TOMORROW - Pre-Registration DEADLINE!!!!

AGTA GemFair™ Tucson Buyer  Pre-Registration Deadline December 14th The deadline for pre-registration for buyer badges at the 2013 AGTA GemFair™ Tucson is December 14th, 2012. If you do not have your registration form in prior to this date, you will be able to register and pick up your badges onsite in Tucson. If you attended AGTA GemFair™ Tucson as a buyer in 2012, you are automatically registered for 2013. Those who submit a valid email address when registering will receive an email confirmation.   All registered buyers in the United States and Canada will receive their badges in early- to mid-January for the show, which runs from February 5th – 10th.  International companies can pick up their badges onsite.  It is important to note that the AGTA is working through all of the current registration applications and you will be notified as soon as possible. The AGTA GemFair™ Tucson is constantly evolving and updating programs to meet the needs of its buyers, and this upcoming year is no different!   Daily drawings where buyers can win big, a new Tools, Technology and Supplies (TTS) Pavilion, a Buyer Appreciation party on the GemHall floor and special appearances are just the beginning to the exciting changes that the show has to offer in 2013! The show has been the destination for colored gemstone and cultured pearl buyers for over 30 years. GemFair has evolved from loose gemstones and pearls to include extensive lines of finished jewelry, equipment, estate dealers and industry service providers. AGTA offers a comprehensive, free seminar and bench demonstration program onsite. There are also numerous networking events each day, starting prior to the show with the AGTA's Coyote Classic Charity Golf Tournament and ending with the AGTA Spectrum Awards™ Gala. If you haven't registered to attend the AGTA GemFair™ Tucson 2013 yet, go tohttp://www.agta.org/tradeshows/tucson-reg.html to complete your registration today! For more information call 800-972-1162 or email info@agta.org.

Sad To Report The Passing of Richard Krementz Jr.

Editor's note: this is one of the AGTA GemFair booths we most look forward to at the Tucson show...sorry to hear of the loss of such an integral part of this company...it just won't be the same.  We are hoping for great things from the next generation... 

It is with sadness that we report...

From the Richard Krementz Gemstone page on Facebook:

2013 AGTA Spectrum, Platinum Honors Winner

"It is with heartfelt sadness to announce that Richard Krementz passed away today. Richard had an incredible passion for extraordinary gems since 1949 when he joined his family's business. It is because of him that the terms "Krementz color" and "Krementz quality" resound in our industry when describing the very finest. He was a class act; ethical, knowledgable and a man of his word. The jewelry industry has lost a fine gentleman. Here's to you, sir."
Richard Krementz Jr, 86, of Morristown NJ and Criehaven ME died November 21. 

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Peggy, his children Rick and Betsy, and grand daughters Anna and Nastajjia. 

Richard graduated from Yale in 1949, and joined his family's jewelry manufacturing business, Krementz & Co (later Richard Krementz Gemstones). 

He was an early and very active board member of the American Gem Trade Association and International Colored Stone Association, and also strongly supported the American Gem Society and Jewelers Board of Trade. 

He personally ran the jewelry company until two weeks before his passing. 

Rick Krementz, his son, is now CEO of Richard Krementz Gemstones. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Criehaven Library, 58 Chadwick St, Portland ME 04102. A memorial service will be held in Morristown on January 26.

Information via - Danielle Barber
RICHARD KREMENTZ GEMSTONES
51 Commerce Street
Springfield, NJ 07081 USA
800.835.3436

MJSA’s At the Bench Live Moves to New Tools, Technology, and Supplies Pavilion

MJSA’s At the Bench Live Moves to New Tools, Technology, and Supplies Pavilion at AGTA GemFair

MJSA will present its signature At the Bench Live demonstrations at the 2012 AGTA GemFair Tucson, running twice daily Feb. 5-8 in GemFair’s expanded Tools, Technology, and Supplies Pavilion. The sessions will again feature renowned artisans showing bench and design techniques that attendees can readily apply to their own operations. In addition, related articles from MJSA Journal, the association’s flagship monthly magazine, will be distributed at each session.

The sessions are sponsored by the American Gem Trade Association, and the Bench and Tool Sponsor is the Jewelry Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The schedule includes:

February 5:

Paving the Way: Master Techniques for Pavé and Micro Pavé

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Presenter: Blaine Lewis

With its multiple rows of sparkling gems, pavé adds flash and fire to any jewelry design—but only if it’s done correctly. This session will reveal innovative methods to create and enhance pavé and micro-pavé designs, including advanced bead setting and bright cutting techniques, tool selection, and tips for proper layout, working with different metals, and handling fragile stones.

A Cut Above: Prepping Your Graver

2:30 to 4 p.m.

