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The mark of industry inspiration & information     December 2019

                                                                          £7.50

                                                 Are you being served?
                                                 Retail Services to consider

                                                 Attention seeking
                                                 How NAJ members do visual
                                                 merchandising

                                                 NAJ Awards
                                                 Revealed, the 11 worthy winners

The National
Association
of Jewellers
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THE TH MARCH CLUB
                   Be Security Wise
                   WITH TH MARCH & THE NAJ

  Helping to protect you, your business and your employees
An important TH March and NAJ initiative aiming to raise awareness, increase knowledge
               and improve security throughout the UK Jewellery trade.

                Contact TH March or the NAJ to find out more!

    www.thmarch.co.uk/NAJ                         www.naj.co.uk/securitywise
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December 2019                                                                                                                            Opinion             3

from The Editor
                                                                                  highlight some inspiring retail stories, with tips and trend directions
                                                                                  from experts in the field. Underscoring the importance of presenting
                                                                                  the best face to the world, the NAJ Awards 2019 include Physical
                                                                                  Shop Front of the Year – one of three new award categories. Check out
                                                                                  all the Award shortlists on page 20.

                                                                                  A fabulous store, with beautiful stock and amazing, NAJ JET-trained,
                                                                                  staff is the key to success. The missing piece in this jeweller’s jigsaw
                                                                                  is ‘retail services’. If you’re not offering IRV valuations, relevant
                                                                                  insurance, repairs, watch straps and, maybe, ear-piercing, you are
                                                                                  certainly missing a trick or three. Check out page 57 for a round-up of
                                                                                  the added extras that will bring new customers through the door… and
                                                                                  have them coming back.

                                                                                  Elsewhere in this issue we offer you even more in the way of
                                                                                  information and guidance, from the impact of Brexit on hallmarking
                                                                                  (page 15), diamond pipeline protection (page 62) and Sustainable

H
             ello, my name is Belinda and I have a teeny, tiny,                   Development Goals (page 34) to the benefits of NAJ membership,
             hardly-anything-really confession to make… I’m a                     Education news and events for your 2020 calendar. Our member
             trend concocter. Essentially, if I want a look, a style, a           profile on page 60 throws the spotlight on fine gemstone jewellery
             movement, a thing… to be, I’m not above embroidering                 brand Ntinga and we introduce you to a new member – The Hallmark
the facts a tad, talking it up if you like. I’m owning up now because             Jewellery Group (page 49).
in this issue I’ve been able to indulge in this personal whim and
with something approaching a clear conscience. I have always loved                All that and a feature on the latest, greatest jewellery trend – tiaras!
brooches, and hoped to see more of them more often in collections.                Nah, just joking… I know when to stop pushing my luck. That one (and
And now – ta da! – they’re finding favour big-time. Whoops, there I               I do actually love a sparkly, wear-anytime headpiece) can be saved
go again, but turn to page 26 to see my tempting pick of the latest               for another day. Meanwhile, here’s wishing you a joyous and fruitful
beautiful bunch. Let’s make this happen folks!                                    festive season and a promising New Year.

The power of positive thinking is certainly working its magic in
the world of visual merchandising. When the going gets tough, the
tough open a new store, extend or refurbish an existing one and
generally up their game to give the competition a run for its money.
As you might imagine, these days it’s as much about delivering great
customer experiences as creating beautiful spaces. On page 40 we                  Belinda Morris, Editor

                    pg
                             26                                         pg
                                                                                 40                                           pg
                                                                                                                                       57
“Brooches demonstrate wearability and are not      “Experience… really matters to customers. With so       “Jewellers up and down the country are helping
specifically for the more mature lady… they are    much choice in the retail market, vying for their       to make multiples like Timpson very successful
actually very diverse accessories”                 attention is a full time strategic job for retailers”   indeed…”
Are you being served? - Retail Services to consider Attention seeking - The ...
Bransom
Inside
Stars  this Issue
December 2019
November and December 2018
Bransom Award winners

NEWS                                                    PROFILE

08 NAJ News                                             49 New Member Profile
     Created in the UK, Brexit and Benevolent Society        Meet The Hallmark Jewellers Group
     updates
                                                        50 Hill & Hill Jewellers
11   NAJ News                                                Altrincham’s exciting new jewellery store
     Introducing the Education Steering Group
                                                        60 Fine Gemstone Jewellery
12   NAJ News                                                We learn more about highflier Ntinga
     2020 Events Calendar
                                                        66 The Last Word…
14   Industry News                                           … goes to Scott Walter
     The latest CIBJO Reports

53 Industry News
     New… IJL venue, DPA CEO, Tivon website
                                                        TRENDS

                                                        26 PINterest
                                                             Brooches back? They were never out of style!

                                                        40 Visual Merchandising
                                                             How to stand out from the crowd – the new rules

                                                        54 What’s New…
                                                             … in Watches

                                                        EVENTS & SHOWS

                                       60
                                                        20 NAJ Awards
                                pg                           The winners revealed

                                                        37 Conference 2019
                                                             Report (part 2) from the IRV’s must-attend weekend
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NAJ News                               5

                                                                                     The National
                                                                                     Association
                                                                                     of Jewellers

                                           54
                                                        The National Association of Jewellers
                                                        10 Vyse Street
                                      pg                Birmingham
                                                        B18 6LT
                                                        0121 237 1110
                                                        www.naj.co.uk

                                                        Editor: Belinda Morris
                                                        editor@naj.co.uk
BUSINESS ADVICE

                                                        Advertising sales:
15   Hallmarking                                        garry.lane@naj.co.uk
     Post-Brexit guidance on hallmarking                07741 554 011

17   Education
                                                        Designed & produced by:
     Introducing new courses
                                                        Senior Internet
                                                        www.senior.co.uk
18   Financial Planning                                 0115 838 9555
     Cash flow is king, advises TH March

22 Member Benefits                                      Printed by:
                                                        HPA Print Ltd
     The perks of belonging, plus notes on compliance
                                                        www.hpaprint.co.uk
                                                        07525 011 589
32 JET Business Network
     The importance of Business Strategy
                                                        Contributory writers:
34 Sustainable Development Goals                        Raji Ashwin, David Brough, Simon Forrester, Hannah
     How to contribute to this global agenda            McWhirter, Chris Oliver, Nysa Pradham, Lavinia Pryce

35 Gold Market Report                                   Front Cover Image:
                                                        Gold Bank London
57 Retail Services                                      www.gold-bank.co.uk
     The little extras that create a great business     +44 (0) 203 500 1111
                                                        sales@gold-bank.co.uk
62 Diamond Pipeline Integrity                           For further information please refer to Page 19
     Ensure your products are what you say they are
                                                        The NAJ is responsible for producing The Jeweller and although every effort is
                                                        made to ensure that the information supplied is accurate, the NAJ does not accept
                                                        liability, loss, damage or claim whatsoever that may result from opinions expressed
                                                        by contributors. Information and ideas are for guidance only and members should
                                                        always consult their own professional advisors. The NAJ accepts no responsibility
OPINION                                                 for the content of any advertiser, advertisement or insert in The Jeweller. Anyone
                                                        having dealings with any advertiser must rely on their own enquiries. The magazine
                                                        is printed using vegetable based inks on FSC certified paper produced from
                                                        sustainable sources
03 From the Editor
07 The CEO’S Foreword
65 Education
     The latest Clarity & Success stars
Are you being served? - Retail Services to consider Attention seeking - The ...
jeje

