Owners Gary and Cheryl Sanchez with daughters Lauren and Danielle Sanchez and longtime partner David Santos.
ABOUT US
Celebrating 40 years in business in 2024, Gary Sanchez began his career in jewelry while in the Coast Guard in 1984. One day, while returning to his base in St. Peters- burg, FL, he donned a gold necklace he had just purchased on shore. Gary sold that gold chain off of his neck. The men then began to talk about the fact that they liked jewelry, but hated shopping for it. Gary had a different experience. He actually enjoyed shopping for jewelry and finding the best prices. The crew began asking Gary to purchase for them, and that was the birth of his business. When his term ended, he re-evaluated his GI Bill and realized he didn’t have enough money for college. He took the $2,500, hired one employee, and opened a small kiosk in a local mall. After three weeks, Gary had thousands of dollars in deposits towards the sample jew- elry he had in his kiosk. Gary’s high school sweetheart and wife, Cheryl, joined him and was responsible for the bookkeeping and accounting. She acts as CFO of Diamonds Direct today. Gary soon hired a 15-year-old high school student named David who regularly spent time at the mall with his friends. Gary approached the familiar face and asked if he wanted a job. A friendship was born. David is now the COO of Diamonds Direct. The kiosk business was short-lived as Gary soon moved into a storefront. He subscribed to every trade magazine possible and further extended his education with GIA and IJO College. The storefront was located in a part of town that experts deemed undesirable. It was the only real estate available within Gary’s reach. Shortly after moving into the storefront, he was burglarized. He lost everything. Gary and Cheryl had no choice but to start over. He flew to Antwerp, Belgium to restock his lost diamonds and sparked a tradition to fly overseas twice a year to import diamonds. Gary still flies to Antwerp for diamonds today. Gary began to design. His designs caught on and he implemented the use of CAD/ CAM. Gary has since been commissioned by organizations such as The Salvador Dali Museum, Florida Holocaust Museum, Mahaffey Theater, and The Junior League of St. Petersburg.
SUNDIAL 117 Second Avenue North St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 867-4006
DIAMONDS DIRECT TODAY
After decades of building a strong portfolio of designs and a stellar reputation with a wide client base–regardless of his location–Gary was asked to move to the city’s newest iconic lifestyle center, Sundial. At Sundial, he and his youngest daughter, Danielle, designed the store of his dreams. His wife and oldest daughter, Lauren, organized the transfer of inventory and files. The new location opened in 2014 and has become the premier destination for tourists and locals alike. Opening day brought every local news channel. They all agree on one thing: This is a store you MUST see for yourself.
2 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
20
CONTENTS
6
24
32
OUT & ABOUT
4
UPGRADE YOUR DIAMOND
21
WHAT’S HOT?
6
JACKIE Z WEDDING ATTIRE
22
SIMON G. COLLECTIONS
12
OUR RADIANT COUPLES
24
THE SUNSHINE CUT
13
A JOYOUS FAMILY CELEBRATION
26
JYE INTERNATIONAL
14
CHARCUTERIE BOARDS
30
PIYARO COLLECTION
16
THE FRENCH MARTINI
31
TRAVELING WITH JEWELRY
18
STRIKE UP THE BAND
32
CARING FOR YOUR JEWELRY
19
REPAIRS & CUSTOM DESIGN
34
LAB GROWN VS. NATURAL
20
Danielle Sanchez, Editor in Chief Diamonds Direct. Sundial, 117 Second Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 • Tel (727) 867-4006 Diamonds Direct Magazine is published through the CBG member program © 2023 Diamonds Direct. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
3 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
OUT & ABOUT
wearing
John William Barger III styling custom gemstone and diamond rings while overseas in Switzerland and beyond
Cristina Amaya with husband Louis Denoly wearing a custom emerald ring in Paris, France
Bo Bichette of the Toronto Blue Jays
John William Barger III in Geneva, Switzerland
Kaye and Jim Pollard at Oxford Exchange
Danielle and Roy Baker in downtown Tampa
Rachel Covello wearing a one-of-a-kind pearl and sapphire necklace and earring set at the Equality Florida Gala
Donna Gonzalez wearing an eternity tennis necklace photographed by Jessica McKnight
Crystal Culbertson, Jeanna Damkoehler, and Danielle Sanchez wearing assorted blue diamond and white diamond jewelry at Oxford Exchange
Kathy Lopez with husband Robbie Lopez in a yellow diamond heart-shaped necklace at the ALPHA House Butterfly Ball
4 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
LET’S GET SOCIAL
Join us on Facebook and Instagram Share your special moments and follow along with the latest trends, styles and designers.
