The Jewelry District

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about the Louvre heist and the possible reasons behind it. They cover the gold price, which continues to soar, and jewelers’ and consumers’ sentiments about its enduring value. Victoria reports on the high jewelry scene in L.A., where she attended two events held by Bulgari and Boucheron. Finally, the touch on predictions about holiday spending (hint: it depends on who you’re talking about).Title sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com)Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com)

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates chat with Bella Neyman, founder of New York City Jewelry Week (NYCJW), an action-packed set of events that take place each year in mid-November. Bella shares how the event got started back in 2018, where she found inspiration for the festival, what her goals were in launching it, and—most importantly—what exciting talks and activities are in store for this year. Bella teases a few events to look out for and explains this year’s theme, Art Worn, which focuses on the artistry of jewelry.Title Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com)

In this latest episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates cover a highly exclusive watch collector event called Rolliefest, where guests don’t even find out where they’re meeting until just before. There, Victoria met passionate watch collectors, admired their highly unique timepieces, and even shared some of her own. Rob is watching the tariff space as he reports on a new exemption that gives the jewelry industry a much-needed—if minor—break. The hosts also discuss the ongoing sale of Anglo American’s majority stake in De Beers, and the mechanics of Botswana making a play for ownership.Title Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com (https://nivoda.com/))Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com (https://adiamondisforever.com/desert-diamonds/?utm_source=relx&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=USA_ADIFQ42025&utm_content=P37K2TC_P37K2TC_UnlikeAnythingHostRead&utm_term=na_na_USA))

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share interviews they did live at Converge—a combination of AGS Conclave and GIA Symposium at GIA’s campus in Carlsbad, California. They checked in with Elyssa Jenkins-Pérez, Katherine Bodoh, Elizabeth Gibson, Georgie Gleim, Sara Murphy, Elizabeth West, Pinny Gniwisch, and Terry Chandler.They get these experts’ points of view on a gamut of topics: trends they’re stocking up on for the holidays; how the industry is handling lab-grown diamonds; the benefits and drawbacks of AI; and key takeaways from the packed agenda of professional development and education offered. Follow along with our Q&As to be a fly on the wall at the event or if you attended, check in with fellow jewelry industry professionals.Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (assetprotection@jminsure.com)

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Scott Guginsky, executive vice president of Jewelers Security Alliance (JSA), a non-profit trade association dedicated to battling jewelry crime. Scott, a decorated former NYPD detective sergeant, brings listeners up to speed on the latest high-tech robberies and a recent rash of smash-and-grabs. He offers advice on how to protect yourself, your team, and your livelihood. Do: Get insurance. Don’t: Fight back during a robbery.Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com (https://www.jewelersmutual.com/))

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss the fallout from steep new tariffs imposed on India, the likely short- and long-term effects on the watch market from tariffs on Swiss exports, and the constant shuffle those in the jewelry industry face as they attempt to navigate the administration’s ever-shifting tariff policy. Next, Victoria updates listeners on an exciting resurgence in American watchmaking. Rob and Victoria close the podcast with a report on changes at the top levels of Ben Bridge and Kendra Scott.Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com (https://nivoda.com/))

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Andy Koehn, owner of Wisconsin-based family jeweler Koehn & Koehn Jewelers (https://www.koehnjewelry.com/). The veteran retailer and diehard classic rock fan shares his philosophy on how a store is like a stage, and its staff is like a band. (Even Mick Jagger relies on discipline and preparation to keep Rolling Stones fans coming back.) Like Rob, Andy is a writer in his spare time. He brings listeners up to speed on his new, no-b.s. ring-buying guide for guys and share some clever insights on what the diamond market needs now.Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com (https://nivoda.com/))

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss outgoing Natural Diamond Council president David Kellie’s legacy and the challenges ahead for the NDC. Victoria reports on several exquisite new pieces from the high jewelry world, including a million-dollar Mellerio necklace inspired by Marie Antoinette and Boucheron’s ghostly albino thistles, remarkable for their delicacy and the incorporation of nontraditional materials. Finally, Rob reveals the inspiration for his newest mystery novel, Making a Killing in Diamonds.Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com/solutions)

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates talk with Beth Hutchens, founder and creative director of FoundRae (https://foundrae.com/). Beth explains how growing up on the Mexican border instilled a deep appreciation for mysticism in her at an early age, and how this guides her design aesthetic. She shares her strategies for navigating challenging times, dealing with copycats, and coping with soaring gold prices. Finally, she touches on the importance of brick-and-mortar retail and her commitment to supporting freedom of expression.Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com/solutions)

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share their thoughts and observations from the 2025 JCK Show. The hosts discuss the overall mood (upbeat), style trends (bold gold!), and their favorite highlights (the people!) from this year’s annual event in Vegas. Both always come away learning something new from the education offered. Victoria covers takeaways from a panel on the preowned watch market while Rob offers insights into the diamond industry from President Boko of Botswana, the De Beers breakfast, and the World Federation of Diamond Bourses event which he attended shortly after the show.Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com/solutions)

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share interviews they did live on the 2025 JCK Show floor. They checked in with Cathy Calhoun, Rebecca Foerster, Marie-Claire Daveu, Minister Bogolo Kenewendo and other industry professionals, about the state of natural diamonds, gold prices, consumer trends and more.Sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education)

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss Victoria’s recent trip to Paris as a guest of Japanese watchmaker Credor to celebrate the brand’s update on a classic Gérald Genta timepiece from 1979. Next, the pair gear up for JCK Las Vegas (https://lasvegas.jckonline.com/) by highlighting some of the exciting events on their show agenda, from Rob moderating an expert panel on cybercrime and security to Victoria reporting on emerging jewelry trends from the show floor. Other highpoints on the lineup include a keynote speech from Disney’s former head of innovation and live performances by Jason Derulo and Snoop Dogg.Sponsored by IGI: igi.org/education

On The Jewelry District’s second video podcast, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview Susan Jacques, outgoing president and CEO of GIA. Susan recounts her fascinating journey from growing up in Africa to a life-changing GIA course to an unlikely move to Omaha, where she helmed Borsheims and reported to Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett. She even spent a day behind the counter with the billionaire investor. Susan also discusses GIA’s mission, her decision to retire, what the industry must do to avoid a crisis of consumer confidence in diamonds, and the upcoming AGS/GIA Converge conference.Watch here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=MGxfPtfKj_I

In The Jewelry District’s first-ever video podcast, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with JCK managing editor Melissa Rose Bernardo to discuss buzzworthy trends in categories from colored stones to diamonds. With JCK Las Vegas opening on June 6 and Luxury on June 4, it’s the ideal time to catch up on the latest looks, from creative new gold and pearl earrings to Mocha Mousse gems and Guatemalan jade. JCK’s experts also analyze what surging gold prices mean for retailers and designers and share a silver lining of tumultuous times—jewelry as an emotional support purchase.Watch here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=LymEiIA_QIU

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Marc Bridge, CEO and founder of online jewelry platform At Present. A fifth-generation scion of the Ben Bridge family, Marc describes a life in the industry that began with cleaning jewelry cases as soon as he was tall enough to reach them, included a memorable cross-country trip to deliver homemade cookies to Warren Buffett, and spanned decades as a problem solver for the family firm. He urges the industry to sharpen its storytelling skills in order to deepen consumers’ appreciation for gems and explains his role as matchmaker through At Present, connecting jewelry lovers who crave unique pieces with the artisans who create them.Presenting sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education)Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates explore the ramifications of the staggering rise in gold prices and share a strategy jewelers can use to offer gold at more palatable prices. (Hint: Think vintage.) Next, the conversation turns to tariffs. What’s ahead? What’s the best way to navigate it? Jewelers learned to pivot during the pandemic, and that agility will help them weather today’s volatile times, Rob and Victoria predict. They wrap up the conversation with a preview of what to expect when JCK Las Vegas kicks off in June.Presenting sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education)Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates Victoria discuss highlights from Watches and Wonders, including a Bremont relaunch, new Bulgari pieces, and Rolex’s first new collection in 13 years. “Rolex has really thrown down the gauntlet,” with its new Dynapulse escapement, Victoria reports. Next, the pair analyze the effect the U.S. administration’s initial tariff announcements had on the jewelry industry (confusion and worry) and offer some perspective on what may lie ahead in a time of rapid change and continuing uncertainty.Presenting sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education)Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with J.K. Symancyk, CEO of Signet Jewelers. J.K. shares his beginnings, from a theater major and aspiring lawyer to specialty retailer mogul, and what customers of sporting goods and pet supply stores have in common with jewelry store shoppers (which is actually much more than you might think!). The hosts and J.K. also dive into the details of Signet’s new strategy, “grow brand love,” what it means for Signet’s big three brands, Jared, Kay and Zales, the importance of the shift from banners to brands, differentiating the lab-grown and natural diamond categories, and the ever-evolving future of brick-and-mortar stores.Presenting Sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education)Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) recap highlights from NYC Jewelry Week, including takeaways from The Plumb Club’s Symposium ’25 that leaders everywhere can apply to help their businesses succeed. Rob brings listeners up to speed on how the ever-changing tariff news could impact the jewelry industry and shares emerging trends from the diamond market. Finally, Victoria discusses the most-talked-about rumors and reports from the watch world, including acquisitions, major management shifts shaking up the top players, and buzz about a potential new line from Rolex.Sponsored by IGI: igi.org/education