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Pursuit
Pursuit innovation
        innovation takes
                   takes the
                          the stress
                              stress –
                                     – and
                                       and the
                                           the
    guesswork
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                  out of
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                                    sales
    “Our
    “Our users
           users –– and
                    and
                             Innovation has been a mainstay of Pursuit’s growth for over two
                             Innovation has been a mainstay of Pursuit’s growth for over two
                             decades. It has been driven by listening – and responding – to the
there
there have
       have been
             been over
                   over
                             decades. It has been driven by listening – and responding – to the
                             needs of our customers. So – we’d like to express our thanks to all the
                             needs of our customers. So – we’d like to express our thanks to all the
 300
 300 more
     more this
            this year
                 year –
                      –
                             jewellery businesses that have been the source of our success. Inspired
                             jewellery businesses that have been the source of our success. Inspired
                             by their needs, during 2020 Pursuit will be revealing even more new,
   will see even  more
   will see even more        by their needs, during 2020 Pursuit will be revealing even more new,
                             exciting and ground-breaking innovations, each designed to help
 innovations
 innovations in
              in 2020”
                 2020”
                             exciting and ground-breaking innovations, each designed to help
                             enhance the special magic that the jewellery trade is all about.
                             enhance the special magic that the jewellery trade is all about.
                             Talk to Pursuit – and see how our success could contribute to your
                             Talk to Pursuit – and see how our success could contribute to your
                             success in 2020.
                             success in 2020.
   See
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                  integrated shop and online sales and stock performance monitoring
                  integrated shop and online sales and stock performance monitoring
                                     www.pursuit.co.uk
                                     www.pursuit.co.uk
Are you being served? - Retail Services to consider Attention seeking - The ...
December 2019                                                                                                                 Opinion              7

CEO’s foreword
                                                                           Speaking of research, it was both sobering and refreshing (a
                                                                           great combination in the run-up to Christmas) to read the
                                                                           British Hallmarking Council’s work on the amount of fake and
                                                                           unmarked ‘gold’ jewellery for sale to UK consumers. In a previous
                                                                           life I was involved in developing a relationship with some of
                                                                           the online marketplaces to stop the sale of unlicensed and
                                                                           dangerous chemicals to untrained end users. This is an area where
                                                                           associations shine – protecting the public. Our message is that
                                                                           for peace of mind, every purchase – whether online or in person –
                                                                           should be from an NAJ member.

                                                                           On the topic of representing the public, we’ve recently talked to a
                                                                           credit card company about a Section 75 claim for a poorly-labelled
                                                                           HPHT diamond – is the average consumer really going to know
                                                                           what ‘HPHT’ means? Happily the card company paid out, but it
                                                                           highlighted our ongoing concerns about misleading descriptors for

Bring in
                                                                           jewellery products. I was so moved that I got in front of a camera to
                                                                           ‘star’ (ahem) in a video on diamond terminology to accompany our
                                                                           forthcoming Trading Standards Assured Advice. While the wording
                                                                           will change for different products, the sentiment remains the same;

Your Bling
                                                                           always ensure you are selling to an informed consumer to protect
                                                                           them… and you. Trust is hard to come by, and every bad actor
                                                                           (no, not my starring role in this case) in our sector drives another
                                                                           consumer to book holidays or buy tech rather than jewellery.

Y
                                                                           To understand our consumers a little better, the NAJ has teamed
            ou’d expect the National Association of Jewellers to have      up with the CMJ and the Goldsmiths’ Company to carry out the
            some very nice chains of office for our president and chair,   largest ever UK survey of consumers’ views on jewellery to develop
            alongside other items created or donated over the years;       some high-profile media-friendly messaging in the run-up to
            and you’d be spot on (see past issues of The Jeweller for      Christmas. This will be hitting editors’ desks soon, and we’ve also
details). So it struck me that we aren’t unique. Every trade body or       worked on a suite of press releases allowing NAJ members to get
professional institute I’ve previously worked for has some ‘bling’ – as    some local press – we’ll be in touch on that topic to support your
my president at a former job called it – locked in a safe or tucked        push for more jewellery sales.
away in a sock drawer (genuine example – sorry, TH March!). Most
won’t have had it valued in a long while, if at all; it’s not in the       Right, off to do my bit for the judging in the NAJ Awards – there’s
forefront of an association CEO’s mind.                                    a mountain of entries for several of the categories; it’s great to
                                                                           see the passion and innovation in our industry highlighted. I’m
Many items will require repair or enamelling/engraving to keep             looking forward to seeing you on 5th December where the double
them up to date as part of the AGM process, perhaps to list past and       act of Kelsall and Forrester (the Sam Fox and Mick Fleetwood of
current post-holders, or to mend that dent when the chairman fell          the jewellery sector awards circuit – ask your dad) will be wowing
over at the Christmas party. Few however will have actually done this      the audience with a carefully choreographed presentation to the
repair/refurb work. Enter stage left, your friendly neighbourhood          worthy winners.
jeweller.
                                                                           A very prosperous Christmas and a happy and healthy 2020 to you all.
Why not contact an association local to you, inviting them to ‘bring
in their bling’ for a clean, maybe even have it valued by your in-house
IRV? It could make a great story for the local media and the relevant
trade press for that sector. You’d also be reaching every member of
that trade body, many of whom will have jewellery of their own to
value or repair (see page 57 about added value repair and valuation
services). I’m currently writing an article for association CEOs on
the ‘bling’ topic, to urge them to get theirs MOT’d by a local NAJ
member. Please let me know if you get a call, I’d be very interested to    Simon Forrester CEO
see how many we get and the long-term results.                             National Association of Jewellers
Are you being served? - Retail Services to consider Attention seeking - The ...
8           NAJ News                                                                                                                        The Jeweller

    Kerry Gregory keeps you                                                                              Who you gonna call –
                                                                                                         at the NAJ to get stuff done?
    in the loupe about the                                                                               • Want to make the most out of your
                                                                                                           member benefits? Scott Williams, head of

