Hosts Brecken and Jonathan are co-owners of Parle, a multi-generational, family-run jewelry brand that specializes in sourcing colored gemstones of extraordinary beauty, rarity, and value. Parle means "to speak", and they believe in the powerful stories behind jewels. Through inspiring interviews and fun conversations, they educate listeners about gems as well as the hottest topics and trends in the jewelry industry.
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In this long-awaited comeback episode of our podcast, "Is Anyone Listening?", we enthusiastically announce our return from a brief hiatus! We're thrilled to be back on air, ready to dive into the fascinating world of gemstones once again. This episode is particularly special as we cover two distinct regions: the tropical paradise of Hawaii and our …
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Gems Of The US - Georgia And Florida
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It’s been a while! Between (2) quarantines and a terrible case of a stomach bug, we’re back on track to bring you Florida and Georgia.00:00:00 Name that bool01:30:00 Long time, no chat03:18:00 So Florida05:07:00 Moonstone (For more details on moonstone check out our episode – “Phenomenon-phe-no-me-no-me-non !!!”)06:45:00 Popularity 07:06:00 Florida…
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Gems Of The US - Connecticut And Delaware
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Hello, 2021!! It’s already been off to a crazy start but we will kick things off with the continuation of our “Gems of the US” series. Up next we’ve got Connecticut and Delaware. 00:00:00 Rabbit hole00:25:00 We’re back01:45:00 Storytime – wallpaperO3:00:00 Onto Connecticut and Delaware. Neither of which has a state gemstone.04:12:00 Connecticut Sta…
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Up next on our journey exploring gemstones across the US we’ve got Colorado. Not only does Colorado have a state gemstone but it also has a state mineral we haven’t covered yet – rhodochrosite. Pull up a chair as we look into into this double-gemmy episode.00:00:00 Notes00:29:00 Colorado01:10:00 The Charlemagne connection03:52:00 Ranking in most ha…
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Continuing with our series Gems of the US and up next we have California. A state that encompasses a plethora of gemstones we focus dabble about Spodumene, Tourmaline, and of coarse, it’s state gemstone--Benitoite. It's a big state so it is only fair to recognize these two influential gemstones.00:00:00 Calimocho/ Kalimotxo01:58:00 Cookie Monster +…
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Gems Of The US - Arizona And Arkansas
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Working our way down the alphabet which means we’ve got Arizona and Arkansas up next. These two states bring a plethora of gemmy goodness.00:00:00 Deck issues00:58:00 “The United States”02:10:00 Arizona & Arkansas03:02:00 Arizona = Turquoise03:20:00 Rich history in Arizona03:37:00 State neckwear05:15:00 First mined in 200 BC06:06:00 Turquoise legen…
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Gems Across The US - Alabama And Alaska
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With so many people unable to travel beyond the US border and taking more local road trips we figured now was the perfect time to explore each state’s gemstone. To start things off we’re talking about Alabama and Alaska.00:00:00 Who’s starting?01:01:00 Alabama and Alaska . . . cue the states song03:17:00 Alabama – Blue Star Quarts03:26:00 Thought i…
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We’ve covered gold, silver, and platinum. But how do all of these different metals work within the components of jewelry design? We take you through each step of the process from molding to polish and talk about how these metals vary within each step of the process. To ensure we don’t overlook any details we brought in our production manager, Paul …
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What is denser than a diamond and is extremely ductile? PLATINUM. Once tossed away to be believed un-ripened silver that noble metal has become a popular choice in jewelry design. Learn about its discovery and its out of this world origins. 00:00:00 Dubba-dub-dub-dub00:14:00 The game plan with the podcast03:50:00 Garden Woes05:54:00 So Platinum. . …
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Moonbeams and ocean reflections are just a few ways to describe the beauty of Moonstone. This week we explore the world of this translucent yet, opulent gemstone.00:00:00 That’s an “I”00:44:00 Moonstone02:50:00 Why is it called moonstone?03:43:50 The phenomenon, adularescence04:31:00 What is moonstone?06:36:00 Where does the name/word adularescence…
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We’ve been away for 6 weeks and we’re all excited to be back at the office! Take a seat as we recap about our quarantine experience and explore the ancient world of Lapis Lazuli. Being one of the oldest gemstones mined, it has an extensive involvement with history and folklore that will lure you in.00:00:00 Has it really been 6 weeks?00:29:00 The C…
