Designer Lines

RAPAPORT… Drawing upon the traditions of ancient cultures seen through the prism of the modern world, designer Konstantina Dimitra Mahlia creates jewelry that uses visual symbols to convey the message of courage, determination, compassion and independent spirit. Each piece of jewelry in the Mahlia Collection is considered by the designer to be an artifact infused with an iconography that is a subliminal code of honor expressing love, loyalty, valor and preserving the earth by making something that endures over time.

In celebration of the one-year anniversary of Rarities: Fine Jewelry with Carol Brodie for HSN, the new “Cult Classics” collection was launched at a Tweet Up event in New York City. Editors and stylists were invited for a preview of the new collection before it aired on HSN.

While at the viewing, attendees were able to tweet and blog about the collection. Inspired by the most notable and sought-after styles from the premier jewelry houses, the pieces are reinterpreted to provide consumers with jewelry that is high quality and good value.

For brides on a budget, but with champagne tastes, Dogeared has introduced a new line of bridal jewelry for wedding party favors. The Diamonds are a Bride’s Best Friend collection is priced between $22 and $252 — with most pieces under $100 — and includes silver or gold paired with diamonds in bridal-themed designs. Also part of the new bridal line is the Diamonds-Treasures for People You Treasure Most.

Platinum Guild International (PGI) announced the winners of its Platinum Innovation Challenge-JCK 2010. The competition is PGI’s newest initiative to make platinum jewelry more accessible at retail by promoting creative design. The 75 entries were evaluated in five categories on originality, quality, creativity, wearability and innovation. Designs by Vatche won in the category of Platinum Engagement Ring under $2,500 retail (semimounts) for its Jennifer semimount. True Knots took home honors in the Platinum Wedding Bands under $1,500 retail for a men’s band. Uneek was the winner in the Platinum Fashion under $2,500 for a snowflake pendant with round diamonds. Benchmark won for Platinum Color under $2,500 (bridal or fashion featuring colored gemstones) for a men’s wedding band with pavé black diamonds.

Steven Kretchmer won in the Platinum Fashion over $2,500 category for a mini infinity bracelet. Winners received the Platinum Innovation Prize along with a retailer signage package and inclusion in future national PGI publicity campaigns, as well as customized posters and professional photography of the winning piece.