Liz Taylor's Jewelry Auction

One of the last starlets of old Hollywood, Elizabeth Taylor, is auctioning 80 notable pieces from her private jewelry collection. Employees at Christie's New York have emphasized that Taylor's collection is so well-appointed because of her love and knowledge of fine jewelry. She has millions of dollars worth of jewelry, but she only spent it on the best of the best.


Some of the pieces that will be up for auction are:





An 8 carat ruby and diamond Van Cleef & Arpels ring. The ring was a gift from then-husband Richard Burton for Christmas in 1968. It's projected to bring $1-1.5 million at auction.









This stunning ring is a 33 carat (yes, 33 carats!), D color, VS1, internally flawless diamond, another gift from Richard Burton. Being called The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond, it's expected to bring $2.5-3.5 million.







A more unique piece from Taylor's collection is the Taj Mahal Diamond (circa 1627!), on a gold and ruby chain from Cartier. This necklace was a 40th birthday gift to Taylor from, of course, Richard Burton. It's estimated to bring $300-500,000 at auction.













A portion of the proceeds from Taylor's auction (being held in December) will be donated to the Elizabeth Taylor AIDs Foundation.

David Yurman and Ippolita Rule the Blue Carpet

At this year's Teen Choice Awards, the Hollywood 20-somethings let their gorgeous dresses and sparkling designer jewelry do all the talking. Nina Dobrev from True Blood and Lucy Hale from Pretty Little Liars (both of whom took home awards) stood out in some beautiful jewelry that you can find right at your local Fink's!

Lucy wore an amazingly detailed black and white sequin dress. To accent the black, Lucy wore David Yurman's Midnight Melange black diamond drop earrings. The unique design sparkled and stood out with competing with her dress.

Nina Dobrev went for something a little less flashy with her cute blue checkered dress that was tailored in all the right places. To give the outfit a little oomph, she accesorized with Ippolita jewelry from head to toe. She kept the earrings simple with Ippolita's stud earrings in Sky. For her wrists, she upped the ante by stacking bangles from the Glamazon and Rock Candy collections.

Customer Spotlight: Anthony & Janaya

Today, we're going to do things a little differently. We're going to let one of our engagement ring couples tell you their Fink's story first hand, along with all of the exciting details of the proposal and engagement. Take notes, because this husband-to-be did a fantastic job! Special thanks to sales associate Rhonda at Chesterfield Towne Center for helping Anthony find the perfect ring, and for putting us in touch with this adorable couple! Here's Anthony and Janaya's update to Rhonda.

"Rhonda,

She absolutely LOVED it! That thing is shining so bright. The brilliance and fire are amazing! You are correct, you did have the jeweler clean it VERY well.

Here is her story about the proposal from her...

'I know you all have been waiting for details! So it all started yesterday... Anthony and I had been planning to go out for my promotion dinner for my new job, so I was under the impression that that was why we were headed out to a nice dinner. At dinner, he gave me a 20 question quiz... at the dinner table. It was set up and printed out and he asked me 20 fun questions about our relationship and memories we have had and things we had done together. He told me this was for a scrapbook of memories and places that we could have later on in life to remember our good times.

So, after dinner he told me we were going to take pictures of a few other places that were memorable. We stopped by some places and took pictures real quick. The last one was the art museum across from his apartment. We parked near the museum and went up near the back where the fountain was to take the last picture of one of our fun memories. We went up to the fountain and he had two pennies. He said, 'Close your eyes and make a wish,' and said that he would do the same. We each wished that God would allow us to have a healthy, happy marriage and children. We walked further down to another area and he suggested we make another wish. I closed my eyes and made my wish, and when I opened them, he was on one knee with the ring in his hand asked me to marry him! Of course I said YES!! When we got back to his place, I open the apartment door and 30 of our friends and family yell SURPRISE! The evening was absolutely perfect.' "

Congratulations Anthony and Janaya!

