!
I was drawn to her exhibit because of the variety of brightly colored enamel jewelry she makes.
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But what’s especially unique about her colorful and graphically pleasing designs, is that many of them are reversible, with one side of the enamel colors…
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Jul 25, 2018
Episode 18 Jewelry Discoveries from the Summer 2018 JANY Show with American Jewelers & Designers
More American Made Jewelry Discoveries
Besides sharing more amazing jewelry designers with jewelry made in America, I thought I’d also take the time to catch up and share some shopping and sale opportunities, which I’ll share in a few minutes.
Summer is for fun and traveling, and we’ve been busy doing that!
In fact after I record this episode, I’ll be headed to DC to visit the Smithsonian museums with my family - and gems etc
For the month of July, I’ve been featuring jewelers and designers of America, and jewelry made in the U.S., starting with Hugo Kohl out of Harrisonburg, VA, who creates jewelry from original, antique tools and hubs used just like they were in the 1800’s.
A lot of his jewelry is accented with ornamentation that held secret messages for the recipients, from cigar band style rings, to signet styles, to the delicately engraved gold wedding bands.
If you missed that episode, it’s number 16 America’s Vintage Jewelry Legacy w…
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Jul 12, 2018
Episode 17 The Eclectic Story and Designs of Wade and Willow Hand Forged Jewelry with Kiara Boughner
Episode 17 The Eclectic Story and Designs of Wade and Willow Hand Forged Jewelry with Kiara Boughner
Where would you find a dragonfly carrying opals on its wings?
Or mermaids guarding labradorite?
…in the jewelry of Wade and Willow Hand Forged Jewelry!
Today, I’m sharing the story of jewelry artist, Kiara Boughner, who uses her many artistic talents to create Wade and Willow Hand Forged Jewelry.
An avid rock hound and gem fanatic, Kiara has created a niche specific to unique styles inspired by designs that are eclectic, yet include themes celebrating nature with a classic flair.
In between being a wife, mother of a toddler, part time model, rock and gem hound, designer and metalsmith, Kiara creates jewelry with stones she often sources herself with her family in the California desert.
Kiara is lovely, with a sincere connection between the jewelry she creates for the people who love to wear it.
Raised in a musical and creative family, Kiara shares how she nav…
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Jul 7, 2018
Episode 16 America’s Vintage Jewelry Legacy with Hugo Kohl of Hugo Kohl Jewelry
Episode 16 America’s Vintage Jewelry Legacy with Hugo Kohl of Hugo Kohl Jewelry
Combining his formal education in finance and economics with his passions of art, jewelry design and history, Hugo Kohl has created a hybrid career of sorts as jewelry historian, bench jeweler and artistic philosopher.
In 1993, Hugo had an experience at a scrapyard in Providence, Rhode Island that would begin a journey of discovery and recovery of the tools original to the means of making jewelry we’ve only been familiar with in antique collections and estate cases.
Originally, his formal education and degree was in finance and economics, his career in the finance industry was short lived.
While on vacation in Providence, Rhode Island, Hugo found the keys that rediscovered the tools and techniques used to create some of America’s greatest jewelry from the Industrial Age.
Since discovering the purpose of the tools he’d uncovered, he began the Museum of American Jewelry Desi…
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Jun 28, 2018
Episode 15: Shopping for Jewelry on Vacation? Start Here!
Whether traveling on vacation, or shopping in a new store anywhere, listen for tips and recommendations on how and where to shop for jewelry.
It all starts with a couple tips to keep in mind, then I take you across the country to “visit” jewelers and their shops, and share their inspiration.
Jewelry that celebrates nature’s scenes with turtles, to alligator toe bones;
From jewelry that looks like pirate’s treasure to colorful candy, and created down the road from chocolate and candy factories, to jewelry created on site, and in stores, some just a short drive to the beach.
This episode features jewelry created by:
Gogo Jewelry
Cumberland Island, GA
gogojewelry.com
Bowman Originals,
Sarasota, FL
bowmanoriginals.com
B.S. Bee Designs
Kiawah Island, SC
bsbeedesigns.com
Plante Jewelers
Swansea, MA
plantejewelers.com
The Jeweler’s Bench
Hershey, PA
jewelrequest.com
Susann’s Custom Jewelers
Corpus Christi, TX
susanns-jewele…
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Jun 19, 2018
Episode 14 The Virtues of Heavenly Vices Fine Jewelry With Samantha Jackson
Episode 14 The Virtues of Heavenly Vices Fine Jewelry With Samantha Jackson
Samantha Jackson, founder of Heavenly Vices Fine Jewelry, joins us in the Jewelry Navigator Boarding Lounge today.