Presenter: Arthur Anton Skuratowicz

Whether you need to raise beads, bright-cut a channel setting, or add decorative textures and details, the graver is one of the most important tools you can have—but only if it’s properly prepped. This session will discuss shaping and sharpening methods, along with how to care and maintain your graver, to ensure your cuts remain precise and predictable.

February 6:

Texturing and Finishing Options

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Presenter: Lee Krombholz

Fashion experts say baroque will be big in 2013, which means there will be plenty of opportunity for jewelry featuring textures and decorative finishes. Learn a variety of techniques—including hammer finishing, milgraining, hand engraving, and stippling—in which inexpensive hand tools can be used to create a big look.

Techniques for Setting Halos and Side Diamonds

2:30 to 4 p.m.

Presenter: Lee Krombholz

Adding a “halo” of gems around the center stone or incorporating decorative side stones can add flash and sparkle to any design. Discover various techniques and styles—bead settings, split prongs, bright cuts—that help you to create gem patterns offering the perfect accent.

February 7:

Setting Fancy Shapes, Part 1: Prong Settings

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Presenter: Arthur Anton Skuratowicz

Marquise cuts, cushion cuts, slices—gemstones in these and other unusual shapes pose unique setting challenges. In the first session, learn different techniques for shaping and securely fastening prongs, based on the stone and the metal involved. In honor of “Monaco Blue” being named Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2013, issues specific to tanzanite, lapis, sapphire, and similarly colored stones will be reviewed.

Setting Fancy Shapes, Part 2: Thick-Walled Bezels and Channels

2:30 to 4 p.m.

Presenter: Arthur Anton Skuratowicz

The force needed for bezel and channel setting can be particularly challenging with fancy shapes: a few bad hammer blows and you’ll have crunching, alignment issues, and misapplied pressure points that lead to stress and cracking. Learn the proper preparation and setting techniques to ensure your walls are aligned and secure.

February 8:

Hand Carving Wax Models

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Presenter: Gary Dawson

A casting is only as good as its model, and in this session you’ll learn how to carve waxes that lead to great castings. The session will include tips for choosing the proper wax, creating an initial layout, removing wax quickly, and achieving fine details. Most important, you’ll learn how to integrate the gem into the model, and create a design that showcases the stone to maximum effect.

Plating Techniques to Ensure Predictable Results

2:30 to 4 p.m.

Presenter: Arthur Anton Skuratowicz

With precious metals prices expected to remain high, plating has become the option of choice for jewelers to add a precious touch while maintaining price points. This session will discuss techniques for both pen and immersion plating, and to ensure cohesion between different metals, and how to create quality coatings that meet consumer expectations and conform to FTC standards.

In addition to being redesigned as a “one-stop resource” for the know-how, supplies, and services needed by jewelry makers and designers, the Tools, Technology, and Supplies Pavilion will be open to attendees from other events: badge holders of the GJX show, the JOGS Tucson Gem & Jewelry Show, and the Gem & Lapidary Wholesalers (G&LW) show at the Holidome will be able to shop the pavilion and attend the At the Bench Live demonstrations.

For more information about the At the Bench Live sessions, go to MJSA.org or contact 1-800-444-MJSA (6572), info@mjsa.org. For more information about the Tools, Technology, and Supplies Pavilion, go to agta.org.

AGTA Announces GemFair Tucson Seminar Schedule

AGTA GemFair™ Tucson – A Learning Experience

The American Gem Trade Association’s annual GemFair in Tucson, AZ, each February is an opportunity for anyone involved in colored gemstones and pearls to learn more about this margin-friendly product category. Whether it is formal educational sessions or the valuable networking opportunities, the AGTA GemFair™ Tucson offers a wealth of information for those who want to build and expand this part of their business.

The AGTA FREE Seminar Program is a comprehensive collection of one hour seminars taught by the leading experts in their fields. Popular presenters such as Richard Drucker, Kate Peterson, Bill Larson, Alan Hodgkinson, Gary Roskin, Cecilia Gardner, David Peters, Cindy Edelstein and Antoinette Maitlins return each year to share their latest information to GemFair attendees. Topics covered include gemology, trends, sales, marketing, events, travelogues, training, social media, fair trade, gemstone cutting and much more. The seminars start Wednesday, February 6th and end on Saturday, February 9th.

MJSA also returns in 2013 with their “At the Bench Live” program for bench jewelers. This daily demonstration provides fantastic tips on a variety of bench-related scenarios by respected jewelers Arthur Anton Skuratowicz, Lee Krombholz, Chris Ploof and Linus Drogs. From repair to design to working with gemstones, there is something for everyone.

Click Here for Detailed Seminar Schedule

Aside from the classroom, the AGTA GemFair™ Tucson offers an incredible amount of networking opportunities with your peers. The exhibitors are all AGTA Members and experts in their chosen field. They will share their knowledge about the key things to look for when purchasing colored gemstones and pearls. They are also the best resource for new finds and current trends. You will also have the opportunity to meet other buyers at the convention center or at one of the many nightly events. These events are a great place to combine business and fun in a laid-back environment.