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss highlights from the colored gem shows in Tucson, where designers were buzzing over Guatemalan jade. Rob updates listeners on big news from De Beers, which sealed a 10-year deal with Botswana and saw its value written down significantly. In other news, one of Signet’s largest shareholders has called for a sale of the company. Rob offers insights into the factors driving these headline-making stories. Finally, Victoria reports on the state of the Swiss watch industry as Audemars Piguet marks its 150th anniversary.Sponsored by IGI: igi.org/education

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview John Green, president and CEO of Lux Bond & Green (https://www.lbgreen.com/), a fifth-generation family-owned jewelry store based in Connecticut. John, winner of the 2025 Gem Award for Lifetime Achievement, recounts the story of a 127-year retailing tradition in his family. He also offers insights into noteworthy trends he's seeing on the sales floor.Sponsored by IGI: igi.org

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss LVMH’s recent annual Watch Week in New York City. Highlights include Tiffany’s dazzling 13-foot Bird on a Rock sculpture, cutting-edge clocks in the shape of cars and grenades from L’Epée, and a mini miracle—a tiny mechanical Bulgari Serpenti watch. Next, Victoria and Rob share some perspective on recent reports about trouble at LVMH and downturns in the Swiss watch market. Finally, the pair honor a jeweler with a heart of gold, the late Harvey Rovinsky of Bernie Robbins.Sponsored by IGI: igi.org

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview our first-ever father-daughter guest duo, Richard “Dick” Hughes and Billie Hughes, co-founders of Lotus Gemology, a full-service colored gemstone testing lab based in Bangkok. The pair give listeners an insider’s guide to the complex world of colored stones. Why is describing faceted color gemstones “pure hell”? (“It’s like trying to describe the wind,” in Dick’s words.) How do experts really detect treated stones? Bonus: Find out how you can learn more from these experts in Tucson.Sponsored by IGI: igi.org

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates discuss recent holiday sales results and weigh in on what 2025 may bring for jewelers as a new administration takes office, tariffs loom on the horizon, and gold prices remain high. Also discussed is the latest news from De Beers after a less-than-banner year, Rob’s upcoming mystery novel (the final installment of his Diamond District series), and how factors such as Pantone’s Color of the Year and the Year of the Snake may—or may not—impact jewelry design.Sponsored by IGI: igi.org

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates talk with veteran human rights activist and author Ian Smillie, one of the architects of the Kimberley Process. Ian’s unlikely career began when he volunteered to teach high school in Sierra Leone more than 50 years ago and led him to become one of the leading advocates for ending the blood diamond trade. Ian discusses his quest to improve life for artisanal miners, the threats they face from the rise of lab-grown stones, and his new memoir on a life dedicated to combatting global poverty.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss potential ramifications of Botswana’s regime change for De Beers and American jewelers. Next, Victoria recounts her adventures in Geneva, where she was a juror for the Grand Prix de Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), the world’s most prestigious watchmaking competition. Finally, the pair shed light on what to expect this holiday sales season—and in the year ahead. Hint: buckle your seatbelt.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates catch up with Brooklyn-based designer Bliss Lau, who channels her Hawaiian upbringing, part Chinese heritage, and innovative artistry into her self-titled fine jewelry collections. Bliss discusses early career challenges, including a low point when an A-lister attempted to appropriate her designs and a career-changing highpoint when Beyoncé wore one of her pieces. She explains her ethics-first approach to sourcing and highlights her latest collection celebrating Mayan jade.BONUS: Hear a special sponsored mini interview with Howard Stone from Jewelers Mutual, who covers ways to protect your staff and store during the holiday buying season.Presenting sponsor: Tracr (https://www.tracr.com/)Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (https://www.jewelersmutual.com/)

Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) delve into the launch of Patek Philippe’s Cubitus Collection. Victoria shares insight into the revered brand’s vision for its new timepieces. Next, Rob explains the philosophy behind a moving new ad campaign by De Beers and Signet for natural diamonds. Finally, Victoria reports on a visit to Roberto Coin in Vicenza, replete with kilos of gold and a masquerade ball.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Stephanie Gottlieb, founder and creator of Stephanie Gottlieb Fine Jewelry, to hear how she built her business by tapping into the power of social media, what’s ahead for the brand, why she’s passionate about natural diamonds, and her picks for holiday bestsellers.BONUS: Hear a special sponsored mini interview with Jewelers Mutual Information Security Offer Grant Hansen about the most common cybercrimes and provides security tips to help jewelers avoid them.Presenting Sponsor: TracrSponsor: Jewelers Mutual

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) discuss Signet CEO Gina Drosos’ impending retirement, reflect on her successes over the past seven years, and speculate on what’s ahead for new CEO J.C. Symancyk. Next, the conversation turns to Victoria’s recent New York Times report on the coming-of-age of independent watchmakers. These once-struggling fringe creatives are having a mainstream moment, partnering with major players in the luxury sector and seeing their pieces sell at auction for over a million dollars.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Julia Hackman Chafé, social media manager at Intercolor USA. And hear a special sponsored mini interview with Howard Stone from Jewelers Mutual, who talks store security and loss prevention.Presenting Sponsor: TracrSponsor: Jewelers Mutual

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk Victoria’s tour of a Montana sapphire mine and some consolidation occurring in the lab-grown diamond industry.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Greg Verras, watch design director for Shinola, a Motor City icon beloved for its “built in Detroit” timepieces. Greg shares his unlikely journey from a skateboard startup in his garage to high-end watch designer. He touches on what inspires new Shinola timepieces and collections, the hallmarks that make them uniquely American (casual accessibility meets heirloom quality), the wisdom of approaching new trends with care and caution, and the power of storytelling to sell product.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates question whether the Paris Olympics suffered from overbranding and ponder what it means for future games, before discussing recent missteps at Tiffany & Co. and a flurry of C-suite changes at luxury watch brands. Next, Victoria explains how and why jewelry brands are tapping into the travel boom with shops in airports and aboard cruise ships. Finally, Rob brings listeners up to speed on Hodinkee’s return to its roots as a watch blog and the factors that prompted it.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates speak with Constance Polamalu, Chief Operating Officer of Zachary’s Jewelers, as well as the owner and founder of both Bloomstone Jewelers and Birthright Foundry. Constance shares her unique entrance into the jewelry industry, as well as the facets of each of her different businesses, from lab-grown diamonds to pieces that represent her American Samoa culture. She also offers insights into selling and interacting with different generations and clientele depending on what jewelry they are looking for.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about celebrity watch collectors and investors, such as John Mayer and Jay-Z, and discuss the new Russian sanctions on diamonds that the G7 council is looking to put in place. As well, there are big changes happening at Richemont, with many of the top executives playing musical chairs, and the Saks-Neiman Marcus merger being spearheaded by Richard Baker with Amazon as an investor, raising eyebrows and leading to discussion about other “e-tailers.”  Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com (https://www.tracr.com/)

This week, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Pippa Small, ethical jewelry designer and founder of Pippa Small Jewellery, based in London. Pippa has traveled extensively and worked to make sure that both her materials and partnerships are sourced with good intentions. Helping people tell stories through jewelry has always been her passion, and she shares her hopes and dreams for her business, the environment, and the people she has met along the way.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share their reactions to the 2024 JCK show, including their impressions of the states of the diamond and lab-grown diamond sectors, takeaways from the De Beers breakfast, their experiences interviewing Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi, and how important it is for producer countries to have a presence at the show. Victoria talks about what she saw and learned from her press trip touring diamond factories in Surat, India with Ben Bridge.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share interviews they captured live from the JCK 2024 show floor, including Jan Patrick Smith, CEO of John Hardy; David Kellie, CEO of the Natural Diamond Council; Gina Fahnestock, Senior Associate of Responsible Sourcing and Sustainability at Brilliant Earth; Wesley Tucker, CEO of Tracr; Marie Claire Daveu, Chief Sustainability Officer of Kering; and Susan Jaques, President and CEO of GIA.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates react to Watches of Switzerland’s recent acquisition of Roberto Coin Inc. As the hosts discuss the slow growth of brands in the jewelry space, Victoria gives the fascinating backstory on Shinola’s Gomelsky watch as an illustration of the challenges of launching a new brand. Victoria covers the exciting activations to look out for on the JCK show floor, all in the name of love—this year’s JCK theme. Both hosts also run down the education sessions that you won’t want to miss this year.Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates welcome one of the most influential guests ever to join the podcast—Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group. Al shares his back story, comments on the current state of the diamond industry, and sheds light on the future of the diamond business in Botswana as well as what lies ahead for the lab grown market.Sponsored by Tracr: Tracr.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share news from their recent trips to Geneva and Austin to attend key industry conferences. At Watches & Wonders, Victoria noted a trend toward red and burgundy watch accents, along with a preponderance of derivative designs rather than radical innovations. She and Rob theorize on the reason for the trend. At a well-attended AGS Conclave, lab-grown diamonds and gold prices were hot topics, and Rob got a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour of a local boutique lab-grown producer.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with forecasting expert Nancy Leach, co-founder of the consulting firm Gemedge Studio (https://gemedge-studio.com/), which helps companies develop strategy and initiatives to drive business growth.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

The hosts discuss a Ukrainian designer's account of war in her country, the issues with Russian diamond sanctions, and salute retiring Jewelers' Security Alliance president John Kennedy.Presenting sponsor: De Beers (institute.debeers.com)Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com/jdpodcast)

