PodcastsJan 12, 2026
The latest poscasttest
MajorsOct 21, 2016
Coffee talk: Retailer responds to Starbucks ring ban
California retailer Robbins Brothers is using the hashtag #MakeLoveNotCoffee on Facebook and Instagram to engage the public in conversation about Starbucks’ new jewelry rules for baristas.
Los Angeles--Over the past few days, there has been a flurry of discussion about Starbucks’ decision to no longer allow its baristas to wear their engagement rings while on the clock.
Watches, bracelets and wristbands also are prohibited, and necklaces are only allowed if they are worn under clothes. Earrings are restricted to “small or moderately sized, and no more than two per ear.”
In response to the much-talked-about changes in jewelry rules by the giant coffee house chain, California retailer Robbins Brothers took to social media Monday to start a lighthearted, informal campaign designed to engage customers in a conversation about something topical.
The #MakeLoveNotCoffee campaign is meant to be a fun way to communicate the significant symbolism of someone’s engagement ring and wedding band--the constant reminder that the ring provides of the commitment that they share with their loved one--according to a company spokesperson.
Robbins Brothers said it knows firsthand from its customers that many people don’t like being without their rings, no matter how long the time period, so it can only imagine how hard it must be for the Starbucks baristas working long shifts, even as they understand that Starbucks made the decision for various reasons.
So the retailer posted photos on both its Instagram and its Facebook accounts, asking those who “feel coffee shop employees should be allowed to wear a symbol of their love and vows” to share the post using the hashtag #MakeLoveNotCoffee.
Robbins Brothers also is using the posts as a place to invite followers and users to comment with their viewpoints on Starbucks’ recent decision.
The Azusa, Calif.-based retailer currently operates 14 stores throughout southern California, Texas and Washington state.
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
More on Majors
The Latest
Weekly QuizOct 03, 2024
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
PodcastsJan 12, 2026
Introducing My Next Question, the PodcastA monthly podcast series for jewelry professionals
Brought to you by
Navigating Cybersecurity: Essential Guidance for JewelersFrom protecting customer data to safeguarding inventory records, it's crucial to learn how to tackle cybersecurity challenges.
PodcastsNov 27, 2025
Test Podcast With VideoTest Podcast With Video. New interview with Ada Lovelace.
PodcastsNov 25, 2025
Test New Podcast PostAbstract for tests. New Podcast interview with John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix and Jim Morison.
ColumnistsOct 09, 2024
Peter Smith: 7 Things to Know When Selling LuxuryAhead of the holiday season, Smith delves into the often subconscious reasons people buy luxury products for themselves or their loved ones.
AuctionsOct 09, 2024
Rolex Worn on Apollo 14 Mission Up for SaleThe GMT-Master “Pepsi” belonging to astronaut Edgar Mitchell is a standout in RR Auction’s online “Space Auction,” going on now.
MajorsOct 09, 2024
PGI Launches New Virtual Sales TrainingRetail sales associates can access the video series on mobile to refresh their selling skills.
Policies & IssuesOct 09, 2024
GJNRF: Reaching Out, Rebuilding Futures For 25 years, India’s Gem & Jewellery National Relief Foundation has provided aid in the wake of war, natural disasters, and global crises.
AuctionsOct 08, 2024
Sotheby’s Selling Jewelry That Belonged to a Bulgarian TsarThe November auction will feature a collection of jewels owned by Ferdinand I, the first king of modern Bulgaria, and his family.
SourcingOct 08, 2024
Rio Tinto Begins New Phase of Production That Will Extend Diavik’s LifeCommercial production has begun underground at the Canadian diamond mine’s A21 pipe.
SurveysOct 08, 2024
What to Know About Online Shopping This Holiday SeasonDeloitte and Adobe Analytics shared their insights on the season, from the retail sales forecast to the role of generative AI.
CollectionsOct 08, 2024
Sylvie Adds New Men’s BandsThe Texas-based jeweler collaborated with luxury clothing brand Uncommon Man on men’s bands designed with European influences.
SourcingOct 08, 2024
Is Current Diamond Industry Turbulence Shaping a ‘New Normal’? Industry players have found ways to cope with market conditions while working to reshape themselves in the face of emerging realities.
SourcingOct 07, 2024
Rio Tinto to Offer 76 Diamonds in 2024 Beyond Rare Tender The sales event, in its second year, features a selection of rare diamonds from the miner’s Argyle and Diavik diamond mines.
CollectionsOct 07, 2024
Olympian Kristi Yamaguchi Partners With Heller Jewelers on New CollectionA portion of the proceeds from the “Always Dream” collection will go to Yamaguchi's foundation, supporting early childhood literacy.
SurveysOct 07, 2024
Hill & Co.’s New ‘Business of Jewelry Report’ Is OutThe first in what is slated to be a series of in-depth reports from the consulting company, it focuses on shortening supply chains.
