In the Loupe is a weekly podcast hosted by Punchmark, the Jewelry Industry's favorite website provider. Each week's episode is focused around the explanation and advocacy of important E-Commerce topics and why every jeweler needs to be focused on their online presence now more than ever.
Drawing from his recent experience hosting a solo watercolor exhibition, Michael Burpoe shares marketing strategies that business owners can apply to their own store events. He explains how effective event planning, branding, goal-setting, and multi-channel promotion can enhance attendance and sales for any luxury buying experience.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
5/13/25 • 24:52
Michelle Graff, editor-in-chief of National Jeweler, shares insights on unprecedented industry challenges including record-high gold prices and fluctuating tariffs. The jewelry industry faces a period of uncertainty that feels even more unpredictable than the pandemic era.We cover National Jeweler's impressive 120-year legacy, what stories in the jewelry industry she feels are underserved, and filtering "news" from "noise" every day.To get more from National Jeweler, visit nationaljeweler.com and select "Subscribe" in the top right to receive their daily newsletter and webinar information.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
5/6/25 • 58:26
Now is the perfect time for jewelers to explore e-commerce as an additional revenue stream, especially during economic uncertainty. Having your products available for online purchase creates "another line in the water" that can catch unexpected sales with minimal effort.Download our free e-commerce strategy checklist at punchmark.com/checklist to help get started, regardless of which website platform you're using.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
4/29/25 • 30:34
Pearls are one of the oldest, most influential gems the world has ever known with a rich history dating back well over 5,000 years. Matt Harris shares his passion for this unique gemstone and explains how fashion trends surrounding the gem have shifted in the last 100 years, where he predicts they will head in future years, and how jewelers can ensure they are buying quality pearls that will sell.Follow Matt Harris for more Pearl content!Matt's Instagram: InstagramMatt's Youtube: YoutubeMatt's Website: Matt Harris DesignsSend us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
4/22/25 • 48:56
Jordan Wentz, or Jewels of the Trade, shares her expertise on jade, one of the most misunderstood gemstones in the jewelry world, explaining its historical significance and how to identify authentic pieces. She illuminates the differences between Jadeite and Nephrite jade while providing guidance for retailers and consumers on recognizing quality jade and avoiding common pitfalls.Join the Jewels of the Trade Discord community to learn more about jade, connect with experts, and share your collection. Follow Jordan on Instagram @jewels_of_the_trade or visit her YouTube channel to deepen your understanding of this fascinating gemstone.More from Jordan & Jewels of the Trade: http://linktr.ee/jewels_of_the_tradeSend us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
4/15/25 • 48:38
David Siminski, a refiner with 32 years of experience at United Precious Metals in Buffalo, shares his expertise on gold's dramatic price surge, how it might impact custom jewelry projects, and speculates on if the price will continue to climb.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
4/8/25 • 42:36
Mike is joined by a panel of retail jewelers to talk about how they navigate the Jewelry Year. From when they schedule in their annual vacations, which jewelry shows they attend, and what jewelry styles are doing well at their respective stores. Matt & Kim from R. Gregory Jewelers in Statesville, NChttps://www.rgregoryjewelers.com/Cole from Ware's Jewelers in Bradenton, FLhttps://www.waresjewelers.com/Caleb from Harkleroad Jewelers in Savannah, GAhttps://www.harkleroaddiamonds.com/Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
4/1/25 • 50:06
Prize indemnity insurance might sound like a dry financial topic, but Robin Lang from Tokio Marine HCC reveals it's actually one of the most exciting marketing tools available to jewelers today. We discuss how retailers can offer customers full refunds on purchases if certain events occur – like six inches of snow on New Year's Day, or a Safety during the Super Bowl – while paying just a fraction of the potential cost themselves.Robin walks us through the mechanics of these promotions, explaining how her team of actuaries analyzes decades of historical data to calculate the odds of specific weather events or sports outcomes.Learn more about Prize Indemnity with Tokio Marine HCC: https://www.tmhcc.com/en-us/products/contingency/prize-indemnitySend us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
3/25/25 • 24:02
For an exclusive first interview, Michael interviews Stephen Barnes, newly announced Owner and President of IJO about what the changes mean for him, IJO, and the retailers & vendors included in the group.Stephen Barnes shares his journey from longtime IJO member to President and now Owner, discusses his vision for the future of the Independent Jewelers Organization and what this transition means for retailers and vendors.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
3/18/25 • 45:46
Michael speaks with Bri Black from Buzz Advertising Agency and Hope Bellair, Digital Marketing Manager at Punchmark, for a discussion on the art of creating effective marketing campaigns.Learn how to conceptualize a campaign, set goals and metrics, and execute on marketing for your next effort! Learn more about Buzz Advertisement Agency: https://buzzadvertisingagency.com/Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
3/11/25 • 43:02