Born and raised in New Orleans, Samantha explains how collections with names like Rebirth, Audubon, Carnival, Celestial, Garden District, Spirits, and Voodoo,are inspired from the nature, history and culture of the region.
I first met Samantha and her jewlery line, Heavenly Vices Fine Jewelry, at the Metal and Smith 2018 Winter Edit in NYC, and have been hooked ever since.
Using vintage accents, like antique love tokens (originally coins that are burnished on one or both sides, then engraved with significant dates, monograms and secret messages), and an unusual combinations of design and gems, Heavenly Vices Fine Jewelry reveals how we strive to connect meaning between what and who is significant in our lives.
Inspired by jewelry since a child, Samantha connects jewelry t…
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Jun 15, 2018
Episode 13: What do Fireflies, an Aston Martin and Kunzite Have to do With Friday?! Listen and Find Out…An Acrostic Celebration of Friday!
It’s FRIDAY, so, let’s celebrate with some gem, jewelry and fun surprises with an acrostic celebration of Friday!
For each letter of the word Friday, I feature a gemstone, item of jewelry or a special surprise!
Listen to find out what fireflies, an Aston Martin and feldspar (gems like moonstone, kunzite, labradorite, sunstone and amazonite) have to do with each other!
We start at the beginning with the letter F, then go through the remaining letters of FRIDAY, sharing gems, jewelry and an extra surprise at the end.
Even though I used FRIDAY, the gems, jewelry and extra surprise are year-round treats for any time!
Have Fun!
Jewelry, Designers and Artists featured in ths episode are:
F for Feldspar:
California Girl Jewelry with Sunstone and Kunzite jewlery
R for Ruby with Rubies from Greenland Ruby (yes! rubies are mined in Greenland!
I is for Indicolite Tourmaline with Gigi Ferrante's one of a kind Mermaid ring
D is for Danburite with a 4 carat + danburite set…
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Jun 5, 2018
Episode 12 Creations of R. Simantov - Jewelry Like Modern Day Faberge’ Treasures
Summoning lost skills and techniques through abandoned tools Reubin Simantov accepts challenges most jewelers trade for the modern technology of CAD-CAM assisted jewelry manufacturing.
Insistent that clients and customers observe and respect the time, attention and thought put into every custom piece, he will often discourage clients who expect delivery before the estimated completion date.
Those who understand the energy and resources needed for his level of creativity wait patiently, sometimes several months before the commissioned pieces are completed.
While behind the scenes, Simantov and his workshop wait for the perfect stone for each piece, and use nature as inspiration as guides.
Not only is his jewlery created from layers of observation and attention, but the combinations of materials often make them even more exceptional.
Gun metal steel inlaid with 24kt gold, carved obsidian (volcanic glass), and hidden mechanical works that conceal charming and surreal surprises are ju…
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Jun 1, 2018
Episode 11 Chips are for Lunch, Not Diamonds and Other Helpful Jewelry Tips
You’re onboard Jewelry Navigator Episode 11, Chips are for Lunch,they’re not diamonds, and other helpful tips to
shop with confidence and understand what you already have.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the episode - welcome aboard!
What makes metals used in jewelry better than just regular metal, and is one better than another?
If it looks like gold, then it is, right?
What is gold and silver plated jewelry, and what’s the difference from actual gold?
What about the gemstones - are there really ones more precious than
others to be called semi-precious?
If the diamonds set in halo and on the sides of jewelry are small, are they even diamonds or are the just small pieces of diamond chips?
And speaking of diamonds if you didn’t know already like almost to every gemstone, diamonds are now being lab created or man-made in labs in just a few weeks rather than millions of years.
These are some of the challenges shoppers face to distinguish the dif…
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May 22, 2018
Episode 10: Champagne, Rare Gemstones, and Jewelry With Denise Forbes of California Girl Jewelry
What could possibly complement a private showing of fine jewelry better than a glass of champagne while beholding rare gems, like taaffeite, a lavender gem that sparkles as much or more than diamond, and blue color change Bekily garnet?!