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) speak with Jean-Claude Biver, president of JC Biver and a living legend of the watch world. He regales the hosts on his introduction to the industry 50 years ago; his time at Audemars Piguet; how he revived the historic brand Blancpain; his time running Hublot; and how he brought pizazz to Omega with help from Cindy Crawford and James Bond. He also reflects on how all those experiences are shaping what he and his son are doing at his new venture, the luxury watch brand, JC Biver.Presenting sponsor: De Beers (institute.debeers.com)Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com/jdpodcast)

Rob Bates and Victoria Gomelsky talk about Russian diamond sanctions, news from Tucson, and a blogger’s mysterious Instagram suspension.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Vanessa Fernández, designer, bench jeweler, and owner of Vanessa Fernández Studio.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

Rob Bates and Victoria Gomelsky talk about a Platinum Guild press trip to Miami, the increasing need for lab-grown diamond detection tools and protocol, and what’s in store at the Tucson gem shows.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Stanley Zale, Principal Consultant at Hill & Company and grandson of Zale Corporation founder M.B. Zale.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

Today, Rob Bates and Victoria Gomelsky talk about 2024 predictions, Russian diamond sanctions, and the year in the watch world.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Tom Chatham, chairman of the board of Chatham Created Gems. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates discuss highlights from an event-packed NYC Jewelry Week. These include a jewelry collective working with artisanal gold miners in Peru, a panel of Indigenous designers channeling cultural traditions into their work, and a Stephanie Gottlieb (https://stephaniegottlieb.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAsburBhCIARIsAExmsu64qoATCN9QDQ9kD7e8-J12GvI7h-C0PgvAZWMkoWFVbJ5FlF2gdwoaAo5FEALw_wcB) partnership with De Beers spotlighting diamond provenance. Rob weighs in on whether the Black Friday boom will prove a bellwether for holiday sales then turns the conversation to WWF Switzerland’s annual report on sustainability in the watch and jewelry industry.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates speak with Olga Oleksenko, founder of the Strong&Precious Art Foundation, which showcases Ukrainian jewelry art and design. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

Today, Rob Bates and Victoria Gomelsky talk about Victoria’s trip to Istanbul, WD Diamonds, and the history of sustainability in the watch industry.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com (institute.debeers.com)

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates welcome Edahn Golan, diamond industry analyst as well as owner and manager of Edahn Golan Diamond Research and Data and managing partner of Tenoris.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates pay tribute to former JCK editor Hedda Schupak, who passed away this month. An industry icon as well as a mentor to Victoria and Rob, Hedda steered the magazine successfully through major changes in the early 2000s and played a key role in the early days of its annual Las Vegas trade show. Rob updates listeners on the latest news in Russian diamond sanctions, and Victoria shares highlights from her recent trip to Japan to visit Grand Seiko (https://www.grand-seiko.com/us-en/)’s studio in the mountain town Shizukuishi.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com (institute.debeers.com)

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates interview Monica Stephenson, founder and president of ANZA Gems.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates delve into hot topics from the world of luxury watches, starting with Rolex’s recent acquisition of Bucherer and its potential implications for retailers. Next the conversation turns to Audemars Piguet’s latest AP House. Finally, Rob shares some encouraging news about a flurry of brick-and-mortar retail openings this year and dishes on the newest installment in his Diamond District mystery book series.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview acclaimed designer New York designer Lorraine West, whose handcrafted contemporary fine jewelry has earned the admiration of Grammy winners and Hollywood A listers—not to mention Sotheby’s and De Beers. Lorraine recounts the early days of selling her designs on the street in Soho, the bold moves that helped launch her successful career and convinced a music icon to become an early supporter, the unexpected gift she still treasures, and the art of giving back.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates dive into the hottest trends ahead, from more Barbie-fueled obsession with pink to nostalgic necklaces. (Think Rubik’s Cubes, robots, and all things ’80s.) Equally newsworthy is the luxury world’s laser focus on bigger, better brick and mortar—a high-end land grab that belies the digital-first future predicted during the pandemic. Finally, some of the world’s most elite watch brands are tuning in to hip-hop, EDM, and both genres’ massive hype-building power.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Jeffrey Post, research associate and curator emeritus, to hear where his love for minerology began. Jeffrey describes a visitor’s experience to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History as well as some of the stories attached to the gems he has encountered over the course of his 32 years as its curator of gems and minerals (including a once-in-a-lifetime chance to study the famous Hope and Wittelsbach Graff diamonds side-by-side).Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss Victoria’s recent custom ring experience, the State of the Art Jewelry Summit, and commemorate the 100th episode of The Jewelry District.

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Jeffery Bolling of Colorado-based Jeffery B. Jewelers about his journey from serving in the U.S. Army to selling diamonds to becoming Colorado’s only African American–owned fine diamond, full-service jeweler. Jeffery plays a vital role in the diamonds-do-good story through his commitment to sourcing diamonds responsibly from companies owned by Black Africans, selling stones cut by Black African cutters, and leveraging his position and expertise to encourage greater diversity in the jewelry industry.

Just back from JCK Las Vegas, JCK editor-in-chief

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Jeffery Fowler, CEO of the influential watch website Hodinkee (https://www.hodinkee.com/) to learn how the company got its unusual name and to hear about the path that led him to it. Jeff also speculates on the reason mechanical watches inspire such lasting passion (they’re science projects wrapped in history projects wrapped in art projects), offers predictions for the booming pre-owned watch market, and explains why good retailers are the best brand ambassadors.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.comShow Notes00:50 Victoria Visits Botswana2:28 How Hodinkee Got its Name5:29 From Harvard to Hodinkee18:54 Consumers’ Love Affair with Watches27:31 In Praise of RetailersEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: @jckmagazine; institute.debeers.comShow RecapVictoria Visits BotswanaJust back from a week in Botswana with De Beers, Victoria shares the highlights of an incredible journey that included a visit to the De Beers (http://www.debeers.com/) sorting facility, the jaw-dropping Jwaneng diamond mine, and Chobe National Park, where elephant herds still roam the savannah. She promises to recount more about her adventures in a future podcast.How Hodinkee Got its NameVictoria introduces Hodinkee CEO Jeffery Fowler, and Rob asks him to explain how one of the most influential voices in the watch world got its unusual name. Hodinky is the Czech word for “wristwatch,” Jeff explains. When company founder Ben Clymer launched his watch blog in 2008, he chose the word because it seemed unique enough to be memorable and quirky enough to spark curiosity. Double vowels were trending in the corporate world (Google, Goop, Yahoo), so he adjusted the spelling.Since then, Hodinkee has grown into a powerhouse with its own ecommerce platform and an award-winning magazine.From Harvard to HodinkeeJeff earned an undergraduate degree at Harvard and an MBA at INSEAD in France before joining LVMH (https://www.lvmh.com/), where he began his career as an assistant retail store manager for Louis Vuitton in London. From there, he moved to Tag Heuer (https://www.tagheuer.com/), then Cartier (http://www.cartier.com/), Tesla, and Farfetch, where he stayed spent six years overseeing businesses across North and South America before joining Hodinkee in 2022. He sums his career up as “an exciting, fun, adventure-filled journey.”In late 2021, Jeff was taking a break from his career to spend time with his wife and three young sons when he got a call from a recruiter about Hodinkee. He admired Ben Clymer as a pioneer in bringing the watch world online—and doing it in an approachable way that emphasized storytelling, curiosity, and wit. But he remembered it simply as a blog. He was surprised to learn that the company had moved far beyond its original mission, becoming the world’s first online-only authorized retailer of watches in 2017 and more recently expanding to pre-owned watches.Since joining as CEO,

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates recap highlights from Tiffany & Co.’s star-studded party to mark the reopening of the Fifth Avenue flagship store, where a once homey vibe has been replaced by a sleek temple to luxury. Rob shares an update from AGS Conclave along with insights about the trending topic of ChatGPT and its potential for the industry. Finally, the two compare notes on which events they’re most excited to check out at JCK Las Vegas.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.comShow Notes01:45: Tiffany’s Night to Remember12:53: Smart Ways to Harness A.I.21:35: All Eyes on JCK Las VegasEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: @jckmagazine; institute.debeers.comShow RecapA night to remember marks the dawn of a new era for Tiffany & Co.The fete for Tiffany & Co.’s reopened New York City flagship on April 27th was even flashier and splashier than expected, Victoria reports. Close to 1,200 guests turned up at the Landmark, while tourists thronged Fifth Avenue to catch a glimpse of A-listers like Blake Lively, Zoë Kravitz, and Mark Wahlberg on the red carpet.After more than three years in the works, the spectacular new flagship looks nothing like the Tiffany’s store of old, Victoria says. The Landmark is filled with light wood, glass, digital screens, custom artworks, a dramatic curvilinear staircase, and, of course, beautiful jewelry. Victoria’s first stop was the seventh floor, which houses gemstone masterpieces like Bird on a Rock broaches and the Patek Philippe salon. Nearly as awe-inspiring as the gems was the sheer amount of wealth of the guests in attendance, she says.The Fifth Avenue icon was long venerated as a democratic slice of Americana, Rob notes—a place where anyone could feel at home admiring the pieces on display. He wonders if the Landmark will be as welcoming. That depends on what kind of person you are, Victoria surmises. Sleek and grand, this indisputable temple to luxury may well intimidate certain shoppers. Then again, it’s bound to be a tourist attraction—and there are affordable items to be had, she notes. (The entry price for a silver Return to Tiffany bracelet is $250.) For those confident or curious enough to be undaunted by the glamor, Victoria says it’s well worth popping up to the seventh floor to admire the art, the odes to Tiffany windows, the digital Audrey Experience with a replica of Hepburn’s black Givenchy dress from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and original notes from the Truman Capote novella that inspired the film.Want more detail? Read Victoria’s full report (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/cocktails-at-tiffanys/) on the party.A.I. update: smart ways to harness artificial intelligenceNext, Rob shares highlights from the recent American Gem Society Conclave, where he found himself socializing without fear of COVID for the first time in several years.Despite warning signs like inflation and bank failures—and waning from the boom of 2020 and 2021—jewelry businesses are holding up well based on the buzz at Conclave, Rob says. Traceability and lab-grown diamonds were much discussed,