@diamondsdirectstpete
@diamondsdirectstpete
5 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
what’s hot ?
strands headbands brooches chokers clasps
pearls
From heirloom to modern chic, pearls never go out of style, but this year, they’re sitting at the peak of the trend cycle, and their popularity shows no signs of abating. The reason is simple: versatility. A piece of pearl jewelry can be almost anything: retro, modern, avant-garde, maximalist, elegant, even colorful. A pearl can convey elegance, but it can also convey power, and not just for women. The pearl strand — yes, strand — has become a hot accessory for men. The current pearl trend is not tied to a specific type of pearl or design. It’s an anything-goes wave that embraces the gamut, beginning with traditional strands. They’re back, and they’re rocking everything from jeans to gowns. Unsure? Check out Kim Kardashian and Salma Hayek on the red carpet at the 2023 Met Gala.
6 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
tennis
bracelets
Diamond tennis bracelets are back in a big way, and we couldn’t be more excited at Diamonds Direct. You can thank 70s sports icon Chris Evert, who favored wearing a diamond line bracelet on the court during her many championship runs. Soon after, this gotta-have accessory hit pop culture super-status. Today, the tennis bracelet’s simple and elegant beauty is a coveted jewelry wardrobe staple, becoming “the jewelry must” regularly making its way down the aisle. Not only is it an iconic piece for any wedding ensemble, but it’s one that has the ability to become a treasured heirloom item in any precious gem collection.
7 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
what’s hot ?
ear candy
Some of the go-to piercing trends from the past few years are still as big as ever. Ear stacking, or the style of having multiple earrings, and nose piercings continue to be popular ways to show off your style, especially as we prepare for the chillier months.
Curated Ears Curated ears are everywhere this year and Diamonds Direct loves the youthful vibe of a well-appointed ear stack. Mixing different earring styles, textures and colors creates a look that’s visually interesting and fresh.
Dazzling Diamond Earrings Embrace the earring trend that will never go out of style with a pair of diamond earrings. From diamond studs to diamond drops, diamond earrings are providing the sparkle we need in this holiday season.
Sculptural Earrings The popularity of metal jewelry with sculptural silhouettes is expected to soar in 2024.
Earrings featuring geometric shapes are unique and sophisticated and are sure to be an outfit-maker, if not a conversation starter!
Celestial Earrings Many people find themselves drawn to celestial jewelry, whether for its whimsical, playful charm or its seeming connection to the universe and the great beyond. Moons and stars are among the most popular symbols in celestial jewelry. Hoop Earrings Hoop earrings are a favorite trend that evolves from year to year. Sleek gold and silver styles in every size continue to be popular for everyday wear, while hoops embellished with diamonds take your ensemble up a notch. You can
even double up your hoops, mixing various sizes and textures to create a unique and fashion-forward look.
8 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
yellow
gold
In recent years, yellow gold jewelry has experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity, surpassing its white gold and platinum counterparts. Its warm, timeless allure and ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia have captivated a new generation of jewelry enthusiasts. Yellow gold’s versatility allows it to effortlessly complement various styles and skin tones, making it a favored choice for engagement rings and everyday adornments. This resurgence is also driven by a preference for classic, vintage aesthetics in fashion. As a result, yellow gold’s unique ability to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary elegance has propelled it to the forefront of jewelry trends, securing its place as a beloved and enduring choice in the world of fine jewelry.
9 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
what’s hot ?
thesealife
Throughout 2023, one of the most distinctive trends to emerge was one that embraced sea life. This overarching aquatic theme largely translated to designs featuring shells, fish, and other beach themes. A recent article in Vogue gives the pieces its own category: “vacation jewelry.” How fortunate are we in Florida to live this lifestyle year round? Many people are drawn to the intricate details and textures of sea-inspired jewelry, which often features motifs such as starfish, seahorses, shells, and other creatures. Additionally, sea life jewelry can serve as a reminder of holidays or special moments, making it a sentimental and meaningful accessory for many people. Come take a look at our very own Diamonds Direct St. Petersburg Collection!
10 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
Natural fancy intense-color diamonds are rare: for every colored diamond found, including yellow, blue, and pink, there are at least 10,000 colorless ones. For yellow diamonds, the deeper, purer, and more saturated colors are usually the rarest, most costly, and most desirable. Diamonds are the hardest of all gemstones and, therefore, reflect light with a brilliance that outshines all others. Colored diamonds have emerged as a favorite gemstone because of this unique glow. And because they are so rare, they make a unique style statement when set in jewelry. Yellow might be the most desired and Diamonds Direct has an incredible selection to choose from. After all, it’s his love of yellow diamonds that earned owner Gary Sanchez the nickname “Canary Gary.” yellowdiamonds
11 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
Simon Ghanimian came to the United States from Armenia with only $200 in his pocket. He saved up enough money to obtain materials to make jewelry and began selling his creations by going door-to-door. Later, he moved to Los Angeles to open his own business. Today Simon G. blends inspiration from jewelry history with modern and bold details to create a unique and exquisite range of jewelry designs.
