11 minute read
HAUTE TRAVEL
RAHAMINOV, A LOS ANGELES-BASED FAMILY BUSINESS RUN by the original Rahaminov brothers’ children and grandchildren, blings out celebrities and never fails to ice out some of the hautest Hollywood stars. The exclusive high-end diamond company actively dresses Oscar red carpet go-ers such as Jennifer Lopez, who recently started sporting her 8.5 carat natural green diamond engagement ring by Rahaminov. Rahaminov has evolved from a family of diamond dealers to becoming the go-to jeweler for some of the world’s elite and biggest stars. Haute Living sat down with Laura Kendall, owner of Yamron Jewelers, for an exclusive interview, talking diamonds and memorable sales.
Haute Living: What sort of trends have you noticed in the industry that has set Rahaminov apart from other diamond brands?
Laura Kendall: Their new designs are considered more “innovative classics” than “trendy.” Trendy is short-lived; however, Rahaminov comes up with new designs that are very innovative yet still classic and will never fall out of style. A great example of this is the “triple threat” collection. I describe this as a more youthful, contemporary take on the classic Harry Winston cluster that has been in production for many, many years.
HL: What is the most memorable piece of Rahaminov that you’ve sold?
LK: We recently sold the most breathtaking graduated emerald cut diamond riviera necklace, which featured over 41.59 carats, D-F colorless, internally flawless emerald cut diamonds of the finest quality. The diamonds were horizontally set (east/west), which made it just that much more unique than your typical emerald-cut diamond necklace. Truly a spectacular piece.
HL: What do you know about the famously designed JLo green diamond engagement ring? Can you speak to your experience working with colored diamonds?
LK: Honestly, I don’t know much about it other than the fact that it’s probably stunning. I have worked with many types of colored diamonds. When you are getting into colored diamonds, this is typically with clients who have a grand collection of jewelry and are true collectors. Fancy-colored diamonds, especially the high-quality pinks, greens, blues, etc. - are very rare and, therefore, very highticket prices.
HL: What is one diamond staple you think everyone needs in their jewelry collection?
LK: Diamond stud earrings. They are something you can wear for any occasion, dressy or casual, out running errands, with only one exception: sleeping in them! This is a no, no.
Value and reputation in diamonds
Founder and Owner of the International Diamond Center, Keith Leclerc, brings his philanthropic family-owned business to Naples, Florida.
BY ANNA CATHERINE BLOCK
THERE’S NOTHING QUITE AS DAZZLING AS DIAMONDS. For the founder and owner of the International Diamond Center, Keith Leclerc, carrying bespoke pieces transcends beyond just the diamonds he carries. What started as a passion project of purchasing ready-to-sell diamonds to acquiring rough stones, all along paying cash upfront to secure his buying position. His enthusiasm for the industry made him successful because he owned cutting facilities in Franca, Brazil and Tel Aviv, Israel. This put Keith ahead of the game as he provided polished diamonds directly to some of the biggest names in the game, including Charles Wolf, Harry Winston, and Fabrikant.
Keith quickly became extremely knowledgeable by gaining a priceless understanding of what happens behind the scenes in the diamond industry and the business savvy to take anything to the next level. Keith opened the first International Diamond Center in Clearwater in 1990 with locations between Clearwater, Florida, and Savannah, Georgia, with its newest location in Naples.
Keith’s passion for the business is contagious. He thanks his family and team members for this success. IDC’s mission is to empower consumers while making the purchasing experience as romantic and exciting as it can be. “We always live by the motto, ‘To whom much is given, much is expected,’” This inspires Keith to give back to the community, especially groups and organizations that focus on the betterment of children. “I’m now preparing the next generation to take over the company,” he says. “Although I’ll be at it until I’m gone, I’m fortunate to have other passionate family members around me daily, learning the industry and business that I love.”
Brian Stamey, VP of Marketing and Operations, helped us understand why they chose Naples for their 11th location and what they hope to bring to the community. Being extremely philanthropic and involved in every community of each location, IDC works hard to integrate any and every type of charity component into their business. Naples is next to experience this family-owned business and how they give back.
the best of naples
WHERE TO WINE AND DINE IN THE LAP OF LUXURY IN THIS BEAUTIFUL DOLCE FAR NIENTE, ONE-OF-A-KIND CITY.