Today, I visit with the daughter of the mother - daughter team of California Girl Jewelry, Denise Forbes, where from their boutique in San Francisco, they treat clients and walk in customers to champagne and an entrancing selection of gemstones, along with jewelry designs in which to enhance and showcase them.
Originally from New England and NYC, Mariel Baker, mother of the two partners, moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, and continued her executive level career in the dot com industry.
Her desire and interest in jewelry set with rare gemstones followed her into retirement, where she began California Girl Jewelry.
Denise later joined her mother in San Francisco.
Together they bring phenomenal jewelry to gem aficionados and jewelry lovers all ove…
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May 16, 2018
Episode 9: How and Where to Shop for the Best Jewelry Gifts for All Occasions
With spring and summer as popular wedding seasons, that also means anniversaries!
Shop smart from your heart and your wallet!
In this episode, I share jewelry to give as new gifts, along with tips on how to pass along an heirloom piece for a gift.
Having a jeweler you know and trust is so important, because they can save you lots of money through repairs that revive old pieces.
I also share:
* unique pearl jewelry gifts that are updates to your grandmother’s pearl necklace
* the difference between fresh and saltwater cultured pearls
* jewelry gifts for the guys
* affordable options to refurbish old pieces to gift as heirlooms
* and lots of unique jewelry designs set with beautiful gems and diamonds, created to celebrate what makes us special to each other from the giver to the recipient
Jewelry and Designers featured in this episode:
* Veronica Eckert Studio
* Galatea
* Katherine & Josephine
* Paul Michael Jewelry & Geek.Jewelry…
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May 9, 2018
Mother's Day Jewelry Shopping Guide with Jewelry Navigator, Part 2
Jewelry that smiles?
Dangling gold fish with diamond eyes?
This week I share this and more, like vintage treasures, old and new just in time for Mother’s Day jewelry shopping.
Last week, I introduced you to seven of my favorite designers and their jewelry, and this week’s episode is the continuation of my Mother’s Day Jewelry Shopping Guide!
If you didn’t get a chance to listen to last week’s episode, I share jewelry perfect for all our super hero moms, with photos accompanying the podcast in the blog post on jewelrynavitgator.com.
This week, I tell you about four designers who have made an impression on me:
Heavenly Vices Fine Jewelry introduces us to Love Tokens, Dan Popkie and his goldfish necklaces, Hania Kuzbari Jewelry Designs and her smiling jewelry, and Hugo Kohl jewelry, making old jewelry new again.
At the end of the podcast and in the blog post, I’ll share coupon codes and special offers from the jewelers and designers.
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May 1, 2018
Mother’s Day Jewelry Shopping Guide With Jewelry Navigator, Brenna Pakes
Mother’s Day Jewelry Shopping Guide
With Mother’s day coming up in less than two weeks, I thought I’d share some of my favorite jewelry designers with shopping tips on how to make our moms happy this Mother’s Day!
Some people shy away from jewelry shopping afraid it’ll cost too much, but I have a wide selection to share from pleasantly affordable to high value jewelry treats.
From jewelry created from luxury cars to rings that reveal she’s a Wonder Woman and jewelry that honors moms of human and fur babies, this episode shares jewelry that shows all moms how special and deserving they are.
By the way, These ideas are for anytime and anyone, so don’t think they’re limited to Mother’s Day.
Be sure to Download this episode or bookmark the blog post for future reference for future gift ideas.
Thank you, and enjoy the episode!
Jewelers and designers featured in this podcast are:
-California Girl Jewelry of San Francisco
-Crash Jewelry…
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Apr 17, 2018
Part 2 of Diamonds Demystified with Diamond Industry Insider, Marc Knobloch
Welcome to episode 6 of the Jewelry Navigator Podcast, and the part 2, and conclusion to last week’s episode, Diamonds Demystified with diamond insider and wholesaler, Marc Knobloch, vice president and third generation with Aron knobloch, Inc in New York’s Diamond District.
Last week, Marc called on his 30 years of experience to explain the importance of seeing a diamond and how leaning on its statstics on paper can lead to faulty comparisons; what the most important of the 4C’s are in choosing a diamond; the magic ingredient to choosing a diamond; and explained the primary purpose for diamond certificates.
If you missed it, go back after this episode to catch up on what you missed in Part 1 from last week.
Today, we continue as Marc explains the process put in place by the industry to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the market.
