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.

How I Turned an Heirloom Diamond into a New Ring

by Cindy Siegler, Fink's Jeweler's customer, Atlanta Georgia

I have done business with Fink's Jewelers for over 20 years, so I knew if I was ever going to redo my grandmother’s ring (which was very precious to me) it must be done by someone I could trust. The original piece and current center stone belonged to my grandmother. The center stone was her engagement ring from 1920; it was a “mine cut” diamond which had chipped over the years.

I wanted a ring for my right hand which represented me as an individual, not necessary all my other roles as wife, mother, daughter, caretaker, etc. I had some general ideas and designs in mind; however [Fink's diamond buyer] Clif Burcham helped me clarify the specifics in terms of my style preferences, diamond cut, comfort, etc. and helped me visualize what I actually wanted the ring to look like. He helped me put the vision into reality. The ring really speaks to my personality and individuality.

I was surprised and overjoyed by the frequent updates and communication on the progress of my ring transformation. I never had to ask what was going on because Fink's was always proactive in letting me know. Furthermore, they provided dates for each part of the process and contacted me just to let me know of the status so there were never any surprises. I have been so pleased with my ring. My expectations were exceeded in all areas with Fink's.

I have suggested remounting to several friends since it has given me to opportunity to turn an heirloom into a unique piece which is one of a kind. I hear many girlfriends talk about what they want in a “right hand ring”. I agree that the right hand ring is now a fashion staple for every woman who wants to express themselves as individuals. With the help of Fink's Jewelers, I have a unique right hand ring that celebrates the women in my past and expresses my own uniqueness.

With sincere thanks,
Cindy Siegler

I'm Not Really a Jewelry Person

About every other time I tell someone that I work for Fink's, they will sheepishly tell me, "I'm not really a jewelry person." Last week I heard a story from a friend about someone who had recently gotten engaged. When the time came to get her ring, the bride-to-be went to a local department store and picked out the ring of her dreams. I understand where she's coming from, no need to spend thousands of dollars on an extravagant ring because her tastes are simple.

Most likely her purchase didn't come with much education about the stone or the metal, proper cleaning and care, and what to expect as part of normal wear. When her fiancé bought the ring she'd picked out, it's even less likely that he heard any of the details about warranties or guaranties as excited as he was about his purchase.

Fast forward to the day she notices that her ring keeps catching on her clothes. The clerk at the department store doesn't seem very sympathetic to her story, he suggests she take it to a jeweler. Frustrated, she wears the ring home and decides to be extra careful when she wears it, nervous that taking it to a jeweler might result in some inflated or unnecessary charges for repairs. She's already missing one very important factor: Trust.

Even more frustrating is what could happen next. A few months after the bent prong started catching on her clothes, it finally breaks. One weekend at the beach, she notices that her diamond is missing and she's heartbroken! As soon as they get back home, she goes back to the department store and tells the salesperson about what happened, only to learn that the manufacturer has gone out of business and they can't order another ring like the one she'd picked for her engagement ring. Of course, the department store doesn't have a policy to replace the diamond — she's lost the money they spent and the ring of her dreams. Now she's even more disappointed in what her purchase was lacking: Service. *

You don't have to be a "jewelry" person to appreciate what Fink's Jewelers offers. Our sales associates are trained to understand diamonds and metals in order to inform and empower our customers. No matter how small or large the stone and setting, our customers are treated to the same process of discovering the diamond in their ring. Even the smallest diamond has dazzling distinctions of clarity, color, cut and carat weight for the owner to understand.

Our Diamond Guarantee adds exceptional value to every purchase. By bringing their ring back to our locations for a regular complimentary inspection, our customers get the benefit of being aware of any issues which may arise before they become problematic. And if they ever lose their diamond from the setting, we'll replace it for them. (Read about Fink's Diamond Guarantee here.)

At Fink's we always want to work within your budget. We offer diamond engagement jewelry to suit even the most modest tastes and we can always design something just for you if you don't see something in the case. And every diamond we sell meets our Superior Quality Diamond standards. You don't need to sacrifice service and trust to feel like you've made the wisest choice for your budget and tastes. Not everyone can be a "jewelry" person, but we believe that we can help you be a "value" person and a "trust" person when it comes to diamond jewelry.



