Sharon is the winner of Mom•Logic’s national Trollbeads contest!

She won the Black and White Starter Bracelet from Trollbeads, and American Diamond Importers was chosen to present her with her prize at our store here in St. Clair, Michigan.

Sharon is in the middle flanked by Sandy Wood, the regional Trollbeads rep and ADI owner Patrick Coughlin.

ADI gifted Sharon with a bouquet of balloons and the popular Three Siblings charm to add to her new collection. Sharon had never even heard of Trollbeads before this contest, but her winnings have made her a convert for life.

“I can’t wait to send my husband here to get me more beads!” she exclaimed.

Now that we’ve made Sharon a Trollbeads aficionado, we would like to convert you too! If we haven’t already converted you, please drop by our store or visit us online to begin your own collection. Trollbeads are customizable, affordable, and best of all very very beautiful. Whatever your story, Trollbeads has a bead for you!

Out in the showroom, ADI’s fashionable customers can been seen carrying only the hottest new bags. These bags are not brand name and they don’t cost a fortune. But when they’re full, they’re worth a fortune. That’s because these bags are typically plastic and jam-packed with gold to sell.

Gold fever has hit American Diamond Importers! We welcome you to turn your unwanted gold and jewelry into cash or store credit. It’s easy, fast, and fun. Ready to take your old gold from clutter to cash? There are a couple of ways to go about it.

Sell Your Gold to ADI
First, you can take the in-person, in-store route. It’s ideal if you’re short on time and want to sell your gold right away. You’ll get a same-day quote and go home with a fattened wallet or store credit for future purchases if you choose. Gather up your gold booty and head in to American Diamond Importers in downtown St. Clair’s Riverview Plaza during business hours. No appointment is necessary unless you have diamonds and gemstones to sell.

Have Gold, Will Party
Second, consider hosting an ADI Gold Party! It’s a fun way to make money while spending time with friends and family. Give us a call to book a date then pick your party spot and encourage your guests to bring as much gold as they can bring. You’ll earn a whopping 10% of the party’s sales! What’s more, you’ll take home an extra 5% of every party booked off of your party.

You’ll enjoy the skill and support of ADI’s gold buying experts, and with our gold parties taking in between four and five thousand dollars each, you can potentially make some serious cash for a night of snacks and stories about the tackiest gold medallion or gold fingernail at the party.

The Lengths We’ll Go
ADI Gold Parties are not limited to the Saint Clair or Blue Water Area. We’ll go as far west as Grand Rapids, North to Bay City, south to Toledo, Ohio, and if you’ve got a boat or you charter a cruise, we’ll gladly travel east for a floating gold party on the river!

The red-shaded area above shows just how far we’ll travel to help you host a successful and entertaining gold party. Visit our regional map for more information on areas covered or to book a party. Also, coming soon, we’ll host ADI Gold Parties in the Sunshine State: Florida!

What to Sell
As expected, we’re buying gold rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and pendants. But we’re also taking pins, charms, single earrings, snagged chains, and gold teeth. Yes, gold teeth. Check out our What Can I Sell page at goldpartyus.com to get inspired.

Selling Your Gold at ADI
A gold buying expert will sit down with you and determine the quality, purity, and pennyweight of your gold. Gold selling consultations don’t take long — between five and 30 minutes — and our skilled experts have all the tools necessary to give you the best possible price for your gold. Read more about selling your gold at ADI and learn more about pennyweight in our goldpartyus FAQ.

The Big Question: What Is ADI Paying for Gold?
ADI believes that the value of your gold is worth more than a one-size-fits-all response.

We keep several factors in mind as we consider your gold’s value. First, we take the daily gold value into account, which is a constantly shifting figure. Next, we factor in purity. For instance, 24kt gold will fetch a higher payout than 10k gold of the same weight. Proper weight and evaluation is essential. Only when these factors are combined are our gold buying experts able to provide an in-person quote.

Based on the factors above, please note that telephone quotations and details about the daily gold value cannot be provided via telephone, e-mail, or LiveChat. Please gather up your gold and pay us a visit so that we can pay you!

