LOVE IN VERONA
Thank you for spending a little time with our 2024 Jack Lewis Jewelers Magazine. Inside, you’ll find a six-page engagement ring guide, a series of compelling, informative articles from our prestigious jewelry partners, a Gift Guide that has been hand-selected by our local team, and even a fun featurette about the local brewery tour we conducted over the summer. We hope you’ll enjoy the publication and view it as a helpful resource as you shop for those you love this holiday season.
But this year’s biggest headline is what you saw on the Cover. We’re building a new store, and while the structure continues to
take shape on Bloomington’s east side, the Cover of this magazine represents the first time we’ve publicly revealed any of the exterior architectural renderings. We wanted you, our friends and neighbors, to be the first to see our vision for the new Jack Lewis Jewelers. We’re creating a vibrant, multi-faceted, community space that promises to deliver elevated luxury jewelry experiences to the entire Midwest. We can’t wait for you to visit in person this summer! (More details are on p.10-11.)
For nearly 100 years, you’ve honored us with a small role in your stories by celebrating your most meaningful memories with fine jewelry and luxury timepieces from Jack Lewis Jewelers. Thank you. Your support means everything, and we look forward to seeing you this holiday season!
Sincerely,
John Carter, GG, CGA, President & CEO
John Carter
Our new flagship store, opening Summer 2025, offers more amenities for shoppers than ever before
Rolex has brought a fresh new look to some of its most iconic models achieving a harmonious balance of functionality and aesthetics.
OF ROLEX
From its creation by Hans Wilsdorf more than a century ago, Rolex’s philosophy of innovation and excellence is more present than ever.
TUDOR presents bold new iterations of its most popular novelties, as well as classics that offer beauty of design and inherent, time-honored value.
Our intrepid leaders take a tour of five of our finest local breweries.
TUDOR returns to the world of international motorsport, partnering with the new Visa Cash App RB Formula One team.
As CEO of a thriving family business, Greg Kwiat grew up with diamonds all around him.
Anywhere, anytime...introducing new selections from Fope.
Jack Lewis Jewelers Associates share their personal picks for the best pieces to give the jewelry and watch lovers on your list.
Finding “the one” for you. We review the latest engagement rings, as unique and individual as you are.
Turn up your style with pretty gemstone jewelry from David Kord.
ELEVATING THE EXPERIENCE
THE NEW JACK LEWIS JEWELERS OPENS SUMMER 2025 !
For nearly one hundred years, Jack Lewis Jewelers has been helping our clients celebrate their happiest occasions, and now it’s time to add an exciting new chapter to our long story. At long last, Central Illinois will get the one-of-a-kind luxury experience it deserves.
Since 1927, from Downtown to Eastland Drive, Jack Lewis Jewelers has been an unwavering champion of the Bloomington-Normal community. Through diamonds, engagement rings, luxury watches, and other meaningful pieces of jewelry, we’ve helped our friends and neighbors find the symbols that
capture their brightest memories.
Now, our next step forward is…two miles east.
As you may have noticed, our future is taking shape on the east side of town, next to Biaggi’s and Ancho & Agave. Our brand-new store will be nearly triple the size of our current location, and while the same friendly faces will be there to greet you, the Jack Lewis experience will be elevated to new heights.
“The luxury experience we’re building for our clients is something that we will all be very proud of, not just for our team, but for our entire community,” says John Carter,
President & CEO of Jack Lewis Jewelers. “For generations, our clients have come to expect five-star service from us, and this new store will allow us to deliver and surpass those expectations.”
The jewelry showroom will be nearly 5,000 square feet, with amenities that might leave you speechless. Highlights will include a hospitality bar offering a wide array of refreshments to our clients while they browse a lounge area with a double-sided fireplace, and even a second-floor outdoor entertainment space for special events.
You will be able to enjoy your favorite watch and jewelry brands like Rolex, Tudor,
Roberto Coin, Lagos, and Fope, just to name a few. Our beautifully designed showroom will serve as your oasis from the outside world. Stop by and stay awhile, as we immerse you into our world of luxury retail therapy.
Our service department will also expand to double its current size. The team has grown with new goldsmiths and service specialists who will be standing by to walk you through
every step of your fine jewelry repair. Your most treasured pieces deserve the very best care, and nobody understands that more than our repair team.
An expansion of this magnitude is only possible because you continue to trust our team to help you celebrate your biggest memories. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your ongoing support and encourage-
ment, and we’re excited to have you join us as the next chapter in our story begins!
Get ready for the brand-new Jack Lewis Jewelers, which should be fully unveiled in the summer of 2025! We look forward to seeing you in our new home at 3011 Galena Road in Bloomington!
JACK LEWIS JEWELERS
watch trends 2025
This year, TUDOR presents bold new iterations of its most popular novelties, as well as classics that offer beauty of design and inherent, time-honored value.