    PTSI Steering Group                                                                                    membership can ensure you’re getting the
                                                                                                           most out of the NAJ
                                                                                                         • Got a great idea for content for web or social
                                                                                                           media? Ben Massey, director of marketing
                                                                                                           and communications has been transforming
                                                                                                           digital for the NAJ
    In October, the PTSI Steering Group met             Do you know what the NAJ
    to catch up on developments since the last                                                           • Have expertise you want to share in The
    meeting and to look at what we need to              has been doing for you?                            Jeweller magazine? Belinda Morris, editor,
    focus our efforts on going into peak season                                                            can help you get published
    and 2020. To me it felt like there were two         Over the last few months the NAJ has been:       • Need a rogue trader investigated for bad
    themes running through the day – what has           in the press correcting misinformation             practices? Katie Gillespie, compliance
    the NAJ been doing for me and who you               about synthetic diamonds; launching                manager works harder than Matt Allbright
    gonna call?                                         online affordable modular courses with             to weed them out
                                                        the information you need to grow your
                                                                                                         • Want a course developed? Marie Garnett,
    But both themes centre on one thing:                business; visible and available at trade
                                                                                                           head of education creates relevant and
    communication.                                      events for members to discuss their benefits
                                                                                                           effective education that will enthuse your
                                                        and needs; constantly updating content             staff
    One of the most challenging aspects of              and function on the website; dealing with
    running any business, including a trade             complaints against traders who do not            Whatever you want or need, call, email,
    association, is communication. What is              uphold the same standards that we do and         contact us via the website, or send a carrier
    too much? Too little? What do you need to           forging powerful links and alliances with        pigeon! The NAJ is your association, working
    know? Want to know? When? And how?                  other organisations.                             for you, if you don’t tell us, we don’t know.

    New Year insight                                                                    Benevolent Society
    for NAJ Members                                                                     Actions Further Funding
    The NAJ’s Consumer Focus steering group has delivered                               In a move to further support people from the industry
    a syndicated questionnaire, jointly funded by the NAJ,                              who have fallen on hard times, the Benevolent Society has
    Goldsmiths’ Company and the CMJ, to understand why                                  increased its regular donation to beneficiaries from £190
    people buy and don’t buy jewellery.                                                 to £300 per quarter. This money makes a real difference to
                                                                                        those who are often suffering terrible financial hardship. It
    The research, which provided 2,000+ responses, is one of                            is their ray of sunshine in what otherwise could be a dismal
    the largest research activities to take place for the jewellery                     existence.
    community and strongly supports the steering group’s
    mission to stimulate demand for the industry.                                       David Doyle, treasurer of the Benevolent Society and NAJ
                                                                                        president said: “We’re extremely thankful to the people
    Adam Jacobs, of Jacobs the Jewellers in Reading who chairs
                                                                                        and companies that support the Benevolent Society. Only
    the group said: “We’re extremely thankful to the CMJ and
                                                                                        through their support are we able to better assist the working
    the Goldsmiths’ Company for supporting this important
                                                                                        people of our past, that have made our Industries what they
    research activity for the good of the industry. Within the
                                                                                        are today."
    group we’re calling the project ‘the jewellery census’, due to
    its significance.
                                                                                        This move follows the news earlier in the year that the
    “In the new year members will be able to log in to the insight                      Benevolent Society, the charitable arm of the British Allied
    pages of the NAJ website members area and understand                                Trades Federation, launched the Fuller Foundation. This
    exactly why people do and do not buy jewellery in their                             Foundation provides funding for professionals wishing to
    region, divisible by key demographics. The research is                              move from a middle to senior management role and will
    part one of our two-part plan. We will now drive two key                            support activities such as an MBA. Potential applicants can
    campaigns; for those who buy jewellery to buy more, and                             request an application form from the Benevolent Society
    those who don’t currently buy jewellery to start to do so.”                         secretary. Part of the process is to evidence a strong business
                                                                                        case encompassing a strategic development plan, which
    To visit the NAJ’s insight pages (members only), visit                              delivers both commercial and non-commercial impact for
    naj.co.uk/insight                                                                   their business.
Are you being served? - Retail Services to consider Attention seeking - The ...
December 2019                                                                                                                NAJ News                   9

Derbyshire-based label and ticket
manufacturer, Magpie Europe, last month
published its strong finish for 2019 and is now
                                                  Magpie Europe enters
looking to make further progress in 2020.

Magpie, which offers all NAJ members 15
                                                  2020 in strong position with
per cent off labels and 10% off printers, has
recently taken on a new apprentice, passed
its ISO 9001 certification, and exceeded its
                                                  new contract, apprentice
waste target for the year. The target, which
stood at 2 per cent, was broken with final
results of 1.3 per cent, meaning a reduced
                                                  and certification
cost for manufacturing products can be
passed on to Magpie’s clients.
                                                  both for our commercial benefit, and that of       fulfil ongoing business as well as the new
Caren Colabella, director of Magpie Europe        the customers. Some clients are reporting          contract. For 2020, we’d like to make further
said: “Late last year we                          a difficult time out there, so we felt it          strives forward and we’ve got our eyes keenly
took the company decision to put all of our       necessary to make the changes in order             on NAJ’s Created in the UK, getting out of
employees through the NVQ level three in          remain a key part of the retail jeweller’s         the office to see new and existing customers
Business Improvement Techniques in order          business.”
to deliver impact into the Magpie business                                                           and that all-important waste figure, which will
                                                                                                     be a tough objective to beat, I’m sure.”
                                                  The company, which was shortlisted for
                                                  the NAJ Service Provider of the Year
                                                                                                     Magpie has also recently redesigned its
                                                  Award, has also recently won a significant
                                                     contract within an associated trade to          website, gemtags.co.uk, featuring a bold new
                                                        the jewellery industry, which remains        look, which will certainly help the business
                                                           core to its long-term plan.               trailblaze its way into 2020.

                                                               Sharing its objectives for 2020,      To claim your Magpie Europe
                                                                 Caren said: “We had to bring        discount, call 0121 237 1110
                                                                  in a new apprentice to help        or email membership@naj.co.uk

A big welcome to…                                                 Created in the UK
The membership team would like to
                                                                  Since its launch at IJL in September, the NAJ has experienced more than 100
welcome all of our latest new NAJ members
                                                                  registers of interest.
below – we wish them all a long and
prosperous future with the Association!
                                                                  The scheme is available for manufacturers, designers and retailers to bolt
                                                                  on to their annual subscription. As part of the additional subscription, items
Ballantyne Diamonds – Retailer
                                                                                                                can be marked ‘Created in the
Code by Edge – Supplier                                                                                         UK’ and the logo can be used
Eternally Elusive – Retailer                                                                                    in point of sale and marketing
                                                                                                                materials. ‘Created in the UK’ can
Guardian Brands – Supplier                                                                                      also feature as an advanced filter
Bello Creations – Designer                                                                                      in the new Find a Jeweller tool
                                                                                                                online. Likewise, retailers can use
Elliot Brown Watches – Supplier
                                                                                                                the Created in the UK brand in
PK Jewels UK Ltd – Supplier                                                                                     their marketing materials and add
Philip Lloyd Jewellers – Retailer                                                                               the filter to their NAJ profile tool.
William and Julia Shaw Jewellers – Retailer                                                                     Members can join the Created
Dira London – Retailer                                                                                          in the UK scheme as part of
                                                                                                                membership renewals, and
Want more from your membership? Visit                                                                           also join directly. For more
naj.co.uk/benefits to find out more about                                                                       information visit
the great benefits you’re entitled to.                                                                          naj.co.uk/created
Are you being served? - Retail Services to consider Attention seeking - The ...
Exclusive Offer to NAJ Members

                                           GE330
                 Use the GE330 to print your own
                        jewellery pricing labels
          •     Package includes:
          •    Free label design software - Jewellers Edition
          •    1,000 Jewellery labels
          •    Ink ribbon
                                                                                   £325.00
                                                                             Price excludes carriage + VAT

                                                                            Offer ends 31st December 2019

              GemTAGS
              c/o Magpie Europe Ltd
              Unit E, Heage Road Industrial Estate, Heage Road, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3GH
              Tel: 01773 749237 Email: info@magpie-europe.com
December 2019                                                                                                     Business Advice                 11

The Education
Steering Group
In the third in our series introducing the
Association’s Steering Groups, member Nysa
Pradham and vice-chair Chris Oliver explain their
aspirations for education in our industry.