Continuing education is a key component of most professional businesses and AGTA supports that notion in the jewelry industry by providing the platform for learning at the AGTA GemFair™ Tucson. So, make plans to join us in Tucson in 2013 – to register, go to http://www.agta.org/tradeshows/gemfair-tucson.html.

#WordlessWeekend - Vendor Spotlight! Gems In Gems

Marco Campos Venuti
GEMS IN GEMS

marcocamposvenuti@hotmail.com

Venuti has a PhD in volcanology and is the editor of the Rivista Gemmologica Italiana. Since childhood he was always curious about the origin of stones and is a passionate collector.   He has written MANY scientific papers and he is recognized as an authority both in Europe and the US.  His world class collection of Agates & Jaspers has led to this gorgeous new publication.


"Genesis and Classification of Agates and Jaspers: a New Theory"

 

NAJA's ACE-It Schedule!

ACE™ It Conferences by NAJA

Appraisers Continuing Education

The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers announces its 39th Annual Winter ACE© It Education Conference to be held in Tucson, AZ, February 3-4, 2013.

The appraisal organization dedicated exclusively to gems and jewelry presents an outstanding program to assist the professional appraiser’s continuing education and an unparalleled networking experience. 

Weekend Vendor Spotlight on Rob Lowe Assoc.

The Rob Lowe booth at GJX is always slammed and don't be surprised if you run into some of the biggest names in faceting! ...which is an obvious indicator of the quality and reputation of this company's product.  Whether it is facet rough, pre-forms or cut gems you can count on the Rob Lowe booth!  Rob is easy to work with and always carries the rare stones that make your work stand out from the crowd and if "chain of custody" is important to you...he deals direct with the mine and can tell you exactly where your rough came from.

My apologies to Rob - these cases were jammed full but I didn't get over to photograph them until the last day...

Robert P. Lowe Jr.
Lowe Associates - Brasil
Gemstones, Rough, Specimens
Tucson - Feb 1 - 6, 2011 - GJX booth # 205
e-mail: USA  robertplowejr (at) juno.com 
e-mail: Brasil robertplowejr (at) uol.com.br

 

 

Discover Precious Metal Clay - Jewelry Artist Carrie Story Offering Classes at #TucsonGemShow

When you have most major Designers and Makers in one place at one time you would be nuts not to check into classes and seminars.  Some of the most talented and brightest minds in the field will be teaching in Tucson during the Tucson Gem Shows...we will be highlighting some here!

Jewelry Artist Brings Metal Clay Excitement 

to Tucson Design Students

North Carolina Artisan, Carrie Story will be teaching Jewelry Design classes using Metal Clay at the JOGS Show and The Tucson Bead Show, February 3rd through February 10th, 2013.  

Fine silver metal clay, is a versatile, easy-to-use material that allows just about anyone to make their own beautiful, real silver jewelry in a matter of hours.

Metal clay is a crafting medium consisting of very small particles of metal such as silver, gold, bronze, or copper mixed with an organic binder and water for use in making jewelry, beads and small sculptures. 

Originating in Japan in 1990, metal clay can be shaped just like any soft clay, by hand or using molds. After drying, the clay can be fired in a variety of ways such as in a kiln, with a handheld gas torch, or on a gas stove. The binder burns away, leaving the pure sintered metal.

Since its introduction to the US in late 1995, metal clay has found enthusiastic users among jewelers, polymer clay artists, bead makers, hobbyists and enamellists.

Throughout her career, Carrie 's design expertise has been apparent, today she is an  accomplished jewelry maker and highly sought after, enthusiastic instructor.

From an early age, Carrie exhibited an interest in the creative arts and garnered recognition in college, winning a state award in graphic design for four custom pieces showcased in area museums. In 2005, Carrie began creating beaded necklaces, bracelets and earrings and soon after established her own business, Divine Ornaments.

Carrie quickly developed a passion for metal clay after taking several classes, which fueled her desire to share her vast knowledge with students. Known for her approachable and dynamic teaching style, Carrie maintains an enjoyable atmosphere where students feel free to express their own gifts and talents while encouraging individuals’ creativity, curiosity and appreciation for art; Carrie’s dedication to teaching is obvious to her students.

Carrie, gains creative inspiration from nature and the animals around her.  She currently serves as a Contributing Artist for Metal Clay Today and has had her work in Metal Clay Artist Magazine.  Carrie is a Certified PMC Instructor and holds membership with The Creative Center. Carrie is committed to her own professional development and continuously seeks out opportunities to improve her skills so that she can best serve her students.

Carrie will be offering a variety of classes in Tucson - from Beginners Metal Clay, Building Rings and Setting Cabochons to UV Resin.

