Etienne Perret Colored Diamond Jewelry

Master Goldsmith Etienne Perret Heads Back To School

2012-01-24T07:43:00.000-08:00

After nearly forty years designing and fabricating the finest colored diamond jewelry, one might think that there are no goldsmithing techniques left for Etienne Perret to master. But a person who assumes such things must not be familiar with the vastly complex and ever developing jewelry world. In fact, like many other professions, most jewelers must generally choose to be a jack of all trades or an expert in one field of jewelry creation.

However, with his massive breadth of experience and skills, accumulated over a lifetime of conceiving designs, carving waxes, casting rings and setting diamonds, it is safe to say that Etienne falls into both categories. He can always depend on his foundation as extremely well rounded goldsmith, but in the end, Etienne would admit that his true passion and greatest expertise lies in the field of design.

A designer at heart, Etienne can conceptualize exactly how he wants a piece of fine jewelry to come to form, from start to finish--often in a way that, to him is intuitive, yet to others is quite demanding. It is for this reason that, if a talented designer wants a piece of art to be actualized exactly how it was envisioned, they sometimes must accept responsibility for each and every step of its creation.

What that means, in a sense, is that if Etienne wants to create the finest quality jewelry, to his exact specifications, he must learn to be an expert in any number of fields. Always an exceptional designer, over time he has become an excellent carver, a proficient caster and a talented stone setter.

While beautiful bezel setting has become second nature to Etienne, and flawlessly flush setting colored diamonds into his trademark Starlight designs can practically be done in his sleep, Etienne still finds major pave and channel setting projectsto be a bit of a pain. A difficult task for even the most accomplished jewelers, like most, Etienne often sends out his pieces that require pave work to an expert setter, who's reputation rests on perfectly set stones.

But what happens if a customer is moments away from "tying the knot" and needs their pave set diamond wedding ring yesterday? Rush orders like these are one of the biggest challenges faced by independent designers like Etienne.

"I've got the mold, cast the ring, got the stones...but there's no time to send it out to the setter for pave work?! What am I going to do? Well, I could tell the desperate (soon to be ex) customer that I just can't make their schedule, OR I can delve deep into my artistic skill-set and set the pave diamonds myself."

Providing the job can be done well, it's clear which is the more desirable solution for all parties concerned. It is for these reasons that Etienne is in the middle of week long course for advanced diamond pave setting at the New Approach School for Jewelers, as we speak!

Etienne will be learning and reviewing a variety of advanced techniques, from master stone setter and accomplished teacher, Blaine Lewis, to more efficiently pave and channel set diamonds in 18kt gold and platinum, in house, whenever the need arises. In essence, the goal is to teach an old dog a few new tricks in his lifelong journey to become the best possible jewelry designer and goldsmith achievable!

Etienne Perret: Praise Be To The Patrons

2012-01-19T17:42:00.000-08:00

Etienne is no snob when it comes to admitting there are simply some "angel customers" out there that can truly make a difference in the success of an independent artist like himself...

Fortunately, through decades of hard work and exceptional design, he has earned his fair share of such clients--like the lucky owner of this gorgeous Etienne Perret diamond Riviera necklace! But we never turn down good patronage--applications for "angel customer" status are available by request at Etienne@EtiennePerret.com

"A wonderful platinum and diamond Riviera necklace I made for an angel customer in Florida." --Etienne Perret

A Design of Sentimental Value: Etienne Perret

2012-01-17T06:13:00.000-08:00

It's always a pleasure when Etienne chooses to share the personal stories behind the creation of his beautiful fine jewelry designs. One of the most unique Etienne designs, with a very special story behind it has to be this Diamond modern yet minimal diamond engagement ring design. Maybe what makes it special is that he designed it for a loved one of his own...but I'll let Etienne's words speak for themself:

"Many years ago I made this ring for a sweetheart. A wonderful woman. Unfortunately she had other plans and ended up giving it back to me.

I am not sorry for soon afterwards I met the love of my life and we have been together for over 30 years."

Now that's a unique engagement ring! To keep up with all of Etienne's latest creations and personal narratives, make sure to follow the Etienne Perret Colored Diamond Jewelry FB page.

Ringspotters Have a Thing for Etienne Perret Colored Diamonds

2011-12-25T21:32:00.000-08:00

We always love it when the Ringspotters blog features Etienne Perret designs. This time it was Etienne's awesome assortment of colored diamond engagement rings that caught their attention. Find the perfect diamond ring for you in any color of the rainbow!