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) catch up with Lawrence Hess, executive director of The Plumb Club (https://plumbclub.com/), as the organization finalizes plans for JCK Las Vegas. Lawrence shares his memories of growing up the son of the late great designer Jose Hess and offers a succinct history of The Plumb Club. He also gives listeners a preview of the most intriguing—and encouraging—takeaways from the club’s latest research paper and consumer survey, to be shared at the upcoming JCK show.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com (http://institute.debeers.com/)Show Notes00:52: Tiffany & Co.’s Landmark Event03:44: Carrying on the Hess Family Legacy05:07: Remembering Jose Hess08:20: Striking Out on His Own11:08: What’s in a Name?14:42: A Brief History of The Plumb Club18:09: The Future Looks Bright20:31: Three Trends to Watch24:22: Lab Grown Diamonds in Simple Terms25:52: Aligning with RJCEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/); institute.debeers.com (http://institute.debeers.com/)Show RecapTiffany & Co.’s Landmark EventVictoria shares highlights (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/cocktails-at-tiffanys/) from the Tiffany & Co. extravaganza that marked the Fifth Avenue flagship store’s reopening as the Landmark in April. It wasn’t just the beautiful space and the star-studded guest list that impressed her, but also the obvious wealth of the clientele. One guest sported a Tiffany Blue Dial Limited Edition Patek Phillipe Nautilus watch, which sells for $3 million on the secondary market.Carrying on a Family LegacyVictoria and Rob welcome guest Lawrence Hess, executive director of The Plumb Club (https://plumbclub.com/). Victoria notes that the New York City–based group is one of the industry’s most esteemed organizations, boasting a membership of distinguished manufacturers. Calling in from his office in Englewood, NJ, Lawrence says he is gearing up for JCK Las Vegas, where 50 Plumb Club members will exhibit in the group’s 75,000-square-foot pavilion.Lawrence is the son of iconic jewelry designer Jose Hess (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/jose-hess-pioneer-has-died/). Victoria asks Lawrence to share his memories of being raised in the business, thanks not just to Jose but also to stepmom Magdalena “Maggie” Hess, a designer in her own right.Jose instilled a deep love of the industry and its people in his children. “The two most important things to him were family and jewelry,” says Lawrence, who tagged along to work with his dad when he didn’t have school. He recalls his dad’s years as president of The Plumb Club, when early plans for the pavilion covered their dining room table while Jose fine-tuned them.Rob notes that Jose was renowned for his catchphrases, most famously strong like a bull. “That was his answer to everything, whether things were good or bad,” Lawrence remembers. Many of the designer’s observations are memorialized in The Beauty in All, a book Jose and Maggie co-wrote.Striking Out on His OwnAnother Jose Hess motto was that nothing should be handed to you.

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss the much-anticipated reopening of Tiffany & Co.’s iconic Fifth Avenue store, now called The Landmark. Victoria also reports on her recent trip to Geneva for Watches and Wonders, where traffic was brisk, the mood was upbeat, and Rolex wowed the crowds with unexpected splashes of color and whimsy. Rob updates listeners on what’s new at Signet Jewelers after attending a recent Investors’ Day at the New York Stock Exchange.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.comShow Notes00:49: Tiffany & Co. Reimagines its Famous Flagship05:30: Rob Heads to AGS Conclave to Gauge the State of the Industry07:10: Rolex Brightens a Busy Watches and Wonders Exhibition15:18: What’s New at Signet Jewelers Episode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: @jckmagazine; institute.debeers.com Show Recap Tiffany Offers a Sneak Peek at its Reimagined FlagshipVictoria seldom flies across the country to attend a party, but she’s making an exception for the much-anticipated reopening of Tiffany & Co.’s Fifth Avenue flagship store on May 27th. After a three-year closure and a complete makeover, what will The Landmark—as it’s now called—look like? Rob remembers visiting the iconic store as a JCK mystery and being surprised to find it warmly welcoming. It was almost homey in those days, he says. Victoria predicts the new iteration will be decidedly sleeker and more luxe since the brand’s target demographic is now considerably more affluent. “There’s a parallel story about the importance of brick-and-mortar,” Victoria observes. When she interviewed Tiffany CEO Anthony Ledru recently, he called The Landmark “the heart and soul of Tiffany.” The company is putting a major focus on its physical stores, expanding and renovating flagships in Seoul, Sao Paolo, and other parts of the world, she adds. When the pandemic reached its zenith, it looked like the future might be entirely virtual and digital, but “that’s not the case at all,” Victoria says. “The importance of brick and mortar is more apparent than ever.” Rob to Moderate Conclave PanelVictoria’s not the only one with travel plans. In early May Rob will head to Louisville, Kentucky, for the American Gem Society’s Conclave event, where he’ll moderate an expert panel on how the industry is faring in 2023 and gauge the outlook for the future. Victoria is eager to hear his takeaways. She predicts JCK’s audience will be too. “It’s been a confusing year, with the lingering specter of recession,” she points out. “People are waiting for some guidance.” Rolex Brightens a Busy Watches and WondersThe conversation shifts to Victoria’s recent trip to Switzerland for Watches and Wonders in Geneva. This year’s bustling conference was a far cry from the quiet show of 2022,

You'll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with two guests who are a married couple: Feriel Zerouki, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at De Beers Group, and Mahiar Borhanjoo, CEO of UNI Diamonds.

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about the 24 Karat Weekend, including the Gem Awards, updates about crime stats at the Jewelers’ Security Alliance lunch, and some news that broke at the Jewelers’ Vigilance Committee luncheon. This leads to a discussion of a potential increase in restrictions on Russian diamond imports and the complexities of this issue. Victoria asks Rob about his take on falling lab-grown diamond prices. She also shares some insights learned from a presentation about differences in lab-grown diamond quality and how those quality issues occur. Finally, the hosts touch on recent events with banks and their impact on the industry.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.comShow Notes01:45 24 Karat Weekend05:00 Updates on U.S. sanctions on Russian diamonds13:00 Lab-grown diamond prices15:00 Lab-grown diamond quality variance23:00 Silicon Valley BankEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: @jckmagazine; institute.debeers.comShow Recap24 Karat WeekendRob attended the 24 Karat Gem Awards, while Victoria sadly had to stay home. It was a beautiful event, which included a lovely tribute to Steven Kaiser. JCK writer Amy Elliott (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/amy-elliott/) was up for a media award. Victoria and Rob give a big shout out to Amy, who is a critical member of the JCK edit team and express their pride at her nomination. And they congratulate Michelle Graff, who won this year’s media award.Rob also attended the Jewelers’ Security Alliance (JSA) lunch, where it was reported that last year was the worst for crime that they have seen in a very long time. On the lighter side of things, Rob enjoyed Joe Piscopo’s performance at the 24 Karat Dinner (lots of Sinatra).At the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) luncheon, Jeffrey Fisher was presented the Stanley Schechter Award in a warm, emotional ceremony. The speaker at the luncheon was James O’Brien, U.S. sanctions coordinator. He made a bit of news in his speech. He gave an effective, folksy speech about the U.S. efforts to put sanctions on Russia. He’s now involved in one of the largest sanctions packages in U.S. history.Stricter Russian Diamond Sanctions on the Horizon The office of U.S. Sanctions wants to put further restrictions on Russian diamonds to close the “substantial transformations” loophole, which allows Russian diamonds that are cut and polished elsewhere to come into the U.S. While they may not eliminate the legal doctrine of substantial transformations, they may put further restrictions on Russian diamonds including requiring sellers to make a declaration that the diamonds they are are selling are not from Russia. This would be a big change in the market.In a brief interview following O’Brien’s speech, Rob asked what happens if people don’t have the proper information about Russian origin. O’Brien said that you can get into a lot of trouble if you aren’t honest with customs. There are still questions about many of the details, including what the size cut-off would be for these sanctions, and what type of proof would be required.

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Tom No...