The Engagement Ring with its own Gravitational Pull

If you were ever under the impression that your engagement ring is big, you can go ahead and let that go, because Kim Kardashian and fiance Kris Humphries have outdone us all. Kim and Kris anounced their engagement last week on the cover of People magazine. Kim says she was so surprised and wasn't expecting anything. When Kim came home that day, Kris was waiting for her with "Will you marry me?" spelled out in rose petals, holding out a diamond the size of a Volkswagen Cabrio.


Kim and Kris met in New York City and have been dating for about 6 months. Kris is a forward for the New Jersey Nets and met Kim while she was in New York opening up a new Dash store and filming Kourtney and Kim Take New York.


As far as the ring goes, Kris said, "I just knew I wanted it to be big." Well, mission accomplished, buddy. The ring, a custom design from Lorraine Schwartz, features a 16.5 carat center stone, flanked by 2 side stones, each 2 carats, for a grand total of 20.5 total carats, set in platinum.


Rumor has it that Kris picked 2 bible verses that are of particular importance to the couple and had them etched on the inside of each side stone. The ring in total is estimated to have cost about $2 million!



Congratulations to another happy couple!

All Paul McCartney Needs is Love

Legendary Beatle Sir Paul McCartney has surprised the world by proposing to his longtime acquaintance and girlfriend of four years, Nancy Shevell. The two have known each other for quite sometime, meeting years ago in the Hamptons where they each own homes.

Many were surprised to see McCartney heading down the aisle again, in the wake of his nightmareish divorce from Heather Mills. That's not the most surprising part, though. Despite his $24 million mistake of foregoing a prenup with Heather Mills, McCartney is not getting one with Shevell, either. However, Shevell is rich in her own right, being the Vice President of her father's $500 million trucking business. Shevell also happens to be the cousin of reporter Barbara Walters.

Now, on to the important details... that ring! The enourmous engagement ring that Shevell is now sporting is rumored to have cost $650,000! The ring features a round brilliant center stone, set in platinum. As more details emerge about the ring, we'll be sure to keep you updated!

The Rundown: Royal Wedding Jewelery

The Royal Wedding is finally over. While some are happy to see the coverage wind down, some of us are still seeking out more details about the lavish affair. The most important of these details? The Duchess of Cambridge's wedding jewels, of course! Here are the details of her most amazing pieces.



1. Earrings
Her Royal Highness' earrings were a wedding gift from her parents, a custom design by London boutique jeweler Robinson Pelham. The earrings feature diamond pave oak leaves with a pear-shaped diamond set drop, and a pave set diamond acorn suspended in the center. The acorn has long been a symbol of luck, prosperity, youthfulness, and power, all of which Catherine will need!


2. Tiara
The tiara Catherine wore on her wedding day was a loaner from Queen Elizabeth II, William's grandmother. It was made by Cartier in 1936, comissioned by King George VI for his wife Elizabeth, who later passed it to her daughter (Queen Elizabeth II, who was Princess Elizabeth at the time) on her 18th birthday. The tiara, called the Halo Tiara, is set in platinum and made from baguette cut diamonds.


3. Wedding Ring
Though Prince William has declined to wear a wedding ring (!!!), saying he doesn't fancy jewelry, he still made sure his new bride had the perfect ring. Her wedding ring was made from a piece of Welsh gold, given to William by QEII. Wartski, the same goldsmith who fashioned Camilla and Charles' wedding rings, made the ring.

New for Spring from John Hardy

This spring, John Hardy releases the newest addition to the popular Kali collection. This new collection, called Kali Arus, uses the smoothed river rock design of the original Kali motif and blends it with the organic shape of Bali's flowing rivers and streams. The high-polished silver of the stone pattern is contrasted with the deep oxidation in the grooves between stones, resulting in a beautifully simple yet stunning piece that speaks volumes about the Balinese home that it was inspired by.