Etienne Perret: Overcoming the Challenges of Creative Design

2011-12-21T02:54:00.000-08:00

It's great to see all the positive responses to Etienne's Ceramique Hi-Halo Band ring over the past year. This MJSA article looks at some of the jewelry industries award winning designs of 2011 and the unique challenges behind their creation...

Check out the article to learn about how these talented artists overcame the challenges of creating their award winning designs.

The Hottest Colored Diamond Trend

2011-12-19T20:46:00.000-08:00

Do you the chocolate diamonds are cool?

Well, the fashion-savvy editors and readers over at Engagement 101 Magazine certainly think they are! Check out the Etienne Perret cognac colored diamonds Hi-Halo Band ring they featured.

Make your's unique--choose chocolate!

Etienne's Versatile New Ceramique Bookend Accent Bands

2011-12-08T05:09:00.000-08:00

While Etienne's Diamond Bookend rings may be spectacular, if you're looking for an equally unique, versatile and visually stimulating look at a more economical price, Etienne's Ceramique Bookends add the perfect accent to any diamond eternity band (or most other rings for that matter)! Available in an assortment of colors, including black, white, chocolate and blue!

Diamond Bookend Eternity Bands

2011-12-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

Etienne's Diamond Bookend eternity bands are absolutely stunning, adding a healthy dose of sparkle to a Ceramique flat-band or any other ring in your jewelry collection. Available in 18kt yellow, white or rose gold and platinum, this is a style that's simply too versatile to get tired of!

A Rainbow of Colored Diamonds, One Bezel at a Time

2011-12-07T23:33:00.000-08:00

There are a handful of really special journalists in the world of fine jewelry and, without a doubt, JCK's Jennifer Heebner is one of them. As a senior editor for JCK magazine, Jennifer stays busy sharing the hottest jewelry trends with her many fashion-savvy followers, on her Style360 blog.

We were more than pleased to find out that Jennifer had an itch to write about Etienne's classic, colored diamond bezel pendants. Available with diamonds of any size and nearly any color of the rainbow, set in 18kt gold or platinum, create the customized pendant of your dreams!

Etienne Perret @ The Couture Show. Las Vegas

2011-05-17T00:55:00.000-07:00

As much as Etienne loves to spend his summer months at home in the scenic coastal village of Camden, Maine, June is around the corner and Las Vegas Jewelry Week beckons.

After many years exhibiting at JCK, Etienne Perret is making his designer debut at Las Vegas' prestigious Couture jewelry show. Booth # 435. This is an industry event, open to registered retail stores and members of the trade.

The Couture Show is America's definitive annual event for upscale retailers, designers, and manufacturers of fine jewelry and timepieces. Set in the magnificent Wynn Las Vegas, Couture attracts luxury retailers from around the globe who are shopping for the most exquisite and unique designs. Moving into its 16th year, Couture continues to be the benchmark for the industry standard for excellence, featuring designs from top international brands as well as the industry's rising stars.

We are excited to be part of this very special event and sure that Etienne's Ceramique gem ceramic and colored diamond designs will be one of the hottest new collections on the floor!

Ceramique utilizes the same ultra-durable, gem quality zirconia ceramic material used in Rado & Chanel watches, Kyocera chef knives, dental implants, hip joints & spaceship panels.

Stylish, unique, more affordable & environmentally friendly, gem ceramic is the perfect alternative to precious metals for the design of fine jewelry.

Etienne's Ceramique ring, bracelet, pendant and earring designs can be inlaid with 18kt gold or platinum and set with diamonds in any color of the rainbow, as well as pearls. Long known for creating the finest colored diamond bridal jewelry in 18kt gold & platinum, Etienne's trademark style has transitioned over flawlessly to this exceptional new line of designer jewelry.

With a diverse range of bridal & fashion ring styles, available with or without diamonds, in black, white, gray, pink, green, chocolate or blue ceramic, with widths from 2mm-20mm, there's unlimited potential for custom design to suit every client's needs.

Etienne Perret: Colored Diamond Designer of the Year

2011-05-10T06:17:00.000-07:00

We are very excited that Etienne Perret has been named the 2011 Colored Diamond Jewelry Designer of the Year, by JQ Magazine and JQIntl.com. He won first place in the "Best in Color Diamond" category of their annual "Retailers' Choice Awards!

While it was a surprise, since the field of competition included a host of ultra-wealthy multi-generational natural color diamond jewelers, Etienne is certainly the designer for the job! One design that was influential in Etienne's nomination is his stunning new natural color orange diamond Starlight Ceramique ring.

