Look Book

34 www.thejewelrybook.com Breaking News — The Women's Jewelry Association has recently named Ms. Jenny Luker as incoming President in 2018. Congratulations! 34 www.thejewelrybook.com Platinum Catalogs: Editions VI, V and VII. Ms. Luker was promoted to the presidency of Platinum Guild International USA in 2015. "The current outlook for platinum is very bright," said Jenny, "platinum jewelry sales have increased by nearly 40% over the last fi ve years and 2017 is projected to be another growth year. Bridal jewelry continues to be the largest category but we are seeing an increase in platinum fashion jewelry as well. Platinum continues to outperform the jewelry industry at large and more Jewelers, online retailers and the majors are continuing to increase platinum inven- tory in their stores." PGI continues to support jewelry product like men's wedding bands because it is a heavier piece of jewelry than (for example) diamond stud earring settings. PGI USA is also promoting a platinum setting program, to ensure that center diamonds are held most securely, recommending a platinum setting no matter the metal of the jewelry piece. "We have also re-launched our online sales training program that features seven modules, all under four minutes each. Each module is an animated video that has been created for optimal viewing on either a desktop, laptop or mobile device. Our recently re-launched consumer website is www.platinumjewelry.com and we are working closely with leading jewelry manufacturers and designers featured on the site. As mentioned before, we are very excited to be launching the special Platinum Edition Catalog to be distributed in June" said Ms. Luker. A critical review of the website can only be described as an out- standing presentation. The images are absolutely stunning and the text is brilliant. In one segment a video of Myriam Gumuchian is warm and personable refl ecting well on the sophistication of the jewelry industry. Interestingly, as of March 29, 2017, the spot market price of gold is $1,254.80 per ounce, and the spot market price of platinum is $954.90 per ounce. Having been a participant from that fi rst luncheon meeting that marked the advent of the Platinum Catalog, perhaps history will repeat and the timing is right for another resurgence of beautiful, elegant, exquisite platinum jewelry! Contact PGI at: Tel: 212-404-1608, www.platinumjewelry.com or usainfo@pgiglobal.com. Footnote: Platinum Guild International spans the world from the mines in South Africa to virtually every corner of the world. PGI USA works closely with other international offi ces located in Shanghai, Tokyo, Mumbai and world headquarters in Hong Kong to ensure that programs are consistent in a strategic direction. Here is a brief portfolio of PGI executives; Laurie Hudson started PGI USA in 1992 under the leadership of David Cullen (London). James Courage (previously with DeBeers) replaced David Cullen as CEO in 1996 and Huw Daniel replaced Laurie Hudson as PGI USA President in 2003. When James Courage retired in 2014, Huw Daniel moved into the CEO position and relocated the global offi ce to Hong Kong. Jenny Luker took over as PGI USA President in the transition. 5 2 A N N I V E R S A R Y T H P G I U S A I N D U S T RY U P D AT E

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