This set of two stackable rings personifies the Kali Arus collection. Each has its own shape, yet they fit perfectly together, just like the pebbles that line the river beds of Bali. Set of two - $295

These slim hoop earrings have the same gentle undulation as the quiet streams of Bali, yet still make a beautiful statement with designs on both the inside and outside of the hoop. $395

Unlike the stackable rings and hoop earrings, this drop necklace makes a more powerful statement. While the same smoothness and flow is felt in the design, the size and shape pay tribute to the true power of the waters of Bali.

Like the set of rings, this set of 3 bangles is stackable. Worn separately, one bangle ads a simple and quiet refinement, but worn together, all three bangles make a beautiful yet bold statement piece. Set of 3 - $595

The Kali Arus collection from John Hardy will be available in all stores by Tuesday, March 29th!

Top Trends: 2011 Academy Awards

The Oscars is known for being the awards season closer; the biggest, the best, and definitely the most glamourous. Let's take a look at the 3 biggest jewelry trends that were seen on the 2011 Oscars red carpet.



Playful Jewelry

Natalie Portman's tassel earrings were a bold statement piece that more than made up for her bare neckline, and the eye catching movement kept everyone's attention. These beaded tassel earrings from Honora come in a variety of colors, and they're sure to bring a little extra fun to any evening out! Come see them in person at one of our 17 stores, or check them out at http://www.honora.com/!
Image by Honora.

LA: The New Emerald City

There was no shortage of color on the red carpet last night, and emerald was definitely favored by all attendees. Reese Witherspoon sported stunning emerald drop earrings and matching ring, and Amy Adams wore a bold emerald drop necklace against her deep sapphire gown. Fink's has emerald styles that range from the simplest studs, to unforgettable show stoppers, like the emerald and diamond ring shown at left.

Classic Diamonds & Gold

Despite all the kicky styles and colors, some stars kept it simple without sacrificing any of the wow factor. Jennfier Hudson managed to support more than 1000 total carats of diamonds on her tiny new body, including a classic tennis bracelet. Teen queen Selena Gomez wore a gold and diamond cuff bracelet, similar to the Roberto Coin Granada bracelet, featured to the right. You'll never go wrong when you stick to the classics!

It's Diamond Dash Season!

Spring is upon us and summer is just around the corner and that means... time to start rolling out the Diamond Dashes! Maybe you particpated last year in the Roanoke or Richmond Diamond Dash, or maybe you're new to the idea and would love to know what all the fuss is about. Either way, you've come to the right place, because I'm going to explain what a Diamond Dash is, how you play, and what you can win!


First off, you should know that we'll be hosting Diamond Dashes in Norfolk, Charlottesville, Greensboro, Charlotte, Fredericksburg, Roanoke, and Richmond! Whew! That will give YOU plenty of chances to hone your skills with your partner, and compete to win this $15,000 Ritani diamond ring!


Now that you know what's at stake, let me give you a little background info. A Diamond Dash is a text message based scavenger hunt. Couples are asked to go online and submit their love story telling us why they deserve the chance to win this gorgeous Ritani diamond ring! From these entries, the best couples will be chosen to compete in the scavenger hunt. Once you're chosen, you'll receive details about the kick off location and after party. At the after party, which happens immediately after the scavenger hunt, you'll get to refuel with some free food and water, and find out who won the most points, making them the winner! No matter what, every couple will walk away with a fabulous coupon book from Fink's and our sponsors, and a free t shirt. We hope to see you at one (or all!) of our Diamond Dashes!


For more info, visit http://www.finks.com/ and click "locations" and "events".

Valentine's Day Gift Guide

Everyone says that wives and girlfriends are easy to shop for; after all, girls love jewelry, and there's practically an infinite amount to choose from, right? Wrong. Don't forget boys, all that glitters is not gold, and no girl wants to wake up on February 15th with a green neck or finger! But don't worry, you've come to the right place, because we've got the perfect Valentine's Day shopping list for the discerning shopper on any budget!




