New York, NY (October 2006) - Results from an omnibus study conducted by the JCOC (2005) indicate that the number of people consulting the Internet to research fine jewelry is growing. Men in particular, use the Internet as their number-one resource to begin their search for their first fine jewelry purchase-the engagement ring. Often these potential new customers end up on www.preciousplatinum.com or www.engagementguide.com.

To help take consumers to the next step towards a purchase, Platinum Guild International USA (PGI-USA) has added a new tool to their consumer-dedicated sites-the Find A Retailer section.

With the new Find A Retailer section (found on preciousplatinum.com/findaretailer and engagementguide.com/gallery/index_intro.html) each of the sites' unique visitors is a retailer's next potential sale. This section is strategically designed to send Platinum ready-buyers to reputable fine jewelry retailers that not only offer a wide selection of Platinum jewelry, but also have a strong, educated sales staff that will provide a great shopping experience.

"The Find A Retailer section is a great resource for consumers to find a store that not only provides Platinum bridal product, but service by a trained Platinum sales force. In return, this new section provides retailers a great opportunity by delivering a Platinum customer directly into their store," says Michelle Peranteau, Manager of Marketing Communications for PGI-USA.

In addition to the Find A Retailer section, PGI-USA has revamped two existing sections of preciousplatinum.com: the Design Gallery and Celebrity Showcase.

The Design Gallery's new user-friendly format makes it simple to view over 220
designs from more than 50 top designers.  And since design drives desire visitors can use the Find A Retailer section to find nearby retailers that carry these designs. The Design Gallery also allows visitors to streamline their jewelry search by highlighting five different jewelry categories helping them target their search-
 
. Bridal (Diamond Engagement Rings & Wedding Bands)
. Fashion
. Anniversary
. Advertised Product
. Design Showcase (featuring jewelry designed overseas)
. Tycoon
. Rose Veltri
. Bergio
. Maevona
. Gurhan
. Beaudry
. Sandra Müller
. Kirk Kara

The Celebrity Showcase illustrates the latest Platinum jewelry trends in Hollywood. Celebrities are the biggest influence to men and women ages 18-34. Retailers can capitalize on this opportunity by viewing the most recent Red Carpet and bridal trends, and keeping a fresh inventory to match these trends.

To find out how to be a featured retailer or manufacturer on preciousplatinum.com, contact Michelle Peranteau at (212) 404-1603 or mperanteau@pgiglobal.com.

Platinum is prized for its Pure, Rare and Eternal qualities:

PURE: Platinum's high level of purity (generally 90%-95% pure) endows it with both a natural white luster, allowing the true radiance of a diamond or gemstone to shine; and hypoallergenic qualities that prove ideal for sensitive skin. Only the purest Platinum jewelry will bear a stamp reading

"PLATINUM", "PLAT", "Pt 950", or "Pt 900", signifying the jewelry is 90% to 95% pure Platinum.

RARE: Platinum is 30 times more rare than gold.

ETERNAL:  Platinum will hold a diamond or gemstone securely, now and for always.

About Platinum Guild International USA

Platinum Guild International, the marketing arm for the worldwide Platinum jewelry industry, is dedicated to promoting Platinum and its, pure, rare and eternal qualities to the consumer and the jewelry trade.  PGI has offices in each of the world's major jewelry markets, providing information, assistance and education on all aspects of Platinum jewelry.

For more information on Platinum, please visit www.platinumguild.com

CONTACT:
Andrew Michaels
PLATINUM GUILD INTERNATIONAL USA
(212) 404-1604 / amichaels@pgiglobal.com