Win a Trip To Visit Etienne Perret in Camden Maine

2011-04-22T03:18:00.000-07:00

Camden is a gorgeous little town along the midcoast of Maine. Full of great activities for people of all interests in summer and fall.

If you need an excuse to get up to Camden and visit Etienne for a personal tour of his jewelry gallery and workshop, this is a great one!

Check out the full article on the Maine Travel Maven blog......and if you don't win, come anyway!

Trends & Colours Can Help But Love Gem Ceramic

2011-04-13T05:49:00.000-07:00

Trends and Colours magazine is a widely circulated and respected jewelry magazine and seasonal trend look-book. Thousands of well know retailers consider what's within its pages before deciding what "must have" collections to pick for the season. That's exactly why we are pleased to see that they featured Etienne's Gem Ceramic designs in both the "black" and "white" sections!

We could hardly have asked for more than to have two of Etienne's new Gem Ceramic and colored diamond designs featured in the latest spring issue. But there's no denying that this sweet new collection can rock both black and white ends of the color spectrum--not to mention most every color in between!

Etienne Perret Gem Ceramic Giveaway

2011-04-11T06:53:00.000-07:00

Bloggers and online journalists play such an important and often understated role in the publicity machine that promotes and thereby sells designer products. Every time a writer has the good sense to track down Etienne's designs and share them with their readers, we are happy to go out of the way in assisting their cause.

It was one of these chance discoveries that led our new friend, the editor of the That's What She Said blog to Etienne's work and we couldn't be happier with the results. "That's What She Said" is a neat blog covering topics of interest and products for mothers and all women for that matter...No better place to feature Etienne's designs!

One cool thing that the That's What She Said blog does is offer giveaways for the products they review, so when asked to donate something for a lucky reader, Etienne was enthusiastic to offer one of his stylish new Gem Ceramic rings. Check out the website to learn more about how that lucky winner could be you!

It's Never To Late To Share Your Love

2011-04-10T22:47:00.000-07:00

Fox may not be Etienne's news provider of choice, but we had to smile when we came across their heart warming story of a loving couple who finally got the chance to symbolize their love with an engagement ring after 65 years of marriage.

Just remember, at certain times in life there are very few things more special than a renewal of your marital vows and it's NEVER too late for a ring upgrade! Consider an Etienne Perret design to signify your love, be it freshly blossoming or 50 years in the making!

Etienne Perret Gem Ceramic Durability Testing

2011-02-16T10:26:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder just how tough Gem Ceramic really is? Well, Etienne got the chance to share with Anthony DeMarco of Jewelry News Network last week at the AGTA Gem and Jewelry Show in Tucson, Arizona, and boy were people impressed!

So, tell us, what impresses you more: The ability of a Etienne Perret Gem Ceramic ring to crack marble or polish a steel file?!...One way or another, this is tough stuff--and with it's appealing color choices and affordable pricing, it's the perfect alternative material for wedding rings for both women and men who are hard on their jewelry!

Etienne Shares His Admiration For German Designer Friedrich Becker

2011-01-06T06:40:00.000-08:00

The Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), is a great organization and an important resource to so many of America's top jewelers. MJSA puts out an educational print Journal full of extremely valuable trade tips and recently asked Etienne to share his input.

They asked Etienne want is the coolest thing in his vault and instead of using the chance for self-promotion, he pulled a classic Etienne and shared some honest insight into what has inspired him as a jewelry designer, by explaining the story of a stunning gold & tourmaline sphere ring by famous German designer Friedrich Becker.

Etienne Perret's Colored Diamond Designs Shine In Niche Jewelry Award Finals

2011-01-05T01:25:00.000-08:00

Etienne may be a regular on the international jewelry awards circuit, but that doesn't leave him any less proud of his latest recognition--Earning a finals spot in two different divisions of the prestigious NICHE Awards!

Sponsored by NICHE magazine, the NICHE Awards program began in 1989 to celebrate excellence and innovation in American and Canadian fine craft. Artists are recognized in professional and student divisions. The competition received a total of 267 entries spread over eight jewelry categories.

Etienne's dramatic orange colored diamond black Gem Ceramic Maxine wedding/engagement ring combo is one of only four finalists in the Wedding Jewelry category.

Equally exciting is Etienne's colored diamond Gem Ceramic Rainbow Bangle bracelet, that made it into the finals in the Fine Jewelry division, and is sure to face some tight competition amidst the four other top entries, including Erik Stewart's Fluted platinum diamond and sapphire ring.