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about what was hot at the Tucson gem shows, and the insights Victoria gleaned as she followed several designers on their searches through the shows. Rob discusses some ongoing diamond supply news, including the ongoing negotiations between De Beers and Botswana, and the possibility of changes to sanctions on Russian diamonds. They also discuss Chat GPT, which people in the jewelry industry—including Rob himself—have started to experiment with.Show Notes02:25 Thoughts on Tucson gem shows12:35 Diamond market news20:40 Testing out Chat GPTEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometShow RecapGem Shows Shine Through Cloudy EconomyVictoria notes that those shows depend so much on how the fourth quarter went for retailers: if the holiday went well, and if they needed to restock for their upcoming collections. Many current economic uncertainties also affected this: Everything from the specter of recession, to inflation, to the war in Ukraine. Despite all the looming questions, Victoria reported that Tucson was a great set of shows.At the high end, despite price increase of 20-30% across the board, demand was still very steady. Victoria spoke with many people who reported having record shows. Dealers explained this was, in part, a reflection of gems’ longtime reputation as a reliable way to store wealth. During times of economic uncertainty, the wealthy may opt to buy gems as a hedge against inflation. And when the economy is booming, people are in good moods, and the up goes the demand for colorful jewels—but for a very different reason. So, there are diverse economic circumstances when gems can fare very well.What Designers Looked ForVictoria observed that there were many of designers at the show this year. Teams from many of the French houses (Louis Vuitton, Boucheron, Tiffany & Co., and Cartier, to name a few) and countless independent designers, including Stephen Webster, Lauren Harwell Godfrey, Lauren Kessler, Katherine Jetter, and Robert Turner, whom Victoria roamed some of the shows with. And they were all looking for different things.Stephen Webster was a unique designer to follow, since he was equally invested in finding rough stones. She describes the different shows they attended to find these. She describes him spraying a rough Peruvian pink opal with water to get a sense of the color. Because you can’t see into these stones, all you have to go off of is the outside. It’s only after cutting into the stone that you know what you’re working with. Victoria quotes Stephen’s colorful way of describing that process: “Sometimes you get what we call ‘angel’s skin’ and other times you get ‘angel’s toenail.’”Most designers start with the stones and build their collections around that. And everyone had their own unique things they were drawn to. Robert Turner loves zircons, tsavorite, and stones in brilliant colors. Katherine Jetter is an opal specialist, so she was looking for those along with Mahenge spinels, which come in very vibrant hot pinks, and were very popular with many designers. Victoria enjoyed being a fly on the wall following these designers on their treasure hunts.Victoria spoke to Dave Bindra, who—when interviewed in an

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Malyia McNaughton, founder of Made by Malyia. The self-taught jewelry designer and Black in Jewelry Coalition board member is proof that trusting your gut can be the key to creative success. When Malyia couldn’t find the jewelry she wanted, she designed her own—and wore it. Demand for her designs inspired her to launch her brand and has made her a rising star whose looks have been worn by Lizzo and other celebrities.Sponsored by De Beers: diamondeducation.debeers.com (http://diamondeducation.debeers.com)Show Notes1:53 From body chain to brand launch5:09 Expanding organically8:04 Turning obstacles into opportunities10:53 Finding creative inspiration13:57 High-profile partnerships17:58 In the spotlight on SNL20:51 The Black in Jewelry Coalition: making a difference23:52 Tips for aspiring designersEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (jckonline.com); @jckmagazine (instagram.com/jckmagazine); madebymalyia.com (https://madebymalyia.com/); diamondeducation.debeers.com (http://diamondeducation.debeers.com) [Use promo code JCKPRO_15 at checkout for 15% off workshops.]Show RecapFrom body chain to brand launchVictoria introduces Brooklyn-based designer Malyia McNaughton, founder of Made by Malyia, and asks how she started creating jewelry. The daughter of Jamaican immigrants was born in the Bronx, raised in Florida, and attended Florida State University, where she studied fashion merchandising and product development. After graduating, she moved back to New York to pursue a career in fashion, starting in sales and product development for Nicole Miller and eventually designing for another fashion brand.In 2014, Malyia had tickets to a music festival in Philadelphia. She wanted to make a statement by wearing a body chain but couldn’t find the right piece. Undeterred, she sourced materials and designed her own. Little did she dream she was making her first item of jewelry. “I got stopped by so many people asking me where I’d gotten it,” Malyia recalls. “After the fifth or sixth person, my friends said, ‘You might be onto something.’ We went to lunch, and they helped me come up with the name Made by Malyia.’ It was one of those Oprah aha moments.”Expanding organicallyAfter months of trial and error, Malyia developed a body chain she felt was ready to put on Etsy. To her delight, orders poured in. Still, she viewed Made by Malyia as a creative outlet, not a business. Gradually she added products based on buyers’ feedback. When a client asked if she could make a temporary nose ring, Malyia branched into nonpermanent nose and body jewelry.

Join JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates for a roundup of buzzworthy industry updates. Victoria reports on the recent VicenzaOro fair, where the halls were crowded, the mood upbeat, and the looks big and bold. She updates listeners on a rare timepiece collection from the archives of Jaeger-LeCoultre. It’s the first significant effort by a Swiss watchmaker to sell vintage pieces and may herald a burgeoning trend. Rob analyzes what Israeli equipment maker Sarine’s purchase of the family-owned lab GCAL means for the future of diamond grading—and artificial intelligence’s growing role in it. Finally, the two discuss the Federal Trade Commission’s proposed ban on noncompete clauses.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.comShow Notes2:22 A lively January VicenzaOro fair7:21 Jaeger-LeCoultre unveils first vintage watch collection12:22 What Sarine’s purchase of GCAL means for the future of diamond grading18:09 The FTC’s move to ban noncompete clausesEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: @jckmagazine; institute.debeers.comShow RecapViva VicenzaOroJust back from Italy’s January VicenzaOro goldsmith and jewelry fair, Victoria says she was delighted to find the show packed and the mood optimistic. She had expected inflation, the war in Ukraine, and fear of recession to trigger cautiousness and a comedown from the boom the industry has enjoyed since the pandemic started. However, this was the best-attended VicenzaOro ever in terms of both exhibitors and attendees. Victoria spent most of her time in the crowded hall where Roberto Coin, Damiani, Fope, and other luxury brands that export to the United States were exhibiting. Also bustling was the adjacent T.Gold show, featuring jewelry machinery and technology for everything from engraving to laser welding.Victoria is still amassing information on the show’s top sellers, but one trend is certain: Big, bold pieces are replacing the small, delicate ones favored during quarantine. Understated jewelry suited people well when they were working from home, she says, but now subtle looks (such as stacking multiple delicate bracelets on the wrist) are making way for powerful statement pieces—especially cuffs and collar necklaces.Jaeger-LeCoultre Unveils Vintage CollectionVictoria’s recent European trip included a visit to Geneva to learn about Jaeger-LeCoultre’s first-ever vintage watch collection. She explains that the Swiss company is known as the watchmaker’s watchmaker. The brand has made all of its timepieces in its own workshops in the Vallée de Joux since its foundation in 1833, and Jaeger-LeCoultre calibers and movements have powered many other brands’ watches over the years. Now Jaeger-LeCoultre has mined its own rich history to create The Collectibles,

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Da...

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates look ahead into 2023. The hosts, noting that it's folly to predict more than one year ahead, make some educated predictions for the year including: the end of the pandemic, which might bring an end to some new customs while others continue to be new norms; a shakedown in the lab-grown sphere resulting in many leaving the space as prices fall below profitable levels; growing demands for transparency of sustainability claims, including both consumer demand and legislative standards; and an increased presence of AI in the different aspects of the jewelry business.Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.comShow Notes02:45 Looking ahead into 202307:30 Lab-grown diamond shakeout10:20 New transparency laws20:00 How AI is changing the industryEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (jckonline.com); @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/); institute.debeers.com (http://institute.debeers.com/)Show RecapLooking Ahead (But Not Too Far)The pace of change is so quick, and unexpected events—like the pandemic—make looking further than one year into the future a fool’s errand, so Rob and Victoria focus on the year at hand. Victoria found a list of predictions for 2023, one of which these is the end of the pandemic, which experts estimate will happen sometime in 2023.Some trends brought on by the pandemic are likely to remain—such as how it pushed businesses to take a digital-first approach—but others—like masks and distancing—may fade away. Jewelry companies seem much healthier now. They have a reserve of cash and goodwill, better consumer data, etc. Despite global economic factors like inflation, there is optimism.Lab-Grown Diamond ShowdownRob predicts that there will be a shakeout in the lab-grown diamond sector this year. Prices are falling, and not everyone can make the business profitable that way. Days of large margins are petering out, though demand is still strong. Rob foresees that lot of people will leave this market. The natural diamond industry is also dealing with challenges, falling prices. Lab prices are falling because they too are priced based on Rapaport, so when natural diamond prices fall, lab-grown prices follow suit. It has become a race to the bottom, and the rapid growth in this category is about to experience some upheaval.Demands for Transparency in Sustainability ClaimsGreenwashing was put to the test in 2022. People want proof you’re doing what you say. This will continue in 2023. Victoria spoke to a few researchers in this field. One was a Harvard student with a focus on sustainability science. She spent time and research poking holes in those sustainability claims different companies make. JCK published a story on how to create a sustainability report last year. This kind of transparency of reporting will soon become law. It has passed in the EU already. This will apply for public as well as private companies. These laws apply to larger companies that do business in Europe too.For a long time, the wide world of luxury brands got away with being very opaque. There was a mystique around how they did business. Gen Z will ensure that words and trust are not enough.