This year TUDOR introduced the Black Bay 58 GMT for world travelers in a modern 39MM size. They’ve launched the newest iteration of the Black Bay in monochrome as well as a Black Bay Ceramic “Blue” in Honor of the partnership with the Visa Cash App RB Formula One team. On the Clair de Rose, available exclusively in stainless steel with mechanical movements, TUDOR has added a brand-signature blue dial. Finally, a new Pelagos FXD model joins the mix: a chronograph purpose-built for cycling. Here are some of TUDOR’S latest trend setters and time tested classics.
VINTAGE INSPIRATION As one watch expert pointed out, it takes a lot more research-and-development money to introduce a new movement than to issue a watch based on one that’s already been made. Hence, the interest in watches with a vintage appeal. But there’s more to it than that: vintage watches offer a beauty of design and suggestion of inherent, time-honored value that’s especially appealing in today’s fast-paced, high-tech world. The TUDOR 1908 is a fine example.
BLUE DIALS Blue is the color of royalty, of blue bloods, and blue chip enterprises. The TUDOR Black Bay Ceramic “Blue” celebrates the partnering with the new Visa Cash App RB Formula One team. To mark the occasion, TUDOR created a team-exclusive version of its Master Chronometer certified Black Bay Ceramic, complete with a blue dial that matches the team’s striking livery.
RACING-INSPIRED WATCHES Watchmaking and racing have shared a connection for some time including classics like the Rolex Daytona and the Rolex YachtMaster II created
specifically for yacht racing.
Engineered for riders of its Pro Cycling Team, TUDOR is unveiling a brand new Pelagos FXD model: a cycling themed chronograph made with light weight and functionality in mind. With a carbon composite case fitted with a high-performance Manufacture Calibre, this watch echoes the daring spirit of a team competing in some of the most challenging cycling races around the world, including the Giro d’Italia and the UCI World Tour.
SMALLER CASE SIZES
We’ve seen a trend of reduced case size over the last few years as the appeal of vintage inspired watches has grown. The all-new, TUDOR Master Chronometer certified Black Bay 58 GMT at 39mm with its bidirectional Burgundy and black bezel with gold detailing epitomizes an era when the novelty of jet-setting across time zones was matched by glamorous and elegant style. It is named for the year the first TUDOR divers watch was introduced, the Ref. 7924.
ALL BLACK Ever since all-black watches became blockbuster hits, every company has introduced their version. And this year, nothing changed. Watches with predominately black faces and black straps continue the bold, modern look that remains strong for men and women. Like the Black Bay in monochrome (shown at right).
UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE.
I t’s the sartorial code for a way of dressing that’s effortlessly chic, nonchalant and stunning. The Clair de Rose is a classic TUDOR line whose name poetically refers to both clair de lune, “moonlight” in French, and the historical logo of the brand, a rose. The new iteration comes with mechanical movements in three sizes, each with two designs.
Clockwise from upper left: Tudor 1908, Tudor Black Bay Ceramic “Blue”, Tudor Pelagos FXD Chrono “Cycling Edition”, Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT, Tudor Black Bay, Tudor Clair de Rose.
JACK LEWIS JEWELERS
a tasting tour of brewmington-normal
A wine lover, a whiskey lover, and a beer lover walk into a bar. Actually, it was a brewery, and there were five of them.
by john carter
Over a couple of days in July, Holly, Missy, and I paid homage to our local brewery scene, which I’ve long thought is one of the most underappreciated assets in our community. Among this bourgeoning collection, each of the locally owned breweries has its own character and flair, but I was blown away by just how amazing their beers are.
You see, I am not a beer drinker. I prefer a fine bourbon on the rare occasion I sit down and have a drink or two. So admittedly, I know very little about beer. Missy, similarly, has an amazing palette for wine, but would also not classify herself as
a beer expert. Holly, however, is a beer connoisseur, a huge fan of Bloomington-Normal’s brew houses, and was the perfect person to show us the local beer ropes.
While there are probably dozens of home brewers and hobbyists, Bloomington-Normal offers five primary local breweries within its city limits: White Oak, Keg Grove, Lil Beaver, Destihl, and Casper. We visited all five, tasted around 8 beers at each, and not a single stop was a disappointment! In fact, I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised how much fun we all had sampling their drafts and enjoying their ambiance. Let’s dive into our breakdown!
Our first visit was to Lil Beaver in south Bloomington, where you’re greeted by the coolest outdoor beer garden as you enter. It really sets the tone for what’s inside: a spacious taproom adorned with beer barrels, wood paneling, and Lil Beaver themed artwork on every wall. Not to mention a bustling lunch crowd in the middle of a Tuesday, which, I have to say, was making me feel like we made the right decision to start our brewery tour here.
Since our mission was to taste as many different beers as possible, we ordered two flight paddles of 4 beers each, and those 8 beers were:
• PDC (Mexican Style Lager)
• Wainbows (Hazy APA)
• Lil Bit of Wonderful (Chocolate & Coconut Milk Stout)
• Tiger Rings (Watermelon Sour IPA)
• Now I Know My Know My (Cream Ale)
• Citra Space Crystals (Hazy IPA)
• Vanilla Cloud Maker (Imperial Stout)
• Lord of the Peach Rings (Peach Sour IPA)
OUR WINNERS
Taster Favorite Brew Comments
Other Brews of Note: Citra Space Crystals, Lil Bit of Wonderful, and Tiger Rings also were very highly praised. Missy said, "Citra Space Crystals is summery, grapefruity, and light...but still pretty full flavored like a Sauvignon Blanc."
