Posts made in July 2025

DEFENDER OCTA BLACK: THE TOUGH LUXURY 4X4 ROCK STAR

‘Capable, rugged, and versatile–it’s a 4×4 savage.’ – Vaughn L.

Bold attitude: Defender OCTA Black is an all-black interpretation of the Defender flagship, combining all-terrain performance with an even bolder appearance
Individual details: As many as 30 exterior elements are finished in either Gloss Black or Satin Black, with wheel and paint finish options enabling clients to further personalize OCTA Black
Tough luxury: Ebony Semi-Aniline Leather and KvadratTM interior is offered on Defender for the first time. Soft and tactile finish features exclusive perforation pattern and stitching detail
High-performance hero: Defender OCTA is the toughest, most capable Defender ever, with 626 HP (635PS) Twin Turbo mild-hybrid V8 power, 6D Dynamics suspension and OCTA Mode
Rock ‘n’ Roll Star: Defender is the official automotive partner of Oasis Live ’25, transporting the British band on their long-awaited global tour, which starts today
Explore more: View and configure the entire Defender range HERE.

Defender OCTA, the master of performance on- and off-road, has a new, even bolder attitude: Defender OCTA Black.

Extensive black detailing for the high-performance 4×4 hero gives the toughest, most capable and most luxurious model in the Defender family an even more purposeful presence and even greater luxury.

As many as 30 exterior elements have received black finishes as part of the transformation. Defender OCTA Black is finished in Narvik Black: the truest black in the Defender paint palette. Narvik Black is deep and dark with a gloss finish as standard, but clients can personalize the exterior of their OCTA Black by choosing an optional Matte Protective Film.

The front undershield and rear scuff plates are finished in Satin Black Powder Coat with exposed recovery eyes in Satin Black, while a Gloss Black tow eye cover at the front and Gloss Black quad exhaust tips at the rear provide a contrasting finish. The Land Rover oval on the grille is black with darkened silver script. Even underbody elements feature a Gloss or Satin Black finish, including the cover for the exhaust silencer and center box. A choice of 20-inch forged wheels or 22-inch Gloss Black wheels is available, with black center caps and Shadow Atlas Defender script, while Gloss Black brake calipers feature contrasting Sentient Silver script.

To complement the dramatically dark exterior, Defender OCTA Black’s interior takes tough luxury to a new level. Ebony Semi-Aniline Leather with KvadratTM is introduced to Defender for the first time, bringing a soft and tactile finish to the Performance Seats. They feature unique perforation patterns on the seats, with new stitching detail on the backrests, while the seat backs and armrest hinges are finished in Carpathian Grey – bringing bold finishes to every element.

Across the dashboard, the Cross Car Beam is finished in Satin Black Powder Coat, while an optional Chopped Carbon Fiber finish can be chosen for the interior details – the epitome of tough luxury.

Mark Cameron, Managing Director, Defender, said: “There’s no denying the presence and purpose of Defender OCTA: it’s the tallest and widest Defender, enabling it to tackle even more extreme terrain. The introduction of Defender OCTA Black takes things up a notch. We know our clients love giving their Defenders all-black finishes, so our designers have applied this principle to every possible surface – inside and out – to create the ultimate tough luxury Defender OCTA.”

Defender OCTA is the performance hero of the Defender family, with 626 HP (635PS) 4.4‑litre Twin Turbo mild-hybrid V8 power, innovative 6D Dynamics suspension and a dedicated OCTA Mode for performance off‑road use. It also features Body and Soul Seats (BASS), which allow those in the front row Performance Seats to feel the music they are listening to, as well as hear it. Developed in partnership with industry leader SUBPACTM, and utilizing audio signals from the 700W, 15-speaker, MeridianTM Surround Sound System, this immersive high fidelity vibro-acoustic technology incorporates the same AI optimizing software used by the world’s top recording artists and composers.

Defender OCTA Black benefits from the recent enhancements across the Defender line-up, including a crisp new headlight design with revised signature graphic, and flush rear lights with smoked lenses. Inside, a new 13.1-inch touchscreen provides even more intuitive infotainment control.

Defender OCTA Black joins the standard Defender OCTA, which is now available in two new colorways – Sargasso Blue and Borasco Grey – in addition to Charente Grey and Petra Copper.

Defender is the official automotive partner of Oasis Live ’25, transporting the British band on their long-awaited 41-date global tour, which starts in the UK today.

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DEFENDER OCTA BLACK: THE TOUGH LUXURY 4X4 ROCK STAR via 360 MAGAZINE.

3AM LUXURY

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Jared Hall, born in Nebraska, is the founder of 3AM Luxury, which is more than just a brand: it’s a philosophy, a statement, and an invitation to manifest your highest self through craftsmanship and design.

Designer Jared Hall’s vision is reflected in the name 3AM Luxury, which didn’t come about on a whim. Each letter of the name has a complex symbolism.

3 — Vision and awakened creativity are symbolized by the third eye.

