Tiffany Closing Pearl Only Chain Iridesse

Tiffany Closing Pearl Only Chain Iridesse

As recently reported by JCK.com, the revered jewelry retailer, Tiffany & Co. plans to close Iridesse, the pearl-only chain it launched in 2004.

The closings will occur "as we make agreements with the landlords and sell off the inventory," said Tiffany spokeswoman Linda Buckley. She said she expects it to happen over the next few months.  There are currently 16 Iridesse "brick and mortar" stores.

"We still very much believe in the concept, but the current economic climate being what it is, the Iridesse business was disappointing," Buckley said. "We believe it has potential but we just couldn't continue to support it at this time."

The Iridesse website offers lots of good information for consumers unaware of the important elements for buying a good quality pearl.  One of my favorite parts of the education offered at Iridesse is the section on How To Buy A Cultured Pearl.

While there may not be a very big demand for buying cultured pearls in this economic climate, it's nice to have clear and concise information which is provided on the Iridess website.

Image to the Side:  From the Iridesse Moments collection. Cultured Tahitian pearl and diamond earrings in 18kt white gold. Cultured Tahitian pearls, 11-12mm. Diamonds, 1 carat total weight. SRP:  $3,200.