                                                                         Nysa Pradham, head of Education,
                                                                         Gem-A
                                                                         “There have been many developments in the gems and jewellery
                                                                         trade and this trend continues at a fast pace. The whole industry is
                                                                         increasingly aware of the need for education to extend right along
                                                                         the trade pipeline. The consumer is becoming more aware as we live
                                                                         in the age of technology and information explosion. Therefore, there
                                                                         is a serious need for education and retailers are acutely conscious of
Chris Oliver, head of Professional Training,                             this need.
Goldsmiths’ Centre
                                                                         Education is and always has been my passion and I feel that in any
"The decision to join the NAJ’s Education Steering Group was a           industry it is quintessential for an individual’s professional and
relatively straightforward one. On both a personal and professional      personal growth, to enable them to develop the competencies and
level, it is flattering to be approached by an organisation such as      expertise needed to grow and professionalise the trade. At Gem-A
the NAJ to assist with the Education Steering Group and I hope the       our efforts and vision has been to continually develop our education
approach is a reflection on the work that the Goldsmiths’ Centre has     offering to cater to the needs of the trade and to support the
undertaken around education and training since its opening.              development and growth of the global industry through education
                                                                         and research.
My passion for this industry stems from the individuals that aspire to
and currently work within it. The level of dedication and enthusiasm     In that I am excited to be part of the NAJ Education Steering
which is in evidence across the many different facets of the sector      Group as it provides a platform for us to exchange ideas, discuss
inspires us to keep pursuing the most innovative and meaningful          opportunities and challenges and brainstorm solutions for education
forms of education and training, which can enable an individual to       within the trade and support each other in our endeavour for
achieve their potential. No one business or individual is the same       excellence in education. Through this Group, I am hoping I will
and it is this uniqueness which makes us want to drive change.           be able to contribute my ideas and aspirations for gemmology
                                                                         education, but at the same time learn and develop the network that
I hope that by joining the NAJ Education Steering Group both             can help us achieve our collective ambitions for the trade.”
myself and colleagues on it can provide opportunities for NAJ
members and the wider industry which are both relevant and of high
quality. In working for the Goldsmiths’ Centre, we have always seen
significant value in collaboration, and I see this in exactly the same
way for this Steering Group; education and training is not unique
to any one organisation, and is a cornerstone of this industry’s
growth potential. Our aim should be to work with and alongside           For more information on the NAJ’s Steering
other organisations to innovate rather than duplicate and equip          Groups or how to get involved visit: naj.co.uk/
those passionate about our industry with the type of training that
empowers them to start or continue a career."                            about or email: membership@naj.co.uk
12            NAJ News                                                                                                                                         The Jeweller

     What’s on                                                                                               Our events calendar is filling up fast, with
                                                                                                             the NAJ team hosting more ‘NAJ Live’
                                                                                                             networking events around the country.

     in 2020
                                                                                                             We are going to get out and meet more
                                                                                                             of you face-to-face, with the sole aim of
                                                                                                             ensuring members are getting the most
                                                                                                             out of their benefits.

      January                                               March                                                     June

     12th – 15th: Giving and Living - Exeter               4th – 8th: Hong Kong International Jewellery Show*        2nd – 5th: The JCK Show - Las Vegas, USA
                                                           - Hong Kong
     14th: NAJ and London Assay Office Hallmarking                                                                   11th: NAJ AGM - Tower of London
     Talk - Goldsmiths’ Hall, London                       11th: CMJ Networking day + NAJ Live - Sheffield           11th: NAJ Live - London
     17th – 20th: Bijorhca, Paris - France                 17th: NAJ Education Awards - Goldsmiths’ Hall,            20th – 22nd: NAJ Summit - East Midlands
                                                           London
     17th – 22nd: Vicenzaoro - Vicenza
     19th – 21st: Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring - Glasgow   18th: JET Practical Training Day - London Assay
                                                           Office                                                     July
     23rd: JET Practical Training Day - Sheffield Assay
                                                           TBC: NAJ Peru Trip - Peru
     Office
                                                                                                                     2nd: UK Jewellery Awards - Tower of London
                                                                                                                     8th: CMJ Networking Event + NAJ Live - Belfast
                                                            April
      February                                                                                                       19th – 22nd: Home and Gift - Yorkshire Events
                                                                                                                     Centre, Harrogate
                                                           9th: NAJ and Retail Jeweller Golf day + NAJ Live -
     2nd–6th: Jewellery and Watch - NEC, Birmingham                                                                  20th: NAJ Live - Harrogate
                                                           Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel & Country Club, West
     3rd: NAJ Live - Resorts World, Birmingham             Midlands
                                                                                                                     25th–28th: Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair -
     2nd – 5th: NY NOW - New York, USA                     22nd: CMJ Networking Day + NAJ Live - Edinburgh           Hong Kong
     12th – 18th: NAJ India Trip - Asia                    30th – 5th May: Baselworld* - Basel, Switzerland
     13th - 16th: IIJS Signature Show - Mumbai India
                                                                                                                      August
     14th – 17th: Inhorgenta*- Munich, Germany
                                                            May
     16th – 17th: Jewellery Cut Live - London                                                                        2nd – 3rd: CMJ Autumn Trade Event - Birmingham
     16th – 17th: CMJ Spring Trade Event - Birmingham      TBC: NAJ Live (at the Horses) - Chepstow                  TBC: NAJ Live - Southampton
                                                                                                                     TBC: Family Fun Day - Midlands

                                                                                                                      September
        Event Key
                                                                                                                     13th – 15th: IJL - Alexandra Palace, London
           NAJ event or collaboration                                                                                14th: NAJ Live - London
                                                                                           NAJ LIVE
           Event the NAJ is exhibiting/                                                    EVENTS
           hosting at
                                                                                           2020                       October
           other events with the NAJ
           in attendance
                                                                                                                     TBC: NAJ Live - Manchester
                                                                                                                     5th – 19th: NAJ Sri Lanka Trip - Sri Lanka

       To see more information
                                                                                                                      November
       on the listed events, and
       view the NAJ’s new                                                                                            TBC: NAJ Live - Cambridge
       digital event calendar
       visit naj.co.uk/whats-on
                                                                                                                      December

     *BATF pavilion space available                                                                                  3rd: Benevolent Society Ball - Solihull
gold
                       bangles

UK 0800 1956771   | ROI 1800 625163           | inf o @ c u rt e i s . com
                  w w w. c urt ei s . c o m
14          Industry News                                                                                                              The Jeweller

     CIBJO Reports
     Ahead of its 2019 Congress in Bahrain last month, The World                                    internationally, and with frameworks that
                                                                                                    govern other industries around the globe. It is
     Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) has released a number of                                       important that jewellery industry companies
                                                                                                    fully understand their responsibilities under
     reports on key industry issues. We outline four here:                                          these complex sets of expectations, and
                                                                                                    they communicate them effectively and
                                                                                                    directly with their supply-chain partners and
                                                                                                    ultimately the consumer,” author Tiffany
     Diamond Commission – Special Report             Coloured Stone Special Report                  Stevens writes.

