Sophie & Roman Shor Recognized for Service to Hunterdon Community by Senator Leonard Lance On Saturday, May 8, 2010, the Hunterdon County YMCA hosted its 20th Annual Recognition Dinner at Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club, honoring Roman and Sophie Shor, founders of Roman Jewelers, for their outstanding service to the community. Congressman Leonard Lance was in attendance and presented the couple with a congressional award. Through this event, the YMCA raised over $105,000 for its financial assistance program, setting a new record. This program allows individuals facing economic and social challenges to participate in YMCA programs and services, including summer camp, childcare, and health and wellness activities. The funds raised through the Annual Recognition Dinner will help local children attend camp, participate in sports, and receive childcare provided by the YMCA. In addition to the YMCA, the Shors are active supporters of the Hunterdon Medical Center, Safe in Hunterdon, and the local police and fire departments. They also maintain a special commitment to school children and seniors, regularly assisting through donations and educational seminars. Most recently, the Shors have lent their energies and talents to the event "The Roman Jewelers Wedding", designed to encourage volunteerism and philanthropy in young adults. Last year’s premiere event proved to be a wonderful way to inspire commitment and awareness in a younger generation, raising over $100,000 for various local and national charities.

Warning! Sex and the City 2 Jewelry Spoiler following... We’ve been watching Carrie Bradshaw’s jewelry style for many years. In Sex and the City 2, when Big captures her heart in a final scene of the film, he presents the NYC diva with an eye-popping 5 carat black diamond ring and tells her "because you are not like anyone else." This is where movie-goers reach for the tissues. But, who could take their eyes off that rock?! The buzz is already swirling about the scene with what is arguably the most significant piece of jewelry in the movie's entirety: a 5 carat black diamond ring set in 18K white gold surrounded by 80 round natural white pave diamonds equaling 0.35 carats by designer Itay Malkin. Will this ring fuel a black diamond trend? Let’s hope so. Black diamonds, particularly when set with contrasting white diamonds have already become a popular, beautiful trend. And black diamonds are certainlya conversation starter. But what are they? Black diamonds are typically enhanced diamonds. We hear a lot about enhancements of diamonds, often in a negative way, but the case of the black diamond is quite different. The black color in a natural black diamond is actually the result of numerous inclusions. Most of these inclusions are graphite and because there are so many, black diamonds fracture very easily. This makes them very difficult to cut, polish and finish. So, in order to work with them and show off their beautiful black opaque color, the genuine black diamond is treated, to create abetter quality diamond with a more uniform color. Black diamonds are still diamonds…they are graded for clarity, cut, color and carat weight and certainly make for a unique engagement ring, especially when set with contrasting white diamonds—as shown in Carrie’s ring. Black diamonds generally cost less than white diamonds and are an elegant gem with a rich look. Black diamond jewelry is available at Roman Jewelers in Flemington & Bridgewater NJ. www.romanjewelers.com