SIMON G. “My parents handed down the values of honest, hard work to all their children. We were taught that if you could build something with your hands, you’d never go hungry. When I first came to America, I had $200 in my pocket and a dream of going to college to be an engineer. But when I tried to sign up for classes in New York, they were thousands of dollars! Luckily, I had a relative working in the diamond district who invited me to work there and save up for school. I started setting diamonds and soon fell in love with the process, artistry, and details of jewelry making. Before long, what started as a hobby became a passion. I began making my own designs in my spare time and saving up for more jewelry-making materials instead of classes. “My, how things have changed since then. Now, Simon G. has many designers from all around the world, and our handcrafted work is sold in over 900 stores across North America. As proud as I am of what we’ve accomplished, I still get my biggest thrill from creating a new piece. Sitting down and sketching out an idea is as magical to me now as it was the very first time I did it, whether it’s a traditional wedding ring or a bracelet with multicolored gemstones.”
LIFELONG PURSUIT OF BEAUTY
One-of-a-Kind Opal Necklace: $6,380 Available for purchase only at Diamonds Direct in St. Petersburg, FL.
Yellow Gold Diamond Mosaic Ring: $3,344
Yellow Gold Fashion Ring: $3,476
-- Simon Ghanimian
FOCUS ON QUALITY Simon G. is committed to producing only the finest quality jewelry in order to do justice to their creative visions. As a concept is formed into reality, the jewelry piece is monitored at 10 separate quality-control stations. Metals are alloyed in- house to ensure enduring hardiness and perfectly matching color tones. Details are celebrated in extraordinarily delicate beadwork, filigree, and engraving that set their pieces apart. All pieces are polished, not only on the top surface, but also on the back, interior, and underneath the stones to create the most light-reflecting surfaces.
12 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
J Y E
DIAMONDS DIRECT
LUXURY COLLECTION
ED3237 - Platinum Earrings; 0.33 ct Rounds, 1.23 ct Baguettes. MSRP $12,500
JYE
Founded nearly 40 years ago by Jennifer Chang, Jye International Inc. has evolved from a major provider of fine South Sea and cultured pearls to a high-end designer/manufacturer of classic and contemporary diamond and precious gemstone jewelry. Since their humble beginnings, their services have expanded across international borders and reached global corners. Jye takes pride in selecting only G/ VS+ premium cut diamonds and fine colored gemstones of the highest quality to craft beautiful pieces of artwork. Jye jewelry combines top- quality materials, exquisite design, and remarkable workmanship to reflect the elegance and natural beauty of those who wear it. Throughout the years, they have maintained an unwavering commitment to pursuing exceptional quality.
RB39440 - Muticolored Sapphire Butterfly Ring made of Palladium and 18K White Gold. 1.56 ct round diamonds. MSRP $13,750
RB36968 - Multicolored Sapphire Ring made of Palladium and 18K White Gold. 0.33 ct Round Diamonds. MSRP $8,750
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Most of our products are G Color and VS. Baguettes are generally F color and VVS. We do our best to select the best color stones without dullness.
Jye takes great pride in their selection of rich rubies, enchanting emeralds, and brilliantly blue sapphires. Each carefully crafted piece is made using 18k white gold or platinum and framed by only the finest G-VS premium-cut diamonds. Jye jewelry is finished from every angle, inside and out, allowing the wearer to truly experience the essence of luxury. A COMMITMENT TO QUALITY From materials to manufacturing, Jye’s jewelry is among the highest quality in the industry. Jye caters to an elite consumer; one who values the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into each piece, in addition to the time and effort it takes to sourcing their premium cut diamonds and colored gemstones. The result is simply breathtaking, allowing the wearer to experience luxury at its finest.
RE61222 - Certified 17.63 ct Emerald Ring with 4.83 ct Baguettes, 1.98 ct Marquise. MSRP $375,000
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To Hold
&Behold
At the heart of every classic tale is an element of timelessness and tradition, and PiyaRo by Aiya Designs embodies both. Here at Diamonds Direct, you don’t just shop for jewelry; you shop for an experience, crafting a narrative that’s all yours. And PiyaRo relays your saga in style. THE ESSENCE OF PIYARO PiyaRo is a brand built upon legacy and heritage. Each statement piece is a testament to a meticulous craft and an undying love for exceptional jewelry-making. Characterized by its predominant use of lustrous sterling silver, pure 14k solid gold, and the uncompromising sparkle of diamonds, each PiyaRo piece is a vow to luxury, elegance, and relentless quality. Behind the gleam of every PiyaRo pendant and the sparkle of every bracelet lies a story of traditional values, of artisans who pour their heart and soul into creating jewelry that isn’t merely worn but experienced. With a commitment to time-honored techniques and dedication to detail, PiyaRo ensures that every individual embellishment stands as a passionately handcrafted masterpiece.
