Jewelers of America (JA) has announced the nominees for the 2025 GEM Awards, which will recognize leading figures in Jewelry Design, Media Excellence, and Retail Innovation. The winners will be announced at the GEM Awards ceremony on March 14, 2025, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. This annual event recognises individuals and brands for their contributions to the fine jewelry and watch sectors.
GEM Award for Jewelry Design
The Jewelry Design category nominees are Sophie Bille Brahe, Beth Hutchens of FoundRae, and Selim Mouzannar.
- Sophie Bille Brahe
Copenhagen-based designer Sophie Bille Brahe established her brand in 2011 after completing her studies at the Royal College of Arts. Her designs draw inspiration from the horizon, connecting themes of nature and craftsmanship. - Beth Hutchens, FoundRae
Beth Hutchens, of FoundRae, established her brand in 2015 with a focus on creating modern heirloom pieces. A CFDA member, Hutchens has received past GEM Award nominations as well as CFDA recognition. - Selim Mouzannar
Lebanese-French designer Selim Mouzannar, drawing from a heritage in Ottoman jewelry, combines Art Deco and Ottoman elements in his designs. His acclaimed Amal (HOPE) necklace reflects his commitment to heritage-inspired craftsmanship.
GEM Award for Media Excellence
The Media Excellence nominees include Sam Broekema, Paige Reddinger, and Trace Shelton, all of whom have made significant contributions to jewelry and luxury media.
- Sam Broekema
Sam Broekema, Editor-in-Chief of Only Natural Diamonds at the Natural Diamond Council, emphasizes the value and story behind natural diamonds. Under his leadership, Only Natural Diamonds launched a print and digital publication, extending its influence in promoting responsible luxury. - Paige Reddinger
Robb Report’s Watch and Jewelry Editor, Paige Reddinger, began her jewelry media career in 2010, building expertise in high horology and fine jewelry. Her role at Robb Report involves covering notable industry developments and profiling key collectors, independent designers, and established brands. - Trace Shelton
Editor-in-Chief of INSTORE, Trace Shelton brings a background in trade journalism to his work supporting North American independent retailers. His contributions extend beyond editorial to serving as conference chair for The INSTORE Show, providing valuable insights for retailers in the jewelry industry.
GEM Award for Retail Innovation
The Retail Innovation category highlights Bernard James, CD Peacock, and Reinhold Jewelers for their inventive approaches to jewelry retail.
- Bernard James
Located in Brooklyn’s Greenpoint neighborhood, Bernard James merges jewelry design with art and community engagement. The space includes an open studio, offering customers a view into the creative process, and hosts events to engage the community. - CD Peacock
Located in Oakbrook Center, Illinois, the store spans 20,900 square feet and includes a horological library, specialized shopping rooms, and event spaces. - Reinhold Jewelers
Founded over five decades ago by Marie Helene Reinhold, Reinhold Jewelers focuses on craftsmanship and features designers with unique narratives.
Lifetime Achievement Award
John A. Green of Lux Bond & Green will receive the GEM Award for Lifetime Achievement. This recognition celebrates Green’s contributions to the industry, reflecting his dedication to fine jewelry and the advancement of consumer confidence in the field.
For those interested in supporting the honorees, sponsorship and advertising opportunities are available through the JA website.
