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1. BARBIE’S DREAM JEWELS
She’s been painted by Warhol, had careers from astronaut to doctor, and had a shelf of books written about her. But now that Barbie’s getting on in years (hitting the big five-oh on March 9, 2009), it’s about time that she’s finally getting her first collection of real jewelry. The new “Barbie Rocks by Layna and Alan Friedman” jewelry collection features the doll’s familiar silhouette executed in everything from sterling silver to pink diamonds. The partnership between the Friedmans and Mattel began in 2006 with the creation of a custom-made Barbie pendant donated as an auction item for Mattel’s annual event to benefit the Children Affected by AIDS Foundation. A portion of the proceeds from each item in the new collection will be donated to CAAF.

The new co-branded line includes three signature necklace styles: the “Luxe” Barbie pendant and dog tag, both in 18k white, yellow, or rose gold with white or black diamonds or yellow or pink sapphires, and the “Classic” in sterling silver. Chunky, chain-style Barbie toggle bracelets are available in sterling silver with 18k rose gold charms or gem-set charms. Retails range from $185 to $15,000.

2. STAMP OF APPROVAL
Despite the fact that it’s undeniably photogenic, it’s surprisingly rare to see a postage stamp that features jewelry. In fact, there are only about three, compared to 40 stamps that feature loose diamonds. That’s why it’s news that a new Belgian stamp, one of a five-stamp series on life in Antwerp, shows an award-wining necklace design from the HRD Awards 2007 design competition. The dramatic necklace was designed by Reena Ahluwalia, with diamonds contributed by Diarough. In this issue of Modern Jeweler, Ahluwalia discusses entering design contests (page 88). If you find her story inspiring, entries for the HRD Awards 2009, with the theme, “Once upon a time, my favorite fairy tale,” are due on October 31, 2008. For more information, visit www.hrdawards.com.

3. THREE PLATINUM RINGS: A GOOD THING
Martha Stewart Weddings and Platinum Guild International are challenging you to design a case display that “captures the essence of platinum” and effectively merchandises the three platinum bridal rings, her engagement ring and his and her wedding rings, as a set. Four finalists will be featured in the fall 2008 issue of Martha Stewart Weddings. One grand prize winner will not only receive a trophy, but also a lunch catered by Martha Stewart Weddings for their whole store staff. To enter the contest, take a picture of your three ring display and submit it to Martha Stewart Weddings by June 10, 2008. Display tips and contest rules are available at www.platinumguild.com.

4. DESIGNERS SHOWCASED AT FORBES GALLERIES
Consumers will get a glimpse into the world of contemporary jewelry design at the 2008 Designer Showcase, a new exhibit presented by the National Jewelry Institute at the Forbes Galleries in New York until June 28, 2008. It features an eclectic selection of hundreds of pieces by 40 designers and brands, ranging from fashion brands not known for jewelry like Gucci and Giorgio Armani, to institutions like Cartier and Bulgari, to contemporary manufacturers like Bicego and John Hardy, to lesser-known individual designers who hand-make one-of-a-kind elaborate pieces like Sandra Muller and Leila Tai. Other designers featured in the exhibit include Gurhan, Stephen Webster, Judith Ripka, Roberto Coin, Dominique Cohen, Stephanie Albertson, Temple St. Clair, Tanya Farah, Ippolita, Vhernier, and Steven Zale. The showcase will travel to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from July 19, 2008, to January 18, 2009.