$2,279
$1,499
$1,499
$2,399
$2,399
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$2,099
HOLD AND BEHOLD EXCELLENCE PiyaRo’s brand slogan, “Hold and Behold Excellence,” isn’t just a statement — it’s a promise. It invites you to not only admire the beauty of each piece from a distance but to feel its weight, texture, and essence in your hand. To hold a PiyaRo creation is to behold an art form passed down through generations and brought to life with contemporary elegance. At Diamonds Direct, we are proud to house PiyaRo — a brand that epitomizes the zenith of jewelry craftsmanship. So, the next time you’re seeking a piece that resonates with history, art, and unparalleled craftsmanship, you know where to find it.
$1,649
$2,249
$2,999
$3,299
$2,399
17 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
Jet-setting with your precious gems? Remember, your jewelry deserves as much care on vacation as it does at home. Our number one tip? Always carry jewelry and other valuables in your carry-on because checked bags are a no-go for these treasures. But jewelry travel care starts long before you get to the airport. When packing, keep earrings in individual pouches. Make sure to keep necklaces clasped and separated to avoid tangles and use a dedicated travel case. Keep that sterling silver jewelry shiny by remembering to pack a cleaning cloth, and don’t forget to take advantage of the hotel safe when you reach your destination. This extra care ensures your items won’t scratch and dent while you’re on the move. with jewelry TRAVELING
18 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
Whether it’s a ring, necklace or bracelet, gold jewelry lends class and sophistication to your outfit. Gold keeps its beauty and luster for years without tarnishing, but silver needs special care and all jewelry worn regularly gets dirty. It’s important to know how to clean your jewelry safely. The number one tip for all jewelry: Never soak jewelry set with glued gemstones because the hot water might loosen the stones. Instead, clean the jewelry with a soft cloth soaked in soapy water. Rinse and let the jewelry dry upside down to prevent water from soaking into the gem setting. How to Safely Care for Your Jewelry
GOLD
SILVER Sterling silver is often best worn alone, without other metals to scratch or warp the soft silver surface. Silver will turn black when exposed to an alkali. Remove all silver jewelry when you are swimming or doing dishes, because anything chlorine or bleach-based can damage the tender silver. Silver will turn black over time from oxidization. When not wearing your silver jewelry (your skin’s oils naturally protect the metal), bag your silver pieces so the air can’t get to them and tarnish them. This explains why silver jewelry seems to hold its integrity of color longer than silverware. Water makes silver dull, so wipe off your silver fully after cleaning. Avoid all hair products, including hair spray, bleach, and hair dye, (and perfumes) as these chemicals can also make your silver tarnish and turn black. When cleaning silver, wipe with a cotton cloth and only use a cleaning solution designed for silver and precious metals. Silver can be easily damaged and worn. Do not use household cleaning agents like dish soap or hand soap to regularly clean your silver, as it will tarnish. Silver can have a natural sunny looking hue. Depending on the age and thickness of your silver piece, it can appear more gold than silver or even a pinkish color. This is fine and acceptable. If you have silver jewelry that requires a deep cleaning, or a professional polish to make it sparkle like new, don’t hesitate to bring it by. Our jewelry professionals can restore the showroom shine of your precious silver pieces and provide you with the correct solutions to maintain that luster longer.
DIAMONDS While diamonds are the hardest of
Boiling Water
Perhaps the easiest way to clean gold jewelry is to boil a pot of water and submerge your jewelry for no longer than one minute. Hot water is a great way to loosen oil, grease, and grime. When the water has sufficiently cooled, carefully remove the jewelry, gently brush the items and then rinse. Do not attempt this on porous stones. Only use this method on diamonds, gold, and platinum.
gemstones, they are not indestructible and still require care. Engagement and wedding rings are most vulnerable to being lost or damaged because of their daily use. Though the diamond is lauded as being hardy, this can make people less careful with their diamond rings even when they are often the pieces of jewelry with the most sentimental value and are, therefore, the most precious. The upkeep of your diamond ring will help ensure its value and integrity are preserved. Over the course of time, your diamond can be dulled by exposure to everyday substances. To prevent this, don’t allow the buildup to become too severe. When cleaning your diamond ring, avoid chemicals or harmful solutions, as they can damage the metals and weaken the structure of your ring. Use warm, soapy water with liquid soap. For a more intense clean, find a soft toothbrush, or a child’s toothbrush, and gently work around the stone and setting. Don’t be too rough with the cleaning, and dry with a lint-free cloth. For special occasions you can have your diamond ring professionally cleaned for that added glint. Over time, your diamond ring will be bumped, smacked and hit in your everyday movements. Though your ring should be able to withstand most of those sorts of experiences, you should schedule regular checkups with us. Prongs are especially vulnerable, and when they become loose, you are in danger of losing your stone. At your checkup, our jeweler can ascertain the strength of the setting and tighten it up for better security when necessary. This is a highly advised preventative measure to keep your diamond ring intact.