In the Loupe, is an award winning podcast for jewelers, produced by Punchmark, the Jewelry Industry’s FAVORITE website platform. In the Loupe is made for Retail Jewelers to keep them up to date with the latest and greatest taking place in the world of jewelry, both online and in-store. Join me as I attend jewelry trade shows, educational workshops, and cover breaking news that will impact your store. I try out emerging technologies and marketing channels, but that’s not all. We want every jewelry professional to hear from the brightest minds available.Subscribe for new episodes every Tuesday!Learn more at Punchmark.com/loupeSend us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
3/4/25 • 01:30
Virtual Reality (VR) is growing in popularity, and as the technology improves, so do the opportunities for use in real life. Michael has explored VR with his friends the past year and reports back on his experiences, the good, the bad, the... vertigo-inducing.Michael later speaks with three of his best friends who are avid VR users on how they've used this technology to stay in touch and keep their friendship alive in 2025.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
2/25/25 • 45:22
Brevani, an offshoot jewelry brand of Color Merchants, owners Jordan & Allison Peck share their innovative journey in the jewelry industry, focusing on modern trends while maintaining a legacy of responsible sourcing. They discuss their dynamic collaboration as brother and sister, successful marketing strategies, what they stand to learn and gain as members of The Plumb Club, and how they keep appearing on The Bachelorette every season!Learn more about Brevani here: https://brevani.com/Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
2/18/25 • 44:32
Today we are taking a deep dive into the Google Workspace Suite of tools. These free tools are cloud based and able to be accessed in minutes after the creation of a Gmail account. These tools are widely considered to be industry standard tools, as they make collaboration and asynchronous editing possible. Learn how the Punchmark team has been using these as well as how you can level up your own company's collaboration skills with them!Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
2/4/25 • 28:56
Michael sits down with Justin VanMatre of National Rarities to discuss what the last year of estate buying events looked like, what the most commonly bought items were, and announces the new Punchmark x National Rarities event page templates they recently collaborated on. If you have hosted a NR event, or plan to soon, you'll want to tune in for this!Learn more about National Rarities: https://www.nationalrarities.com/Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
1/28/25 • 40:36
Meet the unsung heroes of the jewelry world as Mike speaks with Stefanie Wesdorp from Jewel-Craft, a fourth-generation family business that handles service requests for hundreds of retail jewelers around the US.Stefanie shares how Jewel-Craft has carved out a role as the hidden powerhouse behind so many jewelry stores. Tackling everything from intricate repairs to challenging customizations, Jewel-Craft manages to stay organized while handling hundreds of requests a day.Learn more about Jewel-Craft: jewel-craft.comSend us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
1/21/25 • 34:48
Join Michael as he speaks with William Jones IV from Sissy's Log Cabin as we explore JewelLink, a cutting-edge recruiting tool revolutionizing how jewelry stores find the perfect candidates. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to expand or a jeweler seeking top talent, you'll gain valuable insights into refining your hiring process, focusing on skills and entrepreneurial potential.Learn more about JewelLink here: https://www.jewellink.com/Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
1/14/25 • 40:00
We are back! Mike shares e-commerce trends from Punchmark's data, focusing on average cart value and sales performance across different months and compares year to year. Take Aways:• AOV reveal fluctuations in average cart value from 2021 to 2024 • Notable months for sales performance include April, August, September, and October • Friday emerges as the top day for e-commerce purchases • Providing flexible financing options boosts sales potential for retailers • Diverse payment methods enhance customer convenience and engagementSend us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
1/7/25 • 28:06
It's the final episode of Season 5, which means Mike is giving you a tour of all of the best bits from this season. This is the 50th episode from this season, and we've interviewed some impressive and distinguished members of the jewelry industry this year. We hope you'll enjoy a look back on some of our favorite moments from Season 5! We will be back January 7th with the first episode of Season 6! Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
12/24/24 • 48:04
Mike sat down to chat with Hope Bellair, Punchmark's Digital Marketing Manager, exploring the booming resurgence of event-based marketing and the domination of short-form video content. As TikTok's fate hangs in the balance, we consider the clever strategies jewelers can adopt to pivot their marketing efforts while staying ahead in the digital game.They also dive into the art of strategic planning for 2025. Hope shares insights on the significance of knowing your unique selling points and understanding customer connections while setting SMART goals to ensure success.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
12/17/24 • 34:54
Unlock the secrets to creating a harmonious marketing strategy with our latest episode, "Marketing Symphony." Each channel has it's own unique language and requires a slightly different approach. Discover how to tailor video content to suit the unique quirks of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