The winners will be announced at the NICHE Awards night in February. Stay tuned to find out if Etienne's designs beat out the competition!

Etienne's Featured Designs Of Winter

2010-12-17T00:20:00.000-08:00

While Etienne may be best known for his exceptional bridal jewelry collections, he is no stranger to the world of fashion jewelry & there's no better time of the year to share one of Etienne's beautiful fashion designs than the holidays!

Capturing a powerful dose of brilliant colors in a small yet charmingly stylish package, these Sarah Huggie earrings feature an array of color enhanced and natural color diamonds set in 18kt white and yellow gold, that is sure to brighten up any occasion!

An indispensable tool in any fashionista's jewelry arsenal, Etienne's Gem Ceramic collection brings a whole new level of fun and versatility to the playing field. Available in a wide variety of colors, widths and styles, ultra-durable Gem Ceramic is the perfect alternative to traditional precious metal designs at a fraction of the price.

With the freedom to mix-and-match, you can create a custom look that is sure to be all your own, like this Oreo ring, which pairs a 4mm comfort-fit white band with matching 2mm round black accents!

Etienne Perret Colored Diamond Bands On Ringspotter

2010-12-15T06:38:00.000-08:00

Etienne's Gem Ceramic collection has been getting so much attention lately, that's it's nice to know that people are still falling fresh in love with his wide range of traditional precious metal designs--especially when that person is a respected jewelry critic like our new friend Vanessa of Ringspotters!

Amongst many other fine designs, Ringspotters took a special liking to Etienne's colored diamond channel bands. They were quick to recognize the channel bands potential as both unique wedding or commitment bands and as stunning fashion rings, with nearly limitless options for customization.

I mean, how much more freedom can you have than being able to choose which color of 18kt gold or platinum, the size of the diamonds and whether they go all the way around or just half way...not to mention having the freedom to choose from a diamond color palette as wide as the rainbow!

Two can be used as paired wedding bands around a beautiful Etienne Perret colored diamond engagement ring, or several, in one or more colors, can be stacked as a jaw-dropping fashion ring combination! However you choose to wear them, you can't go wrong with Etienne's colored diamond channel bands!

Jewelry Designer Etienne Perret: An Active Member Of The Mid-Coast Maine Community

2010-12-05T08:03:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that Etienne doesn't spend every waking moment thinking about jewelry?! Actually, he's an extremely active member of his Mid-coast Maine community.

As a long time member of the Chamber of Commerce, retired volunteer firefighter, and member (past president) of the local Rotary club, Etienne finds the time to be part of so many community organizations that really make a difference...

This week he was busy selling Christmas trees to locals during West Bay Rotary of Camden's 23rd annual Christmas Tree Sale! All profits are donated to Camden area charities and local town assistance funds. Rotary is truly a wonderful organization. If you're not already familiar, please take the time to learn more about the Rotary clubs in your area and the generous projects they are involved in. You may well find something you think is worth supporting!

Thanks to VillageSoup.com for covering this story and their great content, day in and day out! Have a happy holiday, and if you're still without a Christmas tree, now you now where to get one!

Etienne Perret's Colored Diamond & Gem Ceramic Designs Hit New York City

2010-12-04T07:44:00.000-08:00

While Etienne spends much of his time time on the road, sharing his stunning jewelry designs with fine folks from all around the country and the world, somehow it's rare that we end up doing events in the Big Apple.

All the more reason that Etienne is delighted to be sharing his exciting new Gem Ceramic collection and colored diamond designs at the 9th annual Jewelry Sample Sale Extravaganza in NYC!

Set up by Susan Michel, this great sale features nine talented jewelry designers as well as designer leather products and gourmet candies!

Taking place at Divine Studio, the atmosphere of this event is quite wonderful and situated in the heart of trendy lower Manhattan. If you're in the area, don't miss your chance to meet Etienne and check out his beautiful designs!

Many products will be on sale and a portion of all proceeds will go to "Guiding Eyes for the Blind," a great cause, that is especially relevant on the hectic streets of NYC.

Divine Studio, 21 E. 4th Street (corner Lafayette), suite 605, New York, NY.

December 10-11, 11am-7pm both days.

Blind jewelry designer and friends host sample sale extravaganza

Event to benefit Guiding Eyes for the Blind

Jewelry designer Susan Michel is producing her ninth annual sample sale, to be held on Friday December 10^th and Saturday, December 11^th, from 11:00am – 7:00pm. Because Michel is waiting to receive a guide dog, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the non-profit organization Guiding Eyes for the Blind.