Soap and Water
Use warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Drop the jewelry in the bowl and let it soak for half an hour. Gently loosen any remaining dirt with a soft bristled toothbrush. Use a light hand to prevent scratching the gold. Rinse.
Toothpaste
To clean your gold jewelry with toothpaste, squirt some of the paste onto a soft bristled toothbrush. Be sure to use a non-abrasive toothpaste, as those small beads can scratch jewelry while scrubbing. Using a circular motion, gently brush the metal to remove skin oil and grime.
Alcohol
Alcohol is also an effective way of cleaning jewelry, but if there are any precious or semi-precious stones, you must pay attention to how they are set. If the stones are set in glue, don’t use alcohol as it will dissolve the glue.
Cleaning Cloth
If you don’t want to use water or any chemicals, gold jewelry can be cleaned with a special gold cleaning cloth. The cloth can also be used to clean silver, brass, and other metals. This method requires quite a bit of effort, but it delivers excellent results. One tip: don’t wash the cloth when it gets dirty. The dirtier the cloth, the better it works.
19 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
1 CTW
1.5 CTW
Buy ANY of these items for just $999* * See inserted coupon for details
1 CTW
Lab Grown vs. Natural DIAMONDS
1 CTW
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Lab-grown diamonds have carved out a niche in the world of jewelry, and while they won’t ever replace natural diamonds, they’re here to stay. We’re here to detail the attributes of both, so you can make an informed choice. In the technical sense, there is no difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds. Lab-grown contain all the same physical properties as the ones made by Mother Nature. The difference is that lab-grown diamonds are created through technological processes. They are synthetic, which does not mean the same thing as simulant. They have exactly the same properties as natural diamonds; one of which is hardness. Because diamonds are so durable, they last forever, which makes them perfect for jewelry that will be worn every day and passed on to the next generation. Some people have a preference for natural diamonds, and why not? There is something awe-inspiring about their origin. The world’s most important diamonds — the Cullinan (of which we have a replica in our showroom), the Hope, the Taylor-Burton, etc. — are miracles of nature, which makes them eternally valuable. While those took billions of years to make, lab-grown diamonds have the advantage of being produced in a matter of weeks. This accelerated production process significantly reduces the cost, making them accessible to a broad range of consumers. And because they’re made in a laboratory, origin-conscious consumers can feel confident about where their diamonds came from (rest
assured we at Diamonds Direct ethically source our natural diamonds, too). The production of lab-grown diamonds can be closely controlled, so many have exceptional color and clarity characteristics, meeting the high standards of discerning buyers who would otherwise pay a higher price for a comparable natural diamond. Whether you choose lab-grown or natural, nothing will ever compare to the beauty and elegance of a diamond. It’s a win-win, either way!
Compare the Differences Is it a diamond? Chemical Composition Source Time Taken to Create Independently Certified
Mined Diamonds X X The Earth 1 to 3 Billion Years X Through the Kimberly Process X
Lab-Created Diamonds X X A Laboratory Several Weeks to Months
X X
100% Conflict-Free
Does it test as a real diamond vs. a simulated diamond? Price Comparison (of comparable quality and size)
X
$$$$
$$
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Upgrade Your
DIAMOND
Remember those early days when love was fresh and budgets were tight? Her diamond ring beautifully captured that moment in time. But over the years, your bond has deepened, your family has grown, and now it’s time her diamond reflect that journey. So, why not upgrade it for her? Or perhaps she has a beloved pair of stud earrings have become part of her daily ensemble. Just imagine the dazzle in her eye when you upgrade those, too. Remember: when it comes to diamond jewelry, the bigger the diamond, the brighter the sparkle. At Diamonds Direct, we offer a unique opportunity for our customers to receive 100% of what they originally invested in their diamond towards a new upgraded one.
21 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
Casual Daytime WEDDING
Styled by Jackie Z
and Danielle Sanchez
Jackie Z Style Co. is an award winning luxury boutique located in
downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, specializing in women’s and men’s fashions.
What to Wear this Wedding Season
Outdoor Cocktail WEDDING
22 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
Semi-Formal WEDDING
Renowned for their unparalleled customer service and extensive range of brands that include Gucci, Alice & Olivia, Ramy Brook, Louis Vuitton, Robert Graham, Vintage Chanel, Milly, Frame, Theory and Psycho Bunny. Jackie Z’s recently expanded its selection of home decor and gifts with the Baobob Home Fragrance Collection.