Missy (The Wine Girl) Vanilla Cloud Maker It reminds me of a cabernet, which is my favorite wine.
Holly (The Beer Girl) Wainbows Love it. Solid IPA, nice and simple.
Carter Lord of the Peach I love candy, so not (The Bourbon Guy) Rings surprised that I love this. Sour Patch kids meets beer.
Next up was White Oak Brewing. Nestled in a peaceful part of the west side, in a lovely little complex that seems to pop up out of the nearby cornfields. There are industrial parks close by, but the area is charming and warm, with plenty of greenery. The gravel cracked under our feet as we walked in, and it felt like approaching your favorite uncle’s Midwest farm.
Inside is a quaint little tasting room with a lacquered bar, tables and stools. The back wall is adorned with stickers of breweries and businesses from all over the world. Hundreds of these stickers were staring down at me, laughing at this newbie who was about to experience White Oak for the very first time. I walked out with a brand-new appreciation for beer that I would not have thought possible.
Again, we ordered two flight paddles of 4 beers each, and those 8 beers were:
• Holla Atcha (Blonde Ale)
• Me Llama Llama (Mexican Brown Ale)
• Res Ipsa Loquitur (IPA)
• 4 Rogers Mild (Cask-conditioned Brown Ale)
• Column Like I see ‘Em (American Lager)
• Extra Medium Mild (Brown Ale on Cask)
• Big Stretch (Hazy IPA)
• Casual Jesus (Saison)
We completed our first day with a trip to Keg Grove. Located just off Constitution Trail in the center of town, the tasting room is part of the brewery itself. You are surrounded by fermenters (each named after a character from The Big Lebowski) and all the other sights, sounds, and smells of the brewing process. It was exciting to taste these brews while being in the middle of the action.
Again, we ordered two flight racks of 4 beers each, and those 8 beers were:
• Holey Jeans (Blueberry Wheat Ale)
• Empower The Nest (Blonde Ale)
• Your Mom’s a Grape fruit (Hazy IPA)
• 32 Belly Option (Milk Stout)
• Keg Grove Cream Ale (Cream Ale)
• Formal Tank Top (Watermelon Wheat)
• Malo (Pina Colada Wheat)
• Drones (Hazy IPA)
You might think that one afternoon of beer tasting would be enough. Not for us! Day two started with a visit to the beer hall of the nationally famous Destihl! If you have never experienced Destihl (either the beer or the beer hall), all we can say is that you simply must. Their sour beers propelled them to national prominence, and they’ve continued to be a rapidly growing name.
The building is sprawling and stunning, with the ominous profile of their massive brewery lurking behind the glass just over your shoulder. The bar has over thirty taps and offers American-inspired pub fare. It’s a fantastic place to spend an afternoon, even with the family. Again, we ordered two flight trays of 4 beers each, and those 8 beers were:
• Weissenheimer (Hefeweizen)
• Wild Sour: Dragonfruit Mango (Sour)
• Deadhead Extended Jam (Hazy IPA)
• Quadrupel (Belgian Quad)
• Hawaii Five Ale (Blonde Ale)
• Deadhead West Coast Imperial (Imperial IPA)
• Privyet (Russian Imperial Stout)
• Dry Irish Stout Nitro (Irish Stout)
We rounded out our brewery smorgasbord with Casper Brewing Company, which is in the clubhouse building of The Links golf course on the Southeast side of town. The tasting room is warm, cozy and inviting. It honestly felt like being in your own living room with couches, tables, and even some strategically placed chalkboards to keep the kiddos entertained.
One of my favorite things about the interior is their Wall of Fallen Heroes, where they pay tribute to service members that have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country. It was sad to see so many on the wall, but it was a nice reminder of why we can stop and have a good time over a cold beer.
Our two flight paddles of 4 beers each featured these 8 beers:
• Vienna Lager
• German Pilsner
• Event Horizon (Oatmeal Stout)
• Barrel-Aged Berliner
• Leichtbier (German Light Lager)
• Si! Esta! (Mexican Lager)
• Espresso Stout (Coffee Stout)
• Raspberry Sour
We want to say a huge thanks to our hosts Lil Beaver, White Oak, Keg Grove, Destihl, and Casper for allowing us to invade their tasting rooms with lights, cameras, and a crew of people. (Special thanks to White Oak and Casper, who each opened early just for us on the days we visited!) This journey around our local brewery scene was so much fun for all of us! We had a lot of laughs and
received a real education, not just in their beers, but for beer overall.
I cannot say why these terrific brew houses have emerged from the cornfields of Central Illinois. All I can say is that I am very happy they have. We hope they continue to thrive and grow in this community, which shall from henceforth be known as: BREWmington-Normal!
PRECISION PERFECT
TUDOR returns to the world of international motorsport, partnering with the new Visa Cash App RB Formula One team.