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk holiday predictions, the theme of which is cautious optimism. They discuss inflation and its affect (or lack thereof) on spending on jewelry, depending on strata. (The wealth divide is also the dividing line for this consideration.) The hosts also talk about Rolex’s recent announcement that they are entering the preowned watch space, and the questions this brings up about the secondhand marketplace. They also note a slowing down in the colored diamond market.Show Notes01:30 Educated guesses about the holiday season03:40 Inflation concerns09:15 Rolex launches certified pre-owned program19:30 Colored diamond category slows downEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: @jckmagazine, jckonline.comShow RecapModerate Hopes for the HolidaysAs they look ahead and talk about the holidays. When Victoria spoke to Abe Sherman at Buyers Intelligence Group (BIG) who said, “I’ll tell you in ten days.” For jewelers, things don’t come into focus until the very last moment. They suspect this holiday won’t be as strong as last year. Most of those who Rob has spoken to think that even if it is a few points lower than last year, they could still characterize this year’s holiday sales as a success.When Signet announced their results, Gina Drosos gave the reasoning that last year, many did their shopping early because of supply chain worries. This year, that doesn’t seem to be the case. October had been down, but things are picking up closer to the holiday. The last two years are such a high base. People don’t necessarily expect those levels to continue, but still hope for a successful year.Effects of InflationThough inflation has calmed, it is still higher than we are accustomed to. This affects how the middle class spends on jewelry. Whether it gives the wealthy pause about how they spend, Victoria is not sure. Increasingly, those markets are bifurcated: the upper class does not have to make adjustments to their spending the way the middle and lower-income shoppers do when economic concerns come up.The pattern of the last several years has been gains on the higher end and not as much on the lower and middle. During the pandemic, there were gains across the board. Now, we’re going back to the pre-pandemic pattern. Signet has noted that the gains they are seeing are at the high end, or “accessible luxury.”Something jewelers learned during the pandemic was to up their digital game. Rob has noticed a lot of jewelers putting out interesting content on TikTok. This is the way of the future when it comes to reaching buyers. Jewelers have also used YouTube to tell their store’s story in an appealing way. Rob comments on the organic nature of TikTok. It feels personal. There’s a strange charm to it being just one person with their phone.Rolex Enters the Pre-Owned SpaceOn December 1st, Rolex announced they were formally entering the preowned space. It is launching a program in Europe through Bucherer. Time will tell when it will come to the US. Bucherer is a Swiss retailer that has a presence in the US already through Tourneau, and are established in the secondhand space.A few big questions are, who is setting the pricing,

Join JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) discuss Victoria’s recent trip to Sicily to see Jacob & Co.’s new Opera Godfather 50th Anniversary watch commemorating the classic film. Next, Victoria and Rob explore the growing power of brand names in high jewelry, a trend fueling forays into real estate and hospitality. Victoria breaks down how changing legislation may pave the way to more transparency on sourcing and the supply chain. Finally, Rob shares what recent research by The Women’s Jewelry Association and Citizen Watch America revealed about Gen Z—and finds out how well he and Victoria speak Gen Z’s language with a quiz on current slang.Show Notes:02:15 Victoria recaps her trip to Sicily to see Jacob & Co.’s Godfather watch10:40 Rob and Victoria discuss the growing power of high jewelry brand names16:35 Victoria speculates on the current state and likely future of transparency in the industry17:50 Rob reports on a recent WJA event sponsored by Citizen Watch focusing on Gen ZEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: @jckmagazine, JCK’s e-newsletterShow RecapJacob & Co. Godfather Watch Honors Hollywood HistoryVictoria describes her visit to Taormina, Sicily, to see Jacob & Co.’s new Opera Godfather 50th Anniversary watch, a limited-series $500,000 collectible timepiece that plays the theme from the Oscar-winning film and features 13 iconic scenes from the movie engraved on the case using laser technology. Highlights of the trip included Godfather trivia and tales recounted by actor Gianni Russo, who played Carlo Rizzi, as well as visits to locations from the film. For Victoria, the experience held special meaning because The Godfather was her father’s favorite movie.The Growing Power of High Jewelry Brand NamesRob notes that Jacob & Co. is working with a developer in Dubai to create an ultra-luxe residential tower, with designs inspired by the company’s jewelry. Victoria says this reflects the increasing power of brand names in a market that now comprises 25-30% branded jewelry. Her recent conversations with CEOs from Bulgari, Pomelatto, and Tiffany & Co. suggest that branded jewelers are optimistic about the future, expanding factories and brick-and-mortar stores that elevate the retail experience, such as the soon-to-open Tiffany flagship store. They are also banking on the trust their names inspire to explore other spheres. Bulgari, for example, is expanding its hospitality footprint with a resort in the Maldives. High jewelry brands see growth potential around the world and in smaller-tier U.S. cities with high concentrations of wealth, like Aspen and Boston, where A. Lange & Söhne recently opened a boutique. This supports the theory that the rich are getting richer, Victoria observes. The Truth About Transparency and Changes on the HorizonVictoria observes that it’s rare for companies to share real, on-the-record answers to questions about corporate responsibility. She recently wrote a story about transparency in the watch trade for which she called 12 high-end watch makers, including Cartier, Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, and Rolex.

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk...

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about Conversations in Park City, a new De Beers CEO, and a new spin on a classic Patek Philippe watch. Victoria recaps her time in Park City, where she contemplated the present and future of retail with experts curated by PSFK. Rob reports on the change in leadership at De Beers, where Bruce Cleaver has stepped down and become co-chairman, and Al Cook will step into his shoes as CEO. Victoria covers the latest iteration of a popular Nautilus and what it means for the direction of the Patek Philippe brand.Show Notes01:00 Victoria interviewed the president of Bulgari who was in the Maldives.04:30 A recap of Conversations in Park City09:00 A change in leadership at De Beers19:55 New Patek Philippe watchEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: @jckmagazine, jckonline.com Show RecapHospitality Meets JewelryVictoria got up early to speak to the president of Bvlgari, Daniel Paltridge, who was in the Maldives at the time. They talk about the Bvlgari hotel and how expensive it is—€2,500 per night! Rob wonders what guests might get in addition to the room for that price. (Likely not jewelry.) There are other examples of brands that cross over from fashion to hospitality—Armani, Shinola, etc. The hope is that you can capture an audience in one and then target them in the other side of the business.Conversations with Friends—in Park CityVictoria recently traveled to Park City, UT, to Conversations in Park City, the leadership summit hosted by Jewelers Mutual. The brainchild of Mark Smelzer, head of content for Jewelers Mutual (and JCK’s former publisher). He had a vision to pull together the crème de la crème of the industry and bringing them all to a leadership retreat. Everyone met at the St. Regis in Deer Valley, with their loved ones in tow. Victoria brought her family and enjoyed the wonderful weather.But the main focus was the content. Mark pulled in one of the leading thinkers on retail strategy and futurism, PSFK. Jeff Weiner of PSFK brought in some experts that they’ve used for their presentations—on the omnichannel experience, “phigital” retail, and other things retailers need to be prepared for. It was both present- and future-focused, informing retailers about shifts in the consumer atmosphere. Though Victoria tends to tune out when people talk about NFTs, she found this coverage easier to digest. It was a beautiful setting for some great conversations. Overall, the event was brief and meaningful. She hopes there will be another one next year.A Change in Leadership for De BeersRob reports that Bruce Cleaver is stepping down as CEO of De Beers and handing over the reins to Al Cook—an industry outsider who worked for an energy company. His predecessor, Philippe Mellier, was also an outsider. He got great results for the bottom line of the company, but injured some relationships with clients who felt he drove prices too high. Bruce repaired that relationship, and is well-respected. Though it’s not clear why he is leaving this position, he will still be involved as co-chairman. It’s a job where you’re never bored because there are so many aspects to it.Victoria wonders about the selection process.

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates disc...

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) discuss Signet's acquisition of Blue Nile, what it means for the brand and how they might evolve as a result. Victoria reports on her research into fall's biggest fashion trends, which include animal motifs and a resurgence of the power-dressing era of the 80s and 90s. Show Notes03:00 Signet is acquiring Blue Nile12:00 Victoria reports on the latest in fall fashion19:00 80s and 90s jewelry styles are on trendEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (jckonline.com), @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)Show RecapSignet to Acquire Blue NileBig news in the dog days of August: Signet is acquiring Blue Nile. This is part of Signet's pattern: they keep acquiring the competition. One of the things current management is focused on is growing market shares. And this is the easiest way to accomplish that. However, there are high customer acquisition costs that have to be paid to Google and Facebook. Google, Facebook and other companies like them have gotten so large, it places a burden on other competition because of the high expensive to advertise online. Rob sees this as a troubling sign on a higher level.The deal will likely contribute to the long-term sustainability of Blue Nile's brand. But people worry how many businesses are all consolidated under one large umbrella. Victoria wonders how Blue Nile might evolve under Signet. It's not clear where the brand will fit among the other jewelry brands under Signet now.Victoria recalls the interesting things that Blue Nile has done in recent years: Their 10 by 10 collaboration with De Beers and designers of color, for example. They want to be a brand that speaks to people, not "the Amazon of jewelry."Themes in Fall FashionVictoria has been doing research into the latest fall fashion trends and reporting on them in the JCK Special Report newsletters. Here are a few themes she's been noticing, to help inform what jewelers may want to stock. A surprising but endearing trend gaining steam is animal-inspired jewelry. Though this has been going on for thousands of years, there are times when the motif gains steam. Victoria spoke to an expert on this category: Marion Fasel, jewelry historian and founder and editorial director of The Adventurine (https://theadventurine.com/). She worked on the Beautiful Creatures (https://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/beautiful-creatures) exhibit at The American Museum of Natural History. The two animals that come up over and over again, according to Fasel? Snakes and butterflies.Snakes have a beautiful shape that lend themselves to jewelry, which can symbolize wisdom and eternal love. The butterfly has emerged in many jewelry collections this year. Symbolizing rebirth and transformation, it's particularly resonant to people right now as we begin to emerge from the pandemic. Victoria describes some collections she's seen that feature interesting creatures as pendants. In the vintage space, sales of animal-inspired pieces are soaring, as well. The zodiac trend also contributes to the popularity of the animal theme, since many of the symbols of the zodiac are animals as well.80s Jewelry Makes a ComebackThough it might be surprising, jewelry from as recent as the 90s can now technically be considered vintage. And,

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/)...

