A story that began on a negative note has suddenly turned positive, as a reported groundswell of support to a new product called SK Cobalt grows in demand. Creators of the product say they cannot keep up with the growing interest, while retailers that are already carrying the product say they’re happy with the performance.
Because of the current higher cost of precious metals and economic factors, fine jewelry manufacturers have been forced to find alternatives to gold, platinum and other materials that can be sold for lower prices. The use of several of these materials that are labeled contemporary came under fire for varying reasons, leaving consumers and even retailers that were selling the products confused.
The reported confusion caused by alternative metals that were said to be brittle and would become damaged if dropped has reportedly opened the door to brighter products, led by Cobalt. Scott Kay introduced a Cobalt alloy called "SK Cobalt" in a men's wedding band collection, saying the company was inspired by the bright white look, durability and affordability of the alloy.
An eWN story last month did find anger at the center of the shift to Cobalt because of research into another lower-priced bridal band material, tungsten carbide. According to reports by Scott Kay executives, Tungsten was found to be less durable than claimed. eWedNews interviewed Scott Kay, owner of the company bearing his name, in January and has been researching the story further. In our findings, we’ve decided to leave behind the anger and theatrics that initially caught our attention and are now focusing on the more positive aspects, as they unfold.
SK Cobalt is the name Scott Kay gave to his trademarked version of BioBlu27, a patented alloy that was developed through what the involved parties say is an unprecedented partnership between a design company--Scott Kay--a metal and jewelry manufacturer, Spectore Corp., and a steel company, Carpenter Technology Corp.
In an interview today, Dan Scott, Marketing head at Scott Kay told eWN several key events have taken place since our last story. “We’re experiencing substantial interest and growth in the number of retailers coming on board with our Cobalt product. Concerns that were raised about cutting the Cobalt rings off customer’s fingers have been addressed are the results are being featured in several trade reviews that will quell any and all reported misgivings,” he told eWN.
In addition, ongoing eWN research into the story is finding satisfied retailers that are sidestepping any and all controversy. They too say they are focusing attention on the positive aspects of Cobalt offerings from Scott Kay, rather than negative reports surrounding Tungsten. Michelle Fusaro, owner of Bella Jewelers in New Milford, CT, told eWN of some of the positive points she and her staff are experiencing in her market. “We’re able to satisfy our customers with this particular product, hitting upon several key factors including appearance, expectations and price,” according to discussions with the retailer.
Ongoing interviews with other retailers say they too are having similar experiences and are also shying away from any controversy surrounding alternative metals. Issues that were brought up surrounding Tungsten remain inconclusive and now seem detached from the new direction this story has taken. In the $275-350 dollar range for wedding bands, we found the Cobalt product to be brighter, whiter and crisper looking, even above some precious metals that cost much more.
eWN will continue our investigation into the use of Cobalt, its success and those of other metals that are used for wedding ring applications.
eWN
All Rights Reserved
2010
Posted on 02/15/2010
Comments
Comments are the view of the comment poster, not the view of eWedNews. Please keep all comments relevant to the subject and respectful.