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This week we're getting back to our roots and talking about a gemstone—chrysoprase. Its golden-green tone has a rich presence in history and folklore. We also explore its healing properties and its ability to be a beacon of courage through a time of change.00:00:00 Social distancing00:55:00 2020 has already had it's high and lows06:38:00 What gemst…
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One of our goals with the podcast this year is to focus on career paths. Up next, is an interview providing another perspective in opportunities within the jewelry industry--journalism. We sit down with Brecken Branstrator, with National Jeweler, to learn a little more about her role as an editor and of course, talk about the name “Brecken.”00:00:0…
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In honor of #womensinternationalday and #womenshistorymonth we sit down with Jennifer Markas to learn more about Women’s Jeweler Association (WJA). We dive into WJA’s history, its mission and get to know Jennifer up close and personal.00:00:00 Are we ready?00:16:00 We’re going to Disneyland00:57:00 Introduction to Jennifer Markas of WJA01:58:00 Whe…
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Purpose + Passion With Ben Smithee
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We’re back with another interview from Tucson at the JCK show and continue to delve into the world of career paths within the jewelry world. Behind every brand is a marketing team that helps bring life to its story. We sit down with Ben Smittee, of The Smithee Group, to get to know a little more about him and his passion supporting the future of th…
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We regularly get asked, “What can I do with a GG? How do I obtain a GG?” We went straight to the source and sat down with Kimberly Overlin, the Dean of Students from GIA. We discuss the nuts and bolts about GIA (Gemological Institute of America), what it offers to students and review career paths that one can obtain.(Recording took place on the sho…
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2020 is in full swing and we thought it would be a good idea to give you an idea of things to look forward to from the podcast.00:00:00 It’s Brecken!00:06:00 Back from Hong Kong05:43:00 What to expect this year07:33:00 Delve into the world of less known/obscure gemstones08:32:00 Speaking of Tucson . . .…
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We’ve been busy bees getting ready for trade show season but don’t worry Gem Junkies we haven’t forgotten about you!! For awhile we’ve teased about putting together an episode about birthstones and it’s finally come into fruition. From it’s early biblical beginning to its influence in the jewelry world we delve into its long history. 00:00:00 Take …
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Raising The Tide With Craig Danforth
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Hello 2020!! For the first podcast of the year we sit down with Craig Danforth from Jewelers Mutual. With all the jewelry received over the holidays we talk about the importance of acquiring a policy for your jewelry, the history of Jewelers Mutual and of course, we get to know Craig up close and personal. 00:00:00 Sea Legs00:42:00 Introducing Crai…
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If you’ve been wondering who is often laughing in the background when we’re recording a podcast it’s me, Stephanie Major. Hey Gem Junkies, I’m the producer and marketing coordinator at Parle. We thought it might be time to step up to the mic and for you all to get to know a little more about me.00:00:00 Hey, @spencerpratt03:34:00 Happy Birthday Abb…
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It’s the season of giving and during this years Giving Tuesday we donated $1000 to Gem Legacy . Thus, it’s a perfect time to interview Rachel Dery of Gem Legacy. We learn about her childhood growing up in the gemstone industry and about Gem Legacy--a non-profit organization that help support communities closest to the mining source. If you would li…
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We made it to New York City in time for New York Jewelry Week and had an opportunity to talk shop with jewelry designer Julie Lamb. From her childhood beginnings in jewelry to the evolution of personal brand. We also have our special co-host @thirdcoastgems joining in the fun. (We apologize for the background noise. At least you get a little sense …
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Today we answer a fans question about gemstone cuts. By no means are we experts on how to actually cut/facet gemstones rather, we’ll discuss the evolution of gem cutting and the different cut styles. 00:00:00 50th Episode01:01:00 Common Cold02:15:00 Introduction of Gem Cutting03:33:00 When do you think humans began cutting gemstones04:37:00 Bruting…
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Halloween is here and we couldn’t resist an opportunity to talk about cursed gemstones and jewelry. We go as far back to the legendary Hope Diamond, The Curse of the Delhi Purple Sapphire, The Black Orlov and yes, even a cursed opal. 00:00:00 Garlic Breath00:41:00 Halloween Special – Cursed Jewelry01:44:00 The most famous cursed gemstone – The Hope…
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We did Gold and now it’s Silvers turn. It is recognized as one of the 7 metals of antiquity and this week we dive into its deep history—from its physical properties to its everyday applications. We even discover the folklore behind why all monsters are destroyed by this precious metal. Come take a listen and even learn how to make it rain with SILV…