     This report focuses predominantly on            Gemstone variety names are being used          Noting that it is the consumers’ right to
     what it refers to as the ‘faultline’ between    for marketing purposes, with few if any        know how the how their jewellery and its
     diamonds mined in nature and man-made           agreed-to gemmological standards.              components affect the environment and the
     diamonds. “Because laboratory-grown             Unsubstantiated coloured gemstone variety      lives of people as it journeys along the supply
     diamonds prices were deliberately               names are the “biggest challenge our           chain, she states that being forthright, fully
     benchmarked against the price of natural        trade is facing right now,” with “numerous     descriptive and making all disclosures clear
     diamonds at the outset, the risk exists that    instances of the same descriptive names        and easy to understand is imperative.
     the consuming public will continue to           being assigned according to different
     associate the one with the other, even after    standards, each time in accordance with
     the economics have changed,” it states. “The    the individual guidelines of various           Pearl Special Report
     price war in the laboratory-grown diamond       gemmological laboratories.
     sector could have the effect of depressing                                                     Prepared by the CIBJO Pearl Commission,
     the value of goods in the natural diamond       “Starting with more classical descriptive      this looks at the growing impact of
     sector.                                         terms, like ‘pigeon blood’ and ‘royal blue,’   environmental and conservationist factors
                                                     some laboratories began developing their       on the pearl sector, noting that these pose
     “This makes the task of disconnecting the       own nomenclature, creating new descriptive     challenges, but also provide opportunities for
     natural diamond and the laboratory-grown        names for a wide range of colours.             the industry.
                                                     Apparently, this is a mutually beneficial
     diamond sectors even more important…
                                                     business strategy for both the laboratories    In the Philippines, for instance, climate
     from our professional perspective, and
                                                     and the dealers.                               and environmental changes have had a
     from the perspective of the consumer. The
     appeal of both products is different, and so                                                   significant effect on pearl production.
                                                     “It is imperative that the industry act        These changes present both challenges
     clearly are the economics. They both should
                                                     quickly before consumer confidence is          and opportunities – the main challenge is
     be provided the opportunity to thrive, in
                                                     compromised. CIBJO’s Coloured Stone            the lower volume of production that will be
     harmony alongside each other.”
                                                     Commission will work in close collaboration    available for distribution to the global market.
                                                     with the organisation’s Gemmological           On the other hand, this also serves as an
     The report calls for the creation of agreed-    Commission to establish standards and          opportunity because, with lower biomass
     to rules of engagement between the              parameters for variety names,” the report      density, comes the potential to achieve a
     two diamond sectors in marketing their          states.                                        higher quality output.
     products, and warns about pitching one
     as being more ethical or environmentally                                                       The report also looks at natural pearls. While
     acceptable than the other. “This is not only    Ethics Special Report                          rare, nowadays they most commonly are a
     a self-destructive marketing strategy, but it                                                  by-product of the seafood industry, and as
     is also questionable in terms of the claims     “Responsible business standards being          such could be subject to restrictions imposed
     being made and the data upon which they         applied in the jewellery industry are          by the Convention on International Trade in
     are based.                                      meshing further and further with those used    Endangered Species of Wild Fauna (CITES).

     “Proper rules of engagement need to be
     created,” the report continues, suggesting
     that one would be for all sides to agree
     that any stone is neither ethical nor
     environmentally friendly. “These qualities
     refer to the way in which they are mined
     or manufactured. The onus of responsible
     behaviour always falls upon the individuals
     and companies mining or synthesising,
     processing and marketing these products.”

       To see the full reports visit www.cibjo.org/congress2019/special-reports/
December 2019                                                                                                  Business Advice                  15

The British Hallmarking Council sets out best practice for                                     The CCM mark can be applied to new
                                                                                               articles along with UK Assay Office marks
UK jewellery importers and exporters, around possible                                          or as an addition to articles already bearing
                                                                                               UK hallmarks.
scenarios post-Brexit.
                                                                                               If you are importing from any of the above
                                                                                               countries, we recommend that post-Brexit

Hallmarking
                                                                                               you request a convention mark on your
                                                                                               goods, or you submit them to a UK Assay
                                                                                               Office for hallmarking before placing them
                                                                                               on the market.

Requirements                                                                                   Those exporting to any of the above
                                                                                               countries, we recommend that you apply a
                                                                                               convention mark to your goods, post-Brexit.