This Roberto Coin 18k white gold heart pendant is perfect for the girl who appreciates elegant simplicity. This necklace will go with any outfit, so she can always have your heart with her. $260 (Available in a variety of styles, and in 18k yellow gold).





Fun and playful with a sense of refinement, this John Hardy bamboo heart charm bracelet is for the young or young at heart. The bracelet is sterling silver, and is available with pink, black, or white gems. $395






If your Valentine likes a little variety, this David Yurman stackable diamond heart ring is just the ticket. This ring can be stacked with other Yurman styles or worn on its own, so whether she feels like a little sparkle or a lot, she's got options. Available with a heart, clover, or oval. $295





This colorful and classy 60" Honora pearl necklace with bright gemstones can be worn long, or doubled up for a short look, and it's sure to add a little flair to any outfit! $225

Other Honora styles, including earrings sets, start at just $50!

With the perfect little promise ring, we promise this will be a Valentine's Day she'll never forget. This ring represents a promise of love, fidelity, and a future together. Available in 14k white gold or two tone (14k yellow and white gold), with a .10-.15 carat diamond. The pictured style features a .10 carat diamond set in 14k white gold, for $375. (Varying styles range from $375-$475).

Sparkling Celebs at the Golden Globes

This year's Golden Globes red carpet was better than ever. There were some surprises, like January Jones' risque yet elegant red cutout dress from Versace. There were also some things that didn't surprise us at all, like Helena Bonham Carter wearing two different colored shoes. One thing you can always expect on the red carpet, however, is amazing jewelry.

Sarah Hyland from Modern Family made a statement with a gorgeous 50 karat diamond and pearl collar necklace from Mikimoto. The gold South Sea pearls compliment her dress, by Max Azria.

Mikimoto is known for being the premier producer of the world's finest cultured pearls. Their exceptional design, paired with the quality of their craftsmansip, is known the world over. Mikimoto is available at Fink's Jewelers both in store and online. We carry everything from the simplest set of studs for the beginner, to intricate Black South Sea lariat necklaces with diamonds. As Sarah knows, Mikimoto always makes a statement, and Fink's can help you find yours!

Sarah wasn't the only star sporting a Fink's brand last night; news correspondant for E! and reality sweetheart Giuliana Rancic was spotted wearing Ippolita Super Tear Drop earrings in Mother of Pearl, from the Wonderland Collection.

Ippolita, like Giuliana, is Italian. The brand is known for it's playful whimsy, colorful stones, and sculptural design elements. Ippolita's collections include a multitude of stones and metals, like smoky quartz, amethyst, blue topaz, mother of pearl, and more. Each of her designs are available in a variety of these stones, so there's a color and style for everyone. Guiliana's earrings start at $895, but smaller versions start at just $295, so you can have a lot of look without spending a lot!

If you have questions about any of the designers or styles featured in this blog, please don't hesitate to contact your local Fink's store, or visit us online (especially since not every Fink's store carries Ippolita) at http://www.finks.com/. We're always happy to send pictures, help you make an online purchase, or answer any questions!

New Year Engagement News!

Reese Witherspoon is known for a lot of things: her always-hit movies, her fabulous hair, her easy Southern charm, and now, her amazing 4 carat Ashoka diamond engagement ring by William Goldberg (available at Fink's!).


Jim Toth, an agent, and Reese started dating almost a year ago and have been inseperable ever since. When Jim decided he was ready to pop the question, which he did over the holidays, he knew he wanted something unique, rare, and beautiful, just like Reese. Ashoka diamonds are prized for their exceptional beauty and rarity. They can only be cut from rough diamonds that are at least 3 carats, and only 10% are good enough to carry the Ashoka name.