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Unearthing Brazil With @thirdcoastgems
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Benjamin Guttery, of @thirdcoastgems, was in Idaho and we couldn’t resist the opportunity to record another podcast with him. We sit down and learn about his 14-day excursion unearthing the Brazilian mines--from road trip woes to #birthdaygoals playing with gemstones straight from the source. Pull up a chair and take a listen as we relive this one-…
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Getting to know you, getting to know all about Parle. We sit town with another Parle team member, Marty Burns, who is one of our traveling sales consultants. As a child panning for gold in the Merced River, Marty was destined to be involved in the jewelry industry. We sit down and learning about his early beginnings in the jewelry industry and even…
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We went straight to the source to learn more about Montana Sapphire from the Rock Creek mountains of Montana. We were honored to have a guided tour from Warren Boyd, of Potentate. From the early findings, mining techniques to how they responsibly source Sapphires to ensure many years of sapphires to come.00:00:00 Who drank all the coffee?00:47:50 W…
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Gold - To Shine, To Gleam Or To Be Yellow Or Green
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“To shine, to gleam, to be yellow and green.” This week is all about the Midas touch --- GOLD! We explore the early history of gold, some fundamental basics, how it has become the metal of choice and of course, the lore behind it all.00:00:00 Take 1 to 1100:39:00 GOLD01:42:00 What does gold mean?02:22:00 Early history of mining for gold03:08:00 Old…
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Getting to know you, getting to know all about . . . Paul! You’ve heard us reference Paul throughout other episodes so its time we put him in the hot seat. Parlé wouldn’t be the same company without him because heck, he manages our whole production team. We learn about his childhood passion for minerals and his journey into his role. Don’t forget t…
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Mexican Fire Opal is what is up for the week! Yes, Jonathan and Brecken covered opal in 2 prior podcast episodes but thought it would be best to go into a little more detail about this mystical stone. From Aztec lore to the very core of how this opal is formed. [Warning: we experience some technical difficulties in the middle of the recording so we…
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It's been awhile but Gem Junkies is back! Jonathan and Brecken talk about the heavenly world of Jade. As always, they'll cover the chemical compositions and Brecken favorite the lore and history among different cultures/civilizations.00:00:00 Getting back into the swing of things01:26:00 Intro to Jade01:56:00 Two types: Nephrite and Jadeite02:26:00…
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PHENOMENON, Phe - No - Me - No - Me - Non!!!
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00:00:00 Mickey isn’t real01:21:50 Returning to the basement and what we’ve been up to04:35:00 Phenomenal Gemstones (2) main types: Structure and Inclusions05:04:00 Structure of phenomenal gemstones 05:24:00 Play of Color Our favorite gemstone – opal06:11:00 Iridescence = Pearl07:31:50 Ladradorescence = Ladradorescence09:22:50 Adularescence = Moons…
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Leo Valentine Aka Beyonce Aka John Carter
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Ask and you will receive? You all requested more interviews and Jonathan and Brecken come back with another special guest. You can call him Leo Valentine, the Beyoncè of AGS but we know him as John Carter – President of the American Gemstone Society and owner of Jack Lewis Jewelers. Learn about John’s early beginnings at Jack Lewis his transition i…
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Angie Crabtree - From Gemstone To Canvas
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A Northern Californian taking the gemstone world by storm with her paintings. Yes, PAINTINGS!! Jonathan and Brecken sit with Angie Crabtree. From her childhood memories to geodes, teaching to stumbling into the world of gemstones we get to better know the woman behind the canvas.00:40:00 Introduction to Angie Crabtree01:55:00 What inspired you to d…
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Eureka!! We have diamonds!! Jonathan and Brecken finally talk about the #1 gemstone sold –Diamonds! There’s a lot to cover when it comes to Diamonds so this episode will cover some lore, its history and even touch base on the subject Natural vs. Synthetic Diamonds.00:00:00 Intro00:41:00 Diamonds!!!01:53:50 Discover the best donuts in the world02:50…
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William Travis - Survivor, Designer, Warrior
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Part III of the interview series from the Tucson AGTA Gem Fair. Jonathan and Brecken interview fellow designer William Travis Kukovich. Transforming his life from a traumatic childhood to becoming a recipient of 17 AGTA Spectrum Awards.00:00:00 How the podcast started?00:48:00 Introducing William Travis Kukovich01:26:80 Want to see the scar?01:56:0…