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) talk about secondhand watch prices, the cost of entering the jewelry business, and an early look at a diamond documentary.Show Notes00:30 Victoria talks about the secondhand watch industry and its fluctuating prices.13:24 Victoria questions the economic barriers to getting into the diamond industry.17:53 Rob reviews the new diamond documentary Nothing Lasts Forever.Episode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)Show RecapSecondhand WatchesVictoria comments that it’s a little bit slow in the jewelry industry in July, but it’s a nice break from the busy earlier months. She then dives into the secondhand watch market and the online auction market. The companies she spoke to have seen great success, and there’s been growth in both sales and new buyers. People are flocking to online auctions because of the pandemic, and prices are fluctuating at the moment, so market value isn’t exactly clear. Auctions help determine that market value. Rob asks how the most well-known brands have reacted to this. Victoria said they were definitely watching and hugely discouraged it.The Cost of Entering the Jewelry BusinessVictoria says it’s very expensive to enter the jewelry industry unless you already have family ties or come from a great deal of wealth. To amass the materials and create a jewelry line is an incredible task, and an expensive one at that. There are PR, trade shows, photography, and more that all cost money to get your brand out there. This isn’t to take away from the quality of jewelers’ design capabilities, but it's important to note that all aspects of this business take tremendous amounts of capital. Emili Vesilind wrote about how to get your business started in this JCK Pro article (https://www.jckonline.com/article-long/real-costs-breaking-into-jewelry/). She posits that it takes a bare minimum of $37,000 to start a jewelry business, which doesn’t encourage diversity in the jewelry industry.Nothing Lasts ForeverRob wrote a review (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/showtime-diamond-nothing-lasts/) about the new documentary about lab-grown diamonds, Nothing Lasts Forever, airing this fall on Showtime. Rob says it was a beautifully shot film and describes it as an odd experience and hard for him to be objective about, as he knows so many people in the movie. He believes most people will be unhappy with this film, and that it was slanted against the natural diamond industry. Nothing Lasts Forever is scheduled to stream on Showtime in September.

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) talk with Mithun Sacheti, CEO of CaratLane.Show Notes00:30 Victoria and Rob introduce their guest Mithun Sacheti, CEO of CaratLane.07:17 Mithun compares CaratLane to Blue Nile.10:15 Victoria asks about his early business.14:42 Mithun describes his most recent experience at the JCK show.16:09 Mithun talks about Tanishq purchasing majority share of CaratLane.21:00 Rob asks about CaratLane’s brick-and-mortar stores.Episode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/), CaratLane.com (https://www.caratlane.com/)Show RecapIntroducing Mithun SachetiMithun Sacheti is the CEO of CaratLane, which is often described as the Indian version of Blue Nile. He spoke to JCK from the southeastern coast of India. His mother and father were in the jewelry business, and Mithun describes it as a “generational business,” which is how he got into it himself. Mithun studied at GIA and worked briefly in San Diego. When he returned to India, he opened his own jewelry store.Blue Nile InspirationMithun compares the Indian jewelry business model to the business in the United States. Mithun says he learned from Blue Nile that you have to find the easiest place to enter the industry. In India, while diamonds are fine to sell, its real strong point is selling jewelry as opposed to loose diamonds and engagement rings. In the early days, Mithun describes a hostility similar to what Blue Nile faced in its early days.Building the BusinessVictoria asks how Mithun coaxed people to buy originally, and he said initially consumers were resistant. CaratLane built a try-at-home model in an attempt to get people to buy their diamonds, which ended up being successful. Mithun doesn’t think this model would necessarily work in America.The JCK ShowMithun was just at the most recent JCK show—the first one he attended was back in 1998. Victoria asks for his take on this year’s JCK show, and Mithun said it was all about making connections.TanishqIn 2016, Tanishq purchased a majority share in CaratLane. Tanishq is the largest jewelry company in India and has been around for 25 years now, with a market capitalization close to $1 billion. Mithun says Tanishq has been a great partner, and CaratLane has been able to grow on a much faster scale thanks to its involvement. Victoria asked what other kinds of things CaratLane has tried as a company, and Mithun describes a virtual try-on, different from augmented reality, that didn’t pan out. One thing that worked very well was building an omnichannel network.Brick-and-MortarRob asks why CaratLane believed it needed a brick-and-mortar store when it was successful online. Mithun believes there is a need for tactile jewelry shopping, even though consumers find jewelry online.(Photo courtesy of Mithun Sacheti)

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) discuss former JCK editor-in-chief George Holmes’ legacy, LVMH's investment in Lusix, and Russian diamonds and Ukrainian jewelers.Show Notes00:30 Victoria and Rob remember former JCK editor-in-chief George Holmes13:51 Victoria reports on the state of the industry17:15 Rob reports on LVMH’s investment in Lusix20:03 Victoria and Rob talk about Russian diamonds and Ukrainian jewelersEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)Show RecapRemembering George HolmesGeorge Holmes, JCK’s former editor-in-chief of 22 years, died last month (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/jck-editor-george-holmes-dies/). Victoria describes his as a legendary editor. Rob talks about his time working with him and says he was gracious and intelligent with unyielding editorial integrity. Victoria and Rob share an audio clip from an earlier podcast (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/podcast-jewelry-district-ep-4/) of Joe Thompson speaking about George Holmes.State of the IndustryVictoria discusses a Jewelers Board of Trade webinar with its president, Erich Jacobs. He showed graphs on consumer sentiment, confidence, unemployment rates, and more. Erich says unemployment is linked to consumer satisfaction—if unemployment is low, generally consumer confidence is high. Now, we’re seeing a break from this. We have record low unemployment and low consumer confidence. Victoria says retailers may feel a little pinch in their bottom line, as consumers aren’t using credit cards as much.LVMH and Lab-Grown DiamondsRob comments on the lab-grown space and LVMH Luxury Holdings' investment in Lusix, an Israeli lab-grown diamond company. LVMH is not being shy about its investment—but this investment raises questions. Rob believes LVMH wants Lusix to scale with more persistent production. Victoria asks if the luxury sector is finally ready to accept lab-grown diamonds, and Rob isn’t sure.Russian DiamondsVictoria asks what’s happening in the world of Russian diamonds, and Rob says there are rumors in the industry about banks in Europe not wanting to fund Russian diamond shipments. Rob says the big companies have figured out a way to get diamonds back on the market after a slow run for Russian diamonds. On the flip side, Victoria has spoken to many Ukrainian jewelers, and her takeaway was their commitment to improving the industry and getting attention for Ukrainian jewelers in the market.

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) share their post–JCK show takeaways and the interviews they conducted live on the JCK show floor.Show Notes00:30 Rob and Victoria share their takeaways from the JCK show09:30 Victoria interviews Jewelers Mutual Group’s chief content executive, Mark Smelzer11:00 Victoria interviews Stuller CEO Matt Stuller13:40 Rob interviews Craig Underwood of Underwoods Fine Jewelers17:00 Rob interviews Feriel Zerouki of De Beers20:18 Rob interviews Steve Coe, CEO of Lightbox Jewelry25:40 Victoria interviews Yuliya Kusher, CEO of Meylor Global29:26 Victoria interviews Manos Phoundoulakis of EZEC31:23 Rob interviews Jeff Corey, former owner of Day’s Jewelers, now currently the vice president of marketingEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)Show RecapJCK Show TakeawaysVictoria and Rob comment on how amazing the JCK show was this year. Rob says the mood and attendance were really strong and how the jewelry industry has been on a high the past two years. Some people even told Rob it was their best show ever. Others came to the show for the first time—a great reminder of why we have in-person shows. There was some awareness of inflation at the show. Victoria also mentions orange emerging as a hot color in jewelry.Mark SmelzerVictoria interviews Jewelers Mutual Group’s chief content executive, Mark Smelzer. Mark used to be the publisher of JCK, and Victoria asks what it's like to be on the other side of the JCK show experience. Mark comments on the overall energy at the show, and that it’s great to see sales happening at every booth.Matt StullerMatt Stuller, CEO of Stuller, is excited to be at the show. Victoria comments on how busy the Stuller booth is. Victoria asks about its innovations this year. Victoria loves its permanent bracelet stand. Victoria asks how business has been so far this year, and Matt says business has been very strong. Everyone is cautiously optimistic.Craig UnderwoodRob mentions how Craig Underwood of Underwoods Fine Jewelers has just won the Robert M. Shipley Award, and Craig says they’re still on the high from receiving that award. Rob asks what they’re seeing at the show so far, and Craig says he’s loving the energy. Rob asks if Craig thinks this is going to be a great holiday, and Craig says yes—he’s cautiously optimistic.Feriel ZeroukiFeriel Zerouki, who won the Diamonds Do Good Next Gen Award at the show, is the senior vice president of corporate affairs for De Beers. Rob asks about Feriel’s involvement with the Responsible Jewellery Council, and Feriel says despite some problems recently, there’s also been great progress. Rob asks about the JCK show, and Feriel says it’s going well.Steve CoeRob asks Steve Coe, the CEO of Lightbox Jewelry, how things have progressed with Lightbox, which created shock waves in the industry when it first released its lab-grown jewelry line. Steve says 25% of their buyers are repeat customers. Rob notes how Lightbox expects to be using 100% renewable energy by the end of 2022, and Steve says it is making great progress on that.