Speaking of the name, "Ashoka" has a namesake, in the form of an ancient Hindu warrior-emperor named Ashoka Maurya, who possesed a 41 carat flawless diamond. During his rule, Ashoka experienced a reawakening in 262 BC that prompted him to promote harmony, respect, and compassion as the only path for his people.


Reese's Ashoka diamond ring features a 4 carat center stone and a platinum band with pave diamonds (left).


Similar styles available Fink's* include the 3-stone ring on the right. The center stone is .71 carats, and the side stones and pave diamonds in the band total .81 carats. With 1.52 total carat weight, it may not be as big as Reese's, but you can be sure that the diamond is just as perfect!

The 3-stone ring retails for $9,450.

* Ashoka by William Goldberg is available at the following Fink's locations: Dulles Town Center in Northern Virginia, our Flagship store on 419 at Colonial Avenue in Roanoke, Short Pump Town Center in Richmond, and SouthPark Mall in Charlotte, NC.

Finally! Prince William Puts a Ring On It!

After six years, Kate Middleton has finally done what some said she couldn't; she finally got her proposal from Prince William, heir to Britain's throne. Proposing in Kenya, after asking her father's permission, Prince William gave Kate the 18 carat sapphire and diamond stunner that was last seen on the finger of his late mother, Princess Diana. William said that in giving Kate his mother's ring, he made sure she, "didn't miss out on today." The sapphire ring is gorgeous, yet untraditional in that the center stone isn't a diamond. This is fitting, being that couple's relationship wasn't your typical royal romance.

Once called the Stone of Destiny, the sapphire seems like a fitting choice for the untraditional bride. Whether you're looking for that perfect ring for your bride to be, or something special for your long time love, come visit Fink's at one of our 17 locations and see our beautiful selection of sapphire and diamond rings that are sure to make her feel like a princess.

The ring on the left features a 1.4 carat sapphire with .72 carats of round brilliant diamonds, set in 18k white gold, $3150. The ring on the right features a 2.10 carat sapphire with .83 carats of round brilliant diamonds, set in 18k white gold, $2575.

Gifts That Sparkle!

There's nothing better than the D-word during the holidays... that's right, diamonds. At Fink's, there's nothing we do better than diamonds, so we've put together a handy little gift guide with a range of price points, so whether you want to spend a little or a lot, Fink's is the place to go!

Diamond Studs ~ Every girl, young or old, needs a good pair of diamond studs; it's practically a right of passage. They're classic, they go with everything, and they start at just $195.

Roberto Coin Tiny Treasures ~ For the girl that likes a little personal flair to her jewelry, Roberto Coin Tiny Treasures are sure to make her smile. Whether she loves the beach, you, or just diamonds, there's a Tiny Treasure pendant for girls with every taste. Palm trees, hearts, dragonflys, hamsas, crosses, starfish, horseshoes, and many, many more! Prices range from $300-$1,500.

David Yurman Albion Rings ~ These sterling silver rings with pave diamonds from David Yurman's Albion Collection are perfect for everyday or a special occasion, although we're pretty sure once she puts one on, she won't want to take it off!

Diamond Tennis Bracelet ~ For the sophisticated woman in your life, nothing quite says "status" like a diamond tennis bracelet from Fink's Jewelers. 39 round brilliant diamonds set in 14k white gold, this bracelet is truly for the woman who does it all, has it all, and loves it all. Starting at $1,900.



As always, call any Fink's store throughout Virginia and North Carolina, and our sales associates will help you find that perfect gift that fits her, and your budget, just right.

Designer Spotlight: John Hardy

Legend of the Dragon

John Hardy’s Naga collection debuted in 2008 and is reaching back to those roots for inspiration for the newest pieces in 2010. Every John Hardy collection tells a story, and Naga is no different; meaning “dragon,” the Naga collection draws inspiration from many Balinese myths that revere the dragon as a symbol of prosperity and good luck. The fall 2010 Naga Lava collection features the same dragon motif, but with Art Deco influences coming through in the pave set stones that come in lots of bright colors. This colorful update to an old favorite makes it easy to fall in love with John Hardy’s collections, whether it’s for the first time, or all over again.