For more information about classes, times and dates or to Register please visit Carrie's Website Divine Ornaments:  http://www.divineornaments.net/

Weekend Vendor Spotlight - Wolfe Lapidary!

We have grown accustomed to seeing Tom Wolfe Minerals & Petrified Wood at most of the major Gem & Mineral Shows. 

Cases of SPECIAL & RARE GOODS at the 2012 Tucson Gem & Mineral Show!

....but do you know about their latest endeavor?

Wolfe Lapidary!

Tom Wolfe Minerals & Petrified Wood   http://www.tomwolfeminerals.com/

Wolfe Lapidary   http://www.wolfelapidary.com/

AGTA Announces Tools, Technology & Services Pavilion at GemFair™ Tucson

New Tools, Technology & Services Pavilion 

at 2013 AGTA GemFair™ Tucson

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) is pleased to announce the new Tools, Technology and Services Pavilion at the 2013 AGTA GemFair™ Tucson Show.

After conducting an extensive survey of show attendees the number one thing the buyers asked for was more tools, technology and services! This is an important category for many buyers and the expanded pavilion adds a lot of value for those buyers who are interested in the many products that will be offered. The synergy of the exhibitors in the pavilion makes it easier for buyers to focus on this category when shopping at GemFair.

GemFair is one of the few shows to offer this specialized pavilion in Tucson. Product and educational demonstrations will be offered in the pavilion through out the show in order to increase traffic. With all of the new excitement and build-up around the pavilion AGTA will dedicate additional resources to marketing its fabulous new location and amenities!

If you have a manufacturing component in your business, the Tools, Technology and Services Pavilion is a destination you must see in 2013!

What Would Winning An AGTA Spectrum Award Mean To You?

If you get a moment go over to YouTube and watch the new videos from the AGTA...they are interviewing winners of the Spectrum Award. 

They each answer Two questions...

1. Tell us about your winning entry.

2. What did winning an AGTA Spectrum Award mean to your business?

This particular video features Ashleigh Branstetter who entered an elegant pair of Tahitian Pearl and Sapphire Cufflinks (above) and she won a Manufacturing Honors Award in the Men's Wear Category.

So - Ashleigh, what does winning a Spectrum Award mean to your business?

Collector Day At The Westward Look Fine Mineral Show 2012

This is just Part One of my coverage of this show that has, due to the gorgeous minerals, fabulous exhibitors and collectors, captured my heart.  Collectors Day is a celebration and a fixed date on my Tucson Calendar because I meet up with a brilliant group of women.  We enjoy a delicious lunch on the patio overlooking the town of Tucson and we relax at the resort in the hills.


From the Fine Mineral Show Website:  Our Saturday event, known as Collector Day, is an all-day event (10AM - 4PM) where we invite a special guest to display their private mineral collection in the lobby of the Westward Look Resort. Our special guest is on hand throughout the event to answer any questions, meet anyone coming by our just chat the time away. This has become an extremely popular, must-stop visit for many people at the Tucson show to learn more about this wonderful hobby.


The Featured Collector in 2012 was Ron Gladnick and in a brilliant move the exhibit included original paintings and illustrations of mineral specimens from the Gladnick Private Collection by famous wildlife artist Gamini Ratnavira.

As the story goes, the day he was born, an owl flew into his room through an open window and perched on the side of his crib. An unusual event for any newborn, however a very prophetic event for Sri Lankan-born wildlife artist and nature conservationist Gamini Ratnavira.

While this may have been Gamini's first direct link with nature, it wasn't until five years later when, fighting loneliness after his parents' divorce, Gamini observed the one event that would forever tie him to his life's passion.

"It had just rained and I was outside feeling sorry for myself. I started to watch a raindrop roll off the edge of a leaf and I was fascinated by the colors and the movement of those colors in that tiny raindrop. Then it fell to the ground and was absorbed by the dirt to nourish the plants. It was at that exact moment that I realized how big, complex and all-encompassing nature really is. As I was thinking about all of this and how it all tied together, I realized that for the first time in months, I had completely stopped thinking about my family situation and was actually able to smile. That's the power of nature."

This is from a fabulous write up about Gamini on the Blue Cap Productions Website here - click through for the entire story:
http://www.bluecapproductions.com/gamini/index.html


Enjoy this too brief Photo Journal - for more photos check out the Westward Look Fine Mineral Show 2012 Album on the Tucson Gem Show Facebook page.  


(BTW - you do not have to have a Facebook account to view the photos)

The Gladnick Collection was displayed in two large cases with
Gamini's paintings flanking them.

As you can see from the reflection this is a crowded event with visitors clamoring to photograph to exhibit and for a photo op with the Featured Collector!

Since I never seem to get photos of the grounds for this show I am adding this great shot from Dave Waisman's 2009 Album on his Fine Mineral Show page on Facebook!