A – Perspective and individuality.

M — Mental elevation and manifestation are symbolized by twin pyramids.

The guiding ethos is evident in every piece; from the clean architectural lines of the silhouettes to the personalized engravings found inside each handcrafted bag. All pieces are made in the U.S. using premium materials, a subtle nod to heritage craft in a global market increasingly dominated by mass production.

International Attention

3AM Luxury has begun to attract international attention after launching its sensual, sharply tailored womenswear collection in Monaco, which is unapologetically feminine and deliberately provocative. Hall is determined to reshape how America contributes to the global fashion conversation. ‘I wanted to bring a new vision of designer fashion to the U.S. – to reintroduce elegance, confidence, and personal storytelling into every bag and wallet we produce.’

3AM Luxury challenges the norm of genderless minimalism in high fashion by combining its accessories with short skirts, bold cuts, and tastefully executed sensual sophistication, as well as with more unisex and inclusive apparel. The brand is expanding its global footprint and currently ships worldwide.

Next in line: Paris Fashion Week

On October 4th, Tiffany’s Red Carpet Fashion Show will host 3AM Luxury’s latest collection during Paris Fashion Week.

This event is 3AM Luxury’s official runway debut in Paris, bringing its distinctive American energy and provocative elegance to the world’s fashion capital.

A Guide to Levels of Care Offered by Retirement Communities

Are you wondering what kind of support you or a loved one might need in a retirement community?

Choosing the right level of care can feel confusing, especially with so many options available. Some communities offer just basic help, while others provide full-time medical care and memory support. Each level meets different needs as life changes.

This guide breaks it all down in simple terms, so it’s easier to understand. Learn how to find the right fit based on lifestyle, independence, and support needs. Ready to explore what each level of care can offer? Keep reading to make the best choice.

Know the Main Levels of Care

Retirement communities offer different kinds of care. Some people need little help, while others need more support each day. Independent living is for those who can still do most things on their own.

Assisted living gives help with things like getting dressed or taking medicine. Memory care is for people who have trouble remembering. Skilled nursing gives full-time care from nurses. Knowing these main types helps you choose the right kind of help.

Each one gives care based on what a person needs. Some places can change the level of help over time. This is useful as needs grow. Many communities also offer personalized assisted living care services to match each person’s daily habits and comfort.

Match Care to Daily Needs

Daily tasks can get harder with age, so it’s important to find the right kind of help. Some people may need help with cooking or cleaning. Others may need help getting dressed, taking a bath, or remembering to take medicine.

A good retirement community gives the right care without taking away freedom. Getting the right help each day makes life safer and easier. It also helps stop falls or other problems. Some people may need help talking with others or remembering things.

These needs are just as important as physical care. Making sure all needs are met each day can also support mental health. This helps people feel happy, calm, and more connected to the people around them.

Plan for Future Changes

Needs can change over time, so it’s smart to think ahead. Someone who needs little help today may need more care later. Choosing a retirement community that offers different care levels makes it easier to adjust without moving again.

Look for places that can add more support as needed, like help with daily tasks or medical care. Planning early gives comfort, knowing future care is ready if needed, all in one trusted place.

Visit and Ask Questions

Seeing a retirement community in person helps you learn what it’s really like. Look at the rooms, shared spaces, and how staff treat the people living there. Listen to how clean, safe, and friendly it feels.

Ask questions about care, daily routines, meals, and activities. Talking to staff gives you clear answers and helps you feel sure about your choice. A visit can show things you might not notice in a brochure or website.

Choosing the Right Care Starts with Understanding Your Options

Knowing the different levels of care helps you make smart choices for yourself or a loved one. Understanding what each type offers makes it easier to find the right fit that matches daily needs and future changes. Taking time to visit and ask questions gives confidence in your decision. The right retirement community can provide comfort, support, and peace as life moves forward.

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Clipse Releases Highly Anticipated 4th Album – Let God Sort Em Out

Chains + Whips

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Clipse release their highly-anticipated fourth studio album, LET GOD SORT EM OUT.

Executive-Produced by Pharrell Williams, LET GOD SORT EM OUT features guest appearances from Kendrick Lamar, Tyler the Creator, Nas, John Legend, The-Dream, Ab-Liva, Stove God Cooks and more.

Critical acclaim has already begun pouring in for LGSEO, with Rolling Stone’s 4-star review proclaiming the album as “brilliant,” the Guardian’s Five-star review hailing it as “one of the albums of the year,” and Stereogum calling it “a statement of the highest order,” a “real-deal event” and “a reclamation of legacy”

Pusha T and Malice released two searing tracks ahead of LET GOD SORT EM OUT – “Ace Trumpets,” and “So Be It” – while grabbing headlines with GQ, The New York Times, Colors and more. In its GQ Hype cover story, GQ proclaimed “The Thornton brothers have set their intentions from the jump with an album title that promises to Let God Sort Em Out…killing all the competition by putting their bid in for Rap Album of the Year.”