Background on John Hardy jewelry

When artist and designer John Hardy visited Bali in 1975, it set in motion important events that many jewelry boxes are forever grateful for. In Bali, Hardy found himself inspired by the local artisans work, and the environment from which it was inspired. He began to devise new ways to incorporate the ancient Balinese craft into a modern and sustainable line of jewelry for the 21st century. Through his innovative new twists on ancient designs, John Hardy jewelry was born in 1989. Bali continues to be a stronghold of inspiration for Hardy, who now lives there full time. It’s clear through his designs, and the way his jewelry gives back to the land that it comes from (with bamboo seedlings being planted for every piece from his bamboo collection) that Hardy holds a deep respect and commitment to Bali, and regards his jewelry as much more than just a decoration, but as a story and tribute to the Balinese culture from which it was born.


Don’t forget, Guy Bedarida, head designer and creative director at John Hardy, will be visiting our Norfolk store at MacArthur Center on Thursday, November 4th. Come hear Guy talk about his beginnings and inspirations, and shop pieces made exclusively for his public appearances that can’t be found anywhere else!

Can’t be there? Join us on our twitter account for live, play-by-play updates of the event, including pictures! www.twitter.com/FinksMacarthur

From a Fink's Customer

To: SouthPark
Subject: Fw: My journey at Fink's

Mr Fink

I would like to thank you for an excellent product and superior customer service!

On my journey to find the perfect engagement ring for my girlfriend, I had feelings of doubt and worry. Financially, I am not in the best of conditions and really wanted to impress my girlfriend with a wonderful ring. I have been searching online and in stores for over two months, counting down to the day I planned to propose. Other jewelry stores I have visited have left a bad taste in my mouth about jewelry companies. I felt as though if I wasn't spending enough money then I didn't matter. When I have been assisted by many sales reps, I felt a change in tone when I told them what my budget was. Some have tried to talk me into a price I knew I could not afford.

When I came to Fink's, I felt a calmness come over me with the way I was treated. I spoke to Joy (Davis) the very first day and still had a paradigm of no self worth when I came in. She seemed busy, but quickly assisted me. She took the time to educate me and explain how Fink's product was different. From the patented cut to the all around quality of your product. She spent a lot of time with me even though other customers were there.

I told her the day I wanted to propose and she got on the phone to get some price quotes and scheduled a transfer for a diamond from another store. She explained she would be on vacation, but would have someone assist me with the final purchase. Joy called me discreetly in respect, not to alert my girlfriend.

I returned to the store on Thursday with the mindset to tell them I still wanted to wait and make up my mind later, but when I saw the diamond Donna (Hilfiger) presented to me I was amazed at the quality! I was so use to telling other jewelry stores I will be back and always had an indecisive feeling. I had the same experience from Donna and Joann (Quann) that I had with Joy. Donna made sure to tell other customers she was currently assisting me and she would be with them afterward, which made me fell appreciated! I did a credit app and was approved. Joann was working in the office and explained my monthly payment and the importance of paying on time.

I always appreciate good customer service. Your staff at Southpark mall is above anything I ever expected! They are genuinely helpful and passionate about what they do. I thank you for company. As far as I am concerned, you have the king of all jewelry stores! Thank you for turning my nightmare into a dream come true!

PS I will be back to buy her wedding band.

Thanks for everything!
J

Here We Grow Again ...

Coming in October, Fink's Jewelers will be opening our 17th store! Located in The Village at Spotsylvania Towne Center in Fredericksburg, Virginia, this new store will bridge the gap between our three stores in Richmond and two stores in Washington, DC. You'll find the same luxury jewelry designers and fine Swiss timepieces in this new location as you do in any of our other 16 Fink's Jewelers stores, such as David Yurman,
John Hardy, Roberto Coin, Mikimoto, Ippolita, TAG Heuer, and Raymond Weil.

