Pearl Vision

Tiffany & Co. (New York) has announced a new retail subsidiary, called Iridesse, and has named Robert Cepek as divisional president.

The subsidiary will focus solely on pearls and pearl jewelry. The first two Iridesse stores will open their doors in 2004 — one in McLean, Va., and another to be announced when the lease is finalized. An additional four stores are planned for 2005 openings. The McLean store is a 1300-square-foot space in the Tysons Galleria Mall.

Tiffany said Iridesse merchandise will range in price from slightly under $100 to $40,000. The stores will carry pearl types including south sea, Tahitian, akoya and freshwater.

Cepek is a 28-year jewelry industry veteran who had previously been vp and general manager of Tiffany’s New York flagship store.