CIRCA Event at Bernie Robbins Jewelers

In this segment from ABC local affiliate 6ABC, Harvey Rovinsky, President of Bernie Robbins, a CIRCA Authorized Purchasing Agent, gives a preview of the recent CIRCA buying event at their Marlton, NJ location.

 “[The buying event went] flawlessly – the CIRCA staff was very professional,” according to Rovinsky. “This international brand is very important to our business – CIRCA evaluates and purchases jewelry, not just for precious metals. My clients selling sentimental pieces are happy to see them purchased intact for someone else to enjoy.”

CIRCA introduced the Authorized Purchasing Agent Program in 2010. Under this program, CIRCA partners with a select group of the finest retailers in the US, by invitation only, to provide CIRCA’s expert service fully in markets where CIRCA does not have a corporate presence. The program is open to high-end retailers who carry the top jewelry and watch brands and have a reputation for unparalleled customer service. As part of this program, customers can come into the retailer’s store with any jewelry, diamonds or watches that they no longer wear or want and receive an offer from a CIRCA expert.

CIRCA has held eight buying events at top jewelry retailers across the country this fall. To find an event near you, check the CIRCA Facebook page.

Chicago History Museum’s Costume Council

Last Friday, in the windy city, CIRCA joined Chicago’s most fashionable at the Chicago History Museum’s Costume Council Gala. The evening was a celebration of fashion and Chicago history, and served to kick off the new exhibition, Charles James: Genius Deconstructed. Ruth Thuston, Director of CIRCA Chicago, and CIRCA co-founder and vice president Jeffrey Singer were there to partake in this exciting evening.

The gala was sponsored by the Costume Council, a group dedicated to building awareness and raising money to help the Chicago History Museum preserve and share Chicago’s history, including the famous costume collection (the second largest in the world!). Ralph Rucci, who knew Charles James personally and spoke of him eloquently, was on hand to accept an award from the museum for ‘design excellence and outstanding contributions to fashion’.

A highlight of the evening was when the museum auctioned off four of Antonio Lopez’ original illustrations of Charles James creations – raising an additional $15,000.

For more on the exhibit or the Chicago History Museum, visit the website: http://www.chicagohistory.org/


Images: Exhibition and Drawings, Courtesy: NBC Chicago; Diane Sprenger, Joli Burrell, CIRCA Chicago Director Ruth Thuston

Webb on the Fly: An Evening with Ralph Lauren

Monday night, CIRCA was on hand for the pairing of Oprah Winfrey and Ralph Lauren to benefit the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention in Harlem and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. The evening drew one of the most exciting and generous audiences in the history of this venerable cultural institution.

We met our guests, CFDA award-winning designers Sophie Theallet and Prabal Gurung, actress Kerry Washington, model Elaine Irwin and CNN news anchor Alina Cho at the elegant champagne reception in Alice Tully Hall. The crowd was dressed almost to the woman in Ralph Lauren evening gowns. I wore a vintage RL gown accessorized with a recent CIRCA acquisition - a stunning 19th century necklace with an incredible historical provenance from one of the most notable European royal families (photo at top). Those jewels caused a bit of a commotion as we filed into the auditorium to listen to a chat between two American icons - Oprah and Ralph Lauren.

Oprah took the stage in a red dress worthy of an opera diva, designed by Ralph of course; and Ralph, ever the embodiment of American fashion, stepped out in a perfectly tailored tuxedo jacket that topped black jeans and expertly distressed black cowboy boots. The duo sat facing each other in two red club chairs while larger-than-life video screens displayed a slide show of Ralph Lauren advertising, fashion shows and press clips featuring Ralph with movie stars and presidents and his multiple covers of Time and Fortune magazines. Against this backdrop of the American dream of success incarnate, Oprah casually tossed off questions like “Do you ever get scared?” to which Ralph humbly answered “I’m scared every day.” To everyone’s delight we were then treated to an encore presentation of Ralph’s Spring/Summer 2012 runway show, full of looks inspired by deco-era Shanghai. The show ended with the crowd on their feet giving the designer and his interviewer a standing ovation.


Dinner was served at Avery Fisher Hall, which was just a quick trip across the Lincoln Center courtyard. The tables were arranged in rows that spanned the length of a room that appeared to be as long as a polo field. Ralph took the stage again and addressed the crowd of fifteen hundred, talking about his passion for helping people “who should not die of cancer just because they don’t have the money for medical care or don’t know someone who can get them to the right person.” The most touching moment of the evening, I thought, was when the designer said “If you want to know the stars, meet Dr. Harold Freeman, the cancer surgeon who inspired me to get involved.” Mr. Lauren went on to say that his mother narrowly escaped the fate of dying of breast cancer not only because she was uninsured, but also because she was intimidated to step outside of her comfort zone in the Bronx into a fancy doctor’s office downtown. I’m sure that almost every person in that crowd of fifteen hundred knew of someone in similar circumstances.

