Month: September 2026

The Goldsmiths’ Centre in London is hosting a unique workshop on the traditional Korean jewellery technique of Keum-boo on 12 and 13 November. Led by award-winning jeweller Hendrike Barz-Meltzer, this intensive course provides 12 hours of hands-on training for a limited group of ten participants. Amid escalating precious metal costs, the workshop aims to teach efficient gold use, ensuring that artisans can adapt their practices to meet current economic challenges while enhancing their craftsmanship.

In a concerted effort to uphold consumer protection, the London Assay Office’s Operation Stamping It Out has completed over 500 jewellery inspections across various regions, revealing numerous violations of hallmarking regulations. Notable cases include a Westminster trader who faced a warning for selling un-hallmarked gold and a Birmingham retailer now facing prosecution for similar breaches. The initiative seeks to ensure compliance with the Hallmarking Act of 1973 and safeguard consumers’ interests in the jewellery market. Director Will Evans reiterated the fundamental role of hallmarking in providing assurance to buyers regarding the authenticity of precious metals.

Partners Group remains optimistic about the future of luxury watchmaker Breitling, despite the brand’s significant €1.5 billion debt and a recent downgrade from S&P Global. CEO Georges Kern emphasized a long-term vision for the brand, even as sales fell by 11% to CHF 769 million. As Breitling expands its retail footprint to include 300 boutiques, Partners Group navigates broader refinancing challenges affecting multiple investments. While financial pressures mount, Kern’s strategic focus on brand enhancement and diversified collections reflects an ambition to reshape the company’s trajectory amidst market headwinds.

Phillips has raised CHF 115,500 for watchmaking education in a charity auction held during Geneva Watch Days, bringing the total funds raised over four editions to CHF 519,400. The event featured 16 unique lots, with a standout watch by Konstantin Chaykin selling for CHF 24,000. Proceeds will support scholarships for financially challenged apprentices at l’École d’Horlogerie de Genève, Switzerland’s oldest watchmaking school, highlighting the crucial role of such initiatives in nurturing the next generation of artisans.

Van Cleef & Arpels has enriched its iconic Alhambra collection by introducing enamel for the first time, unveiling five exquisite yellow gold pieces with a vibrant pink finish. Drawing inspiration from the classic four-leaf clover design since 1968, the new range showcases meticulously crafted items including a ten-motif necklace and delicate earrings, all highlighting the Maison’s mastery in enamel techniques reminiscent of 17th-century “gold ruby” artistry. This innovative launch not only enhances the material variety in the Alhambra line but also exemplifies the brand’s dedication to its rich heritage of craftsmanship.

Watches of Switzerland Group has reaffirmed its robust forecast for a 5-10% revenue growth in FY27, buoyed by strong trading in the US and positive signs in the UK market. Recent investments include a new showroom in Georgia and refurbished locations in the UK, bringing the total to 186 showrooms across both nations. With capital expenditure projected between £60 million and £70 million, the luxury retailer is poised for continued expansion as it prepares to release its half-year trading update on November 10.

Herefordshire’s Nudie jewellery brand has been named Emerging Brand of the Year at the 2026 Professional Jeweller Awards, celebrating its innovative designs for those with sensitive skin. Founded by Eckley, who faced personal challenges with jewellery irritation, Nudie creates hypoallergenic and waterproof pieces, donating £1 from each sale to the British Skin Foundation. Since its inception in mid-2025, the brand has gained significant recognition, including awards and a presence on the BAFTA red carpet, showcasing a remarkable ascent within the competitive jewellery industry.

Pomellato has launched two new collections under its Iconica line, showcasing high jewellery with innovative modular chain designs and symbolic motifs. Each piece, carefully crafted by over 150 artisans in Milan, features rose-gold links and diamond pavé, interpreting classic shapes such as circles and teardrops to convey meanings from eternity to transformation. The collection embodies a blend of artistry and symbolism, setting a new benchmark in contemporary luxury.

Georges Kern has unveiled a bold new chapter in luxury watchmaking with the revival of Gallet, completing a strategic three-brand portfolio that aims to cater to a diverse range of consumers. Gallet, positioned within the entry luxury segment, targets those looking to invest between $2,500 and $5,000 as Breitling continues to represent Swiss luxury, while Universal Genève reaches for haute horlogerie aficionados. With a marketing focus on adventure and exploration, Gallet seeks to carve its niche despite challenges in an increasingly competitive market. As Kern leverages Gallet’s historical legacy, the brand’s future hinges on its ability to resonate with modern consumers while navigating the complexities of a shrinking mid-market.

Jaeger-LeCoultre has appointed British actor Robert Pattinson as its new Global Ambassador, a partnership that aligns the luxury watchmaker with the cinematic star’s commitment to authenticity and artistry. Launching with the Master Control Chronometre collection, the collaboration reflects shared values of craftsmanship and storytelling. Pattinson emphasized the significance of depth and character in watchmaking, drawing parallels between his artistic vision and the brand’s dedication to innovation. This partnership continues Jaeger-LeCoultre’s tradition of connecting elite craftsmanship with influential cultural figures.