Post-Brexit                                                                                    The UK exemption weights of 7.78gm for
                                                                                               silver, 1gm for gold/palladium and 0.5gm for
                                                                                               platinum, may not apply in other countries.
                                                                                               For example, in the Republic of Ireland
                                                                                               there are no exemption weights. This
                                                                                               means that any stock destined for southern
The current situation                           in countries who are members of the            Ireland must bear a CCM.
                                                Convention.
There are currently two separate ways in                                                       What about EU countries that are not
which hallmarks applied in one country          Managed Deal Exit                              members of the Convention?
can be recognised as being equivalent in
another country:                                If the UK negotiates a managed exit from       Luxemburg and Germany do not require
                                                the EU with an EU customs union, that          any hallmark as a pre-market authorisation.
European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling          relationship may continue to be subject to
                                                the ECJ ruling which currently provides        In France a hallmark is a legal requirement.
The ECJ has ruled that EU member                the basis for recognition of domestic marks.   Importers must register with the Bureau
states must recognise each other’s marks        There are also likely to be cut-offs agreed    de Garantie. In Spain a hallmark is a legal
subject to providing an equivalent level        over a set period, if there are going to be    requirement. Importers must register with
of protection and being intelligible to         changes to the current situation. Until the    an assay office in Spain. There are legal
consumers. Most EU countries, with a            exact nature of any future deal is known the   requirements regarding hallmarking in
requirement for compulsory hallmarking,         exact effect cannot be determined.             Belgium. Details can be found via the
will accept UK hallmarks as equivalent to                                                      Federal Ministry of Finance.
their own. The UK also accepts many EU          Delayed Exit
member state hallmarks.                                                                        Note: At time of going to press, the final UK-
                                                In the case of a delayed exit, the current     EU relationship is unknown. Therefore, the
The Common Control Mark (CCM)                   recognition to UK marks by our EU              above sets out best practice around possible
                                                                                               scenarios that may or may not transpire.
                                                neighbours and vice versa would continue.
The Convention mark (CCM) can only be                                                          This information relates to hallmarks
applied by a signatory country within its                                                      only. Separate advice should be sought on
national boundary – the Convention is an                                                       customs arrangements.
agreement between Governments who
                                                What action can importers and
have ratified the terms of the treaty and has   exporters consider taking now?                 www.gov.uk/government/organisations/
technical rules on testing and marking. A                                                      british-hallmarking-council
signatory country applying the CCM has          The CCM mark applied by a UK Assay
followed these common technical rules – all     Office is currently accepted in all EU
other signatory countries will accept the       member states because it is a UK hallmark.
articles directly onto their market.            You can start applying a CCM mark to your
                                                goods now with no impact on your current          New Era for Hallmarking
                                                import or export requirements.
                                                Post-Brexit, it will continue to be accepted      In a joint initiative, the NAJ, the
What might change post-Brexit?
                                                by those EU member States who are also            IRV and the London Assay Office
                                                signatories to the Convention.                    will come together on 14th January,
No Deal Exit
                                                                                                  2020 at Goldsmiths' Hall, London,
If the UK leaves the EU without any deal,       Which countries are covered by the                to discuss the very many facets of
all the UK’s obligations to recognise EU        CCM?                                              hallmarking. London Assay Master,
marks would cease and vice versa. In this                                                         Robert Organ, will talk about the past,
case we anticipate that any product already     Current member states of the Convention           present and future of hallmarking;
on the market pre-Brexit would be legal and     are: Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech              NAJ CEO Simon Forrester will
already be in free circulation.                 Republic, Denmark, Finland, Hungary,              outline new developments and Kerry
                                                Ireland, Israel, Latvia, Lithuania,               Gregory of Gemmology Rocks will
New stock entering the UK market would          Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,            clarify the realities and logistics
require a UK-hallmark and in the case of        Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Sweden,                of hallmarking within a jewellery
stock exported to other EU countries, it        Switzerland, and the UK.
                                                                                                  business. To attend this free event,
would require a mark recognised by those        Serbia and Italy have undergone
                                                                                                  visit: naj.co.uk/whats-on
countries. The CCM will continue to be          assessment, and been invited to join but are
recognised in the UK and to be recognised       in the process of ratifying the treaty.
Got Christmas cracked?
Get set for 2020!
We’ve got it to hand.

                            OVER

                        19,000
                        PROCUCTS IN STOCK

  Click
  cooksongold.com

  Call
  0345 100 1122

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December 2019                                                                                                           Education               17

Creating Practical Skills
                                                                                                The updated programme will enable
                                                                                                the trainee valuer to study the theory of
                                                                                                jewellery valuation and appraisal using
                                                                                                attractive and detailed learning materials,

and Proficiency in the                                                                          before spending time with an experienced
                                                                                                and dedicated valuer to start putting their
                                                                                                newly acquired learning into practice… and

Jewellery Industry
                                                                                                building confidence in the process.

                                                                                                A key benefit of this practical learning, in
                                                                                                the small-group workshop, will be to allow
                                                                                                the trainee to discuss and process new
                                                                                                information with like-minded colleagues.
                                                                                                They can support, and be supported, by
                                                                                                each other and perhaps form peer networks
Jewellery industry professionals are            Which is why the NAJ is launching a new         that they can draw on throughout their
innately creative people, inspired by           qualification – Foundations of Appraisal        professional lives as valuers.
handling precious metals, gemstones and         Practice (Jewellery, Silverware and
diamonds; understanding their properties,       Watches) – in January 2020. This revitalised    The Foundations of Appraisal Practice
their value and how they can be worked          qualification will incorporate learning from    (Jewellery, Silverware and Watches) is a
into beautiful pieces. Studying alone can’t     the existing Certificate of Appraisal Theory    pre-requisite for membership of the Institute
develop this awareness and learning – with      (CAT), which it will supercede, as well as a    of Registered Valuers. However, CAT will
touching, feeling and interacting with          three-day interactive `practical valuation      continue to be accepted for membership of
jewellery comes appreciation.                   techniques’ workshop.                           the IRV.

                                                                                                We are sure that this new qualification
                                                                                                will help trainees be better prepared for
                                                                                                the submission of their sample valuations,
                                                                                                which also continue to be a pre-requisite for
                                                                                                membership.

                                                                                                To find out more about this new
                                                                                                qualification, as well as the invaluable
                                                                                                JET Practical Training days for all new
                                                                                                and existing JET students, visit naj.
                                                                                                co.uk/qualifications. Remember, funding
                                                                                                for courses may be available through
                                                                                                the Benevolent Society and the NAJ’s
                                                                                                Educational Trust. Visit www.naj.co.uk/
                                                                                                charities for details.

                                                                                                can benefit hugely from mentoring and the
                                                                                                sharing of experience.

Business Course for                                                                             These might be craft graduates, new starters
                                                                                                with skills but little business experience,
                                                                                                small businesses with big ideas, hobbyists

Creative Entrepreneurs
                                                                                                turning professional, those starting second
                                                                                                careers and new businesses that need help
                                                                                                in growing to the next stage.

                                                                                                The pilot programme for the 12-week
                                                                                                course will run in early 2020 at a special
The Birmingham Assay Office is supporting       have talent and creative skills and need        introductory price of £1,200 per person.
and facilitating a new course aimed at          some hands-on direction to establish their      Applications for the course (with CV
artisans from all sectors, which has been put   business or grow it to the next level.”         including qualifications and career
together by jewellery industry figure and                                                       history) must be received no later
serial entrepreneur Dr Gordon Hamme.            The concept of the course follows the           than 18th December 2019. Visit www.
                                                principles of the successful Finnish course,    anchorcertacademy.net for applications/info
“We are really excited about this               which Hamme studied. It is designed to
programme, which we believe will fill a         be more fluid, flexible and applied than a      The NAJ Educational Trust and the
large gap in the jewellery and other craft      standard business course and therefore          Benevolent Society trustees welcome
industries,” says Marion Wilson, director of    more suited to the creative mind. It is ideal   individual applications to part fund the
AnchorCert Academy at Birmingham Assay          for self-motivated, dynamic individuals         pilot course. Visit: https://www.naj.co.uk/
Office. “It is designed to support those who    who need some business direction and who        financial-support for more information.
18           Financial Planning                                                                                                          The Jeweller

     Cash Flow
     is King…
     … and it’s an important factor in the financial security
     of your business, says Steven Clemence FPFS of
     jewellery insurance specialist TH March.