Precision is at the heart of car racing, where timing is everything. A Formula One driver’s unparalleled skill, determination, and instincts are critical to his success. A reliable timepiece designed to withstand the rigors of high-speed racing is crucial to a racer's performance. TUDOR’s founder Hans Wilsdorf set out from the beginning to craft robust watches offering superlative timekeeping in physically challenging situations.
TUDOR’s affiliation with car racing began in the 1960s, known as the “Golden Era” of motorsport in racing circles. The Tudor Watch Racing Team was founded during this exciting era. In 1970, TUDOR introduced its first chronograph watch, specifically crafted for precisely timing laps and calculating speed while withstanding the physical rigors of professional driving. Today, TUDOR continues to produce ultra-precise chronographs in both its Black Bay and Pelagos collections.
TUDOR recently announced a partnership with a new Formula 1 team for the 2024 season. Continuing its legacy of supporting competition on the racetrack, the brand’s partnership supports the launch of the Visa Cash App RB Formula One team. Forming a new Formula One team requires a committed investment in talent, as well as the acceptance of considerable risk. It’s a fitting match for TUDOR, whose motto is Born to Dare. The new team is led by veteran champion Daniel Ricciardo and rising star Yuki Tsunoda.
“TUDOR has always been fueled by a daring spirit, a consistent will to do things differently,” said TUDOR CEO Eric Pirson. “And this spirit—we call it Born to Dare—is exactly what Visa Cash App RB is demonstrating heading into the 2024 F1 season. We’re beyond thrilled to return to motorsport with a partner that’s ready to take on the challenge,” he added.
The team's striking livery features TUDOR branding, as do the drivers’ race suits. The TUDOR shield logo is prominently displayed on the nose of the car in front of the driver and the inside of the halo safety device. The Visa Cash App RB team is expected to participate in all 24 rounds of the competition spanning more than 20 countries around the globe. It’s a grueling schedule, but this is what the drivers train for year-round.
“Our team will be challenging the status quo in Formula One with a strong identity, unique style and uncompromising quality – just like Tudor watches,” said Peter Bayer, CEO of Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team.
The team’s veteran driver, Daniel Ricciardo, has enjoyed a consistently successful 13-year stint driving in Formula One competitions. The Australian-Italian made his debut in 2011’s British Grand Prix at 22 years of age. In 2014, he finished third in the championship, with his first three wins in Canada, Belgium and Hungary. He has achieved eight total Grand Prix victories and 32 podiums to date in Formula One competition.
Speaking of the new team, Ricciardo said “Visa Cash App RB, it’s another phase of this team’s career,” referring to the team’s predecessor, Scuderia AlphaTauri. “It’s a time where I feel that, yes, we have some amazing partners on board who are gonna help us get closer to the front of
Above, Daniel Ricciardo, 2024 Bahrain Grand Prix.
the grid. But I feel like it’s a time where we’re no longer seen as just a kind of junior team. It’s a team that’s standing on their own two feet. And I think for other teams to take us seriously, this is the chapter I feel we are about to start.”
“TUDOR has always been fueled by a daring spirit, a consistent will to do things differently.”
- TUDOR CEO Eric Pirson
Born in 2000, Visa Cash App RB driver Yuki Tsunoda started kart racing at the age of four in his native Japan. His father, Nobuaki Tsunoda, is a former gymkhana racer. By the age of five, Tsunoda was the champion karter in his age group.
“My strength comes from karting,” Tsunoda has said. “I really like to battle, and I don't lose much when battle happens.”
In 2018, he won the Japanese Formula 4, firmly launching his presence on the world stage of international racing. In 2021, he made his Formula One debut at the season opener in Bahrain and was the youngest-ever driver at the Nürburgring. Of his first year in Formula One, Tsunoda said “to reach Formula One – which was my final goal as a driver – you don’t just have to deliver results, you also need some luck, and this is something you can’t control. So, from my side, I knew I always had to give my best at all times.”
TUDOR’s chronograph watches are crafted to give their best both on and off the track, and with their versatile sport-chic style, they are appropriate to wear for nearly every occasion. The TUDOR Pelagos FXD Chrono is powered by the brand’s COSC-certified Calibre MT5813 self-winding movement, with a power reserve of 70 hours.
There are several chronograph options in the Black Bay collection, all equipped with a racing-ready tachymetric scale on the bezel. Models are equipped with either champagne or black dials with contrasting sub-counters. The watches’ date appears in an aperture at 6 o’clock, a design feature inspired by TUDOR’s first chronographs from the 1970s. Three strap options are available within the collection: fabric, steel or steel and gold, and bund leather. The jacquard fabric strap is woven in France on 19th-century looms by the legendary Julien Faure company. The steel and steel-and-gold bracelets’ design harkens back to TUDOR’s folding riveted bracelets from the 1950s and 1960s. The bund leather straps, available in either black or brown, feature a folding clasp for durability.
The New Tudor Pelagos FDX Chrono.
Above, Yuki Tsunoda, 2024 Saudi Arabia Grand Prix.
designer spotlight
Anywhere, anytime... introducing the new selections from Fope.