LISTEN TO LET GOD SORT EM OUT’ HERE

Supporting the new album with their first U.S. tour in almost two decades, Clipse have announced the ‘Let God Sort Em Out Tour,’ set to launch on August 3 in Boston, MA. The tour will feature stops in New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Houston, Detroit, Chicago and many more, including Pusha T and Malice’s hometown of Virginia Beach, VA.

Tickets and VIP Packages for the Let God Sort Em Out Tour are on sale now at letgodsortemout.com.

For the release of LET GOD SORT EM OUT, Clipse have enlisted an all-star team comprised of longtime collaborators, as well as exciting new partners; LGSEO is produced entirely by Pharrell Williams with artwork and design by KAWS, and will be marketed and distributed in partnership with Roc Nation.

Limited edition vinyl LPs, CDs and exclusive merchandise from KAWS, Verdy, Denim Tears and Carhartt WIP are now available exclusively at the official Clipse shop letgodsortemout.com.

LET GOD SORT EM OUT TRACKLIST:

01 – The Birds Don’t Sing Feat. John Legend & Voices of Fire

02 – Chains & Whips Feat. Kendrick Lamar

03 – P.O.V. Feat. Tyler, The Creator

04 – So Be It Pt. II

05 – Ace Trumpets

06 – All Things Considered Feat. The-Dream & Pharrell Williams

07 – M.T.B.T.T.F.

08 – E.B.I.T.D.A. Feat. Pharrell Williams

09 – F.I.C.O. Feat. Stove God Cooks

10 – Inglorious Bastards Feat. Ab-Liva

11 – So Far Ahead FEAT. Pharrell Williams

12 – Let God Sort Em Out / Chandeliers Feat. Nas

13 – By The Grace Of God Feat. Pharrell Williams

Clipse release their highly-anticipated fourth studio album, LET GOD SORT EM OUT via 360 MAGAZINE.

PHOTO: CIAN MOORE

Maserati MCPURA: the Essence of Performance

Debuts at Goodwood

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Maserati unveils the new MCPURA super sports car: pure energy, pure elegance, and pure performance. The car is available in coupé and convertible versions, known as Cielo.

Maserati has raised the curtain on the world premiere of the new MCPURA super sports car, an expression of the purest essence of energy and performance, the Trident way. The new masterpiece, 100% made in Italy, was unveiled at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the international event that every year celebrates the most iconic cars and the most extraordinary performance in the evocative setting of the South Downs National Park, West Sussex.

An evolution of the MC20 Halo Car – which in 2020 launched a new era for the brand – the new MCPURA takes up its spirit and amplifies it to its most intense and refined form. The work has focused on the exterior design, materials and interior finishes, but the core remains the same: the powerful and unmistakable 621 HP V6 Nettuno engine, a symbol of Maserati’s passion for performance. After all, MCPURA encompasses everything that makes the Maserati driving experience unique, i.e. the ability to connect driver and car without filters, transmitting the most extreme elegance, exhilarating driving performance, and timeless artisanship.

Pure elegance, character, and emotion. The name itself reveals the essence of a model designed to embody, in its most concentrated form, the most authentic values of the Trident. It is no coincidence that an iconic formula was chosen for the launch campaign: E = MCPURA. Powerful hyperbole, inspired by Einstein’s theory of relativity, which celebrates energy with the capacity to multiply until it becomes a pure expression of excellence.

Santo Ficili, Maserati COO, stated: “With MCPURA, Maserati is once again regaining its rightful place: at the top and in its stomping ground. Both versions – coupé and Cielo – are created at our historic Modena facility, where the heart of the Trident has been beating for nearly 90 years. This is where the entire MCPURA production process takes place: we produce the Nettuno engine, assemble each component, and carry out the most exclusive customization at the Maserati Officine Fuoriserie. Modena is not just our headquarters; it forms part of our identity. We are the oldest automotive marque in the Motor Valley, an area we helped to build and continue to represent around the world. From there, we proudly tell the story of Italian excellence and luxury.”

At Goodwood, the new super sports car was presented in the sophisticated Ai Aqua Rainbow body color – designed as part of the Maserati Fuoriserie Customization Program, in a matte version for the coupé and in gloss for the Cielo – which, in its very name, is reminiscent of light in movement. It is a blue that changes in the sun, producing a rainbow effect. It is inspired by the prism: breaking down white light, then capturing all its facets and creating a unique and pure color. The Trident on the grille and the C-pillar, and the insignia on both sides of the car are in a magenta color with blue mica, making the combination even more elegant. The logo in the same color is also repeated in the middle of the rims, with a specific burnished diamond-cut finish. Finally, the standout features in both cars are the seats in Alcantara Ice, laser-etched to bring out the Trident with brand-new visuals. The resulting image is both futuristic and sporty with a double-sided backing, an iridescent red with blue and an iridescent blue with red, which enhances the forms and takes up the same shades of the exterior details. The “lasered” processing is used to convey three-dimensionality, creating a combination of the sporty elegance of Alcantara.