If you are in the market for an unusual ring, have an idea for something different and spectacular but don’t know where to start—read on to find out why going the custom way may be right for you. By Lucy Zimmerman 1. Use “old” to make “new” Did you inherit an engagement ring from your grandmother or a diamond wedding band from another woman in your family? The “old” pieces carry a lot of sentimental value. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to re-use these diamonds in your own ring? Work with your designer to incorporate the stones into a new engagement ring. Your ring will not only be unique, but will also carry a part of the special women in your family. 2. You love your friend’s engagement ring, but don’t want to be a copycat You don’t have to be. Talk to a jewelry designer about the ring you admire and describe what you like about it. Is it the simplicity, intricate filigree details, or the bold mix of white and yellow gold? Think style, and you’ll end up with a ring where every detail is you. 3. You don’t want a traditional engagement ring—you’re a trendsetter The plain Tiffany-style ring isn’t for you. Maybe a three-stone ring? Still not right? If you’ve visited countless jewelry stores and haven’t found “the one,” it’s time to talk to a designer. Describe your vision and sketch your ideas. Any detail helps your designer bring your dream ring to life. 4. You want to remember how the ring was made You want to be involved at every step—from sketch to wax model to casting and stone selection. Custom designing isn’t just a process; it’s a journey. 5. You love what Hollywood actresses wear Celebrity rings are stunning—but not always realistic. A good designer can help you substitute stones, scale designs, and adjust details to stay within budget while keeping the look you love. 6. Details only known to you Want a hidden ruby, initials, or special date inside your ring? A skilled designer can place personal details in the gallery—keeping them meaningful and private. 7. You love period jewelry, but not estate pieces Whether it’s Art Deco geometry or Edwardian lace-like elegance, tell your designer the era you love. They’ll guide the design to reflect that period beautifully. 8. You know a jeweler whose work you admire A great jewelry designer is like a trusted doctor. If you’ve found one—stick with them. 9. Use your artistic abilities If you can sketch your dream ring, even better. An experienced designer will refine your idea and ensure the design is structurally sound. 10. You have no idea what you want That’s perfectly normal. Visit stores, try on rings, browse magazines, and take notes. A good designer will help combine the elements you love into one perfect ring. Author: Lucy Zimmerman is a fourth-generation jewelry designer at Roman Jewelers in Flemington & Bridgewater Commons Mall, New Jersey. For more information about Roman Jewelers and custom design work, visit: https://www.romanjewelers.com/design-your-own-ring/choose-your-style

When it comes to fashion and jewelry, what do Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, Nicole Richie, Paris Hilton, and Carrie Underwood have in common? All of these celebrities have been seen wearing a simple necklace—a circle. Its meaning encompasses the meaning of life itself. The necklace is called the Circle of Life, a perfect combination of simplicity, elegance, and meaning. Long before Oprah wore her Circle of Life necklace on her show, this simple geometric symbol carried deep significance across cultures throughout history. The message is as timeless and beautiful as the design itself: unity, wholeness, and completeness. The Circle of Life necklace makes the perfect gift for any woman and for any occasion—Mother’s Day, the birth of a child, a birthday, graduation, marriage, or any meaningful milestone, whether happy, emotional, significant, or celebratory. Hopefully, we’ve inspired you with an idea for your next jewelry gift. With the Circle of Life, you truly can’t go wrong. The circle brings everything together—those life moments that, when combined, form the canvas of your life. At Roman Jewelers, we offer several variations of the Circle of Life necklace in different metals and designs, including the sought-after couture creations by Italian designer Roberto Coin. Roberto Coin designs these necklaces with diamonds and offers them in a variety of sizes to suit every style.

Congressman Leonard Lance Presents Recognition to Roman & Sophie Shor of Roman Jewelers Photo by Dabour Photography May 8th was a special evening for Roman & Sophie Shor, owners of Roman Jewelers. They were recognized by the Hunterdon County YMCA for their service to the community during a lavish, warm, and friendly event held at Fiddler’s Elbow in Bedminster, New Jersey. And there was even a surprise guest. According to the YMCA, Roman and Sophie were chosen as honorees for their impressive history of outstanding community involvement. The theme of the Annual Recognition Dinner was “Build a Campfire, Build a Memory,” with the goal of raising funds for the YMCA’s financial assistance program—and raise they did. The evening generated funds in excess of $100,000, and Roman & Sophie were congratulated by New Jersey Congressman Leonard Lance. According to Mrs. Shor, it was the best surprise of the night. She said, “When Mr. Lance handed us the congressional recognition award, it was one of the best moments of my life. Only 30 years ago, Roman and I came to America from Russia without a penny, and now to receive recognition from a congressman in the country we love and thank for all of our success is truly incredible.” All of us at Roman Jewelers know that success for Roman & Sophie did not come without tremendous hard work and dedication. Thank you, Roman & Sophie! You set the bar high. The community respects you immensely, your employees admire you, and the jewelry industry is truly fortunate to have you as mentors and role models.