     Y            ou have got all your security
                  sorted out and you have insured
                  your stock and your premises,
                  making sure there are no
     hidden surprises waiting just around the
     corner to trip you up. Now may be the time
                                                        shareholder agreement. You might have to
                                                        look at your partnership agreement or your
                                                        memorandum and articles and be prepared
                                                        to update them, just as you would update
                                                        your own will if circumstances have changed
                                                        or what you read isn’t what you expect to
     to concentrate on growing your business or         happen. Taking out Key Person Cover and
     adding further protection for what you have        Business Loan Protection shouldn’t just be
     already built up. It’s easier said than done       left to when your investors require it; you
     to run and build a business, but it is also all    should require it to protect your business
     too easy to run into trouble, especially if, for   and your family. If you are growing your
     whatever reason, the cash flow dries up at a       business it will be down to your hard work
     crucial time.                                      and determination to succeed that will
                                                        make it happen. In the short term it will be
     A crisis in your business can often be             a sacrifice in time to your loved ones, so
     averted if you have insured the most               why not protect their future and the value of
     important assets – not your stock and              what you are building up – ‘the family silver’
     premises, but you and your key people,             – while you are still getting there.                   Steve’s career as a financial
     against death, critical illness or long-term                                                              adviser stretches back to 1987
     illness. Make sure, through insurance, that        Having a Financial Planner on board to                 and he has been with TH March
     there is money available when it is needed         sort out your Business Protection needs                for 10 years. A chartered financial
     most to get your business through the cash         will help you put the right plans in place. If         planner, Steve is also a Fellow of
     crunch caused by a crisis.                         they go to the whole of the market they can            the Personal Finance Society, (the
                                                        select the best cover and provider for your            FPFS after his name). The award
     Just as an individual should have a will,          needs. You’ll probably want someone with               of a Fellowship reflects the level
     you need to think about what would                 experience in this area and you will also              of advanced study undertaken by
     be happening in the business today if              want to run any recommendation by your                 Steve together with his academic
                                                        accountant, but the right advice will allow            achievement, knowledge, ethics
     something had happened to you or your
                                                                                                               and experience.
     business’ partners/fellow directors/key            you to make sure the right cover is paid to
     people/shareholders yesterday. It should           the right people (or your company) at the
     be written down in a partnership or                right time.

                                                           For information sheets on Key Person, Shareholder Protection, Long Term Income
                                                           Protection, Business Loan Protection and Relevant Life Cover please contact Steve
                                                           on 01822 855555 or at steven.clemence@thmarch.co.uk
Leading Gold buyers in London, specialising in buying gold from traders
                              paying the best prices nationwide.

                                We offer the most robust payout service for traders.

          In house Melting, Assaying, 100% payout upfront, all within a few minutes.

        We are also gold refiners so we can offer Gold Refining Services, and reduced
                                   rate gold bars and coins.

                                  215 The Broadway, Southall, Middlesex, UB1 1NB
                                                   0203 500 1111
                                              Sales@gold-bank.co.uk

Gold bank half page ad.indd 1                                                          12/11/2019 11:57:06
20          NAJ Awards 2019                                                                                                            The Jeweller

     Victorious!
                                                                                                     The waiting is over…
                                                                                                     we can now reveal
                                                                                                     the 11 worthy winners
                                                                                                     in this year’s NAJ
                                                                                                     Awards, headline
                                                                                                     sponsored by Nivoda.

                                                                                                     Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative
       MyriamSOS, Aqua Wave ring                                                                     of the Year – Monica Vinader

                                                                                                     For delivering an activity that has
                                                                                                     contributed to wider society, a specific
                                                                                                     community or a cause through raising
                                                                                                     awareness, making a contribution of time or
     Held during the festive, fun-filled, fund-      Physical Shop Front of the Year – Drakes
     raising Benevolent Ball, the glittering                                                         funds, or other associated initiatives.
     ceremony saw three new categories join          For being able to enhance or maintain an
     the 2019 Awards: Innovation of the Year,                                                        “Monica Vinader not only champions
                                                     excellent physical presence which clearly
     Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative of                                                   charitable causes by collaborating
                                                     communicates its brand proposition to
     the Year and Physical Shop Front of the Year                                                    commercially with charities, ie Women for
                                                     the intended target audience in a physical
     – all in the ‘Organisation’ section.                                                            Women International, it is dedicated to
                                                     setting.
                                                                                                     maximising its social impact within the
     And here are all the NAJ Award winners:                                                         supply chain network.”
                                                     “A strong, powerful frontage from this
                                                     family-run independent, is beautifully
                                                     complemented by seasonal graphics to really
                                                                                                     Shortlist: Anchor & Crew, Lebrusan Studio,
                                                     capture the attention of passers-by.”
                                                                                                     Nova Silver and Pugata Jewellery
                                                                                                     Sponsored by: Pursuit
                                                     Shortlist: Hill & Hill, Drakes, Lister
                                                     Horsfall, Maunder Watch Company, Time
                                                     & Motion Jewellers
                                                     Sponsored by: VM and Events                     Website of the Year – Bond Jewellery &
                                                                                                     Diamonds

                                                                                                     For significantly enhancing or maintaining
                                                     Innovation of the Year – MyriamSOS
                                                                                                     an excellent web presence
                                                                                                     which clearly communicates the company’s
                                                     For a company that has made a significant
                                                                                                     brand proposition to the intended target
                                                     addition or change to their business that has
                                                                                                     audience across multiple devices.
                                                     delivered a positive impact.
                                                                                                     “An expertly designed and built website
                                                     “The Aqua Wave ring designed MyriamSOS,
                                                                                                     which is very engaging for the user. The use
                                                     in collaboration with the Osmium Institute,
                                                                                                     of video clips provides great visuals and
                                                     is one of very few jewellery pieces globally
                                                                                                     interactivity. High-quality images and deep
                                                     containing osmium.”
                                                                                                     levels of information.”
                                                     Shortlist: Akansha Sethi and De Beers
                                                                                                     Shortlist: Lebrusan Studio, Anchor & Crew,
                                                     Group Industry Services
                                                                                                     Ruffs and Purely Diamonds
     Awards Trophy                                   Sponsored by: Clarity and Success
                                                                                                     Sponsored by: IJL
December 2019                                                                                              NAJ Awards 2019                       21