For More Info:
You’ll find a wealth of information on gold buying, gold selling, and gold parties at our ADI Gold Party website, www.goldpartyus.com. While you’re there, check out recent feature articles on ADI’s involvement with gold buying and gold parties published by Port Huron’s Times Herald.

Spring has most definitely sprung at American Diamond Importers with the debut of the new 2008 Trollbeads Spring Line.

A garden of floral themes includes the Two Tone Daisy (too cute!), the Daisy Ring, and a new Golden Flower Clasp.

Sparkling Prisms are in bloom with vibrant new colors including Denim, Lavender, Light Turquoise, and Yellow.

Goo goo for green? Get your green on with the bright new Silver Trace, Green Turquoise, Green Stripe, and the sweet Turquoise Green Spring Bud.

We’re excited about the gorgeous new leather necklaces, leather bracelets, and whimsical rings. We especially like the Crown, with and without gold.

This post wouldn’t be complete without mention of the absolutely adorable and rainbow colorful Baby Troll. Don’t be fooled by the tender name of “baby;” this one’s fiesty, all right.

At the time of this posting, we’re keeping our eyes on the door awaiting the arrival of the New Spring Line from the Trollbeads factory. It should be here at any time. Feel free to pre-order your favorites online at American Diamond Importers and lock in first dibs.

We can’t promise that your favorite team will win the big game on Super Sunday. But we can promise an in-store sale that really scores.

From 10am-4pm on February 3, American Diamond Importers offers HALF OFF of everything in our showcases here at the store. Choose from retina-burning diamonds, gorgeous gold, brand name watches, and so much more.

Our one day sale takes place exclusively in our retail store in the Riverview Plaza located in downtown Saint Clair, Michigan. We’ll have plenty of snacks on hand and extra staff, too, to be sure you get a great deal in time for the kickoff.

Not able to make it down to the store on Sunday? Take 10% off your online purchase* by keying in promo code HEART10 at the checkout. Promotion expires Monday, February 4 at 11pm EST. Visit us at americandiamondimporters.com.

*Promotion excludes Pandora, Trollbeads, and Swarovski

February 1, 2008 is the fifth anniversary of the American Heart Association’s National Wear Red Day. From scarlet scarves and crimson blouses to cherry lipstick and ruby red nail polish, America will “see red” as participants do their part to help raise awareness for heart disease — the number one killer of women.

American Diamond Importers takes heart health seriously, for the issue of heart disease has touched our lives in a very personal way. ADI President Patrick Coughlin and Vice President Marga Coughlin’s youngest son, Sean, is a real survivor.

Our future CEO bravely underwent surgery at age 4 for an atrial septal defect (ASD) — a literal hole in the heart. In 2007, Sean served as the face of the Blue Water Area’s Heart Walk. The loveable young man inspired us all as he took the stage that September morning and shared his remarkable story. Today, Sean’s precious life reminds us to never take our hearts for granted.

Way to Wear Red
We couldn’t think of a more appropriate item to showcase in honor of National Wear Red Day than Swarovski’s all-new Go Red Pin.

Our Price: $55.00

Swarovski’s newly released Go Red Pin is Rhodium-plated with Siam crystals and enamel detail. Pin measures about an inch and cute hanger completes the look. The “little red dress” is the national symbol for heart disease awareness. Swarovski sure did it justice. Click here to read more or to purchase.

Go Red with ADI
Here’s to all of the customers who have shared their stories of hope and survival with us. We encourage you to join us and inspire those around you by taking part in National Wear Red Day. Be sure to check out our online catalog, also wearing red for the event, and enjoy 10% storewide* with promo code HEART10. Offer ends Monday, February 4, 2008 at 11:59pm EST.

*Sale excludes Pandora Jewelry, Trollbeads, and Swarovski

Whether you’re an ADI customer in need of your past receipts or you seek eligibility requirements and claim filing details, read on. We hope this post will help you make “cents” of the situation.

The Lawsuit and Proposed Payout
A weighty class action lawsuit has been brought against De Beers for allegedly monopolizing the sale of diamonds in the United States, which is illegal.
De Beers responded by agreeing to pay out $300 million dollars to settle the suit.

At the time of this posting, the payout breaks down thusly: $27 million to diamond cutters who purchased directly from De Beers, $135 million to people in the trade of buying and selling diamonds, and $135 million directly back into the hands of consumers. The payout is comparable to about 50% of the company’s annual income.