If you’re like us, we know you can't get enough Fope jewelry. So if you're looking to add a few more pieces to your collection—or to gift to a special someone—we’ve handpicked a few of our favorites from our collection. The look—an imported, elegantly woven motif that catches the light—defines effortless chic.
STATEMENT NECKLACE An eye-catching necklace is sometimes all you need to make the perfect outfit. Shown: Fope Eka Collection Flex’it Necklace in 18K gold.
HOOP EARRINGS Hoop earrings are always in style, but Fope has kicked this jewelry essential into even higher gear with these Essentials Hoop Earrings in 18K gold.
GOLD BRACELET The gold link, with its softness and recognizable design, is stunningly realized in this two-tone stackable bracelet. Shown: Fope Flex’it Bracelet with bicolor mesh in 18K gold
STACKING RING Master the art of stacking rings. Mix in a dramatic piece, like this Fope Flex’it Ring with oval mesh in 18K two-tone gold to amp up your look.
Associates
of Jack Lewis Jewelers share their picks for the best pieces to give to the jewelry and watch lovers on your list.
“This 18K Rolex Day-Date 36 is a great addition to any fine watch collection. The dial comes in your choice of green aventurine, carnelian or turquoise, with diamond-set hour markers, Roman VI and IX, and diamond bezel.” -Scott
“I picked these 18K White-Gold Hoop Earrings because of the unique shape and look. The diamonds are perfectly set on the inside and outside of the hoop, which frames the face with beauty and light.” -Jim
“My pick for this year is the new Rolex Perpetual 1908, decked in 950 platinum, with an ice-blue dial featuring a guilloché rice-grain motif. This rosette-like design is distinctive for its threedimensional, repeating geometric pattern that extends across the surface of the dial, starting from the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock. The minute track is surrounded by a filet sauté with a crimped pattern, which is also guilloché.”
-Carter
“I love this delicate new Lagos Signature Caviar Initial Diamond Charm Necklace in sterling silver and 18K gold. My favorite style of jewelry is casual enough to wear everyday but also has just enough shine to show off its simplistic elegance.”
-Moriki
“Meticulously crafted by Kwiat in 18 karat gold, this Cobblestone Band Ring features pavé diamonds that literally dance in the sunlight! Internationally known for their superior diamond cutting, the ring gives evidence to Kwiat’s obsession with quality and excellence of design.”
-Amanda
Jack Lewis Diamond Studs. “I have friends and customers who wear our diamond stud earrings like a uniform, seven days a week. Whether you’re gifting a loved one with that first pair or ‘trading up’ to a larger size, there’s no better way to make someone feel special than with diamonds. Handcrafted in gold, you are assured of the ultimate in beauty and value. If she doesn’t yet have a great pair of diamond studs, it’s an easy home run.”
-Missy
“TUDOR revisits the feminine Clair de Rose line with the addition of new, brandsignature blue dials. Available exclusively in stainless steel with mechanical movements, these new configurations come in three sizes, 26, 30 and 34 millimeters, with your choice of opaline or new ‘TUDOR Blue’ dials.”
-Brad
“I love this classic Shy Creation 14K Yellow-Gold and Diamond Band. It’s decorated with stations of sparkling round diamonds. The diamonds are 1/3 ctw, H or better in color, and SI2 in clarity. I wear this almost every day and love the way it stacks with my other rings.”
-Holly
“I love FOPE's Flex’it Bracelet for all the obvious reasons! Its stretchy, roll-on construction makes it incredibly easy to wear; it's important enough to wear alone or can be stacked with all your other arm candy. My pick from the Eka collection is especially fabulous because of the distinguished high-polished links.”
-Kaitlyn
“To me, a diamond tennis bracelet is a staple for any jewelry wardrobe. We always carry a variety of sizes and styles in stock so you’ll be able to find the perfect one. I like this Jack Lewis 14K White Gold Diamond Bracelet Meaningful jewelry, beautifully designed.”
-Chelsea
“This new Lagos Snake Ring is cool and modern. It’s the perfect accessory to make a bold first impression. In sterling silver Caviar beading highlighted by 18K gold stations, it’s an ideal addition to your jewelry wardrobe.”
-Devan
JACK LEWIS JEWELERS
THE ICONIC GABRIEL BUJUKAN ® COLLECTION
THE WEDDING TRENDS FORECAST
Engagement rings as unique and individual as you are.
There has never been a better time to be an engagement ring shopper. There are so many dazzling designs to choose from you are sure to find “the one” that best expresses your uniqueness — in addition to you and your partner’s special love story. To help guide you through a sea of settings we turned to experts who keep watch on wedding jewelry trends, Amanda Gizzi, spokesperson for Jewelers of America and Severine Ferrari, founder of Engagement 101. Here’s what to know to find the ring that is perfect for you.
Solitaires Stand The Test Of Time
The beauty of a round single center stone never grows old — it’s still the leading shape, classic and timeless. And because the shape doesn’t have any sharp angles, it’s less prone to chipping.