In addition to the industry's hottest jewelry and watch fashions, we will offer an incredible diamond selection. Throughout our long history, we've remained a leader in diamond engagement rings. From international bridal designers like Ritani, to our very own Fink's diamond selection, you're sure to find the perfect diamond for the best value.

Opening October 2010 ~ Fredericksburg, VA

Spotsylvania Towne Centre
137 Spotsylvania Mall
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
finks.com/fredericksburg

BeadforLife Open House

Trinity Episcopal Church in Buchanan, VA is hosting a BeadforLife Open House. BeadforLife eradicates extreme poverty by creating bridges of understanding between impoverished Africans and concerned world citizens. Ugandan women turn colorful recycled paper into beautiful beads, and people who care open their hearts,homes and communities to buy and sell the beads.

This is a women's microfinance project begun in the slums of Uganda by a handful of women who worked in rock quarries with small hammers breaking rocks for a $1.00 a day. Most of them have contracted AIDS from their husbands and their children are born infected with the virus. As women die, others take their children in. They have built 5 houses, a clinic and a school with proceeds for the sale of jewelry they make from scrap paper. Lives have been changed. The world is a better place because of these brave women and their sponsors here in the US.

This special fundraising event is a cause supported by Maryanne Meloy from our 419 at Colonial store in Roanoke. "I believe microfinance projects are the key to women and children gaining independence and freedom on so many levels," says Maryanne. "I am so thrilled we at Trinity will be doing a small part to further this cause. It is a great tie-in for me as it combines my love for finely crafted and unusual jewelry with a deep interest in the growth of microfinancing around the world and with my understanding of mission. I am gladdened by The Episcopal Church's Millennium Goals Office support."

Aimee, a graduate student majoring in African and Asian studies at George Mason, visited one of these projects in Marrakesh and was so excited. She and Maryanne presented a program about it at Trinity and at Community School.

Contact Maryanne at 540-254-2203 or divadaedalus@verizon.net. Click here to learn more about Bead for Life. Hope you can come!!!

Fink's Jewelers Proudly Supports H-E-A-R-T INC

On May 22nd 2010 Fink's Jewelers provided a David Yurman sterling silver heart pendant as a door prize for the H-E-A-R-T INC Tennis challenge at Raintree Swim and Racquet Club in Richmond, Virginia. Shown to the right is Debbie Smith holding the Yurman Heart necklace.

The mission of H-E-A-R-T (Hope Exists After Rape Trauma) is to provide HOPE for victims of sexual assault through the provision of essential and therapeutic support, by affecting positive change in laws influencing their lives, and by educating both the public and professionals commissioned to serve victims. A vital issue in this matter involves the use of DNA. To enhance that use, H-E-A-R-T will promote the continued use of DNA, and through educating legislators, law enforcement officials, and others, promote its expanded use and continued improvement. H-E-A-R-T promotes victim empowerment and encourages the public to have a greater understanding of and respect for sexual assault victims.

Debbie Smith Act (taken from h-e-a-r-t.info)
On March 3,1989, Debbie Smith was kidnapped from her home while her husband, a police officer, was sleeping upstairs. She was dragged into the woods behind her Williamsburg, Virginia home and raped. The rapist threatened Debbie not to tell, and reminded her that he knew where she lived. Bravely, Debbie went forward and told her husband Robert of the assault. The rape was officially reported and she consented to a forensic exam.

After the sexual assault, Debbie feared that her unknown attacker would return to further harm her or her family. This fear was paralyzing. During the first few years following this attack, Debbie was suicidal. Only the fear of her family finding her body prevented her from following this thought through. Some days, she and Robert drove around Williamsburg looking at homes because Debbie wanted to move. Other days she felt furious at her attacker for the effect he had on her and her family. On those days, she refused to move.

