Month: September 2026

Oak and Luna has announced an exciting collaboration with celebrity stylist Abby Arad, unveiling a 24-piece everyday jewellery capsule collection titled “The Kit.” Set to launch on 17 September, the collection showcases versatile designs inspired by 1970s vintage statement jewellery, focusing on the idea of a curated jewellery wardrobe. Arad emphasizes that the aim is not to overwhelm with accessories but to provide impactful pieces that enhance outfits effortlessly. The partnership marks a significant step for Oak and Luna, reflecting a shared philosophy that jewellery should elevate everyday wear rather than simply adorn it.

Tiffany & Co has unveiled its fall edition of the Blue Book 2026 collection, aptly named “Hidden Garden.” This nature-inspired collection features exquisite pieces adorned with diamonds and a palette of vibrant colored gemstones, including Mozambique garnets and tsavorites. Highlights include intricate floral motifs that draw on the legacy of famed designer Jean Schlumberger, alongside striking designs inspired by the geometric beauty of pineapples. With its luxurious materials and meticulous craftsmanship, the collection will debut at a private event in September, inviting connoisseurs into a world where nature’s elegance meets fine jewellery artistry.

Wilson Smith Group London will sponsor the British Watch Brand of the Year award at the upcoming WatchPro UK Awards, highlighting its commitment to celebrating the watch industry’s achievements. This year’s awards, determined by peer voting for authenticity, reflect a dedication to recognising innovation and excellence across various categories. With the 2026 edition approaching, the collaboration aims to enhance relationships within the sector and provide critical networking opportunities for industry leaders.

The Fondation Haute Horlogerie (FHH) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) have joined forces to enhance global watchmaking education. Their collaboration will launch the Watch Advisor certification in 2027, targeting newcomers and those in the gem and jewelry sectors. With FHH Academy having certified over 18,000 individuals globally, this initiative promises to broaden access to practical learning, enriching the skill set of future professionals in both industries.

Menē has announced an exciting collaboration with acclaimed British author and historian Nick Foulkes, resulting in an exclusive luxury jewellery collection crafted from 24ct gold and pure platinum. This unique range, which includes pendants, bracelets, cufflinks, and lighter holders, reflects Foulkes’ deep appreciation for menswear and the cherished rituals surrounding everyday objects. Emphasizing the concept of jewellery as a “store of value,” Foulkes believes these pieces epitomize elegance and timeless craftsmanship, urging consumers to embrace the significance of well-crafted items that grow in meaning over time.

De Beers has unveiled SynthDetect 2, an innovative device that enhances diamond screening by distinguishing between lab-grown diamonds and simulants in set jewellery. With a remarkable reduction in scanning time to just five minutes, this upgraded model significantly improves accuracy, particularly for smaller stones. The increased automation not only lowers operational costs for retailers but also ensures a seamless integration into existing workflows. As the industry evolves, SynthDetect 2 is set to bolster transparency and consumer trust in diamond verification.

The WatchPro US Awards illuminated New York City, bringing together the foremost names in the watch industry, from luxury giants like Omega and Cartier to burgeoning pre-owned market players like Chrono24 and eBay. This prestigious event, celebrating excellence in timepieces, showcased the dynamic landscape of American horology. Preparations are already underway for the next awards, set to take place in autumn 2027.

Burglars have stolen three historic timepieces from Ulysse Nardin’s headquarters in Le Locle, including a Genghis Khan tourbillon watch. The luxury watchmaker is collaborating with local police to recover the stolen items and is urging the watch community to remain vigilant. Ulysse Nardin’s managing director, Matthieu Haverlan, has expressed relief that no one was harmed in the burglary while lamenting the loss of significant pieces from the company’s legacy. In a show of solidarity, Bulgari’s chairman emphasized the broader implications of such thefts on cultural heritage. Authorities are soliciting public assistance in the investigation.

Rolex has made a bold move into the high-end collectible watch market with the introduction of its annual calendar complication model, set to retail between £50,000 and £60,000. This strategic release comes in the wake of Patek Philippe’s similar offering priced at £54,500, highlighting an intensifying competition within the luxury watch sector. As demand narrows to a select few brands, collectors are increasingly gravitating towards neo-vintage references, putting pressure on Patek Philippe’s traditional offerings. This evolution raises questions about the future dynamics of the luxury watch market, particularly as Rolex positions itself against established titans like Patek Philippe.

UK retail employment has reached a historic low, with recent figures revealing that only 2.75 million are now employed in the sector—down 62,000 from the previous year. The drop is largely attributed to soaring employment costs, exacerbated by increased National Insurance contributions and a rise in the National Living Wage, which has added £6.5 billion in expenses over two years. The sector’s part-time roles have also hit an all-time low, raising concerns for young people entering the workforce. In response, the industry is pushing forward with initiatives aimed at creating 100,000 job opportunities for youths, highlighting a pressing need for supportive government policies to facilitate sustainable job growth.