The color palette available for the MCPURA is eye-catching and evocative; it consists of a selection of different body colors specially designed for the new super sports car, with a strong reference to both the Italian spirit and Maserati’s iconic heritage. Three innovations stand out: the brand-new Devil Orange, a combination of vibrant energy and audacity; and the elegant dual-layer metallic Verde Royale and Night Interaction, two sophisticated and luxurious shades to emphasize the role of MCPURA as the Maserati brand’s new standard-bearer, the epitome of Italian luxury around the world.

The color palette has therefore been further expanded, partly thanks to the multiple possibilities for customization offered by Maserati Fuoriserie Program, including more than thirty body colors, whether solid, metallic, three-layer, four-layer, or matte.

Available immediately in coupé and convertible versions, the new MCPURA has four distinctive features: the carbon-fiber body; the Maserati-patented V6 Nettuno engine; the “Butterfly” doors; and the retractable glass roof, for the convertible version (MCPURA Cielo). Specifically, the carbon-fiber monocoque pairs rigidity and lightness, so much so that the total weight comes in at under 3,307 lbs. Thanks to its power output of 621 HP, it comes out best in class in weight/power ratio: 5.21 lbs. / HP.

MCPURA can also count on the power of the now-iconic V6 Nettuno engine, the result of a true technological revolution, covered by international patents and 100% made at Maserati, which saw the light together with the MC20. Specifically, the 3.0-liter twin-turbo delivers 621 HP at 7,500 rpm and 720 Nm of torque from 3,000 rpm. The power-to-weight ratio is 207 HP/liter. This engine’s secret lies in the innovative pre-chamber combustion system featuring twin spark plugs. This technology is derived from Formula 1 and – thanks to Maserati’s patent – is now available in an engine destined for the road.

The third hallmark of the MCPURA is the “Butterfly” doors, added to improve access to the passenger compartment and simultaneously reveal the carbon-fiber structure of the chassis. Finally, in the Cielo version, MCPURA introduces a retractable roof in polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) glass, the first to do so in its class, with the ability to switch from opaque to transparent in one second. The onboard experience thus becomes multi-faceted: all-encompassing with the roof closed and opaque; a unique “sky feeling” when the roof is transparent; holistic with the top down.

The MCPURA is produced at the historic Maserati plant on Viale Ciro Menotti, Modena, where in addition to the Nettuno engine, the GT2 Stradale and – from Q4 2025 – the iconic GranTurismo and GranCabrio models are also made. The plant stands out for its innovation and artisanship partly thanks to the Officine Maserati Fuoriserie, a recently opened space dedicated to the most refined customization at the House of the Trident. As such, MCPURA completes its 100% made in Modena path from development to production, all the way to the paintwork of the Fuoriserie versions in the new paint shops.

Maserati S.p.A.

Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars, immediately recognizable for their extraordinary personality. Thanks to their style, technology, and innately exclusive character, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and have always been a benchmark for the global automotive industry. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance, and safety, currently available in more than 70 markets internationally.

Maserati line-up includes the Grecale, the “everyday exceptional” SUV, the GranTurismo, the iconic Italian grand tourer, and the GranCabrio, the new convertible of the Trident; all models characterized by the use of the highest quality materials and excellent technical solutions. A range equipped with 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains – available for Grecale – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident brand. The top of the range is made up of the MC20 super sports car and the MC20 Cielo spyder, powered by the ground-breaking 100% Maserati Nettuno V6 engine, which incorporates F1-derived technologies into the power unit of a standard production car for the first time. The GranTurismo is available with both the high-performance V6 petrol engine, derived from the Nettuno, and a 100% electric version: the GranTurismo Folgore, the first car in the Modena-based brand’s history to adopt this solution. The full-electric range also currently includes the Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s first 100% electric SUV, and the GranCabrio Folgore. Finally, the House of the Trident’s latest addition is the Maserati GT2 Stradale, the road-legal version of the GT2 that took Maserati back to the track in closed-wheel championships. The heart of the new super sports car is the V6 Nettuno engine, reaching 640 CV (471 kW) in the latter configuration. The GT2 Stradale is therefore the most powerful road-going Maserati with an internal combustion engine.

The mission at Maserati is to write the future of mobility in the luxury segment, focusing on its customers’ requests. The Brand, in line with the Stellantis “Dare Forward 2030” strategic plan, is now taking Italian luxury all over the world.

Maserati MCPURA: the Essence of Performance Debuts at Goodwood via 360 MAGAZINE.

Rimac Nevera R Becomes New 0-400-0 Champion

And Sets 24 Performance Records

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The Nevera R has beaten every performance record previously set by the standard Nevera, establishing new world records in 24 categories and regaining the 0-400-0 km/h (0-249-mph) title, with a time of 25.79 seconds – 2.04 seconds quicker than the previous holder. Once again, the Rimac team has proven that its engineering and design talent is among the best in the world, able to push the limits of performance to create the fastest accelerating production car the world has ever seen — electric or otherwise.