Company Awards                                  Individual Awards                              Workshop Professional of the Year
                                                                                               – Alexander Wood, apprentice to
                                                                                               Nathanial Groves
These awards are given to the most              These awards are given to a jewellery
                                                                                               “Alexander is an exemplary apprentice
outstanding companies in the UK and             professional and/or team that consistently
                                                                                               mounter, demonstrating ingenuity and
are split into these different categories to    demonstrate a high level of professionalism,
                                                                                               exquisite craftsmanship while working on
recognise companies that feature throughout     integrity and honesty as part of the UK
                                                                                               25 pieces during the year, winning GC&DC
the jewellery and watch value chain.            jewellery community. Individual awards are
                                                                                               awards and completing his masterpiece to
                                                split into different categories to recognise
                                                                                               present to the Goldsmiths’ Company.”
                                                individuals that feature throughout the
Jewellery and/or Watch Supplier of the          jewellery value chain.
                                                                                               Shortlist: Anthony Dellow, Richard Soden
Year – Hockley Mint                                                                            and Peter Byrne
                                                                                               Sponsored by: Presman Mastermelt
“Firmly positioned as a home-grown, British     Sales Person of the Year – Tracey Jones
manufacturer, it consistently delivers          (Purely Diamonds)
customer centric jewellery solutions, running
rings around the competition.”                  “A career investment clearly demonstrated      The shortlists, selected by the NAJ editorial
                                                through the satisfaction her customers         team, didn’t disappoint. Simon Forrester, NAJ
Shortlist: Anchor & Crew, Ntinga, Unique        enjoy. Seen as ‘invaluable’ to the team, her   CEO, described the entries as ‘competitive’
& Co and Clogau Gold                            knowledge and emotional intelligence is a      across the board, and showing ‘true business
Sponsored by: Inhorgenta                        sure-fire winner.”                             impacts. “These were great submissions
                                                                                               and all with their own unique strengths and
                                                Shortlist: Craig Cohen (Ntinga), Emma          creativity. What a showcase of innovation!”
Service Provider of the Year –                  Williamson (Lucy Quartermaine)                 he says.
Gemmology Rocks                                 Sponsored by: Windiam
                                                                                               The NAJ Awards would not be possible
“Kerry Gregory’s energy, passion and                                                           without the support of NAJ members and
empathy really stand out. Gemmology Rocks       Team of the Year – The PA Jewellery            sponsors, and in particular we welcomed
doesn’t just deliver education and support,     Team                                           online diamond marketplace Nivoda as
it gets to the heart of clients’ businesses                                                    headline sponsor. Nivoda, which operates
and delves deeper to find out the biggest       “There is clear evidence of the team pride     globally with offices in London, Mumbai and
challenges they face, and what they truly       in going the extra mile, working together to   Hong Kong, has a vision to build a trusted
need to succeed.”                               exceed expectations and supporting and         marketplace for the jewellery industry, where
                                                respecting each other.”                        suppliers and retailers come to find everything
Shortlist: Magpie Europe, Presman                                                              they need to best serve their customers and
Mastermelt, Clark Diamonds and Pursuit          Shortlist: Charlotte Cornelius, Clogau         strengthen their profits.
Sponsored by: Parify                            Gold, The Jewellery Cut and Purely
                                                Diamonds                                       “I’m extremely thankful to award sponsors
                                                Sponsored by: T.H. March                       Nivoda, Windiam, Clogau, Presman
Retailer of the Year – Purely Diamonds,                                                        Mastermelt, TH March, Parify, Inhorgenta,
Manchester                                                                                     Hockley Mint, Clarity & Success, Pursuit,
                                                Designer of the Year – Julien Riad             International Jewellery London and VM &
“Scoring 100 per cent in the judge’s review,    Sahyoun                                        Events Ltd, many of whom have shown long
Purely Diamonds was praised for being an                                                       term commitment to this event. Thanks also
extremely pleasant shopping experience;         “Exciting and innovative jewellery with
                                                                                               goes to the trophy and Champagne sponsor,
remembered for the beautiful rings, excellent   a strong brand identity to support it –
                                                                                               Champions UK,” Forrester adds.
prices and personal one-to-one touch. “I        encapsulating everything that is good about
came away smiling.”                             UK contemporary jewellery making.”
                                                                                               The winners were presented with a
Shortlist: Clogau Gold, John McKay              Shortlist: Erica Sharpe, Arabel Lebrusan,      beautifully stylish megalith pewter trophy
Jewellers and Time & Motion Jewellers           Charlotte Cornelius, Vicki Smith               kindly sponsored by branding agency
Sponsored by: Hockley Mint                      Sponsored by: Clogau                           Champions (UK).

Sponsors
22           Member Benefits                                                                                                                   The Jeweller

     Get the Most from
     your Membership
     Introducing the                                     Keep an eye on the                               Find a Jeweller 2.0
     NAJ community                                       market with Mintel                               Since the launch of the new NAJ website in

     barometer, Find a                                   reports                                          November 2018, the team has been working
                                                                                                          hard to refine areas of the website in order
                                                                                                          to maximise exposure and conversions for
     Jeweller 2.0 and                                    Mintel has been providing substantial
                                                         industry data reports regarding the industry
                                                                                                          members.

     a reminder of your                                  retail market for many years, giving
                                                         invaluable insight for businesses on areas
                                                                                                          An increasingly popular feature is the Find
                                                                                                          a Jeweller search, which has just received a
     Better Business                                     that are seeing success or decline.              significant update. Because each NAJ member
                                                                                                          has a unique, customisable profile, we’ve taken
     Support Service.                                    According to Mintel’s latest report (2019),
                                                         demand for jewellery and watches in the
                                                                                                          on feedback from both the membership and
                                                                                                          the consumer to amend the search console and
                                                         UK has increased; sales were up 2.9 per cent     now offer advanced filters such as ‘Created in
                                                         in 2018 and growth is expected to be even        the UK’, ‘Gold Standard’ and ‘RJC Certification’
                                                         stronger in 2019. In fact, Mintel estimates      highlighting to consumers and the trade,
                                                         that the market will increase by 3.5 per cent    members’ credentials.
     NAJ Insight Tools –                                 in 2019, bringing its value to £5.9 billion,
                                                         from £5.7 billion 12 months previous.
                                                                                                          Find a Jeweller 2.0 brings together suppliers,
     Barometer                                                                                            retailers, designers and associates; rather than
                                                                                                          have multiple search pages, all members will
                                                         Keeping up to date with the latest trends        be under one roof, with the improved console
                                                         and sales figures can help future-proof          filtering results accordingly.
     We are excited to introduce the newest feature      your business, allowing you to predict the
     to the NAJ website – the Jewellery Retailer         upcoming season and adjust your strategies       Good news for the NAJ team is for the
     Barometer. This community barometer is              accordingly.                                     increasing numbers of consumer enquiries
     updated quarterly and is available for all NAJ
                                                                                                          into the office, the ‘email results’ button will
     members to view in the Member Area of the           NAJ members can take advantage of the            send the results directly into the mailbox of the
     website, in the form of several charts.             Mintel report with 25 per cent off the full      customer for their information. If you haven’t
                                                         price (£1,995). To claim your discount code,     updated your profile yet, now is the time to do
     This activity aims to understand the issues         contact marketing@naj.co.uk.                     so in order to stand out from the crowd.
     that retailers are facing and how they
     are affecting business. For example, the
     barometer looks at whether members have
     reported sales increasing during the last
     quarter along with staff hours and whether             NAJ members can take advantage of the            The new and updated Find a Jeweller is
     these changes were expected by the business.           Mintel report with 25 per cent off the full      now live, and members can use the step by
                                                            price (£1,995). To claim your discount           step ‘update your profile’ tool by visiting
     Alongside current happenings, the barometer            code, contact marketing@naj.co.uk                naj.co.uk/updatemyprofile.
     also looks at future developments such as
     whether businesses are looking to sell or buy
     stores, recruit more staff, or enrol on training,
     which complements the ‘optimism index’;
     feedback on how optimistic members are
     about the next quarter of trading.

     If you are a retail business interested in
     taking part in this exercise, look out for
     our barometer alert in your quarterly NAJ
     newsletter.

         To submit your answers and
         view the latest report visit
         naj.co.uk/barometer
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