* While this may seem like an unfair portrayal of a department store purchase, it can actually be a very likely portrayal of a jewelry purchase made anywhere. Jewelry must be cared for and maintained properly to avoid damage and loss. A jewelry purchase that doesn't come with education about care, cleaning, and regular inspection can easily turn out like this one, no matter how much the item cost.

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Prior to joining Fink's Jewelers as eCommerce Manager a year ago, Denise Stanley owned an advertising agency in Roanoke, VA. She can be found Twittering and Facebooking about Finks.com daily. She enjoys being mommy to her two fantastic daughters.

Bling of the Month: Baby Baubles

A growing expectation among expectant women these days is receiving a token to commemorate their journey into motherhood. A “push present” or “baby bauble” is a gift from a new dad to the new mom, celebrating the birth of their child. According to Wikipedia, the tradition of giving gifts to a new mother has roots in England and India. As a gesture of appreciation and respect for carrying their child for nine months and “pushing” through labor, dads give a special gift that will last a lifetime. Here are a few of our picks for pretty baubles that the mothers-to-be will love.

Tiny Treasures Initials
Italian designer Roberto Coin has created Tiny Treasures in diamond and white gold that give a woman a reason to wear diamonds every day. Each tiny pendant features pave diamonds set in 18k gold. Start off with her initial, then add one as each child is born. Initial pendants start at $380 each, large cursive initials start at $4000.

Eternity Bands
A slim Fink's Diamond Eternity band can be worn as a right-hand ring or paired with other rings. Available in platinum, palladium, and 18k yellow or white gold, our bands feature diamonds that meet the standards we use to classify our Fink's Superior Quality Diamonds. For an extra-special touch, ask about including your baby's birthstone to create a family ring she'll cherish. Diamond bands shown start at $1050, prices vary with finger size and metal choice.

Charm bracelets
A charm bracelet is frequently referred to as her “Lifetime” bracelet, growing over the years to one day be passed on to her daughter, continuing the tradition of charm collecting from generation to generation. Choose a few charms to mark this special occasion, then add to it every year. Available in gold and sterling silver. As shown, $360.

Pearls
A strand of pearls is a classic jewelry must-have and a strand of Mikimoto Akoya pearls are as near-perfect as can be. Available in various lengths with 18k white or yellow gold clasps, starting at $1610. Now through June 30, you'll receive a free pair of matching pearl stud earrings when you purchase a strand of Mikimoto Akoya pearls.

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Prior to joining Fink's Jewelers as eCommerce Manager a year ago, Denise Stanley owned an advertising agency in Roanoke, VA. She can be found Twittering and Facebooking about Finks.com daily. She enjoys being mommy to her two fantastic daughters.

Jewelry Shopping in the Digital Age

There is a lot of talk in the jewelry industry about the merits of shopping online versus shopping in stores. Most retailers are on one side of the argument or the other based on how their store operates. Fink's is different from so many of our competitors because of our approach to both.

The relationship between our stores and our website is part of what helps Fink's provide a unique shopping experience for our customers. Because we've been in business for almost 80 years, we have the benefit of a long-standing reputation in our communities. Our customers are familiar with our quality and trust our service.

So many retailers discourage their customers from shopping with online retailers because the competition is fierce; there's always someone willing to sell consumers something at a rock-bottom price. The quality of the merchandise is questionable and there's no support when customers need service, repairs, or sizing.

What makes the Fink's Jewelers online customer experience so different is that our merchandise is backed by long-standing vendor relationships and the knowledge and experience of our buyers and staff.

When Fink's customers choose to shop online, they get peace of mind from shopping with a reputable company. The eCommerce department offers personalized services on all orders, including gift wrapping and personal shopping. Returns and special orders are handled promptly and customers enjoy quick responses to emails and phone calls.

These days, it's not uncommon for customers to browse our website before visiting our stores no matter how many times they've shopped with us before. Knowing this, we update products and prices on our website daily. Our online inventory has grown from about 300 items a year ago to now almost 2000 pieces of jewelry. Shoppers know they can't find everything they want in each store, so our website lets them see an expanded selection of merchandise whenever they want. It makes it so easy for customers to come to our stores ready to buy. Our sales staff in our stores work with our eCommerce department to create the best experience for every Fink's customers.

