Welcome to my Winter 2008 Newsletter.
Diamond engagement rings have long been the corner stone of my business, if you will excuse the pun, but an increasing number of couples are now asking me to also design a diamond wedding band, rather than the more traditional plain precious metal wedding ring, to complement their diamond engagement ring. I thought you would be interested in seeing three examples of recent commissions I have been fortunate enough to undertake for clients.
The first features a number of Australian pink diamonds, which look fantastic when combined with brilliant cut white diamonds. The second "Vintage style" design, which is increasing in popularity, uses white diamonds, whilst the final example utilises princess cut white diamonds, with the engagement ring showcasing a claw set one-carat centre stone.
If you would like me to look at designing a new piece of jewellery for you please give me a call on 0419 484 287.
Whilst on the subject of diamonds, engagement and marriage, I have recently read that overseas, engagement rings for men are becoming a "must have" for many couples. This has yet to impact on my business, but apparently internationally men increasingly like to make a statement about where they are at in their lives and show that they are engaged. Do you think it will catch on, and is it a trend that should be encouraged?
Recently several people have asked me whether all the diamonds that we use in our jewellery are "conflict free". You may recall that conflict diamonds was the term used to describe diamonds that were illegally traded to fund conflict in war-torn areas of the world.
It is an issue that I take very seriously, and I am pleased to say that we insist that all invoices from our diamond suppliers specifically state that the diamonds supplied are "conflict free". For your information today more than 99% of the world's diamonds are from "conflict free" sources and are officially traded under the UN mandated Kimberley Process.
Recently I was delighted to again lend my support to the Cancer Council of New South Wales by donating a pair of striking pear shaped pink sapphire and white diamond stud dress earrings in white gold as a raffle prize at the annual Morning Tea at "Lindesay".
All in all it was a most enjoyable and worthwhile occasion. Many congratulations to everyone involved.
Please feel free to forward this newsletter on to friends, relations or business colleagues who you think would be interested in reading it. They are also of course most welcome to register on line to ensure that they receive future newsletters direct by visiting my website home page at www.billhicksjewellery.com.au.
Regards,
Bill Hicks
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