❥ To make it more personal: Stack it. Putting a band above and below the solitaire elevates it, especially if your bands incorporate a special meaning about you and your partner, such as birthstones or different size diamonds.
Hidden Details Make A Ring More Special
A halo of small pave diamonds surrounding the center stone gives even the smallest ring a lot more shine, which is why halos continue to be a popular feature in engagement ring settings.
❥ To make it more personal: Instead of framing the stone with a halo of tiny diamonds, couples are opting to include halos and accent gems with notable meaning, such as birthstones, under the setting where only the wearer can feel their presence but everyone else will be able to see the enhanced brilliance of such hidden details. The trend also includes etching dates and messages into the inside of the ring.
Defy Tradition
Fancy-shape diamonds — pears, trapezoids, marquise, cushion and portrait cuts — defy tradition and automatically express their individuality.
❥ To make it more personal: Any of these cuts can look especially amazing turned on their sides in an east-west setting.
JACK LEWIS JEWELERS MAGAZINE
Ovals Are Elegant
The popular elongated shape is not only flattering to the finger, it too, is chip resistant. The larger surface area makes the stone appear larger, with its facets throwing off a lot of sparkle.
❥ To make it more personal: Set it on its side in a unique and eye-turning stunning east-west setting.
THE WEDDING TRENDS FORECAST
Look For New Spins On Three-Stone Settings
Traditional and timeless, three stone rings with matching diamonds will always be a bride’s favorite.
❥ To make it more personal: Three stone rings don’t always have to feature matching stones. Accents are another way to express uniqueness. Now trending, center stones being flanked by two smaller stones, sometimes diamonds in different shapes or even colored gemstones.
Think Something Blue
While diamonds still rule when it comes to engagement rings, some brides are opting to incorporate color gemstones into their rings. Sapphires are the most popular and durable stones next to diamonds
❥ To make it more personal: Choose sapphires in a lighter blue hue. Or if your taste runs to ruby red or emerald green, think of adding them as accent stones since neither is as durable as a diamond or sapphire.
JACK LEWIS JEWELERS
THE WEDDING TRENDS FORECAST
Two-Stone Rings Are Gaining in Popularity
The toi et moi setting, symbolizing two lovers sitting side by side, is far from a passing fad. The romantic design with matching stones dates back centuries.
❥ To make it more personal: Choose stones in different shapes or one diamond and one gemstone.
Metals Matter
While you can’t go wrong with gold (yellow or white) or platinum, know that platinum is the most durable metal, followed by yellow gold. White gold may require some maintenance to keep its sheen. And all three metals are skin friendly.
❥ To make it more personal: Two-tone settings are trending, often with a platinum crown to make the stone more secure and appear as sparkly-white as possible.
50 JACK LEWIS
Stacking Bands Are as Popular as Ever
Adding to a stack is a wonderful way to commemorate an anniversary, birthday or other special occasion. And rearranging and playing with stacks is a great way to keep your look unique and fresh.
❥ To make it more personal: Consider a band with more swerves, curves and a little more of an organic shape. It’s a fresh, new look that can give you the illusion of stacking without needing to pile on more.
JACK LEWIS
diamond master
Diamond Master
As CEO of a thriving family business, Greg Kwiat grew up with diamonds all around him.
As CEO of a growing family business, Greg Kwiat grew up with diamonds all around him.
IIgrew up with diamonds all around me,” Greg Kwiat said as he sat at his desk in Kwiat’s offices on Manhattan’s tony Madison Avenue. “On school holidays my brothers and I would go into the office with my father. We were paid to crawl around on the floor and see if one of the jewelers had dropped a 1 or 2 point diamond. If we found one, we’d get $1. ”On a good day, each boy could make $7 or $8, and receive an even more valuable recompense—a feeling they were contributing value to the family business.
grew up with diamonds all around me,” Greg Kwiat said as he sat at his desk in Kwiat’s offices on Manhattan’s tony Madison Avenue. “On school holidays my brothers and I would go into the office with my father. We were paid to crawl around on the floor and see if one of the jewelers had dropped a 1 or 2 point diamond. If we found one, we’d get $1.” On a good day, each boy could make $7 or $8, and receive an even more valuable recompense—a feeling they were contributing value to the family business.
Greg Kwiat’s leap from diamond scavenger to CEO of the family diamond firm wasn’t always inevitable. “I joined in 2004, after 5 years at Goldman Sachs,” he explained. His father Lowell is Chairman, his brother Russell the COO and his other brother Cory, the Chief Digital Officer. “In a family business we all collaborate,” Greg said. The secret to working together, he continued, is “having respect for each others’contributions.”
Greg Kwiat’s leap from diamond scavenger to CEO of the family diamond firm wasn’t inevitable. “I joined in 2004, after five years at Goldman Sachs,” he explained. His father, Lowell, is Chairman, his brother Russell the COO and his other brother Cory, the Chief Digital Officer. “In a family business we all collaborate,” Greg said. The secret to working together, he continued, is “having respect for each
others’ contributions.”