When Fink's customers prefer to shop in our stores, they enjoy the convenience of browsing large merchandise selections from some of their favorite designers. From our website, they can request to see an item in a store nearby, then try it on buy it when it's convenient. No matter how you prefer to shop, we're certain that you'll be pleasantly surprised with everything Fink's has to offer.

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Prior to joining Fink's Jewelers as eCommerce Manager a year ago, Denise Stanley owned an advertising agency in Roanoke, VA. She can be found Twittering and Facebooking about Finks.com daily. She enjoys being mommy to her two fantastic daughters.

When is a Watch not a Watch?

by Denise Stanley, Fink’s Jewelers, eCommerce Manager, Roanoke, VA

So, when is a Watch not a Watch? When it's not authentic.

Seems logical, right? But in the world of internet shopping where millions of virtual items are at our fingertips for immediate purchase, finding authentic merchandise isn't always easy.

When you're in the market for a brand name timepiece, you're likely to go online to find the nearest retailer. You browse through their selection and locate the one you have in mind. Then you notice the price, and click-click, you're comparing prices across a few websites to find the same item at the lowest price. In less than 30 minutes you've found exactly what you want at the cheapest price you can locate and are ready to enter your credit card and buy it.

Beyond the obvious fear of credit card fraud and shady websites, you might hesitate for a minute because you've never heard of this retailer before. But they have a nice-looking website and obviously have a huge selection, so they must be a good source. Besides, they have a great return policy and money-back guarantee.

The pitfall to online shoppers, especially in the world of brand names, is the Unauthorized Dealer. Sometimes called "Grey Market" retailers, the merchandise they sell is of uncertain origin. You might be buying used, reconditioned, altered, or even knock-off merchandise and worse, you probably won't find out in time to use that generous return policy.

Wanting to save 15-30% on an expensive item, many of us can be easily lulled into trusting a web retailer. In this situation it backfires when you need to have the watch repaired and bring it to an authorized dealer to send it to the manufacturer. The $500 you saved means nothing when you learn you've paid $1800 for a fake watch and the manufacturer won't repair it.

We all love a great deal, but grey market retailers devalue the brands you love. As a rule of thumb, ONLY shop on the websites of authorized retailers. (You can find authorized retailers on the brand's website.) An authorized retailer will NOT make repairs in-house when the item is under manufacturer's warranty (this will void the warranty). They will NOT sell outside of their territory (this is a violation of the vendor restrictions). They will NOT offer you a discount on new merchandise and will only honor price considerations with the manufacturer's approval.

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Prior to joining Fink's Jewelers as eCommerce Manager a year ago, Denise Stanley owned an advertising agency in Roanoke, VA. She can be found Twittering and Facebooking about Finks.com daily. She enjoys being mommy to her two fantastic daughters.

What Makes our Swiss Timpieces so 'Fine'

by Carlos Colmenero, Fink's Jewelers, Store Manager at The Streets at Southpoint, Durham, NC

Time to ‘Blog’ my marketing director says ... Hmmm, what to write about? How about a passion of mine, fine timepieces. To me a nice wristwatch is like a great cigar after a steak at Ruth’s Chris ... it just gets my juices flowing! Seriously.

I can remember coming to this company about 6 1/2 years ago. I had only sold watches like Seiko, Citizen and Movado just to name a few. Nice watches, don’t get me wrong. The difference is how they are made, mass production vs. mass inspection. I've learned that a watch connoisseur would rarely settle for a watch that is not self-winding if given the choice.

It’s not just the name of the brand, but how the watch is made that is so sexy! The great thing about my job is I get to visit these beauties EVERY DAY!! We carry watches like Patek Phillippe, Rolex, Bretling, and many more. Watches that take 8 months to make from start to finish. I guess the craziest thing about selling nice timepieces is that 95% of people in America don’t own a watch over $500. All the watches we have in our store are over $500, so I always say I live in a warped universe.
The reality is, the watches tend to be more expensive just because there is a lot more hands-on craftsmanship. For instance, Breitling sends every one of their watches to a test facility in Switzerland called the C.O.S.C where they are unbiasedly re-tested to ensure perfect accuracy. They have to be accurate to -4 to +6 seconds a day for self-winding, automatic timepieces. They also created the first and only quartz watch that is C.O.S.C certified, (the C.O.S.C. had never given the certificate to anyone for a quartz watch because they are usually pretty accurate at +,- 30seconds a year. That’s pretty good timekeeping but for a battery operated watch, very common). They have the ‘superquartz technology that is accurate to within +,- 3 seconds a year… the most accurate timepiece in the world!

