PGI: More platinum inventory means more sales (30/08/11)

Jewellery stores with inventory levels of platinum bridal experience higher sales of platinum jewellery, a study by Platinum Guild International has revealed.

The study also suggested that salespeople are more confident in selling items made from platinum in stores that stock more of it.

"You can't sell platinum unless you stock platinum,” said John Green, president of Lux Bond & Green.

Tiffany reports substantially higher-than-expected sales and earnings growth in its second quarter (26/08/11)

Tiffany & Co saw net sales rise 30 per cent during the second quarter of 2011 compared with the same period in 2010.

Sales rose by 25 per cent in the Americas, 55 per cent in Asia-Pacific and 32 per cent in Europe, while net earnings increased by 33 per cent.

Michael J Kowalski, chairman and chief executive officer of Tiffany & Co, said he was "extremely pleased" with the results.

"In addition, we have been able to absorb precious metal and gemstone cost increases while improving our gross and operating margins," he added.

Kim Kardashian's wedding band: All the details (23/08/11)

Recently-married Kim Kardashian has complemented her 20.5 carat platinum engagement ring with a platinum Lorraine Schwartz wedding band.

In her marriage to NBA player Kris Humphries, the reality TV star received a 15 carat band adorned with diamonds with an estimate price of over $200,000 (£125,000).

"Kim clearly wanted the best-quality wedding ring, and since the diamonds are set in platinum the setting won't fade or tarnish, making it the perfect symbol of enduring love," said jewellery expert Michael O'Connor.

AGTA Spectrum Awards adds Palladium Prestige Awards (10/08/11)

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) will add the Palladium Prestige Awards to next year's AGTA Spectrum Awards competition in jewellery design.

Pieces will be judged by the Palladium Alliance International in the categories of Bridal, Classical, Business/Day Wear, Evening Wear and Men's Wear.

Entries must be 950 or better quality and composed of at least 90 per cent palladium.

"We look forward with great anticipation to reviewing submissions of palladium design," said John Stark, chairman of Palladium Alliance International.

Win his and hers platinum wedding bands (15/08/11)

A platinum wedding band courtesy of Platinum Guild International is being given away by wedding magazine OneWed.com.

Readers need to "like" the magazine's Facebook page and upload a picture of their platinum engagement ring, along with a caption on the enduring qualities of their relationship. Entries close on September 12th.

The ring is set with 0.75 carats of diamonds and features a masculine milgrain finish. Additionally, the magazine is offering a chance to win a pair of classic platinum hoop earrings.

Robert Pattinson gives Kristen Stewart a $40,000 gold & platinum love token (17/08/11)

Twilight star Robert Pattinson has set his female fans' hearts a-flutter by gifting his sweetheart Kristen Stewart a $40,000 (£25,000) antique gold and platinum locket containing photos of the happy couple.

The locket was reportedly a gift to ensure she feels close to him all the time, and bears a Latin inscription that translates to: "Even if you can’t see me, my love for you is always there."

Anne Hathaway sparkled in platinum jewellery at New York premiere of One Day (16/08/11)

Love and Other Drugs star Anne Hathaway attended the New York premiere of her latest film One Day sparkling in platinum jewellery.

Wearing platinum and diamond earrings with matching bracelet and necklace, the star also bore a platinum and pear-shaped diamond ring on her finger as she walked down the red carpet.

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