Eligibility
Who is eligible? Consumers who purchased diamonds or diamond jewelry in the United States between January 1, 1994 and March 31, 2006 are welcome to file a claim.

But Don’t Believe the Hype
Some reports claim that individuals could receive 30% - 59% back from their diamond purchases. That sounds terrific, but as with any hype, it’s mostly a lot of smoke from a very small fire. While consumers envision shopping sprees funded by luxurious rebates, the reality is that the refunds may be unremarkable at best.

Fact is, refunds may run as little as 6% on up to 59% of the retail price. Certainly, payouts will depend upon on the type and value of your jewelry. To illustrate, diamond jewelry valued at $1,000 to $5,499 will be eligible to receive an approximate 32% refund.

The More Claims Filed, the Smaller the Payout
An estimated $294 billion (yes, billion) worth of diamonds was sold during this 12 month period. That stated, $300 million seems a small penalty to pay. To reduce consumer payouts further, the attorneys in this case will receive 25% right off the top. The more claims filed, the smaller the payout. Consider this: If all qualified consumers file a claim, each refund may dwindle to a tenth of cent on the dollar. That works out to about two bucks back on a $2,000 diamond pendant or anniversary band.

Patrick Coughlin, ADI President and CEO, does not anticipate that everyone who purchased a diamond during this period will file a claim. Therefore, there may be a few more dollars to go around, “but please don’t expect a windfall,” says Coughlin.

A Couple Thousand, Not Tens of Thousands
American Diamond Importers purchased over $10 million dollars worth of diamonds during this time frame, so we will file a claim. But again, with over 50,000 members of the trade also filing claims, we expect to receive a couple thousand dollars, not tens of thousands of dollars.

Payout Does Not Imply Wrongdoing
According to industry sources, De Beers officials are not confessing to unlawful activity by agreeing to this settlement.

“Look, I’m not naive,” says David Prager, De Beers London Director of Communications. “I’m fully aware of the perception that a lot of people have… But the facts are that it’s a very competitive industry.”

According to Prager, “The confidence consumers have in their diamonds is the most important thing for us. We haven’t accepted the allegations, but we decided to take this step to make sure that consumers still have confidence in the value of their diamonds.”

Clearly, De Beers wants to put this settlement behind them to continue operations in the United States. The settlement is a one-time opportunity to get a few dollars back from the diamond giant who once controlled 80% of the world’s diamonds and is now estimated to have less than a 40% stake in the diamond trade. That is thanks to countries like Canada, who no longer allow De Beers to control or maintain the dominant share of the mining industry.

To File or Not to File
Is taking part in the class action suit worth it? It may be. It will depend on how many consumers apply for the rebate. If only 100,000 apply, you could possibly receive up to $1,350, less attorney’s fees. If 135 million people apply, $1 is the maximum possible. Our estimate is that three to five million consumers will apply. It follows that if three million consumers apply, about $45 would be the maximum amount recovered. Only time will tell.

Consumers do not need to have proof of purchase to file a claim, but proof of purchase is required to receive a rebate. Upon request, American Diamond Importers will provide customer’s receipts free of charge. Just visit our retail showroom in downtown Saint Clair’s Riverview Plaza, give us call toll free at 877-329-6866, or contact customer service online at americandiamondimporters.com.

File Your Claim Online
Coughlin recommends that ADI customers go to www.diamondsclassaction.com and file a claim. But make sure to do so by the deadline: May 19, 2008. “I think you can expect to buy a dinner with your rebate,” says Coughlin,” but that dinner may be burgers and fries instead of filet mignon and champagne.”

At American Diamond Importers, we’re passionate about the meanings behind the items we sell. To us, jewelry purchases are more than just the gift wrapped boxes and recepits that keep us hopping during business hours. They’re often declarations of love and celebrations of milestones.

Jewelry With a Purpose
In addition to playing a part in those special moments, we are also inspired by jewelry that makes a difference. That’s why we are thrilled by the opportunity to present our all-new Support Our Troops Pin and Pendant; a patriotic pair with a purpose.