Building on the extraordinary record-breaking legacy of the original Nevera, which famously set 23 performance records in a single day at the Automotive Testing Papenburg (ATP) facility in Germany in 2023, the Nevera R has now surpassed every one of those achievements. Completed in the car’s high-speed mode, and independently verified by Dewesoft, this final validation test ahead of the customer deliveries demonstrates the significant performance gains of the Nevera R.

Most notably, the Nevera R’s new 0-400-0 km/h (0-249-0 mph) record improves on the standard Nevera’s 29.93-second record by 4.14 seconds. The Nevera R achieved a new 0-60 mph time of 1.66 seconds, beating the Nevera’s 1.74-second record, while reaching 100 km/h in just 1.72 seconds compared to 1.81 seconds. At higher speeds, the improvements become even more pronounced, reaching 200 km/h in 3.95 seconds versus 4.42 seconds in Nevera, and to 300 km/h (186 mph) in just 7.89 seconds compared to the Nevera’s 9.22 seconds. The Nevera R topped out at 431.45 km/h (268.2 mph) to set a new record for the fastest EV top speed.

The Nevera R’s performance gains stem from a comprehensive re-engineering of all major components. The enhanced aerodynamic package, featuring a fixed rear wing and enlarged diffuser, generates 15% more downforce while improving aerodynamic efficiency by 10%. New Michelin Cup 2 tires reduce understeer by 10% while increasing lateral grip by 5%, working in conjunction with the next-generation All-Wheel Torque Vectoring system that has been specifically recalibrated to maximize the potential of the high-performance rubber.

The vehicle’s 2,107 hp output, delivered through four individual motors controlled by Rimac’s advanced torque vectoring system, enables the Nevera R to distribute power with unprecedented precision. The system calculates and adjusts power delivery to each wheel 100 times per second, optimizing traction and performance in real-time.

Rimac Nevera R Becomes New 0-400-0 Champion and Sets 24 Performance Records via 360 MAGAZINE.

IAC’s Gold + Diamond Conference

IAC’s Gold + Diamond Conference Returns to New York City for its 15th Anniversary with Eye on the Prize

From climate transition to cultural restitution, this year’s Initiatives in Art and Culture program reflects the complexity and possibility of jewelry’s future.

Initiatives in Art and Culture (IAC) announces its 15th Annual International Gold and Diamond Conference, taking place in person from the evening of Monday, July 14 through Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in New York City. Marking its crystal anniversary, the theme “Eye on the Prize: Towards Continuing Improvement in Practice and Artistry”, serves as a continuation of IAC’s longstanding commitment to shaping responsible, inclusive, and visionary practices within the global precious metals and diamond industries. For more than a decade, the conference has been a destination for thought leadership, bridging the commercial and cultural, prompting various sectors to consider the dual imperative of sustainable action and artistic integrity. During a moment of extraordinary industry transformation marked by geopolitical tensions, climate crises, technological advancement, and shifting consumer values, IAC renews its call for shared purpose and collective responsibility by focusing on what truly matters: safeguarding the planet, protecting human rights, and preserving the artistry and cultural traditions that define our humanity.

The conference opens on the evening of Monday, July 14, 2025, with a welcome reception hosted by Heritage Auctions at their New York headquarters, located at 445 Park Avenue. From 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., attendees will gather for an elegant evening of connection and celebration, featuring remarks from Roberta Kramer, Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at Heritage. Over the following two days at Bohemian National Hall, participants will engage in a dynamic program that spans timely issues ranging from traceability innovations to new models for sustainable sourcing, as well as preserving traditional craftsmanship. What unites these topics is the understanding that the industry’s future hinges on its ability to integrate ethics, equity, and ecological mindfulness with artistry and vision at every level of practice. As Lisa Koenigsberg, Founder/President of IAC states, “Since 2011, Initiatives in Art & Culture has been organizing conferences that provide a platform for cross-disciplinary discussion, debate, and collaboration regarding critical issues in the jewelry, and precious metals and stones sectors. The aim is to engender new thinking, innovative approaches, fruitful partnerships and initiatives in support of responsible practice writ large while championing artisanry and creative vision at the highest levels.”

