By now, we’ve all heard those wistful references to the “Before Time,” or alternatively the “Before Times”—a way of gently poking fun at the idea that we now live in a postapocalyptic novel (prove me otherwise!).
I’ve used the phrase myself. I like the shared history it implies, and the nostalgia it elicits, even as I acknowledge that the more interesting idea is what happens next, post-catastrophe: the After Time.
The magazine in your hands—our only print issue of 2021—is our first attempt to tackle that question.
We know so much more now than we did when our last print issue came out, in October. First and foremost, the vaccines developed to inoculate us against the coronavirus are extremely effective—so much so that thousands of jewelers are planning to travel to Las Vegas next month to attend the better-late-than-never JCK show, which opens at The Venetian Resort & Sands Expo Aug. 27, right on the heels of Luxury.
Should you be among them, you won’t want to miss “What Time Is It? Show Time!,” our take on what’s new and noteworthy at America’s largest jewelry trade fair. On page 130, find the must-read companion feature, “Waking Up In Vegas,” by contributor Matt Villano, a travel writer who’s compiled a list of all the new resorts, eateries, and attractions greeting JCKers this summer.
Another thing we know now, thanks to our longtime fashion correspondent, Venessa Lau: “Introvert hibernation is over and head-turning opulence is in,” she writes in “Dress You Up,” our annual guide to fall fashion. (Hint: “Remember heels? Zippers? Buttons? How about glorious fringe and extravagant jewels, lavish earrings, and piled-on rings? Jewelry lovers, get ready and get excited.”)
We could say the same thing about the 2021 Jewelers’ Choice Award winners, whose prized pieces you’ll find starting on page 98. (Congratulations to Lika Behar for her eminently wearable, grand-prize–winning silver and diamond Wiredance bracelet!)
Last but not least, please take a moment to savor this issue’s two photo features: “Queen of Denim & Diamonds,” starring Maria Borges draped in hundreds of carats of diamonds, and “Pearl Essence,” a tribute to jewelry’s 2021 MVP. Our editorial team—including creative director Peter Yates, photography director Freyda Tavin, jewelry editor Rima Suqi, managing editor Melissa Bernardo, and editorial assistant Katey Clifford—navigated some significant logistical challenges to pull off both shoots.
Now, excuse me as I swap my Zoom-friendly leggings and flip-flops for Sin City–style dresses and sandals. Time to party!
(Gomelsky photograph by Nicholas A. Prakas; hair and makeup: Claudia Andreatta/Halley Resources)
