GradingApr 19, 2021
Here’s What SSEF Found When It Studied High-Quality Afghan Emeralds The Swiss lab reveals how stones from the Panjshir Valley are both different from and similar to emeralds from other places.
MajorsMar 18, 2020
Rolex, Patek Philippe Halt Production as Coronavirus Cases Rise
The watch giants have temporarily closed their production facilities in Switzerland.
A Rolex Day/Date 36 with a turquoise dial introduced at Baselworld last year. Both Rolex and Patek Philippe have temporarily shut down production facilities in Switzerland as coronavirus cases in the country rise.
Geneva—Rolex and Patek Philippe have temporarily closed their production facilities following a decision by Swiss authorities to declare a state of emergency amid coronavirus concerns.
Rolex has closed its facilities in Geneva, Bienne and Crissier until at least March 27, the company confirmed to National Jeweler Tuesday.
RELATED CONTENT: Baselworld Postponed Until January 2021“That date may be pushed back in function of the evolution of the epidemic and the recommendations of the authorities,” the company said in a statement.
The Swiss Federal Council has declared an “extraordinary situation” as the number of coronavirus cases rise, closing schools and placing a ban on public events.
According to the World Health Organization, there were 2,200 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 14 deaths within Swiss borders as of Tuesday.
Switzerland has the fifth-highest number of coronavirus cases in Europe, behind Italy, Spain, France and Germany.
Patek Philippe, meanwhile, has shut down its production sites and closed its head office until at least March 27 as well.
The Geneva-based company said the reopening date may change depending on how the situation evolves.
“Keeping everyone’s safety top of mind at all times will help us to navigate this challenging period and, by doing this, we may contribute to the stabilization of the situation, hoping that we will be able to safely revert to our activities as soon as possible,” the company said in a statement.
More on Majors
The Latest
CrimeApr 19, 2021
JSA Issues Refresher on What To Do During a RobberyThe reminder follows a frightening incident at a store in California.
SurveysApr 19, 2021
New Nielsen Study Shows Consumer Optimism Toward Jewelry The survey showed Americans are becoming more optimistic about their financial futures and view precious jewelry as an important category.
Brought to you by
A New Golden AgeGold has had its share of ups and downs over the last 5 decades. Here’s why the metal is having another big comeback.
Lab-GrownApr 19, 2021
Lab-Grown Diamond Co. Green Rocks Hires Brand ManagerAhna Shmuel returns to the company to head brand management as well as oversee the jewelry division.
Weekly QuizApr 16, 2021
This Week's QuizTest your knowledge of jewelry news from the week of April 12-16, 2021.
WatchesApr 19, 2021
Watchfinder & Co. Names New CEOFormer Rakuten executive Arjen van de Vall will take the reins at the pre-owned watch retailer.
AuctionsApr 16, 2021
Try On This Diamond and Pearl Tiara Before It Heads to Auction Sotheby’s created an Instagram filter for the crown, estimated to sell for up to $1.5 million.
Brought to you by
4 Reasons You Need This Program for Mother’s DayLearn how to increase customer loyalty and revenue by making JM™ Care Plan a cornerstone of your business plan.
SurveysApr 16, 2021
March Retail Sales SurgeAnother round of stimulus checks helped to bolster last month’s retail sales.