The Initiatives in Art and Culture conference is particularly notable for its broad and inclusive scope, both in terms of topic and participants. From heads of global industry bodies to independent goldsmiths, cultural heritage professionals to scientists, the speakers and panelists reflects IAC’s role as a unique convening force—one that invites diverse voices into meaningful dialogue without fear, agenda, or partisanship. Confirmed speakers include an extraordinary group of internationally renowned experts, among them Ivor Agyeman-Duah, Director of the Manhyia Palace Museum and Ghana’s chief negotiator on cultural restitution; Charlie Betts of Betts Metals; Rachel Brandrick of 886 by The Royal Mint; Brad Brooks-Rubin, Partner at Arktouros and former U.S. State Department advisor, Laurent E. Cartier, Head of Special Initiatives, Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) and Co-Founder, Sustainable Pearls; Emefa Cole, V & A curator and jeweler.; Nicolas Luchsinger, CEO, Buccellati; John Mulligan, Head of Sustainability, World Gold Council; President, Sustainable Development Commission, CIBJO; and Lucian Simmons, Head of Provenance Research, The Metropolitan Museum of Art. These individuals, along with more than two dozen additional speakers representing every corner of the jewelry ecosystem, will come together to explore how the industry can move forward with clarity, creativity and conscience.

Rachel Perks, Senior Mining Specialist in the Energy and Extractives Global Practice at World Bank notes that the “Conference is a unique event that gathers diverse stakeholders from across gold and diamond value chains. Every year I’m inspired by the remarkable talent and wealth of cumulative knowledge present in the room. For us at the World Bank’s Extractives Unit, focused on artisanal and small-scale mining, this conference offers an invaluable opportunity to connect with key changemakers we might otherwise never meet.

A central component of the conference will be the rigorous interrogation of questions surrounding climate action, labor rights, artisan preservation, and value retention in producing countries. With discussions such as “Understanding Climate Justice & Just Transition” and “How Can Producing Countries Retain Greater Value In-Country?”, sessions are designed not as surface-level overviews, but as deep dives into the systems, ideologies, and historical legacies that must be addressed in order to build a just and enduring future. In keeping with its tradition of challenging orthodoxy, IAC will also examine issues of provenance and ownership through the lens of restitution and repatriation, while continuing its exploration of nomenclature, traceability, and the language that underpins the evolving discourse of responsible sourcing. As John Mulligan has noted, “The diversity of perspectives brought together at IAC’s conference is matched only by the complexity of the challenges we face—and yet within that complexity lies real opportunity to shape something better.”

An evening highlight will be the presentation of IAC’s annual industry awards during a dedicated Awards Ceremony and Reception on Tuesday, July 15 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., honoring exceptional individuals whose leadership and long-standing commitment to transformation have reshaped the industry. The 8th Responsible Practice in Jewelry Leadership Award will be presented to artist-jeweler Ute Decker, widely recognized for her tireless advocacy of environmental stewardship, fairness in materials sourcing, and the importance of transparency and ethics in the creative process. Decker’s work exemplifies a synthesis of aesthetic mastery and ethical resolve, offering a model for what contemporary jewelry can and should stand for. The fifth Award for Extraordinary Contributions to the Diamond and Jewelry Industries will be awarded to David Block, CEO of Sarine Technologies, whose advancements in diamond traceability and data-driven transparency have played a critical role in modernizing the industry’s infrastructure and consumer trust. These honorees join a distinguished legacy of past recipients, whose courage, clarity, and commitment serve as guides for the sector.

The voices of supporters and sponsors further underscore the value and influence of IAC’s gathering. Arien Gessner of Rio Grande articulates the event’s role as a catalyst, stating, “We at Rio Grande believe that meaningful progress in the jewelry industry starts with open dialogue and purposeful collaboration. The Gold + Diamond Conference provides a vital forum where ideas are sparked, relationships are strengthened, and the future of our craft is shaped.” Echoing this sentiment, Kat Weymouth, Director of Diamond and Jewelry Services, SCS Global Services observes, “This gathering continues to be a vital space for meaningful dialogue and forward-thinking collaboration. We’re committed to supporting a future where the gold and gemstone industries not only thrive economically but also lead with integrity, transparency, and sustainability.” Edward Bickham, Senior Advisor, World Gold Council, adds, “The IAC is a league of its own…a place for spirited debate and a genuine searching out of solutions.”

IAC is deeply grateful to CIBJO, The World Jewellery Confederation, which returns as Conference Partner, and to its 2025 sponsors, whose support enables this essential work. Major sponsors include the World Gold Council, SCS Global Services, Betts Metals, and AngloGold Ashanti. Additional contributions come from Bulova, Newmont, GIA, Rio Grande, Sarine, Goldsmith’s Fair, and DMIA. The World Bank provides in-kind support for featured luncheon sessions, continuing its collaboration with IAC to highlight artisanal and small-scale mining issues. These partnerships reflect a shared investment in shaping a jewelry industry that is not only economically vibrant, but grounded in fairness, responsibility, and shared global values.

Registration for the 15th Annual Gold + Diamond Conference is now open on Eventbrite, and attendees are strongly encouraged to reserve their place early. To learn more about Initiatives in Art and Culture, or view the full list of speakers, visit www.artinitiatives.com.

