Author: Ruchi Singla

In an audacious attempt to burglarize Denny Lesser Jewelry located at Topanga Canyon Plaza, Chatsworth, Los Angeles, burglars endeavored to tunnel through adjacent businesses in the early hours of March 25. Despite the elaborate preparation, the heist was foiled by the jewelry store’s owner, who was present and swiftly alerted the authorities, leading to the burglars’ retreat without any loot.Ambitious Plan FoiuledThe would-be thieves embarked on their ill-fated heist around 2 a.m., initiating their operation by cutting through a fence to enter an adjoining martial arts studio. Their plan involved tunneling through the walls of several businesses with the aim of…

The Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has introduced a Mentor & Apprenticeship Program, aimed at fostering traditional apprenticeship routes in the jewelry sector. Launched in the spring of 2023, the initiative facilitates the sharing of knowledge from experienced jewelers to newcomers, providing a structured career path in the industry.Program Uptake and Official RecognitionThe initiative has been welcomed by various professionals in the field, including designers, manufacturers, and retailers, all looking to enhance their bench operations. It has received approval from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Office as a National Guidelines Standard (NGS), marking it as a reference…

Mercury Free Mining (MFM) has announced Bernadette Mack’s appointment as its Managing Director. This strategic recruitment is part of MFM’s ambitious plan to enhance its programming and extend its outreach, specifically targeting areas adversely affected by mercury pollution.Background in Nonprofit and JewelryBernadette Mack brings to MFM a distinguished career in both the nonprofit sector and the jewelry industry, notably serving as the executive director of the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA). With over two decades of experience, Mack has honed her expertise in operations management, fundraising, marketing, and communication. Pioneering a Mercury-Free FutureThe induction of Mack comes at a critical juncture for…

Diamonds Do Good (DDG) has announced its latest initiative titled “April = Diamonds Do Good Month”, which aims  to foster a deeper understanding among consumers regarding the significant, positive impact of purchasing natural diamonds. “We believe that every natural diamond has a story to tell, and Diamonds Do Good Month provides an opportunity to amplify these stories and educate consumers about the positive impact of their purchase,” remarked Nancy Orem Lyman, executive director of Diamonds Do Good.Educational Resources and CollaborationDDG plans to assist retailers in their educational efforts by providing a comprehensive package of assets, including:“We’re thrilled to partner with retailers…

Instappraise has partnered with the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA) to introduce two scholarships for aspiring and established jewelry appraisers. This initiative is set to provide substantial support to individuals keen on advancing their appraisal skills, offering both financial aid and educational opportunities.This collaboration brings forth two scholarships tailored for different membership statuses within NAJA, underscoring the partners’ dedication to excellence and innovation in the field.“Teaming up with NAJA to sponsor two new scholarships represents an exciting new milestone for us. Our mission at Instappraise has always been to elevate the industry by providing the right tools to the…

The Rapaport Group has reached out to the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) seeking exemptions and better guidance. This initiative is set to address the complexities surrounding the trade of non-Russian diamonds, thereby attempting to safeguard the wider jewelry industry from the unintended consequences of these sanctions.The Sanctions ContextThe backdrop of this development is the G7’s stringent sanctions on Russian diamonds, a direct response to geopolitical tensions. These sanctions aim to curtail Russia’s economic gains from the global diamond trade, potentially influencing market dynamics and ethical considerations within the jewelry sector. The US Customs and Border Protection’s recent…

Gemological Science International (GSI) has announced the launch of its B2B GSI Stock Exchange. This platform has been designed to support jewelry manufacturers in sourcing goods more efficiently for their GSI certified jewelry programs. The introduction of this exchange is poised to facilitate smoother transactions within the industry, offering a dedicated resource for businesses to streamline their sourcing processes.Features and OfferingsThe GSI Stock Exchange distinguishes itself by providing an inventory that includes both natural and lab-grown diamonds, catering to the evolving needs of suppliers and manufacturers. One of the standout features of the platform is its ability to offer specific…

The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) Foundation has announced the establishment of the Hedda Schupak-Baum Memorial Media and Communications Scholarship, commemorating the impactful career and legacy of Hedda Schupak-Baum, a distinguished figure in the jewelry industry. Hedda, who passed away on October 3rd, 2023, at the age of 62, was celebrated for her engaging journalism and commitment to the jewelry and watch sectors.Scholarship ObjectivesThe scholarship is designed to support individuals aspiring to pursue careers in journalism, public relations, communications, and media, with a particular focus on the fine jewelry and watch industries. It aims to introduce fresh talent and expertise, continuing the…

The Jewelry Symposium (TJS) has announced the introduction of a scholarship programme for its 2024 edition. Aimed at fostering growth and education within jewelry manufacturing technology, this initiative is set to provide aspiring jewelry professionals with a unique opportunity to engage with the latest industry trends and technologies.Scholarship DetailsSponsored by TJS supporters, including C&J Jewelry, Mano Acero Jewelry, and TechForm Advanced Casting, the scholarship programme is designed to support students, interns, apprentices, and those who are in the early stages of their jewelry careers. The programme underscores TJS’s commitment to nurturing talent and innovation within the jewelry sector.Applicants have to…

Jewelers of America (JA) has recently announced the introduction of a new member benefit established through a collaboration with eBay. This partnership aims to provide JA members with exclusive access to eBay Concierge, an exceptional customer service offering designed to assist sellers in optimizing their online sales experience.eBay Concierge is renowned for its premium, white-glove service, tailored to support sellers in maximizing their efficiency and effectiveness on the platform. The concierge service promises to deliver comprehensive support, covering aspects from buyer issue resolution to sales data analytics, all aimed at enhancing business operations for jewelers.What is eBay Concierge?eBay Concierge aims…

Studs has announced plans to further increase its physical presence with the opening of 10 new stores throughout the year. This development is part of the company’s strategy to cement its position in the market by reaching more customers through an expanded brick-and-mortar network.Strategic Growth in Physical RetailFounded in 2019, Studs has swiftly adapted its business model in response to the challenges posed by the pandemic. Initially focusing on digital sales during temporary store closures, the company resumed its physical retail expansion in April 2021. The recent opening of a 1,457 square foot location in New York City’s Rockefeller Center…

The Jewelers of America (JA) alongside the GEM Awards Committee, has officially announced the honorees for the forthcoming GEM Awards ceremony. Scheduled for March 8, 2024, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, the event is set to celebrate distinguished achievements within the realms of Jewelry Design, Media Excellence, Retail Excellence, Lifetime Achievement, and introduces a Special Recognition Award.“The completion of Tiffany’s holistic four-year-long interior renovation of the Fifth Avenue location, rechristened The Landmark, was the biggest jewelry event of the last year and ignited enthusiasm around the world to visit and shop at the New York City store.…

The Knot’s 2023 Real Weddings Study, examining the preferences and behaviours of nearly 10,000 US couples married in 2023, offers a comprehensive glimpse into the evolving wedding scene. This research underscores a significant transition towards more experiential celebrations, deeply influenced by popular culture and an emphasis on personalisation. For jewellers and the wider jewelry industry, these findings suggest a shift in consumer preferences that could impact future trends and demand.Key Findings and Engagement Rings StatsDiamond Dominance: Diamonds continue to reign as the preferred stone for engagement rings, with 85% of engagements featuring a diamond. However, a notable shift towards diamond solitaire…