Marc also shares a diamond’s journey from mine to market, and how diamonds positively affect communities and regions of their orig…
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Apr 10, 2018
Diamonds Demystified With Diamond Industry Insider, Marc Knobloch, Part 1
Welcome to the Jewelry Navigator Podcast! I'm your host, Brenna Pakes!
What are diamond certificates? How should you use them to shop for diamonds?
Diamonds. Their sparkle has captured our attention and adorned women and men for centuries.
Last episode, we dispelled four common myths and misconceptions that make diamonds mysterious and sometimes confusing to shop for.
Today, we continue with how what you don’t know about diamonds could become expensive mistakes.
We visit with a third generation diamond specialist who provides diamonds to stores, jewelers and designers from his office in New York’s Diamond District.
Marc Knobloch, with thirty years in the diamond industry, and VP of AKI Diamonds and Jewelry, instills reason to shop with confidence for anyone preparing to purchase or upgrade a diamond, and explains why they’re still the go-to gemstone to stand the test of time for all generations.
Listen to find out what you need to know about a diamond’s certificate, what…
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Apr 7, 2018
Diamond Shopping Tips & Debunking Four Common Myths and Misconceptions
Diamond Shopping Tips & Debunking 4 Common Myths and Misconceptions
April is showered with diamonds as its birthstone.
In today’s episode, I help take the mystery out of understanding diamonds by revealing truths surrounding common myths and misconceptions about them.
Diamonds that glow?
A unicorn trapped inside a diamond?
Diamonds that swallowed other gem crystals?
It sounds like a surreal circus!
No - It’s just the world of diamonds!
What you don’t know about diamonds is a mystery now, but after today’s episode, your understanding about diamonds will be clearer, as we debunk a few of the common misconceptions about diamonds.
Featuring Stepping Stone jewelry, set with diamonds that glow, from Patrick Mohs Jewelry in WAYZATA, MN.
For show notes and photos of diamond inclusions and jewelry mentioned in the episode, please see the show notes in the blog post under the same name at jewelrynavigator.com.
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Mar 28, 2018
Q & A With Crash Jewelry Founder Christi Schimpke
Using luxury car parts to make jewelry as exclusive as the cars from which they were formed, Crash Jewelry is a unique line of jewelry created from a body shop garage in Los Angeles that specializes in repairing late model, high performance and luxury cars.
Cuffs, bangles, earrings, necklaces, cufflinks, and rings made from the luxury, high gloss paint parts of Mercedes, Teslas, Maseratis, Porches, Ferraris and more, Crash Jewelry was started by accident, from accidents!
None of the vehicles used originate from incidents that result in totaled damages, only minimal damages sustained in parking lot dings and scratches.
A line of sustainable jewelry made from the cars we dream to drive, Crash Jewelry founder, Christi Schimpke shares what inspired her to make jewelry from car parts otherwise destined for landfills and scrapyards.
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Mar 21, 2018
Finding Jewelry Treasures
Celebrating spring with gems and jewelry is easy with tourmaline and spring cleaning tips for
repairs that save money with broken and damaged jewelry.
California Girl Jewelry offers value in jewelry set with rare and unusual gemstones.
An all women company, led by a mother-daughter duo in San Francisco, creates one of a kind jewelry pieces that endure time and trends with quality designs and high grade gemstones and precious metals.
Spring cleaning often uncovers treasures forgotten in jewelry boxes and drawers.
With a little knowledge of repair possibilities, old jewelry can be restored to be worn and enjoyed again.
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Mar 13, 2018
Welcome Aboard the Jewelry Navigator Podcast
Tell your story and what makes you unique with the jewlry you wear.
This month, we look at green gemstones and jewelry treasures.
Tsavorite garnet was discovered alomst 5 decades ago in Kenya, Africa. A brilliant and bright green gemstone, tsavorite rivals the color, rariy and durability of emerald.
A selection of designers are featured in the podcast and coordinating blog post for you to see just how amazing their designs look with this spectacualr gem.
Spring break is here, and we visit the area that was once called the Pirate Coast of Florida, where a jeweler in Sarasota honors the old world techniques to make jewelry with a style that echos from the time when valuable treasures sailed coastlines around the world.
As a GIA Graduate Gemologist and Jewelry and Gemstone Consultant I Advocate for Indie Jewelers & Designers to Reach shoppers looking to stand out with quality designs and unique jewelry creations.
Welcome Aboard!
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