Jackie Z Style Co 113 2nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701 www.jackiezstyle.com
Black Tie WEDDING
23 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
Bre & Taylor
Eric and Abby
Nicole and Ben
Ally and Dustin
IT IS OUR PRIVILEGE TO HAVE PLAYED A ROLE IN YOUR BIGGEST MOMENTS Radiant COUPLES
Kaitlyn and Tyler
Jennifer and Ryan
Jake & Abby Katelyn and Dave
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Jordan and Kyle
Megan and Ben
Lindsey and Kyle
Lauren and Michael
There is no remedy for love, but to love more . –THOREAU
Shannon and Kyle
Julia and JJ
Sam and Danny
Tracy and Cristal
Lindi and Jamison
25 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
SATURDAY, AUGUST 12, 2023
A Day of Joyous
For Our Family CELEBRATION
A big thank you to the local businesses who helped make this day a dream come true:
Wedding Planner: Sloan Design PR Invitation Suite: A&P Designs, Saint Petersburg, FL Spray Tans: BLB Luxury, Saint Petersburg, FL Makeup: Ashlee Ann Makeup and Flawless By Frank Groom Hair: The Shave Cave, Saint Petersburg, FL Bride Hair: Olivia Poppy Salon, Saint Petersburg, FL Dress: Calvet Couture, Sarasota, FL Tuxedo: Sartorial Inc, Saint Petersburg, FL Jewelry: Diamonds Direct, Saint Petersburg, FL Photographer: Ryan Joseph Photography, Tampa, FL Videographer: Sundial Creatives, Tampa, FL Band: Matt Winter Band Cake: Elise’s Pieces, Tampa, FL
Flowers: Tailored Twig, Tampa, FL Transportation: His & Hers Limo Cigar Rolling: El Guarjiro Cigars, Tampa, FL
26 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
On August 12, 2023 the family behind Diamonds Direct (DD) finally got to experience their own treasured wedding. The evening was shared with close friends and family to celebrate the newly married couple. Danielle, the bride, is the second-generation family member to be a part of Diamonds Direct, which has been in the family for nearly 40 years. William, the groom, is extremely happy to be able to stand by his wife as she carries on her family’s legacy. Choosing to build their roots in Tampa Bay together, the couple worked with all locally owned businesses for the details of their wedding day. From the dazzling jewelry details to the local businesses the St. Pete-native bride trusted, keep reading.
29 D IRECT 27 HAYDEN JEWELERS MAGAZINE D IAMONDS
Jye 3-Tier Earrings Available for $67,499
Flexi Bracelet 5.50CTW Available for $8,499
Leaf Diamond Ring Available for $2,999
YSL Perfume Customized by Highline Creations in Clearwater, FL
28 • DIAMONDS DIRECT
On September 8, 2022, on the secluded beach of Pau Pau Bay in Eleuthera, Bahamas, William had secretly prepared a message in a bottle hidden in the sand. During what was to be a short walk along the beach, he acted just as surprised as Danielle to find the glass bottle. Danielle opened the scroll within to find a handwritten letter. She became suspicious as she read William’s heartfelt words out loud. Then in absolute shock, she dropped the letter only to find William already on one knee, presenting her with the dream diamond ring she had designed with her father long ago. Beneath an arch made of driftwood, Danielle fell to her knees, accepting William’s proposal and his promise of forever. The platinum engagement ring features a custom-cut elongated diamond with two tapered baguettes on either side finished off with small round diamonds going down the sides of the ring. While it is a one-of-a-kind ring, it is still timeless with the familiarity of a classic three-stone look.
One year later, in a celebration that resonated with timeless beauty and personal touches, the bride and groom embarked on their journey to forever love. Every detail of the wedding was meticulously planned. The wedding planner, Shannon Sloan, worked behind the scenes to ensure every detail fell seamlessly into place. The bride got ready at JW Marriott Water Street while the groom spent the morning on the Caddyshack Yacht (yes, the one shot in the movie) docked at the Tampa Convention Center Marina. The bride’s view of the water from the hotel suite perfectly placed her husband-to-be within her view. The groom’s morning started with a cold plunge courtesy of IceBurg Cold Plunge in Saint Petersburg, FL who set up a mobile ice bath for the groom and Best Man on the bow of the yacht. The bride’s morning began much more calmly with being pampered by Olivia Poppy Salon, owned by her high school best friend, Callie Barber.