It's a formula that works. The Kwiat diamond business was started 115 years ago by Greg’s great grandfather, Sam Kwiat, a diamond trader. “In the 1930s my grandfather, David, started designing jewelry, making classic things like engagement rings and ear studs.”
It's a formula that works. The Kwiat diamond business was started 115 years ago by Greg’s great-grandfather, Sam Kwiat, a diamond trader. “In the 1930s my grandfather, David, started designing jewelry, making classic things like engagements rings and ear studs.”
Kwiat also started supplying diamonds and making jewelry for the top luxury houses, like Harry Winston and Cartier. But in the 1990s that line of the business stopped and Kwiat started focusing on making a name for its own jewelry. Today there is a Kwiat diamond boutique further up Madison Avenue from the company’s offices, and Kwiat jewelry is also available at the country’s top luxury retailers.
Kwiat also started supplying diamonds and making jewelry for the top luxury houses, like Harry Winston and Cartier. But in the 1990s that line of the business stopped and Kwiat started focusing on making a name for its own jewelry. Today there is a Kwiat diamond boutique further up Madison Avenue from the company’s offices, and Kwiat jewelry is also available at the country’s top luxury retailers.
One of the stars of retail is the Cluster Collection. “By mixing different shapes and sizes of diamonds we can create an elegant piece that has a larger scale and more texture and drama,” Greg explained. Referring to a floral cluster earring, he said “by grouping five pear shaped diamonds in an earring you create a very important look, but keep the price down.”
One of the stars of retail is the Cluster Collection. “By mixing different shapes and sizes of diamonds we can create an elegant piece
Rings with Kwiat Cushion™ diamonds
Greg Kwiat
The five diamonds in the cluster can deliver the same impact of one much larger, and much more expensive diamond.
that has a larger scale and more texture and drama,” Greg explained. Referring to a floral cluster earring, he said, “by grouping five pearshaped diamonds in an earring you create a very important look, but keep the price down.” The five diamonds in the cluster can deliver the same impact of one much larger, and much more expensive diamond.
“Cluster styles have a long place in our history,” Greg said. “They were a favorite of my grandfather, he loved a cluster. It’s in our DNA. This year we added a number of new designs to our Cluster Collection including some larger scale styles and some ‘front and back’ designs. In the front and back designs, part of the earring is on the ear as a stud and an additional part appears to float below the earlobe, connected to the top behind the ear. Some new clusters are extensions of our iconic American Beauty collection, which combine marquise and pear shape diamonds to create movement and texture.”
“Cluster styles have a long place in our history,” Greg said. “They were a favorite of my grandfather, he loved a Cluster. It’s in our DNA. This year we added a number of new designs to our Cluster Collection, including some larger scale styles and some ‘front and back’ designs. In the front and back designs, part of the earring is on the ear as a stud and an additional part appears to float below the earlobe, connected to the top behind the ear. Some new clusters are extensions of our iconic American Beauty collection, which combines marquise and pear-shape diamonds to create movement and texture.”
Kwiat is also renowned for its Kwiat Tiara cuts—a collection of exclusive cuts including the Kwiat Round™, Kwiat Cushion™, Fred Leighton Round™ and Ashoka These cuts return more light to the eye, creating a brighter looking stone that sparkles more,” Greg said. “The cut of a diamond is what unlocks its fire and brilliance, and the Kwiat Tiara cuts give the diamond the widest possible diameter to appear larger than other diamonds of comparable carat weight.”
Kwiat is also renown for its Kwiat Tiara® Cut. Adding to the dazzle a diamond delivers, the trademarked cut, “returns more light to the eye, creating a brighter, larger-looking stone that sparkles more,” Greg said. “The cut of a diamond is what unlocks its fire, and the Kwiat Tiara® Cut gives the gemstone the widest possible diameter to appear larger than other diamonds of comparable carat weight, and also to appear whiter, brighter, more brilliant.”
The most recently introduced is the Kwiat Cushion™. “It is our proprietary elongated cushion shape, cut to ‘Kwiat perfection’ with maximum brilliance and beauty,” Greg explained. “It has been a tremendous success immediately from the launch, and we will build on that. “Kwiat diamonds earn the highest accolades possible.
The Kwiat Cushion diamond is another unique creation. “It is our proprietary elongated cushion shape, cut to ‘Kwiat perfection’ with maximum brilliance and beauty,” Greg explained. “It has been a tremendous success immediately from the launch, and we
will build on that.”
Each round diamond has been awarded the Triple Excellent status from the GIA, the Gemological Institute of America which is the standard bearer of diamond quality. The Triple Excellent status applies to round diamonds that have been graded on cut, polish and symmetry. The grades range from Poor to Fair, Good, Very Good and Excellent. Kwiat’s round diamonds earn “Excellent” in all aspects.
It’s crystal clear: Whether creating a dramatic statement earring to ornament an evening gown for a black tie night, or a simple pair of diamond studs to wear every day with jeans and a t-shirt, the Kwiat diamonds used are of the highest quality.