Myself, I like the old fashioned way of keeping time. Besides, Marc Fink won’t mind if I’m 6 seconds late, (ya right!) Just think, A watch that has no battery… just running off the movement of your wrist! I heard someone once say, "It’s like a tiny miracle going on in there!" and it’s true. It is old-world craftsmanship that propels the watch….the meticulous love of a watchmaker painstakingly putting together an instrument that contains in some cases over 500 individual parts! Wow.

The part I love the most is just the feeling you get when you wear them. You know you have a great timepiece when you want to wear short sleeves when it is 35 degrees outside! You’re either crazy ... or in love with time! I have many clients and friends who have great watches. Some have a watch for different outfits. Others have just one that they love.

The truth is whether you spend $500 or $50,000, watch making and watch buying are precious arts. The right watch says a lot about you, but does not define you. As a guy especially, it is one of the few things you can get away with these days. They might be able to question the earring in your ear ... but never the timepiece on the wrist!

Carlos has been in the jeweler industry for 12 years, over half of that with Fink's. He and his beautiful wife Lori have been married for 10 years and have a superstar son, Kobe and a baby daughter, Avery.

Love Stories... Mark and Meg

Not many potential fianceés start throwing their hands in the air and exclaiming, “we have no clue what we’re doing here!” But those are the words store manager Claire Brown heard from Mark and Meg as they nervously giggled in front of the diamond cases at Fink’s Triangle Town Center September 2007.

It all started with the standard “just looking” response, but Claire knew there was more behind the couple’s knowing looks at each other and their difficulty standing still.

Meg says “we were so clueless going in to look, but being together eight years we were ready, and really wanted it to be special and fun at the same time!” But the couple had no idea what to do next. “I'm not 100% positive Meg even knew that her engagement ring was supposed to go on her left hand,” says Claire. Meg had no clue what style she wanted, or how to make such an overwhelming decision when there were so many beautiful rings from which to choose. It seemed the only logical thing was to try on everything in the case. Meanwhile, Claire noticed Mark becoming more intrigued so she knew what to do next.

In the diamond room she showed the couple all the technical aspects of choosing a diamond and got to know them and their style in the process. “She made the experience so much fun, was very knowledgeable, never made us feel pressured, and really made it all about us,” says Meg. In the end they decided on the Ritani Endless Love solitaire. Claire says, “They are just genuinely happy people and were a blast to be around. She is humble and sweet and I’ve never seen her without a smile on her face! Mark was so proud to give her this ring.”

Meg comes by every time she’s in the mall to have her ring cleaned and just say hello. Meg says, “Most of all Claire made us feel 110% confident in Fink’s and what they stand for. A great company with top-notch diamonds, and most importantly, top-notch service!!!” They planned the destination wedding of their dreams in Negril, Jamaica and even brought pictures by Fink’s to share with Claire. The couple says she was and still is the best help, and a great new friend.

Of the happy couple Claire says, “They are perfect for each other, I couldn’t be more thrilled for them!”

Fink's Jewelers Receives Recognition for Excellence in Training

Fink's has always believed in excellence in sales associate training programs. In addition to attending product training lead by vendors such as David Yurman, John Hardy, Cartier, and Tag Heuer, our associates go through several programs we've developed to achieve better customer service.

All sales associates attend a one-week training program held in our corporate headquarters soon after hire. They experience the fundamentals of jewelry and what sets our product apart from other retailers. They also learn important procedures directly from our Merchandising, Information Systems, Marketing, and eCommerce Departments.

We also train associates additionally throughout the year in clientelling practices and motivated sales achievement. Our programs are developed on an ongoing basis by Charlene Hudson, Director of Sales Training.