Mother's Day is on Sunday, and we all know that moms love jewelry. With so many options in a wide range of prices, jewelry makes an easy, fun, personal, and memorable Mother’s Day gift. So, what should you get Mom? Diamond Stud Earrings Mom has been wanting these for quite some time, and maybe now is the perfect moment to get them—especially if she has done something amazing, like welcoming her first child. Perhaps she has graduated from college, or maybe you have. Thank her with the ultimate Mother’s Day gift: classic diamond stud earrings. Chamilia Bracelet The budget-friendly and highly personal gift of a Chamilia charm bracelet speaks directly to Mom and all she has done for you and your family. With so many beads to choose from, finding the one that’s perfect for her is simple—and simply beautiful. Circle of Life Necklace Available in many sizes, the Circle of Life Necklace is a heartwarming and elegant choice for Mother’s Day. The Italian-designed Roberto Coin Circle of Life necklace will truly take her breath away. Additional designs include matching earrings and rings. It’s the perfect way to thank her—because let’s face it, where would you be without her? Key Pendant Key pendants are a hot fashion item that moms love and want. Choose one that is beautiful, elegant, and crafted with exceptional quality, like the ones at Roman Jewelers. The best way to tell Mom she’ll always have the key to your heart is with a gift she can wear every day of the year. John Hardy Every fashionable mom knows that when it comes to designer jewelry, John Hardy is a must-have. Sterling silver designs handcrafted in John Hardy’s Bali studio bring natural beauty to every piece. Inspired by the world around him, John Hardy creates jewelry Mom can wear anywhere—from the office, to school volunteering, and even evening fundraising events. This is just a small glimpse of what’s available for Mom this Mother’s Day. Jewelry makes the perfect gift because it’s so personal—something she will cherish forever.

Winners of the Roman Jewelers Wedding, photographed by Transposure. www.transposure.com Angela and Joe, winners of the Roman Jewelers Wedding, received their photography services free from Transposure. Take a look at these pictures and stay tuned for information about Roman Jewelers Wedding 2010!

Nancy and Alan had already picked out an engagement ring, and Nancy did not think that there were any surprises left. But Alan wanted to do something unique for his formal proposal of marriage. Nancy & Alan on their wedding day in December of 2008. Nancy collects "water pens," which are pens with floating scenes in the barrel. Alan decided to have a very special water pen custom made, showing a floating photo of Nancy's engagement ring and another photo of a left hand inside the barrel of the pen. When the barrel of the pen is tilted, the ring floats towards the hand. When the pen is turned over, the barrel reads "Nancy, will you marry me?" Alan picked up Nancy's finished engagement ring from Roman Jewelers, but he did not tell Nancy that he had it. They went for a bike ride at her mother's house, and as they sat resting on the porch afterwards, Nancy talked about her work at the "Make A Wish" Foundation. Alan said that she could fulfill yet another wish with this magic wand, and he handed her the pen. Then he formally proposed and put the engagement ring on her finger. Nancy still cannot tell this story without holding back tears - she was so touched by the sentiment of Alan's proposal.

Frank and Carolina came from two different parts of the world. Carolina grew up in São Paulo, Brazil, while Frank was raised at the Jersey Shore. Carolina came to the United States to study art, and when she and Frank met on Long Beach Island, they quickly realized how much they had in common. It didn’t take long for them to know they were meant to spend the rest of their lives together. On the day of Frank’s proposal, Carolina was exhausted—but for the happiest reason imaginable. Frank had planned an unforgettable surprise, complete with an engagement ring from Roman Jewelers. On December 21, 2008, Carolina arrived at Frank’s parents’ home in the afternoon for a family Christmas party scheduled later that evening. Instead, she was greeted with a candlelit lunch and a huge bouquet of roses. After lunch, Frank handed Carolina a small white box containing a note. The note explained that he had hidden ten little white boxes with red bows throughout the house. Each box held a message explaining one of the many reasons he loved her. The final note revealed that a special gift awaited her in a white box tied with a white bow. As Carolina searched, she discovered that the Christmas tree was decorated with nearly one hundred white ring boxes—all empty. Finally, Frank asked Carolina to look inside her Christmas stocking. There, she found another white box. Expecting just one more clue, she opened it—only to discover her engagement ring from Roman Jewelers and a note asking, “Will you marry me?” Overwhelmed with emotion, Carolina cried and said yes. Now, Carolina and Frank are happily planning their wedding and their future together.