BY ANNA CATHERINE BLOCK
Naples, Florida – serenity, sunshine, and sophistication – is home to world-class resorts, white sand beaches, and beautiful neighborhoods with high-end shopping and dining. This city has an atmosphere of elegance and affluence. Naples is rife with culture, chock-full of high-end eateries, and rampant with philanthropy. Naples philanthropically grosses numbers in the tens of millions yearly on-top of being the most laid-back yet hedonistic vibe in all of Southwest Florida. We’re here to help you navigate the best of the best of this Dolce Far Niente one-of-a-kind city.
HauteTRAVEL
SHOP
BY ANNA CATHERINE BLOCK Waterside Shops, Naples’ famous luxury outdoor shopping mall, has been dubbed by many as a “shopper’s paradise or utopia” thanks to boutiques like Yamron Jewelers, Van Cleef & Arpels, Zimmermann, Saks, Hermes (on the way) and Salvatore Ferragamo (with shop- ‘til-you-drop pit stops at fine-dining eateries like Bricktops or True Food). Other enjoyable retail destinations include Marissa Collections, which reimagines a 1950’s architectural gem as a modern shopping oasis with brands like Brunello Cuccinelli, Balmain, Bottega Veneta, Chloé, Fendi, Givenchy and more, all alongside historic Third Street’s beautiful restaurants and timeless architecture. Rouze boutique, just off Fifth Ave S, has contemporary women’s clothing with a flair for date night or a girls’ night out. Last but not least is Naples’ John Craig, which features an A-list of luxury shopping for men who want to experience an elegant shopping experience from head to toe.
WINE + DINE
NOSH ON NAPLES BAY
After much anticipation, Nosh, a modern, upscale fine dining restaurant with an A-list following, officially reopened post-Hurricane Ian this past month. Known for its globally inspired cuisine, and elite Naples clientele, the restaurant features small, shareable plates that spark conversation and enjoyment alongside its stunning waterfront setting at the Naples Bay Resort and Marina. Nosh is open for lunch and dinner daily, serving delicious dishes infused with artistry and creativity. Nosh 1490 Fifth Ave South Suite 101 34102
BLEU PROVENCE
Bleu Provence is a treasured Naples French restaurant in the heart of the city, just steps away from Craytons Cove and the water. Bleu Provence counts their patrons more as welcome guests than customers. This is expressed not only in the wine selection and menu but also in the level of service you receive. Owners Jacques and Lysielle sample meats, cheeses, olives, herbs and more, curating Bleu Provence’s menu for a truly French Parisian elegant and relaxing evening. Bleu Provence 1234 8th Street South 34102
CHOPS CITY GRILL
A sexier, more glamorous take on the traditional steak house, Chops City Grill is a dynamic offering of what’s great now, offering cuts of meat, delicate seafood and fresh produce under the close eye of the entire Chops kitchen. The menu is deep, starting with beef; there are options ranging from Japanese and Australian wagyu steaks along with “in house” dry-aged Prime beef and old-school “butcher shop” cuts. Chops 837 Fifth Ave South 34102
SEA SALT
Sea Salt is a unique and vibrant restaurant that specializes in Venetianinspired ocean-centric cuisine in a warm, welcoming environment. Boasting a spacious patio dining area on historic 3rd Street South, Sea Salt is ideally situated. The spectacular wine cellar at Sea Salt is known both for its architecture and selection. Sea Salt presents wine and spirits from the world’s major viticultural regions. As spirited as its namesake, Sea Salt meticulously prepares land and sea cuisine in a lively and welcoming setting. Sea Salt 1186 Third Street South 34102
Good news for fans of Naples’ iconic Sails with head Chef Darren Veilleux: the lauded luxury restaurant has launched an elegant and abundant eight-course lite bites and wine pairing menu. Haute Living got an exclusive look.