Read the article: Luxury Jewelers Resource Group Recognized For Excellence By Training Magazine

Love Stories… Tammy and Jeff

Many times purchasing jewelry is the fulfillment of a dream. Ellen Freeman,
a Fink’s sales associate in Charlotte, helped make a very special time fun and romantic for Tammy and Jeff Norris.

“My wife Tammy had a picture saved from years ago that happened to be of an Elara diamond ring. This was her ‘dream’ diamond that she had saved a picture of, if she ever met the ‘man of her dreams.’ Hoping that I would be that man, I knew Fink’s carried the beautiful diamond and went there to purchase what I would hope to be the ultimate engagement ring and make me the ‘man of her dreams.”’

Ellen talked to Jeff on the phone and explained that she brought in several additional pieces from our 14 stores to offer them the ultimate selection. Then, the couple made their way to Fink’s Jewelers where Tammy selected a few of her favorite styles and then left the rest up to Jeff. Ellen says: “we found a brilliant three-stone Elara ring that was perfect for her. Jeff couldn't wait and surprised her with it a few days later.”

After their romantic engagement dinner, the couple had their “dream” wedding in Clearwater, Florida. The couple also chose Fink’s as their jeweler for their wedding bands. Jeff says: “When choosing the wedding band, Ellen gave us great advice and a variety of rings to choose from. She was instrumental in helping us select just the right ring that my wife would wear on her finger for the rest of our married life.”

Fink's publishes first online-only catalog

This Valentine's Day we wanted to provide our customers with the shopping and gift ideas they've come to rely on from Fink's Jewelers, but with a twist! Our first-ever virtual catalog is available through our website as a PDF full of the latest gift ideas from designers like Tag Heuer, David Yurman, Roberto Coin, Cartier, John Hardy, and more. As an added convenience, items in the catalog link directly to shopping pages at finks.com.



We believe our customers will enjoy browsing and sharing our online catalog and will appreciate instant online shopping that allows them to compare items, create a wish list, buy online, or request the item through the store of their choice.

Best of all, our catalog is completely Green, requiring no paper to print and no fuel to distribute. Wouldn't John Hardy be proud?!

Click here to see our catalog

Fink's Featured in InStyle Magazine

Fink’s Jewelers makes an appearance in one of the hottest fashion magazines!

Throughout the February issue of InStyle Magazine, you’ll see today’s hottest celebrities, the season’s latest fashion trends and… Fink’s Jewelers!!

We threw a Balinese bash at our Short Pump location in Richmond, Virginia and it was the talk of the town! Guy Berida, head designer for John Hardy, made a special appearance to unveil his latest designs and meet some of his avid collectors. In celebration of the John Hardy Balinese culture, guests enjoyed cocktails and organic hors d’oeuvres inspired by the Indonesian island of Bali. In addition to great food, friends and fabulous jewelry, one lucky guest won an all expense paid trip to Bali!

Cheers to InStyle and John Hardy for bringing Fink’s Jewelers into the fashion spotlight! Grab the February issue of InStyle Magazine and check it out for yourself…

Part of the Fink's Family. . .

by Joey White, Fink's Jewelers, Assistant Manager at the Streets at Southpoint, Durham, NC

Many customers believe that a salesperson is interested in only making a sale-doing whatever it takes to get their money, and that afterwards, never hears from them again. At Fink’s Jewelers, we are here to not only be sales professionals, but also to build relationships with our customers.


Recently I was invited to attend the wedding of my very good customers Heather and Sean. I met Sean in December 2005, when we began picking out gifts from our extensive David Yurman collection for Heather, his then girlfriend.

When other gift giving occasions arose, Sean would come back into Fink’s and together we would choose new and exciting pieces. Eventually the time came for Sean to propose to Heather. She had definite ideas of what she wanted her engagement ring to be, but we searched our wide selection of diamonds to pick out just the perfect ring for her, and in October 2007, Sean found “the ring” and proposed.

When they came in a few months later to select their wedding bands, I was very delighted to hear that they wanted to invite me to attend their wedding ceremony. I was honored that as their jewelry salesperson, they also thought of me as their friend. What a great thing to be included in the company of their cherished friends and family members! Their wedding took place on October 4, 2008 at Brier Creek Country Club in Raleigh. It was a beautiful setting for an outdoor autumn wedding.
It’s been very rewarding to learn that customers think of me as more than just the person that sells them jewelry. They think of me as a friend and that’s just another perk of working at Fink’s Jewelers.

