Last week, industry members gathered at JCK Tucson 2019 to enjoy a relaxing yet productive week of discoveries, networking, education and special events to fully experience the jewelry industry’s winter oasis. The show boasted an impressive lineup of designers showcasing one-of-a-kind gemstones and jewelry. While each designer offered something beautiful and unique, the JCK Tucson Design Challenge is offered as a way to highlight and honor designers who think out-of-the-box and who take exceptional pride in materials and craftsmanship. Most importantly, the Design Challenge commends those who break the boundaries of jewelry design. We determined the 2019 winners over an…
Author: JCK Events
Know the Stone: Tourmaline
CommentsWhen it comes to gemstones you’ll find at JCK Tucson 2019, tourmaline is about as popular as it gets—and for good reason. With one of the widest color ranges of any gemstone, you can easily understand why it’s such a favorite among jewelry designers and consumers alike. Tourmaline has often been confused with other gemstones—emerald, ruby, and the like—its name comes from the Sinhalese toramalli, which means “mixed gems.” It’s a downright treasure to behold in any shade, from the island-evoking Paraiba to the super cool watermelon tourmaline. What’s so amazing about this stone is the way it inspires such…
The Extra Mile
Comments5 Overlooked Items to Pack for JCK Tucson Ready to hit the desert? It’s almost time for JCK Tucson 2019! Surely you’ve been thinking about the outfits you’re going to wear, lining up your shoe collection to determine which ones are the most comfortable—and stylish—to make the cut. So rather than share the most obvious additions to your suitcase (business cards, hand sanitizer, etc.), we thought we’d offer up five things you might not have thought to pack before you jet to JCK. Hiking BootsNestled in your lineup of comfortable footwear may be a smart pair of boots you’ll be…
Full Circle: Underwood Jewelers
CommentsUnderwood Jewelers opened in 1928 and has earned a reputation of dedication to fine quality, creating new customers and building trusting relationships. Underwood’s defines quality as not only materials and craftsmanship, but also “design, presentation, service, integrity and your experience in [the] store.” In addition to being Vice President of Underwood’s Michael Richards is also a Certified Gemologist, a member of the American Gem Society (AGS) and a Fireside Chat panelist at JCK Tucson 2019. We caught up with Richards to get the inside scoop on Underwood’s, his favorite JCK memory, being an AGS member and more: Describe your day…
Designer Spotlight: Kaali Designs
CommentsReturning to JCK Tucson this year is the delightful Kaali Designs, a brand named after the Hindu goddess Kali. Created by Gemological Institute of America (GIA) graduate gemologist Anit Dodhia, Kaali Designs specializes in handmade pieces inspired by the Indian Ocean—calm and reflective, dark and stormy, too. Based in San Diego, Dodhia is originally from Mombasa, Kenya, growing up in a culturally rich Indian community, with a family in the jewelry business. I talked to Anit about his inspiration, new collections and what’s getting him excited for the upcoming JCK Tucson show. How did you get your start in the…