The bride’s ensemble was carefully curated. With a background in the fashion industry (having worked at Vanity Fair Magazine before coming to work with her family at DD), styling a picture-perfect look was important to her. Her wedding band was a signature DD Buttercup emerald-cut eternity band, which brought out the elongated look of the center stone of her engagement ring. Her gown, by designer Eva Lendel, dawned a glittering intricate leaf design. Earrings by Jye’s International, a convertible three-tier dangle design, provided versatility that seamlessly transitioned from the ceremony to the reception. Complementing these were a double-wrap DD Flexi Collection diamond bangle and a leaf motif ring that harmonized with her wedding dress’s intricate embroidery. The look was finished off with a blusher veil and Manolo Blahnik heels. The mother of the bride,
in a diamond necklace from Jye, harmoniously matched with the bride’s earrings. The groom too, was adorned with exceptional pieces. He had not one, but two wedding bands, one in yellow gold for the ceremony, and another custom-made by Simon G, adorned with diamonds, a gift from the bride. Unconventional yet sophisticated, he donned a diamond and pearl pin instead of the typical floral boutonniere. It was a striking accessory that symbolized his unique style. The ceremony took place at Saint Mary our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, a haven of spirituality amidst the downtown bustle of St. Pete. The bride’s old principal from Saint Petersburg Catholic High School, Father John Serio, traveled from New York to officiate. It was important to the bride and groom to have their union blessed by someone who knew them, their family, and their friends. The reception, a vision of elegance, unfolded at Oxford Exchange in downtown Tampa. With the groom coming from a family who loves to cook, the couple wanted to treat their guests to a delicious meal. They knew the best way to impress everyone’s tastebuds was to have their reception at one of the best Tampa Bay restaurants. The team at Oxford Exchange certainly delivered. The guests were raving about the steak’s tenderness, the sea bass’ flakiness, and the salad’s creative ingredients. The cocktails were also mixed to perfection and topped off with custom ice cubes featuring the bride and groom’s initials.
The floral arrangements, an integral part of any wedding, were a work of art boasting orchids and roses in custom-dyed hues that perfectly complemented the day’s palette. The florals were also featured on the three-tier cake, which was served with a cake cutter set exquisitely made and engraved by Diamonds Direct. In honor of the bride’s Cuban heritage, guests were served a whipped buttercream almond cake with homemade guava curd. After the cake and a few heartfelt speeches, guests enjoyed coffee, cocktails, and cigars while dancing through the night.
This wedding was not merely a celebration; it was an homage to love, artistry, and lifelong bonds. It reminded us that when every detail is thoughtfully chosen, a wedding becomes a work of heart, an expression of love that lingers in our hearts forever.
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Setting up a charcuterie board with italian antipasti, cheese, and fruit is an artform! Try some rustic wood to set off the sumptuous colors and don’t forget to cut and display the items in the most appetizing way possible. It’s an instagram moment when done just right...and ooooohhhhh so delicious. When we aren’t making our own platters, some of our favorite local places to get charcuterie spreads are Allelo, Cheese by Vivs, 400 Beach, and Gather ‘Round & Graze.
At Diamonds Direct, charcuterie boards are one of our favorite, and most popular, hors d’oeuvres to serve at our store parties! The combination of salty, savory and sweet delight the senses and fill your belly. We select items that will complement the wine or drinks we serve for you to enjoy while you shop our events and visit with your friends.
CHARCUTERIE our love of
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The “French” moniker is due to the cocktail including Chambord black raspberry liqueur, which has been produced in France since the 17th century. The Chambord, along with the pineapple juice, adds rich fruit flavor to the drink. When shaken hard with plenty of ice, the pineapple juice creates a pleasantly creamy mouthfeel and a frothy head.
The FRENCH MARTINI
INGREDIENTS 2 oz. Vodka 1/2 oz. Chambord black raspberry liqueur 1.5 oz. Pineapple juice INSTRUCTIONS Step 1 Add the vodka, Chambord, and pineapple juice into a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled. Step 2 Fine-strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
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EXPRESSING AN INDIVIDUAL SENSE OF STYLE
STRIKE
BAND
up the
Gone are the days when a groom’s wedding ring was just a plain band of yellow gold or a chunkier version of his bride’s ring. Today, more and more grooms want a wedding band that expresses their personal style, and as a result, men’s wedding band styles have evolved to some very creative, stylish options. Men who are comfortable wearing jewelry every day approach the idea of shopping for a wedding band with more of a sense of what they want than men of previous generations did. Even men who don’t normally wear jewelry view it as an opportunity to play up their personal style. The wedding band may be the first piece of precious metal jewelry a man will wear, and too many options can overwhelm, so a simple rule is to match the personality to the metal. Gold and platinum bands are classic and remain the metals of choice for most grooms, but what makes these bands modern is a thinner width with a textured surface, such as carving, etching or hammering. Taking these precious metals and pairing them with black alternative
metals or carbon fiber is the perfect look for a guy whose style is creative, edgy, and at the forefront of any new trend. But to keep them from looking like a twisted iron nail, add a few small, flush-set round or square diamonds, or even a rough diamond in its natural state. It’s definitely not your grandfa- ther’s diamond ring! And, for the guy who wants to look a little hip but isn’t quite ready to go all-out black, look for rings that combine a high-polish metal with accents of black. Rugged types may prefer a contemporary metal, such as titanium, cobalt or stainless steel. These modern metals also appeal to guys who are fascinated with gadgets and technology. Whatever metal or style a groom prefers, from cutting-edge to stately and classic, the commitment it stands for makes it truly personal.