Joey White has a B.A. in Business Management from North Carolina State University. He is a 14 year veteran of the jewelry industry and has been with Fink's Jewelers for the past 8 years.

Fabulous Fall Finds

This fall the look is all about statement pieces and making a splash. We’ve seen it with politicians’ wives, Hollywood starlets and on the runway during fashion week. Unlike some others, the statement piece trend is simple to make your own. Simply choose your favorite type of jewelry i.e. necklace, earrings, bracelets, rings . . . then find a look you’ll love to wear! Below are my choices for fall statement pieces that suit almost every style and preference.


First up are necklaces . . . With the weather cooling down and turtlenecks being spotted, the necklace has a chance to shine! Beaded necklaces are a hit with David Yurman this year as well as bib necklaces by John Hardy. They’re perfect over and under the high necklines of fall tops and dresses.

However, I think my favorite this year is the layered pearl look. Often when walking through our stores, I instantly fall in love with what our sales associates have put together. Sometimes there’s a quality that’s shown when a piece is worn that you just can't see in the case. Honora has some perfect pieces in their colored pearl collections for a chunky look without too much bulk. The dark multi color pearls come in lengths up to 80 inches and can be worn wrapped a time or two or long. At our holiday catalog shoot this year we paired the 80” rope necklace with a 36” necklace of the same size pearls and an 18” necklace with a slightly bigger pearl. It is gorgeous! We tried it with a cream top, navy top and aubergine top (which was the final look you'll see when your catalog arrives!) and all complemented the pearls perfectly. This look could be worn with shades of green, brown, grays and metallics too.

My last pick in the layering family are rings from our Italian gold designers. I’ve always wavered between liking rings that stand up and catch light boldly and a ring that looks good but stays out of my way. Roberto Coin combines the two in yellow,
white and rose gold three stone diamond rings that are meant to be layered. The choice is yours whether to go with one, two or three shades at a time. They are also available with one diamond for more of an understated look.

A bold color choice, Marco Bicego has stackable rings with color gemstones all in 18k yellow, white and rose gold these rings pair up with the sun and sand of summer and the falling leaves and autumnal hues of the current season.

And finally, an old look worn in a new way. I always thought of pendants as a little outdated. But this year we’ve seen them worn in new ways. When wearing a v-neck dress or top placing a bold pendant and the tip of the “v” ends up making the pendant look more like an enhancer minus the chain. The same can be done with multiple pendants centered on strapless gowns much like an enhancer would hang but without the necklace. This look would work under blazers on camisoles or on all your holiday party dresses.

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Hollie Wingate has been the Marketing Coordinator at Fink’s for the past two years. She and her husband Mike live in Roanoke with their new son, West and their furry child, Lizzie.

Goods for the Guys

by Rhonda Anderson, Fink’s Jewelers, Sales Associate, Chesterfield Towne Center, Richmond, VA

Men can be daring, stylish, elegant and professional. Through diverse looks and options, the David Yurman Men’s Collection has a style for every man.
Every man can fit jewelry into his lifestyle, he just has to know who he is and what looks he can handle. That’s why Saturday, November 1, 2008 Fink’s at Chesterfield Towne Center is hosting a spectacular Men’s Trunk Event. Men’s jewelry is a rapidly growing trend that gives men the opportunity to truly express themselves. David Yurman’s son Evan has introduced many distinctive designs with different textures such as Seahorse, Alligator, Rhinoceros and Sea Urchin, which shows a love of nature and craftsmanship. Hollywood celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Usher and many others have even been seen wearing his fine quality jewelry! Evan says, “Our jewelry is for a man who knows what works for him, who understands design and quality.” The collection features stylish dog tags, sterling silver heavy link chains, bracelets and rings with rare stones.
It also includes black diamonds, titanium and watches. . .something for everyone! We are so excited about this event and think you will be excited to see the new collections too. A David Yurman representative will be on hand to help present this collection and help each guy find his style. Please come in and see what’s new in store.

Rhonda Anderson is a Sales Associate at Fink’s Jewelers Chesterfield Town Center and the David Yurman diva in her store. She is a 10 year jewelry industry veteran.