Michel has been a jewelry designer for the past 25 years. She began losing her vision five years ago due to a degenerative disease of the retina. With only 10% of her vision remaining, Michel is now legally blind. This hasn’t held her back from her passion for jewelry design; a talented staff member sketches ideas and projects them onto a large screen where Michel is able to view them.

Michel currently makes her way around the city with the use of a white cane, but has been struggling since her additional vision loss. She’s a lifelong dog lover, and will be receiving a guide dog early next year. She hopes a dog will improve her quality of life and her ability to travel independently.

Eight other award-winning jewelry designers - each with a full showcase of fabulous items offered at reduced prices – will be in attendance: Catherine Iskiw, Etienne Perret, Jane Gordon, Jessica Fields, JKG and Associates, Murano Di Susanne and Natalie Frigo. Also exhibiting will be a leather accessories company, and JJ Sweets - a gourmet candy company.

What: Jewelry show and sample sale

Where: Divine Studio. 21 East Fourth Street, Suite 6. New York, N.Y.
When: Friday, December 10 and Saturday, December 11, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

About Guiding Eyes for the Blind

Guiding Eyes for the Blind, an internationally accredited nonprofit guide dog school, was founded in 1954 to enrich the lives of blind and visually impaired men and women by providing them with the freedom to travel safely, thereby assuring greater independence, dignity and expanded horizons of opportunity. Since that time, Guiding Eyes has become one of the foremost guide dog schools in the world, graduating more than 7,000 guide dog teams. It provides superbly bred Guiding Eyes dogs, professional training and follow-up support services to students at no cost to them and depends on contributions to fulfill its mission. The comprehensive cost of breeding, raising, preparing, training, and supporting a Guiding Eyes team is $45,000. Guiding Eyes for the Blind's Headquarters and Training Center is located in Yorktown Heights, NY and the Canine Development Center is in Patterson, NY.

Press Contacts

Susan Michel: 888.738.3400 or smltd@hotmail.com

For Guiding Eyes: Michelle Brier at 914.243.2208 or mbrier@guidingeyes.org

Etienne Perret Designs For Charity

2010-11-24T20:45:00.000-08:00

Every year Etienne donates a number of his designs for auctions to support a variety of causes. This stunning Gem Ceramic Philippine golden pearl fashion ring was donated for the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show auction.

All proceeds will support the purchase works of art and craft for the permanent collections of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, to fund conservation and publication projects, and to support exhibitions and education programs.

Cheers to the lucky auction winner who acquired this ring at only half of its retail value! We hope she cherishes it, wears it often, shares it with her friends and appreciates the cause to which the proceeds went!

Stay up to date with Etienne Perret's latest events on Facebook, to make sure you have the opportunity to participate in Etienne's next charity auction, for the chance to acquire one of his gorgeous designs at a discount price!

Gem Ceramic By Etienne Perret Hits The United Kingdom

2010-11-15T03:48:00.000-08:00

It's a very special feeling for an artist when their work gets recognized far away from home. ProfessionalJeweller.com is one of the UK's leading jewelry websites and offers great insight into the complex world of fine jewelry.

Recently the editors of Professional Jeweller discovered the Gem Ceramic collection and decided, despite the giant puddle jump and Etienne's relative lack of exposure in the UK, his designs were well worth the attention of their readers. Well done guys, no one can deny your good taste!

A gallery featuring some of Etienne's exceptional new Gem Ceramic designs is viewable here...

Etienne Perret Joins Farlang: The Consumer's Jewelry Resource

2010-11-13T04:37:00.000-08:00

Etienne Perret has recently become a member designer at Farlang.com--a great new consumer targeted online jewelry resource. It is a wonderful place for regular people to learn more about the wonderful world of jewelry, gemstones, and the finest designers from around the world.

With development in full swing, Farlang is already leaving its competition in the dust by utilizing more online resources and social media sites than any other online jewelry website in its approach towards a broad-based educational experience for jewelry lovers world wide. It's not just about selling jewelry, it's a community developed around the goal of connecting with, understanding and educating the consumer all in one stop.

Like I said, Farlang is passionate about the idea of utilizing social media to its full potential, and that includes sharing valuable jewelry information with the general public through Scrib'd. One of Etienne's educational newsletters covering color enhanced natural diamonds and their numerous fine qualities was recently featured on Farlang's Scrib'd page--check it out!

Visit Etienne's Farlang member profile!