BY ANNA CATHERINE BLOCK
Sails Restaurant, a Naples staple in the community with a treasured brunch experience, has recently launched an exciting new menu that features an eight-course dinner with exquisitely hand-selected wine pairings. The menu is comprised of bites from local seafood to wagyu tenderloin, including local fish Crudo, king crab, agnolotti, local farm egg, shark bay scallop, halibut, lobster, Little Joe and Wagyu all complemented by the seasonally inspired flavors in each dish. I’m calling it now – Sails will soon be the next Michelin star for Naples. I was able to sit down to get an exclusive taste. The ambiance on the patio is one of my favorite appeals to Sails, alongside indoor dining for a fashionable replication like a private members’ club. Always greeted by the owner Corinne Ryan, and her team, guests are able to enjoy the eclectic appeal of the establishment. Let’s dive in. The first course menu consists of a light and airy apple seafoam Crudo, which is paired with the Lhuillier Brut Champagne from France. Next, the second course, Alaskan king crab, is a crucial representative of Sails in the way that it is advanced yet acceptable. The crab mixes perfectly with a presented 2017 Cantina Cellaro, ‘Luma,’ Grillo Sicilia IGT from Italy. Delicious! The third course, a sweet corn agnolotti pasta, was one of my favorite tastings. The agnolotti is filled with a Florida sweet corn puree and Florida littleneck clams finished with butter and chives. Wine pairing: Terra De Cuques, Terroir Al Limit Soc.Lda, Priorat from Spain.
Small but mighty in the fourth course is a local farm egg. The egg yolk and white are removed from the shell in order to pierce the top of the egg. Seasoned with sea salt, olive oil, and chives, Chef Darren poaches the egg at 80c to achieve this soft poached egg yolk. Top the yolk with a truffle cream and place it on a bed of salt. This fragile egg is complemented with a 2014 La Grange de Quatre Sous, ‘Pays d’Oc’ from France. The fifth course serves a Shark Bay scallop that is seared al a Planta and seasoned with lemon juice, olive oil and sea salt. The scallop is topped with a pistachio gremolata, served in shell, and garnished with nasturtium greens that add a bit of pepper notes to the dish that pairs perfectly with a 2017 Domaine Sick-Dreyer Riesling also from France. Now for the choices. North Atlantic halibut coming off the waters of New England, Nova Scotia, and Canada makes for one of the sixth course dishes. Containing a white flesh and a large buttery flake results in a mild, rich, buttery flavor for this 2.5 oz portion which is finished tableside with a kombu broth. Lobster tail weighing in at 1.25 pounds is slowly poached in butter and seasoned with sea salt. Sitting on top of a cauliflower puree that is cooked with sweet onion and cream. Both are paired with a beautiful 2017 Bouchard Père & Fils, Beaune du Château, 1er Cru from France. 3 oz portions of Little Joe or Wagyu tenderloin create the ultimate addition to end the evening strong with seven courses. Paired with foie gras and black truffle, both options are grilled on the cherry wood grill until soft and caramelized and served with a French Baugier & Thunevin, Côtes du Roussillon Villages 06’. Voila! Oh, and be sure to try both the Passion Fruit Souffle and the Chocolate Mouse to sweeten your evening. I’ll leave you with that anticipation. Sails 301 Fifth Ave S 34102
THE LEADING SOURCES FOR FINE ART
Fifth Avenue South has magnificent art galleries combined of many different collections. These award-winning spots source the most sophisticated, unique pieces for locals and high-season tourists of all kinds. Here are our top three haute galleries with access to private art collections in Naples.
BY ANNA CATHERINE BLOCK
BELLE ARTE GALLERIA
Nestled in the heart of Naples on Fifth Avenue, just between Del Mar and Bar Tulia, is an ordinary, rather speakeasy gallery building, but it is not ordinary at all. In fact, it is extraordinary, it is Belle Arte Galleria. When the discreet front door opens, you enter the wonderful world of internationally acclaimed artists. Vibrant artwork fills the space alongside one of the world’s largest collections of the rarest jade pieces ranging from monumental size and even intricate jewelry pieces. The Belle Arte Galleria also features large- and small-scale bronze sculptures along with modern to master paintings in a chic gallery setting. Experience a truly unique approach to worldly acclaimed artists at Belle Arte Galleria. Belle Arte Galleria 472 Fifth Ave S 34102