The traumatic effect of the assault remained with Debbie and her family for six and a half years, and then her perpetrator was finally caught through a DNA database known as CODIS (Combined DNA Index System). The man who sexually assaulted her had abducted and robbed two other women. Their attacker was identified through an ATM photo where he made them take out their money. When his DNA was put into the system there was a match. Debbie’s attacker was convicted of rape, abduction, robbery, burglary and larceny. He was sentenced to two life terms plus 25 years in prison. Because of the suffering Debbie and countless other victims of sexual assault have faced, legislation has been passed to improve investigations and services for this crime. The Debbie Smith Act, now part of the Justice For All Act of 2004, was signed into law on October 30, 2004. For a complete look at this law, see the web site noted above.

Debbie Smith travels around the country with her husband Robert to talk about her experience. Her purposes for talking about the attack are to help in her healing and to be a voice for the many women who have not been able to speak out. They would like to take away the stigma that comes with rape that puts the blame back on the victim. They would also like to put rapists in jail before they have a chance to continue their rampage, as most rapists will attack between eight and twelve women.


Send all questions, comments and suggestions to info@h-e-a-r-t.info

Oodles of Love in Carolina

“My little old dog:
A heart-beat
At my feet.”
- Edith Wharton

My guardian angel does not have wings. She has curly hair, a skip in her step, and an ever-wagging tail. Coco, my ten-year-old miniature “rescue” poodle, has been the one doing all of the rescuing since I adopted her from Carolina Poodle Rescue six years ago. She needed a loving home, yes, but I needed to heal my wayward heart. She arrived at a lonely, tentative time in my life and brought me the spirit that I needed to move forward.

I am ever-thankful for Coco and for Carolina Poodle Rescue, a private rescue group near Spartanburg, South Carolina. In the past nine years, they have carefully matched over 2000 fuzzy companions with their “furever homes.” Thanks to Dreamweaver Farms, CPR’s 50-acre haven in upstate South Carolina, they are able to provide rehabilitation and sanctuary, whether temporary or permanent, for poodles and other needy dogs. CPR focuses on poodles and poodle mixes, but as director Donna Ezzell explains: “We take in non-poodles from time to time because a non-poodle’s story touches the heart of someone here.” Their efforts are funded solely through adoption fees and donations, but I am amazed at how conscientiously and generously CPR cares for every creature who crosses its threshold. It was my admiration for all that CPR does that inspired me to join their team of volunteers.

My volunteer work with CPR even merges nicely with my work at Fink’s Jewelers. A retail schedule actually allows for unique availability when it comes to transporting dogs to the safety of the farm or from the farm to their adoptive families. At first I was sad that I wasn’t able to help out on the weekends, which is when most volunteers are available. However, I usually have a day off during the week, so I can fill in on weekdays when other volunteers are at work. I also make an effort to integrate my experience at Fink’s Jewelers with my CPR involvement. I’ve worked in the office and on the sales floor at Fink’s Jewelers. I apply my knack for paperwork and my passion for developing client relationships to help CPR treasurer Beth Jancse maintain one of their adopter databases.

Carolina Poodle Rescue and Fink’s Jewelers are among the many blessings for which I express gratitude this Thanksgiving - and every day. My rescue poodle is the embodiment of so many blessings – my guardian angel, my heart-beat, Coco.

To learn more about Carolina Poodle Rescue, please visit their website and check out their page on Facebook.

Now through December 16, 2009, support Carolina Poodle Rescue, just by voting at care2.com. The winning shelter will receive $10,000!

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Ellen Freeman has been with Fink's Jewelers for 4 years. When she's not busy rescuing poodles, she enjoys synchronized figure skating and spending quality time with friends and family.

Fink's Jewelers proudly honors our rich tradition and history for helping our communities become a better place to live, work and play. Each year we provide financial and in-kind support to numerous organizations and encourage our employees to become active leaders in the community.