12/10/24 • 34:52
The holiday season brings a rush of online shoppers, making it crucial for retail jewelers to ensure their e-commerce sites are in top shape. With a well-prepared website, you can enhance your customer experience, avoid technical hiccups, and maximize sales. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get your website holiday-ready, from payment setups to product data and marketing strategy.Adapted from the recent Punchmark blog article: https://www.punchmark.com/blog-post/administrative-checklist-8-tips-to-fortify-your-e-commerce-for-the-holidaysSend us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
11/26/24 • 20:40
Omi was founded nearly 35 years ago by Omi Nagpal and his wife, Preeti, whose family were ruby miners dating back to 19th century Burma. Later, their son, Niveet, founded Omi Privé, their finished jewelry business that specializes in one of a kind finished colored stone jewelry.From design processes to nurturing retailer relationships, Niveet sheds light on the strategic side of the jewelry vendor business. He shares insights on building meaningful partnerships with retailers who value understated luxury, as well as a deep dive on the business of colored stones. Learn more about Omi Prive: https://omiprive.com/Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
11/19/24 • 36:30
Prepare to transform your online presence into a powerhouse of holiday cheer. We discuss how to maintain an omni-channel experience that seamlessly connects your digital and physical storefronts especially around the time of year where it matters most! Don't let outdated information be the Grinch that steals your holiday sales—tune in as we share the essential steps to ensure your business shines brightly in the bustling retail landscape.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
11/12/24 • 22:44
Email marketing has the power to elevate your traffic to new heights. Mike sits down with Hope Bellair, Punchmark's Digital Marketing Manager, and Sarah Weeks, Art Director at Punchmark, to discuss best practices and strategy for your next Email Marketing campaign. Where is the sweet spot for sending "too many" and "radio silence"? What should you market about during the down months? Which email platform is most effective?Learn more about Punchmark's Email Marketing Campaign here: https://www.punchmark.com/email-marketingSend us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
11/5/24 • 34:18
Are you open every day between Black Friday and Christmas Eve? Do you close between Boxing Day and New Years? Do you have VIP events or "Guys Nights" to drive traffic? Do you stock up your best sellers with multiples or get a broad variety of products? The busiest time of the year is starting, and Michael sat down with Ray Lantz from The Diamond Center in Claremont, CA to hear about what he is doing to get prepared, as well as what his strategy is for the end of the year. Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
10/29/24 • 36:40
Michael is joined by Jason Adams, Director of Education at Punchmark, to discuss how to get your website ready for the busiest time of the year, and encourages all Punchmark clients to get their website tickets and requests in early. There are a few key parts of your website that should be checked prior to the holidays, and Jason shares his expertise so that you feel like you are putting your best foot forward.Jason also discusses the new Punchmark Tune-Up package that is designed for precisely this, getting your website ready, even if you might not have the time to do it yourself. Listen for more details or reach out to lorenzo@punchmark.com.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
10/22/24 • 31:32
AI has been the buzzword of the last few years, but its accessibility for everyday people can feel limited as some use cases require extra downloads and plugins. Michael wanted to showcase some of the most readily available and accessible use cases for ChatGPT in your every day life. Learn how querying this powerful tool can help with everything from cooking to your mortgage decisions.Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
10/15/24 • 37:04
Bryan Braddy, the talented artist behind Bad Art Nice Watch, shares how he has created a business out of helping tell the captivating tales of luxury watches. Beginning with a simple drawing session with his daughter, Bryan rediscovered his passion for art, eventually developing a unique and recognizable style using professional-grade watercolors. His artwork brings to life the personal narratives and histories of luxury watches, transforming them from mere timepieces into evocative stories worth telling.Bryan's entrepreneurial journey from sharing personal art on Instagram to managing a growing art business offers valuable insights into balancing passion with profession. With the growing demand for his work, Bryan navigated the challenges of pricing and scaling his business while maintaining art as a therapeutic outlet. Check out his work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badartnicewatch/View his website: https://badartnicewatch.com/Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
10/8/24 • 42:06
Mike sits down with Constance Polamalu , the founder of Birthright Foundry to talk about the latest updates to her jewelry line since they last spoke during S4 E34. Constance discusses her journey this past year, highlighting the meticulous selection of her pieces that were featured on the Golden Bachelorette and the importance of creating a brand that stands the test of time. Send us a text Send feedback or learn more about the podcast: punchmark.com/loupe Learn about Punchmark's website platform: punchmark.com Inquire about sponsoring In the Loupe and showcase your business on our next episode: podcast@punchmark.com
10/1/24 • 36:54
