As the shopping mall model evolves and online retail grows, Smith shares his predictions for the future of physical stores.
Italian journey with Ippolita offered as a ‘Fantasy’
A seven-day trip through Florence and Venice with jewelry designer Ippolita Rostagno is one of the “Fantasy Gifts” included in the 2015 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book, the retailer’s annual offering of over-the-top holiday presents.
New York--A seven-day trip through Florence and Venice with jewelry designer Ippolita Rostagno is one of the “Fantasy Gifts” included in the 2015 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book, a catalog of holiday-ready luxury items that include the extremely lavish and extravagant.
During the $150,000 tour, Rostagno will introduce the buyer and three guests to acclaimed artists and show them local workshops. The trip also will include VIP museum tours, plenty of authentic Italian cuisine and special mementos from studio visits.
Another notable “Fantasy Gift” from the book is a trunk inspired by style icon Iris Apfel’s own personal collection. Priced at $80,000, the trunk is upholstered with hand-loomed fabric from Uzbekistan in an ikat pattern and is filled with vintage finds and accessories handcrafted by women around the world. The gift also includes lunch and a styling session with the 94-year-old style icon.
A range of other, slightly less fantastical jewelry gifts are included in Neiman Marcus’s annual Christmas Book.
A line of handmade, stretchable bead bracelets from Sydney Evan, ranging in price from $440 to $1,210 are listed, as are a black spinel and sterling silver necklace ($4,800) and earrings ($750) from David Yurman and a line of gemstone and diamond pave jewelry from Ippolita ($1,595 to $6,500).
Other jewelry included is Lana Jewelry’s 14-karat gold and diamond pieces ranging from $1,190 to $4,995, and jewelry from Roberto Coin’s Barocco collection ($2,500-$19,800).
Two jewelry brands also provide options for both men and women.
John Hardy is offering a number of sterling silver men’s pieces ($495-$2,700), as well as pearl and sterling silver women’s jewelry ranging from $1,195 to $1,995, while Shinola has two women’s “Runwell” 24 mm watches priced at $800 each as well as a men’s Runwell chronograph with interchangeable straps and a card case for $1,350.
Fashion jewelry also is listed in the Christmas Book: plated brass necklaces from Kendra Scott for $100; two different ear cuff styles from Auden; gold-plated and synthetic pearl necklace and earrings from Oscar de la Renta; lucite jewelry from Alexis Bittar ($225-$595); IP-plated stainless steel watches from Michele; and synthetic pearl and rhodium-plated jewelry from Jose & Maria Barrera.
The most expensive item in the Christmas Book is a $400,000 “Dream trip to India.”
The price tag gets the buyer and a guest a 12-day trip to India, which will include transport in private planes and vintage cars,
The Latest

The trade show is slated for Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at The Lighthouse in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood.

January’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

The annual report highlights how it supported communities in areas where natural diamonds are mined, crafted, and sold.


Footage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.

Linda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The governing board welcomed two new members, Claire Scragg and Susan Eisen.

Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.

The master jeweler, Olympian, former senator, and Korean War veteran founded the brand Nighthorse Jewelry.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.

Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.

Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.

As part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.

It marks the third time the country has headed the Kimberley Process. Ghana will serve as vice chair.

The new Bulova x Stetson designs highlight two animals often associated with the American West—the bison and the Texas Longhorn.

Its residency at Yamron Jewelers will run through May 2026.

From influential executives to innovative designers, we pay tribute to the people we said goodbye to this year.

The retailer is expanding into areas with large Indian and South Asian populations.

The Italian brand has opened its first flagship amid the peaks of the Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy.

The new curation at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County showcases rare gem and mineral specimens in their uncut, natural state.

The couple pleaded guilty to concealing at least $127 million in cash transactions at its precious metals businesses.

Consumers shared concerns about prices, inflation, tariffs, trade, and politics in the survey’s write-in response section.





















