De Beers’ rough diamond sales were down 18 percent year-over-year in its latest round of sales.
Francesca Amfitheatrof’s Newest Design Is All Hers
The Louis Vuitton and former Tiffany & Co. jewelry designer has launched her own line, Thief and Heist.
New York—Francesca Amfitheatrof has guided the design of some of the world’s largest and most luxurious brands, as Louis Vuitton’s current artistic director of fine jewelry and watches and Tiffany & Co.’s former design director.
Now, she’s reinterpreting luxury for a line that’s all her own.
Today, the jewelry designer launches Thief and Heist, a jewelry concept that defines value by the experience of wearing a piece, rather than the cost of its materials.
Upon launch, it consists of two styles, white and black nylon bracelets affixed with a sterling silver tag.
Like a wristband for an event, once secured, the bracelets won’t come off unless they’re cut, amounting to a semi-permanent piece of jewelry that emphasizes the act of putting it on.
“The tag is a time capsule,” Amfitheatrof told National Jeweler via e-mail, “it can mean anything as long as it means something to you. It’s a minimalist object that becomes part of you. It’s on you even when you are naked. It’s a reminder of a person, a place, a moment. It’s approaching jewelry from a different perspective.”
The concept is not entirely new, to the designer anyway. Amfitheatrof first launched the bracelets in the 1990s, where they “became a hit” among the fashion set in New York City, London and Tokyo.
“Luxury has changed completely. It is a luxury to be able to order online with one click and make instant decisions.” – Francesca Amfitheatrof
She re-introduced them at a pre-launch party in New York City last Fashion Week, where jewelry events were largely absent from the week’s line-up, tagging a slew of tastemakers, editors and stylists with the bracelets, and creating buzz around the Thief and Heist brand.
Today, the bracelets are available on ThiefandHeist.co and in the future will debut at other retailers.
At $125, they’re by far the most economical Francesca Amfitheatrof creation money can buy.
“Luxury has changed completely,” Amfitheatrof explained of the brand’s affordability. “It is a luxury to be able to order online with one click and make instant decisions. We have to approach these changes with vision and capture the incredible times we live in.”
Get the bracelets while they last, though expect more colorful iterations with different materials in the future.
The Latest
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show
The Patek Philippe expert will serve as personal curator for the brand-focused company.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
The 553-square-foot shop is aboard the Carnival Jubilee cruise ship.
NDC filed a complaint against Skydiamond for use of phrases like “diamonds made entirely from the sky.”
John Carter received the AGS’s highest honor Tuesday afternoon at Conclave in Austin, Texas.
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
LVMH said the company performed well despite an uncertain geopolitical and economic environment.
B&D Sales and Service held a ribbon-cutting event for its new location in Cranston, Rhode Island.
It’s ultra-feminine and filled with gold, pearls, and soft pastels.
Emily Highet Morgan and Emily Bennett have joined the agency’s team.
Its updated book for mountings is also now available.
She has been with the organization since 2010, most recently serving as its chief officer of PR and industry relations.
Joyce’s Jewelry sued the bank after cybercriminals drained its accounts of nearly $1.6 million through a series of wire transfers.
He is remembered by loved ones for his loyalty, integrity, and kindness.
Hosted by Freeman’s | Hindman, the sale will take place May 7-8.
The auction house said all 24 timepieces offered in its underground sale of rare and avant-garde watches quickly found buyers.
From lab-grown diamonds and AI to the inevitable Taylor Swift mention, here are some of Conclave’s most intriguing educational offerings.
From cybersecurity liability to trade show coverage, insurance experts share tips on how to build the right policy.
The charm is a modern rendition of the evil eye amulet that has been worn for thousands of years.
Ahead of its trade show next month, TJS awarded free registration and accommodations to one jewelry professional and three students.
By the end of this year, SRK’s diamond manufacturing complexes will achieve net zero emissions, one of an impressive array of achievements.
Members can still sell lab-grown stones, it said, but only natural gems are allowed on the show floor.
He is remembered for his charisma, passion, integrity, kindness, and wit.
The retailer also appointed two new board members, avoiding a proxy fight from a potential buyer.
The bridal collection consists of 35 engagement rings and seven wedding bands.