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THE GARY & DAVID COLLECTION
Not all rings are crafted the same. This is why each of our men’s bands reflect the quality, artistry, and experience of the master craftsman. Our Gary and David collection features creations that combine precious metals with high-end technologies. We are proud to manufacture our collection in
North America, where ongoing inspiration and innovations continue to earn our designers their reputation as a leader in the wedding band industry. Our mission is to offer a masterfully crafted assortment of wedding bands. And our commitment is to only utilize ethically sourced materials. In compliance with the United Nations resolutions, the diamonds and gold used to create each and every Gary and David band have been purchased from legitimate conflict-free sources.
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AT YOUR SERVICE:
Committed to Every Facet of Your Journey
At Diamonds Direct, we understand that your jewelry and watches are not just accessories; they are cherished symbols of precious moments and memories. Our state-of-the-art jewelry and watch repair professionals are ready to provide you with a world-class service experience to preserve the beauty and longevity of your timeless treasures. And when it comes to custom jewelry, our craftsman can create one-of-a-kind heirlooms you’ll cherish forever. Need an appraisal? We have you covered. Need something engraved? We can take care of it. At Diamonds Direct, our people are here to help with all your jewelry needs.
COMPREHENSIVE JEWELRY REPAIR Our jewelry repair services encompass various specialties to cater to your unique needs. From jewelry restoration and ring resizing to stone setting, pearl restringing, and bracelet repair, we handle every task with precision and attention to detail. Our in-house services extend beyond mere mending; they breathe new life into each piece, restoring them to their original glory. Our artisans are known to revive heirlooms with the same devotion as one would give a timeless masterpiece. And that’s merely the tip of the iceberg; our expertise encompasses a plethora of services designed to meet all your jewelry needs.
CUSTOM DESIGNED FOR YOU Do you have a vision for a one-of-a-kind necklace? Perhaps your soon-to-be bride envisions an engagement ring as unique and special as she is. No matter your imagination, Diamonds Direct can create it. The process begins with a one-on-one meeting where we’ll discuss your ideas and create a simple sketch that brings your vision to life. From there, your sketch becomes a digital design using Computer Aided Design (CAD) technology. This gives you a 3D look at your piece, allowing you to request any tweaks or adjustments before moving on to the next stage, a wax mold. The mold is used to cast your piece in the metal you’ve chosen. Here, the real magic begins, and this is where the expertise of our master goldsmiths shines. Once your unique design is cast, our artisans hand-finish the metal, ensuring every curve and edge meets our high-quality standards. Finally, the jewelry gets its finishing touches when our master stone setter carefully places each gemstone or diamond.
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WE VALUE YOUR JEWELRY Your jewelry is precious, and our appraisal services offer more than just a valuation; they provide peace of mind anchored in expertise and precision. Each appraisal is a thorough assessment of your jewelry, meticulously conducted by our GIA Graduate Gemologist. Whether you seek an examination for estate planning or insurance purposes, you can rest assured that our evaluations meet the highest standards of accuracy and professionalism. With Diamonds Direct, you don’t just get an appraisal — you receive a trusted assessment that empowers you to make informed decisions about your treasured pieces.
ENGRAVE A MESSAGE
Want to add a touch of personal elegance to your jewelry? Our engraving services can help you do just that. Using precise tools and a keen eye for detail, our expert engravers carefully etch your chosen words or designs, transforming your piece into a unique keepsake. From love notes on the inner band of a ring to special dates on the back of a watch, engraving adds an irreplaceable layer of personal significance, elevating your cherished items into timeless heirlooms.
IT’S ON THE HOUSE
As a Diamonds Direct customer, we extend our exceptional services beyond your purchase. Enjoy peace of mind for years to come with our free jewelry inspection, where each piece is examined for any wear or potential issues. Our complimentary jewelry and watch cleaning also employs specialized techniques to remove debris, restore shine, and ensure the longevity of your cherished items. With these value-added services, we aim to maintain not just the quality of your jewelry and watches but also the trust you place in Diamonds Direct.
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