NEW YORK— In a move to distinguish itself from other luxury hotels here, The Ritz-Carlton, New York, Central Park has brought onsite what is claimed to be the world’s first and only hotel gemologist, to provide expert, one-on-one guidance for guests interested in buying the most upmarket gemstones without leaving their rooms. The services of Lawrence Lewis III, who has a degree in gemology and has worked at such posh retailers as Cartier, Harry Winston and Saks Fifth Avenue, may be obtained for free via the hotel’s concierge. Once an appointment is made, Lewis pre-selects a variety of gems, such as diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires that can be fashioned into rings, bracelets, necklaces and oversized brooches. He then hand-delivers them to the guestroom. Guests may also view an entire collection before making selections through a private showroom viewing at one of the nearest jewelry stores on Fifth Ave. Transportation in the hotel’s Bentley is free for this service. “A major challenge is the ability to have jewelry brought to customers, instead of vice versa,” Lewis told HOTEL BUSINESS®. “This is an important service since many people come to New York specifically to buy jewelry, not to mention that Ritz-Carlton guests have inquired about some kind of jewelry service for a while.” The hotel found Lewis through discussions with Saks Fifth Avenue’s division head of jewelry about the newly launched service. Lewis has the freedom to obtain jewelry for Ritz-Carlton customers throughout the city. Jacqueline Sanders, the hotel’s manager said, “This is what our customers want, a special-occasion-type property offering special services. We’re considered the flagship of the Ritz-Carlton brand, plus our location allows us to be unique and creative for our customers, some of whom are queens, kings, princesses and every type of royalty imaginable.” She added with so many choices of luxury hotels today, “we wanted to set ourselves apart from the competition as far as what true luxury is and become a reliable source, helping customers narrow down their hotel choices in New York. We want to convert guests who have tried other luxury hotels into Ritz-Carlton guests.” Within walking distance of Fifth Ave.’s most upscale shops, boutiques and cultural attractions, the 277-room Five-Diamond Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park also features the first stateside La Prairie at The Ritz-Carlton Spa; a fitness center with personal trainers available; a multi-million dollar art collection; fine dining at Atelier and afternoon high tea.
Ritz-Carlton