About Initiatives in Art and Culture

Initiatives in Art and Culture (IAC) educates diverse audiences in visual culture, including the fine and decorative arts. A commitment to authenticity, to artisanry, and to materials undergirds all considerations undertaken by IAC, as does a mindfulness of sustainability and of our obligations to the planet. Each IAC undertaking is marked by a commitment to bringing together representatives from every sector, with thought-leaders from other disciplines, industries, and institutions to undertake cross-disciplinary approaches outside conventional industry discourse. IAC’s goal is to initiate dialogue and challenge all to integrate change without fear.

IAC’s primary activities are conferences, webinars, publications, and exhibitions that take an interdisciplinary approach, considering issues related to fabrication, connoisseurship, cultural patrimony and preservation, and the future of culture. Particular areas of emphasis include American art, precious substances, the history of frames, the Arts and Crafts movement, the influence of Asian cultures on American fine and decorative art, and the history and future of fashion. IAC’s projects have been supported by a wide array of individual, corporate, and foundation funders.

Feature Image: Lesedi la Rona diamond, 1, 109-carat rough stone found in Botswana, November 2015. Photo: Seth Wenig / AP.

Nicky Jam + Chencho Corleone Drop “Dile a Él” REMIX

Following the success of his most recent album Sunshine, released earlier this year in February, the Latin urban icon Nicky Jam returns with a fresh twist on one of the project’s standout tracks. Today, he unveils the official remix of “Dile a Él”, featuring none other than Chencho Corleone, a legend of the genre and former member of the iconic duo Plan B.

The “Dile a Él Remix” blends the emotional depth of the original track with Chencho’s signature sultry vocals, resulting in a powerful collaboration that celebrates reggaeton’s roots while embracing a modern edge.

Produced by Jorge Erazo “Jorge Milliano” and Nicky Jam himself, the remix was recorded at Fenix Studios in Miami, mixed and mastered by Alejandro Patiño, and executive produced by David Daza.

“Dile a Él Remix” is now available on all digital platforms!

NETFLIX’S KPOP DEMON HUNTERS SOUNDTRACK

KPOP DEMON HUNTERS SOUNDTRACK CLIMBS CHARTS FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE WEEK

KPOP DEMON HUNTERS (SOUNDTRACK FROM THE NETFLIX FILM) HIGHEST DEBUT SOUNDTRACK OF THE YEAR ON BILLBOARD 200

#1 SOUNDTRACK DEBUT OF 2025
#1 BILLBOARD TOP SOUNDTRACKS
#1 ITUNES ALBUM
#1 ITUNES POP ALBUM
#1 APPLE MUSIC POP ALBUM

“GOLDEN” CONTINUES VIRAL CHART RISE TOP 10 ON SPOTIFY TOP 50 GLOBAL & U.S. CHARTS

LISTEN TO KPOP DEMON HUNTERS SOUNDTRACK HERE

WATCH “GOLDEN” LYRIC VIDEO HERE

WATCH KPOP DEMON HUNTERS ON NETFLIX HERE

KPop Demon Hunters (Soundtrack from the Netflix Film) debuts on the Billboard 200 in the Top 10, marking the highest-debuting soundtrack of the year. The soundtrack now claims the #1 Soundtrack Debut of 2025, #1 Billboard Top Soundtracks, and continues to hold strong at #1 on the iTunes Album Chart. The soundtrack also debuts in the Top 10 of Billboard Top Streams Albums chart.

In addition, six songs from the soundtrack continue to climb the Spotify Top 50 Global & U.S. Charts, including the viral sensation “Golden” among the charts Top 10. In its debut week, the film slayed on Netflix with 9.2 million views, a 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, and continues to track towards a second week of success.

The film and the soundtrack came out “Singing, Slinging and Slashing” making it a New York Times certified Critic’s Pick embracing what Collider calls “the magical power of music” in “animated harmony” with Variety praising the original songs that make the film “sing” including the chart climbing song “Golden.” Mashable proclaims “the soundtrack absolutely slaps,” while HITS Magazine echoes calling the release “a bona fide hit.”

Listen to KPop Demon Hunters (Soundtrack from the Netflix Film) HERE via Visva / Republic Records.

The soundtrack features original songs written by, Danny Chung, IDO, Vince, KUSH, EJAE, Jenna Andrews, Stephen Kirk, Lindgren, Mark Sonnenblick, Daniel Rojas, and produced by Teddy Park, 24, IDO, DOMINSUK, Jenna Andrews, Stephen Kirk, Lindgren, Ian Eisendrath. Original songs are performed by EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI AMI, Andrew Choi, Danny Chung, Kevin Woo, samUIL Lee, Neckwav, and Lea Salonga. The soundtrack also includes the original song “Takedown” featuring Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung from K-pop powerhouse girl group, TWICE.

KPop Demon Hunters, a Netflix film from Sony Pictures Animation, follows Kpop superstars Rumi, Mira and Zoey – when they aren’t selling out stadiums, they use their secret identities as badass demon hunters to protect their fans from an ever-present supernatural threat. Together, they must face their biggest enemy yet – an irresistible rival boy band of demons in disguise. KPop Demon Hunters stars Arden Cho, Ahn Hyo-seop, May Hong and Ji-young Yoo, and is available now on Netflix.

