This year’s honorees include a Midwest retailer and two multi-store independents, one in New York and the other in New England.
Zales’ New Collection Is a Tribute to Marilyn Monroe
Channeling the iconic actress’ independent spirit, the collection became available online this week and will hit stores in October.

New York—Zales’ newest fine jewelry collection encourages consumers to “be their own muse,” enlisting one icon as the ultimate example.
The Marilyn Monroe collection comprises 65 pieces of sterling silver, 10-karat and 14-karat gold jewelry with diamonds, in motifs channeling the actress’ career, from lips to the white dress Monroe wore—and famously lost control of—in 1955’s “The Seven Year Itch.”
A bezel-set diamond stands in for Monroe’s signature beauty mark and tributes are paid to other motifs synonymous with the star—lipstick, high heels, stars and even the dog Frank Sinatra gave her, named “Maf,” short for “Mafia.”
While the references might be decades old, Zales is spinning the story with a modern twist, courtesy of the collection’s accompanying digital campaign that reads, “I am my own muse. I am a diamond,” which, alongside imagery of the jewelry and Monroe, shows a contemporary woman.
In a manifesto accompanying the campaign imagery, Zales explains that it represents a woman who is unique, unmistakable and strong, forging her own path.
The collection also encompasses intricate bridal styles, inspired by Monroe’s famous quote to “love bravely.”
The assortment hit Zales.com on Sept. 15 and will be available in its stores on Oct. 7.
A sterling silver and diamond pendant depicting Monroe’s dress sells for $100 while a 1.5-carat pear-shaped diamond engagement ring in 14-karat white gold sells for $5,800.
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