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St. Patrick’s day is just around the corner and to bring in as much luck as possible we explore the lore behind lucky gemstones. Crack open a beer, enjoy some laughs and discover the perfect gemstone to bring you the best luck!! 1:05:00 Juicy Gem2:49:00 Green. The color of St. Patrick’s Day and Luck4:40:00 Finding luck in Jade5:24:00 Luck in births…
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Aquamarine = The Gem Lore Of Gem Lores
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Jonathan and Brecken explore the world of Aquamarine. The birthstone of March provides unique gemstone qualities and an expansive folklore behind it. Who wouldn’t want to conjure people from the dead, carry a piece of mermaid treasure or ensure a life-long marriage? 0:25.0 Welcome! We’re back in the basement!! (Reminisce about Tucson and meeting Ge…
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Jonathan and Brecken interview Danielle Miele of Gem Gossip. From her early childhood memories with jewelry, how Gem Gossip started and even about her new role into motherhood. 0:35.00 – Introduction with Gem Gossip1:14.20 – Starting out as a blog1:36.20 – What is your first memory of a piece of jewelry/gemstone?2:59.00 – If your family in the jewe…
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Tuscon was another great year and we were fortunate enough to interview THE Doug Hucker -- CEO of AGTA. Take look into how it all with the AGTA Gem Fair, the lore behind the show and even define the term "ethically sourced".0:46.0 - First memory of a piece of jewelry or gemstone1:30.0 - What's your story? How did you get here?5:41.0 - What directio…
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The Finest American Gemstone - Montana Sapphire
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Back to talking about gemstones!! Explore the wonders of Montana Sapphire. Jonathan and Brecken discuss the early beginnings and the lore behind America's finest gemstone.Go to link below for transcriptionhttps://www.parlegems.com/blog/the-finest-american-gemstone-montana-sapphire/Af Parle Jewelry Design's Jonathan and Brecken Farnsworth.
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Jonathan interviews Brecken and puts her in the hot seat. Reminisce through childhood memories and her journey leading into the world of jewelry.Af Parle Jewelry Design's Jonathan and Brecken Farnsworth.
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Getting to know you, getting to know all about -- Jonathan!! We've spent this past year talking about gemstones and thought you should get to know us a little more. Get a personal interview about Jonathan--childhood memories growing up in the jewelry industry, being an SOB (not the SOB you're thinking of) and some personal stories.…
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Starting off the new year with January's birthstone, Garnet. While it provides the world a wide array of colors (except blue) Jonathan and Brecken explore the world of the red tones of the Garnet Family. From Biblical times to Greek mythology Garnet has made it stamp in history.Af Parle Jewelry Design's Jonathan and Brecken Farnsworth.
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Jonathan and Brecken reflect on the past year--share more stories and look back on their favorite episodes. In the Holiday Spirit, they also talk about how Parle is giving back to the jewelry community. Stay tuned for the full episode for a special Parle surprise!!Af Parle Jewelry Design's Jonathan and Brecken Farnsworth.
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Putting the Wheels on the Car -- 45 years Parle
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This year marks 45 years in the jewelry business for Parle!! Jonathan and Brecken interview the man who started it all, Frank Farnsworth. It's a journey into the past--the first mining excursion, being on the road, how the industry has evolved and tips for future entrepreneurs.Af Parle Jewelry Design's Jonathan and Brecken Farnsworth.
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Jonathan and Brecken discuss Zircons unique properties-- high doubling, high refractive index and even radioactive!! (Don't worry it's not harmful to wear.) Even learn how to ward off phantoms and demons. Intrigued? Come take a listen!!Af Parle Jewelry Design's Jonathan and Brecken Farnsworth.
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Gem Junkies are back!! Brecken shares her recent buying experience purchasing in Hong Kong. What a common day looks like being on the road and buying tips. The Holiday are here and they give a shopping guide to help select the perfect piece of jewelry to gift.Af Parle Jewelry Design's Jonathan and Brecken Farnsworth.
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Brecken and Jonathan break out the purple quartz and their drinking goblets this episode to talk all about the sobering gemstone- Amethyst. This variety of quartz has been adorned by some of the most pious in history, making it quit a "pure" stone, but where is it from, and how does it get it's color? Well, just listen to find out!…
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