KPop Demon Hunters (Soundtrack from the Netflix Film) Tracklisting:

TAKEDOWN – TWICE (Jeongyeon, Jihyo, Chaeyoung)
How It’s Done – HUNTR/X (EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI)
Soda Pop – Saja Boys (Andrew Choi, Neckwav, Danny Chung, Kevin Woo, and samUIL Lee)
Golden – HUNTR/X (EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI)
Strategy – TWICE
TAKEDOWN – HUNTR/X (EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI)
Your Idol – Saja Boys (Andrew Choi, Neckwav, Danny Chung, Kevin Woo, and samUIL Lee)
Free – Rumi and Jinu (EJAE and Andrew Choi)
What It Sounds Like – HUNTR/X (EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI)
Love Maybe – MeloMance
Path – Jokers
Score Suite – Marcelo Zarvos

NETFLIX'S KPOP DEMON HUNTERS SOUNDTRACK via 360 Magazine.

Pocket Entertainment on the Cutting Edge of AI and Entertainment

Artificial intelligence is often viewed with caution in the creative world, but the truth is far more exciting. AI is emerging as a powerful partner, enhancing imagination, expanding possibilities, and helping creators bring their visions to life like never before.

When used with purpose, AI unlocks new levels of creative freedom, enabling storytellers to overcome constraints of time, budget, or scale. At the forefront of this creative-tech evolution is Pocket Entertainment, a company redefining the future of storytelling.

After revolutionizing the audio content space with its audio series platform, Pocket FM, Pocket Entertainment has set its sights on revolutionizing another industry — comic books — with the launch of its new platform, Pocket Toons. Available on the App Store and Google Play Store, Pocket Toons is an “AI-first comics platform” designed to empower creators with transformative AI storytelling and content creation tools, creating new benchmarks in speed, quality, and accessibility.

How Pocket Entertainment is revolutionizing the comic industry with AI

The engine behind Pocket Toons is Pocket Entertainment’s innovative AI studio, Blaze!, which automates complex processes like background rendering, scene composition, coloring, and quality control. The goal is to streamline the production process for artists so that their productivity isn’t hindered, ensuring that readers always have fresh, exciting new stories to dive into every time they sign on to the Pocket Toons app.

With the help of Blaze!, Pocket Toons allows comic creators to focus on elements of creativity like storytelling and character development rather than the production bottlenecks that so often plague the industry and serve as gatekeepers, preventing talented storytellers from getting their chance to shine. Now, if someone has a good story to tell, they can bring it to life with the assistance of AI tools, rather than having to worry about the time-intensive and technologically complex development process.

Pocket Entertainment’s Blaze! AI suite comes equipped with several tools that creators can use to ensure seamless and scalable artistic production. Some of the most powerful of these tools include:

Tailored AI models: Blaze! allows each artist to adapt and train an AI model to their unique style. Over time, the model will learn the artist’s unique approach and characteristics and create output closely aligned with their style.
Real-time AI rendering: Blaze! produces AI-generated illustrations in real time using accessible, everyday computing power. Because of this, the timeline from writing a story to seeing it visualized in comic format is significantly reduced.
AI-powered search and quality control: Blaze! helps creators maintain artistic integrity and coherence through intelligent scene-matching and automated quality checks. This process helps ensure that all creative output meets the standard the creator hopes to achieve.

How Pocket Entertainment’s AI tools help comic creators achieve greater quality and efficiency

By taking advantage of the features and capabilities of Blaze!, comic creators can significantly improve their output speed while reducing production costs. While the norm of the comic industry is to release one new episode every week, with the help of Blaze!, creators can produce as many as three a day. This represents an improvement in speed by as much as 20x over the traditional production process.

Pocket Entertainment successfully launched Pocket Toons and the Blaze! AI suite through a beta test beginning in 2025, and has seen tremendous results in the mere months since its introduction. The Pocket Toons app is already home to over 30 comic titles and counting, and users are engaging with the app for an average of 60 minutes daily. This is a testament to the high-quality storytelling the Pocket Toons platform offers audiences.

Indeed, Pocket Entertainment is ushering in an era of entertainment where artificial intelligence is used to make comics and other forms of media even better. By allowing great storytellers to share their stories with greater efficiency and scalability than ever before, Pocket Entertainment is creating a platform where creators are free to make their best work.

“The fusion of AI and human storytelling marks the beginning of a new creative era,” said Rohan Nayak, Co-founder & CEO of Pocket Entertainment, in a recent press release announcing the launch of Pocket Toons. “Historically, every major evolution in entertainment — be it cinema, animation, or digital streaming — has been driven by technology. At Pocket Entertainment, we are harnessing AI to amplify human creativity — empowering artists to push the boundaries of storytelling without replacing their unique artistic expression.”