Ever gracious and the picture of elegance, Ralph appeared at our table, and every table in the room, to thank us all personally for coming to support the event. As a wonderful parting note, the room exploded in applause when the news was announced that we had been part of the most successful fundraiser in the history of Lincoln Center, helping to raise an impressive seven million dollars in a single night!

To learn more about the Ralph Lauren Center, and to donate, visit their website at: www.ralphlaurencenter.org

Images: Veronica Webb, CEO Chris Del Gatto, and Elaine Irwin; Ralph Lauren, Oprah Winfrey; Avery Fisher Hall; Michael J. fox, Tracy Pollan; Diane Von Furstenberg; Barbara Walters; Uma Thurman; Steve Buscemi; Naomi Watts. Courtesy: Getty Images.

CIRCA Supports An Evening with Ralph Lauren

CIRCA was proud to support last night's 'An Evening with Ralph Lauren hosted by Oprah Winfrey' held at Alice Tulley Hall at Lincoln Center. The who's who of the fashion and entertainment industries gathered to celebrate these two American icons and support the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. CIRCA' s guests included model Elaine Irwin, designers Sophie Theallet and Prabal Gurung, actress Kerry Washington and CNN News anchor Alina Cho. For a first-hand account of the evening, check in to tomorrow's Webb on the Fly.

CIRCA CEO Chris Del Gatto escorts Elaine Irwin and Veronica Webb to the event

 

 

Kerry Washington

Sophie Theallet

Prabal Gurung

Alina Cho

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

Gemstones can be carved, like other materials, into almost any form, limited only by the talents of the sculptor. In this striking 18k gold and gemstone bracelet by Bulgari, we see deeply colored sapphire, amethyst, peridot and tourmaline formed into what is known as the Sugarloaf cut. The Sugarloaf gained its name through literal reference to very early sugar production techniques employed before the advent of sugar cubes in the late 19th century. A tall cone with a rounded top was the end product of a process that saw raw sugar turned into refined sugar and is a form that was first recorded as far back as the 12th century. Akin to the more common Cabochon cut, the Sugarloaf differs only in the gentle transition from a round to a softened pyramidal form, and allows for an uncomplicated display of luminous color. Bulgari designs have always had a striking and confident aesthetic combining unexpected elements, such as Sugarloaf cut gemstones, that draw continual attention to the design house’s bold and playful use of color.

What's in a Name: Marchak

Although these days it’s considered to be French, the House of Marchak was founded in Kiev in 1878. In its turn of the century heyday, it was known as “the Cartier of Kiev”. The Russian Revolution caused the Marchak descendents to flee to Paris, where in 1920, Alexandre Marchak opened his boutique on the famous Rue de la Paix, the epicenter of the luxury industry. Embracing the Art Deco movement of the time, Marchak became famous for its unique, superbly crafted pieces that had an unmistakable ‘Russian touch’. However, the more iconic Marchak creations are associated with their work from the late 1940’s through the 1960’s, with renowned designer Alexander Diringer heading up the workshop.

Led by Diringer’s bold compositions, Marchak produced high quality design work equal to that of the larger design houses. One such beauty is this nature-themed pin circa 1950’s. It stands only an inch and a half in height, but with its vibrant color and sentimental theme, this piece makes a grand statement. Two robin’s egg blue turquoise hearts are nestled closely in the beautifully hand crafted nest of 18k gold wire. The highly detailed branch that supports the nest is accented with diamonds and enhanced with carved ruby flowers. The use of vibrant color was very important in the whimsical pieces from the 1950’s and stones like turquoise were chosen for their bright hues rather than their intrinsic value.

CIRCA Sightings

Team CIRCA was out in force last week both in Washington DC and Palm Beach. Last Thursday in our nation’s capital, CIRCA DC Director Lee Siegel joined Pamela Sorensen of Pamela’s Punch fame, to rub elbows with Washington’s most fashionable. First stop was Passport to Style at the Shops at Wisconsin Place, benefitting the Hope for Henry Foundation and Washington Humane Society’s Fashion for Paws. It was a great event for two great causes, with delicious bites and other samples from some of DC’s finest establishments, and even a mini catwalk. Next it was on to 15th Street for Fashion Washington’s Third Anniversary Party at Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams. The venue was as chic as the crowd, and the bartenders served an array of clear liquid concoctions to match the stark white décor. Happy birthday FW!

Meanwhile, further south, Tracy Sherman, Director of CIRCA Palm Beach, and CIRCA co-founder Jeffrey Singer hosted a pre-event cocktail reception celebrating the honorees of the Families First of Palm Beach County annual luncheon. The Thursday evening reception was an intimate gathering of the charity’s benefactors and this year’s honorees, and was held on the terrace at the Palm Beach Towers. The next day at the Families First 5th annual Children’s Day Awards Luncheon, the gold and diamond hinged cuff that CIRCA donated to the raffle went to one very excited winner who reluctantly agreed to “timeshare” the bracelet with a disappointed friend. CIRCA will continue its support of Families First throughout the year by donating 10% of the purchase price of any items we buy from people who mention this sponsorship.

