Jeweler Launches New Necklace as Titanic Interest Resurfaces

RICHMOND, Va., April 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Titanic has a rich history and to mark the 100th anniversary of its sinking, leading jewelry retailer Stauer (www.Stauer.com), known for their historical replicas, has created a beautiful necklace inspired by the ship's famous "Heart of the Ocean" necklace.  Fascination over the ship's history (and the necklace itself) has also been fueled by the release of the new 3D version of James Cameron's epic film. Couples who were teenagers in love when the film was initially released may now be taking their kids to experience the wonder of the big-screen blockbuster, bringing a whole new generation to experience the romantic epic.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120411/NY85705 )

Historically, a blue diamond pendant was given to passenger Kate Florence Phillips by her married lover, Samuel Morley, both aboard the RMS Titanic as they fled to America in hopes of starting a new life.  Morley did not survive, but their love story, centered around the "Heart of the Ocean" necklace, is believed to be the inspiration behind Cameron's film.

After the Titanic film release in 1997, women everywhere swooned for that incredible necklace. Celine Dion wore a $3.5-million version during the Academy Awards. One of the world's most recognized jewelers also crafted a version using blue and white diamonds, resulting in a $20 million stunner. That craze has started all over again.

"Today, scientifically-created stones allow us to recapture the romance of that fateful voyage in a pendant that looks and feels truly luxurious," said Michael Bisceglia, president of Stauer.

Stauer's Ocean Blue Pendant, $99, features a 27-carat lab-created blue spinel heart set in sterling silver and surrounded by one carat of brilliant white, lab-created DiamondAura rounds.  

Founded in 2005, Stauer is one of the largest direct retailers of jewelry, watches and accessories in the United States with annualized sales over $200 million.

SOURCE Stauer