Support Our Troops Pin and Pendant — $49.95 each
The platinum-coated sterling silver and 18k yellow gold pieces go beyond simple accessorizing. They pay tribute to the uniformed men and women that protect our freedom and keep America safe. What’s more, a generous 50% ($25.00) of every pin and pendant purchased benefits the Freedom Alliance’s “Support Our Troops Program;” an outreach dedicated to improving the lives of the war wounded, their families, and grieving military families, too.

According to Freedom Alliance President, Tom Kilgannon, “Many of our war wounded are recovering in hospitals far from home and family. We hope to make their stay in the hospital more comfortable and show them that America is grateful for their service.”

Where the Money Goes
Needs met include clothing, toiletries, entertainment, appreciation dinners, and monetary grants. ADI is honored by the chance to help raise funds toward this noble pursuit. We welcome you to take part making life better for our men and women in uniform.

Founded by Oliver North in 1990, Freedom Alliance is a charitable foundation committed to keeping America strong, prosperous, and free.

Please visit American Diamond Importers today and help us support our troops one pin and pendant at a time.

American Diamond Importers is proud to feature the remarkable Caro 74 line. Caro74 advances beyond the general 58-facet cut by placing 16 additional facets on the diamond’s pavilion. The result is increased light reflection and brilliance. The company’s name is inspired by the Italian word for “beloved” and the diamonds are just beautiful.

In addition to luminosity and style, Caro 74 loose diamonds, bridal, and jewelry collections are laser inscribed and include GIA and GemEx certificates. Documentation indicates color and clarity as well as diamond enhancement points, which are literally plotted out on a chart for your viewing.

As displayed in our online catalog, we show the collection primarily in 14k white gold. However, all styles are available in 14k yellow, 18k gold, and platinum 950 settings. Choose from wedding sets, anniversary bands, earrings, and more.

It’s cold outside, bitterly cold. Snowflakes dot the sky like stars drifting to earth. He is oblivious to all of that. He looks at her, so beautiful and unaware. A smile creeps along the edges of his mouth.

The street light in front turns yellow, then red. He reaches for her hand, clutching tightly before releasing his grip, and his prize.

It glistens in her hand, all 7 beautiful diamonds. With awed composure, she leans over and kisses him deeply.

Love’s A Journey That Knows No End.

The newest commercial from A Diamond Is Forever can be found here, at adiamondisforever.com.

We work hard so that you can know the latest for all the Journey ads. We even delved into the depths of Hollywood to find the identity of the actor in the last ad.

In this ad, the musical talent is Landon Pigg. The song is “Falling In Love At A Coffee Shop”. You can’t buy it on disc yet, but you can hear it at his MySpace page, or download it on iTunes!

You can find out all about Landon at his website, www.landonpigg.com

The lyrics in the commercial are as follows:

I think that possibly maybe I’m fallen for you
Yes, there’s a chance that I’ve fallen quite hard over you
I’ve seen the paths that your eyes wander down, I wanna come too

When you asked us to name the “How Can I Tell You” songstress from De Beer’s hit Sleeping Beauty TV ad, we were glad to oblige. We did our homework, responded to your request, and thought our work was done. Oh, were we wrong.

Since we revealed Cat Power as the voice behind the ad, you’ve begged and pleaded to know the name of the gorgeous actor who plays the gift bearing husband. We wanted to know, too! And once again, dear readers, your wish is our command.

Your Journey Diamond crush is none other than Stephen Peace, originally from Huntington, Long Island, NY.

In addition to melting hearts in the beloved De Beer’s ad, Peace has been featured in commercials for AT&T, GMC, and Alka-Seltzer. Keep an eye out for the handsome actor to appear in Kevin Bacon and Marcia Gay Harden’s forthcoming film titled Rails & Ties (2007). If the buzz on our blog is any indication, we’ll be seeing a lot more of Peace.

With kind thanks to the actor’s management team, we are able to share these press shots with you – enjoy!

PS — Much to the disappointment of many swooning fans, Peace is happily married with a 2-year-old son.

Now that we’ve solved this mystery, American Diamond Importers is already working on your incoming questions surrounding the new Journey Diamond ad released for the 2007 holiday season. Check back soon for the latest reveal. And while you’re at it, come and see the jewelry that inspired the unforgettable TV ads.