Captions: Top L-R: CIRCA D.C. Director Lee Siegel, Anne Cynammon of the Washington Post, CIRCA Marketing Director Beth Godfrey, CIRCA's Natalie Newman; Bottom L-R: CIRCA Palm Beach Director Tracy Sherman; CIRCA co-founder and vice president Jeffrey Singer; CIRCA's Brenda Wells.

Form Over Function

More than any other jewelry designer of the twentieth century, Duke Fulco di Verdura (1898-1978) elevated jewelry to the status of an art form. Known for innovative designs and superb craftsmanship, Verdura’s pieces have caught the eyes of many of the world’s most iconic and fashionable women, including Joan Crawford, Princess Diana, Greta Garbo and most notably Coco Chanel – for whom he created the legendary Maltese Cross Cuff. Verdura has created a large variety of whimsical designs, taking inspiration from religious works, historical themes and nature’s beauty. Today, the design house continues to grace us with innovative creations while staying true to Verdura’s legacy. This homage to original design is fostered through turning back to the approximately four thousand original jewelry sketches done by Verdura himself.

CIRCA recently purchased this 18k yellow gold pineapple bracelet watch, a modern piece that nods to the recent comeback of the charm bracelet and displays a charming merger of form and function. Certainly regarded more as a piece of jewelry than a practical way to tell the time; we can look to the delightful comment of glamor icon Marilyn Monroe, “I’ve been on a calendar, but I’ve never been on time!” It is precisely this type of spritely charisma that goes hand in hand with Verdura, and helps explain its enduring demand within the market.

CIRCA Supports Families First of Palm Beach

This Friday, October 14th, is the 5th Annual Children’s Day Awards Luncheon, hosted by Families First of Palm Beach County at the Kravis Center. CIRCA has been a supporter of Families First for several years, whose stated mission is to ensure the success of children in jeopardy by empowering families. Families First is a private, national nonprofit family service agency, providing comprehensive programs for 1,500 families yearly.

“We’re proud to support Families First,” said Tracy Sherman, Director of CIRCA Palm Beach. “They do great work, and are able to make such a positive impact on families in Palm Beach County.”

This year’s event features Florida Circuit Court Judge Irene Sullivan, author of the best-selling book Raised by the Courts. Emilia Fanjul, Robert Bertisch and the Reverend Pam Cahoon will be honored for their significant contributions to the lives of children in need.

As part of the sponsorship, CIRCA donated this contemporary yellow gold and diamond hinged cuff, containing approximately five carats of fine round brilliant cut diamonds to the event raffle. To learn more about how you can support Families First of Palm Beach, please visit their website: http://www.familiesfirstpbc.org/.

CIRCA Polo Auction Winner

Congratulations to Joni Klippert, who was the high bidder for the Day of Polo in the Hamptons with CIRCA prize package as part of the CFDA Fashion and Friends for Japan Online Auction. Joni and friend Jana Trantow spent a leisurely day in Southampton that included a lesson with CIRCA polo team captain and all-around hottie Martin Pepa. They then capped off the day with a dinner at Savanna's. Thanks to Joni for helping us to support such a great cause!

Two Heads are Better than One

Born to a long line of goldsmiths, Ilias Lalaounis (b.1920) has a keen interest in the history of jewelry, regional techniques and cultural motifs. Early Lalaounis pieces mined ancient Greek traditions for inspiration and drew from a personal connection to his cultural heritage. Lalaounis later expanded his design repertoire to include goldsmithing techniques from a wide range of cultures. It is not unusual for a single Lalaounis piece to exhibit hammered finishing, granulation, wire filigree and hand-woven gold wire. Lalaounis has received many prizes for his art, the most important being that of the French Academy of Fine Arts in 1990. He is the only jeweler ever to be elected a member.

Here we see a vintage Lalaounis piece designed as two sculpted 18k gold serpent head terminals accented with ruby eyes, diamonds and emerald tongues. This fascinating depiction transitions into a hand-woven, long lariat style necklace that takes on an alluring whimsy in its serpentine design. When worn, the serpents drape organically around the neck and plunge downwards as though actually gliding across the wearer’s torso. The intricately woven gold allows for a rich heft to be felt in the piece yet a balanced, free-flowing movement when worn.

As we’ve seen from previous posts, the serpent theme is a popular one in jewelry and one laden with symbolism. Whatever symbolic connection one might encounter, there seems to be an overarching curiosity towards snakes that continually draws great designers, like Lalaounis, to incorporate their languid, curving lines and primal expressions into creative works.