Kwiat diamonds earn the highest accolades possible. Each round diamond has been awarded the Triple Excellence status from the GIA, the Gemological Institute of America, which is the standardbearer of diamond quality. The Triple Excellence status applies to round diamonds that have been graded on cut, polish and symmetry. The grades range from Poor to Fair, Good, Very Good and Excellent. Kwiat’s round diamonds earn “Excellent” in all aspects.
It’s crystal clear: Whether creating a dramatic statement earring to ornament an evening gown for a black-tie night, or a simple pair of diamond studs to wear every day with jeans and a T-shirt, the Kwiat diamonds used are of the highest quality.
Little wonder demand is growing and Kwiat plans to grow its retail presence. “Our future plans are to grow our partnerships with our local authorized dealers across the United States. The strength of the Kwiat brand is built on the discerning quality and fine reputations of our local partners. These relationships have always been at the core of our business, and growing them is the foundation of our future.”
It’s little wonder that demand is growing and Kwiat plans to expand its retail presence. “Our future plans are to grow our partnerships with our local authorized dealers across the United States. The strength of the Kwiat brand is built on the discerning quality and fine reputations of our local partners. These relationships have always been at the core of our business, and growing them is the foundation of our future.”
Another plan for the future might be grooming a fifth generation of Kwiats to join the business. Greg’s and his brothers’ children are all still very young, (the oldest is 12), so it’s too early to predict their future talents and tastes. But just in case they might be headed to the family firm, they do as their fathers did. They visit the office and hunt for dropped diamonds, just like the generation before them— except now they receive $2 for each diamond discovered.
Another plan for the future might be grooming a 5th generation of Kwiats to join the business. Greg’s and his brothers’ children are all still young, so it’s too early to predict their future talents and tastes. But just in case they might be headed to the family firm, they do as their fathers did. They visit the office and hunt for dropped diamonds, just like the generation before them—except now they receive $2 for each diamond discovered.
Cluster Collection
From the Cluster Collection
SHOW YOUR COLORS
Ignite your style with sparkling gemstone jewelry from our David Kord Collection.
JANUARY GARNET
The commonly warm red gemstone comes in various hues, including green. It’s believed to bolster willpower and persistence – and who couldn’t use an extra dose of both when it comes to sticking to New Year’s resolutions? We think a gorgeous diamond and orange garnet bracelet is would be the perfect reminder to not give up.
FEBRUARY AMETHYST
The February-born can call upon this stone’s serene shades of violet as an amulet to enhance intuition and the clarity of mind to see you through almost any situation. May we suggest accessorizing with this diamond necklace with an amethyst center stone.
MARCH AQUAMARINE
If your motto isn’t “Go with the flow,” let this watercolor gem serve as a reminder. It’s an attitude that can enhance your ability to get stuff done in a calm and peaceful manner. Maybe your new workday look should include this beautiful aquamarine and diamond three-stone ring.
APRIL DIAMOND
Signifying invincibility, integrity and logical actions, diamonds are an April girl’s best friend. And it wouldn’t hurt to sparkle up your wardrobe with this heart-shaped diamond ring with Burmese rubies.
MAY EMERALD
A gorgeous asset to any jewelry box, these deep green sparklers can bring other advantages. It’s thought to be a magnet for love and prosperity. So why not wear these earrings as your talisman?
JUNE PEARL/ ALEXANDRITE
An alternative birthstone known as “an emerald by day, a ruby by night,” the alexandrite is a fascinating gemstone with the unique characteristic of changing color from a brownish green to a red hue, depending on the light. Symbolic of joy and good fortune, so may we suggest this alexandrite and diamond ring.
JULY RUBY
Its fiery red hue radiates vitality and passion — not just for July babies, but for anyone on the rise to fame and fortune. Consider this ruby and diamond three stone ring in two-tone gold.
AUGUST PERIDOT/ SPINEL
This alternative birthstone for August is believed to ease anger and promote harmony, and found in a wealth of colors. This Duet Fashion Ring with an oval spinel would be a harmonious addition to any look.
SEPTEMBER SAPPHIRE
Associated with deep spirituality, perhaps because of their heavenly hue, sapphires have come to signify loyalty, sincerity, and integrity. We suggest these earrings of sapphires accented by round diamonds.
OCTOBER OPAL
Opal, derived from the Greek, opalios, means to see a change of color. Consider wearing these kaleidoscopic-hued gems as a talisman for finding perspective from wherever you stand. Our impressive Lightning Ridge Opal Necklace exhibits strong flashes of color, displaying green, blue, yellow, red and orange. One could become lost in the brilliance!
NOVEMBER TOPAZ/CITRINE
November’s child can choose between two warm and sunny gemstones thought to attract positive energy and luck to those who wear them. Brazilian topaz was used to grace the jewelry of the 18th and 19th century Russian czarinas, earning it the moniker of “Imperial Topaz.” This 18K gold and topaz necklace is sure to bring positivity.
DECEMBER TANZANITE/TURQUOISE
Giving new meaning to the winter blues is having your pick of two gorgeous gems. Plus each offers an extra helping of power and protection. No one should underestimate the beauty nd striking color of these gemstones!