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) discuss Steven Kaiser’s passing, the Oak collection watch event at London’s Design Museum, De Beers' blockchain platform, recycled gold, and the JCK Las Vegas show.Show Notes00:30 Victoria and Rob give their condolences to the family of Steven Kaiser.05:25 Victoria recounts her visit to London’s Design Museum to see the Oak collection.13:40 Rob explains De Beers' blockchain technology.16:22 Rob is concerned with recycled gold and what the term actually means.21:09 Victoria and Rob are excited for JCK Las Vegas!Episode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)Show RecapSteven KaiserVictoria and Rob give their condolences to the family of Steven Kaiser. The industry titan passed away (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/steven-kaiser-connector-dies/) a week before recording this podcast. He was feted at 24 Karat Weekend in March. He was a "connecter" and, as Rob reports, very good at smoothing things over. The jewelry industry mourns his passing, and he will be deeply missed at JCK Las Vegas this week.The Oak CollectionVictoria was one of 65 journalists invited to London in late May to attend an event at the Design Museum. There, she saw the Oak (one-of-a-kind) collection. The Oak's owner, Patrick Getreide, has been collecting watches for 40 years. He has more than 600 of them (heavy on Patek Phillipe and Rolex), and 130 of them were on display for just one week. Victoria said the event felt like the gilded age of watches. Rob briefly mentions the Apple Watch and its effect on the watch industry.De Beers' BlockchainRob talks about De Beers and its blockchain technology (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/de-beers-all-diamonds-trackable/). Basically, Rob says, it’s a way to track diamonds through the chain in a trade-facing, rather than consumer-facing, manner. De Beers says it can trace all of its diamonds of 1 carat and above and believes it can scale this technology. Rob says this technology has been a long time coming, and De Beers has the most ambitious technology out of everyone trying their hand at it.What Is Recycled Gold?Rob recently wrote a story (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/just-what-is-recycled-gold/) on recycled gold, and Victoria asks what prompted him to write it. Rob says he was recently part of a webinar about recycled gold, and it made him consider what recycled gold really is. As it turns out, there are many definitions if recycled gold—including the one the Federal Trade Commission uses: something that would otherwise go in the trash. The problem is, gold isn’t thrown out. Rob talks about why labeling anything as recycled gold is a problem and why the industry should start being clearer on what recycled gold really is.JCK Las VegasVictoria and Rob’s schedules are packed for JCK Las Vegas (http://lasvegas.jckonline.com). All of the events are back on, there’s tons of excitement, and Victoria is hoping for some good weather (not too hot!). From what Victoria understands, there is a great need to restock, which will make for a great show. JCK will be giving talks from the JCK stage and various educational classrooms.

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) talk with Sarin Bachmann, group vice president of RX Jewelry Group at Reed Exhibitions. They'll be discussing JCK Las Vegas 2022 and all that you can expect at the 30th anniversary of the show, which runs June 10–13.Show Notes00:30 Victoria and Rob welcome their guest Sarin Bachmann, group vice president of RX Group at Reed Exhibitions.5:33 Sarin explains the layout of this year's show.10:35 Rob asks about the education and entertainment lineup at the show.16:32 Rob asks Sarin what she does to get ready for the show.23:55 Sarin gives hot tips for your time at the show.Episode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)Show RecapIntroducing Sarin BachmannVictoria and Rob welcome their guest Sarin Bachmann, group vice president of Reed Jewelry Group. She’s here to talk about the JCK show. The Luxury show opens June 8, and JCK Las Vegas kicks off on June 10. Sarin then tells how she got into the jewelry industry. She started off by working as a consultant, and one of her clients was Reed Exhibitions. She ended up leaving to work for Reed. She loves the jewelry industry, and knew she eventually wanted to run the jewelry shows. She particularly loves the passion in this industry.The JCK Show LayoutVictoria briefly asks about Yancy Weinrich, Sarin's predecessor as head of the Reed Jewelry Group. Yancy recently left RX, and now is a president of another trade show company. Sarin then pivots to talking about this year’s show. She says the layout is going to be similar to how things were in 2019 (i.e., having Luxury back on level 2). Sarin is excited for international visitors to be back at the show. New this year will be a pavilion called The Shops for gifts for retailers to fill out their stores. JCK swag will be available there as well.Education and EntertainmentRob asks about the education and entertainment lineup, and Sarin gives the full rundown, including sessions on sustainability, trends, digital marketing, NFTs, and much more. All programs will be back, including a visit from the cast of the musical Hamilton in a private performance with an after-party to follow. Victoria asks what Sarin is looking most forward to, and she says she’s looking forward to all the photo and video opportunities on the floor. She’s also looking forward to the show’s 30th-anniversary celebration happening on Saturday.Getting Ready for the ShowRob asks what Sarin does to get ready for the show—Sarin says packing! She’s out there for 10 or 11 nights, and the act of packing gets her excited for the show. Sarin says she’s not nervous, but there’s always some anxiety leading up to the show, especially for her own speech. She also says she never gets tired in Vegas, she’s always excited and ready to go to the show. Victoria plugs the newest issue of JCK, which includes a guide to new Vegas attractions. Victoria and Sarin both mention where they think you can get the best lunch in town.Hot TipsRob asks Sarin what her average JCK show day is like. Sarin says she saves checking out jewelry for the last day. Rob asks what she'd advise to those on the fence about coming to the JCK show,

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) talk about Watches and Wonders Geneva, the AGS Conclave, and Russian diamonds.Show Notes00:30 Victoria recaps her experience as a guest of Breitling ahead of Watches and Wonders.11:00 Victoria fills us in on her experience at Watches and Wonders.17:09 Rob was at the AGS Conclave and tells us how that went.21:49 Victoria and Rob express excitement for JCK Las Vegas; Rob talks about Russian diamonds.Episode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)Show RecapBreitling MarketingVictoria went to Watches and Wonders Geneva, where she was a guest of Breitling. Known for its aviation watches, the company invited journalists and watch experts to Zurich ahead of Watches and Wonders to celebrate the 70th anniversary of its Navitimer, introduced in 1952. George Kern, CEO of Breitling, came down to give a speech and boarded the same plane as Victoria, and everyone flew to Geneva. On the plane, all of the new watches were passed around.Watches and WondersVictoria says Watches and Wonders was a good show with a lot of excitement and optimism. She also noticed a lot of travel-themed watches. Rob asks if there was a lot of talk about smartwatches, and Victoria says no. She believes that smartwatches may have ignited a larger interest in watches in general even when they’re not present themselves. She also mentions a new mechanical watch she picked up at the show, and one brand, TAG Heuer, that’s using lab-grown diamonds in its watches.AGS ConclaveRob was just at the AGS Conclave in Oklahoma City. Victoria asks if lab-grown was a big theme there, and Rob says it was a theme, but not a major one. A lot of the discussion around lab-grown diamonds was about making sure you’re not accidentally buying a lab-grown when you believe you’re buying natural. A big topic at AGS was Russian diamonds and the reputational issues around buying and selling them. Rob says the mood at AGS was a good, and this event was one of its most highly attended Conclaves. There were sessions on sustainability and the verbiage around sustainability as well as origin and tracing.Russian DiamondsVictoria mentions anticipation for JCK Las Vegas. Rob and Victoria are both looking forward to the event and want to meet with people in person rather than virtually. To end the podcast, Victoria asks Rob about Russian diamonds. The U.S. sanctions have been a big hit to Alrosa, which is one- third owned by the Russian government. There aren’t many newly mined diamonds on the market. A lot of people are paying attention to traceability and sourcing.

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) talk with Ziad Ahmed, CEO of JUV Consulting, a New York City–based firm that advises companies on how to market to Gen Z.Show Notes00:30 Victoria and Rob introduce their guest Ziad Ahmed, CEO of JUV Consulting06:02 Rob asks what characteristics define Gen Z14:30 Victoria asks about non-digital experiences and purpose-led brands, while Rob asks about how Gen Zers feel about marketing18:45 Rob asks how Gen Z views the luxury category21:27 Victoria asks how Gen Zers are now buying jewelryEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (https://www.jckonline.com/), JUV Consulting (https://www.juvconsulting.com/)Show RecapIntroducing Ziad AhmedVictoria and Rob introduce their guest Ziad Ahmed, CEO of JUV Consulting, a New York City–based firm that advises companies on how to market to Gen Z. Gen Z is defined as people who were born between 1997 and 2012. Ziad was born and raised in Princeton, N.J., in an American-Muslim household. In eighth grade, he started a nonprofit, a by-teens, for-teens organization that make community and schools more operative and inclusive. In high school, he started JUV Consulting, as he believed diverse young people should have a seat at the table.What Makes Gen-Z Rob asks what Ziad relies on for the information he’s tapped into on Gen Z, and Ziad reports that it’s a mix of survey data, in-depth research, and more. Victoria asks what kind of clients JUV works with, and Ziad says it ranges from Fortune 500s to startups to local campaigns to nonprofits. Ziad shares some of the clients that he’s been proud to work with. Rob asks the key characteristics that define Gen Z, and Ziad says Gen Z has grown up in the digital age, with social media as a language that they’re fluent in that allows them to find community. Victoria asks which platforms are essential, and Ziad thinks TikTok is the platform of the moment where celebrities are made overnight.Gen Z and Digital Experiences, Sustainability, and MarketingVictoria is interested in Ziad’s non-digital experiences, and Ziad explains how non-digital and digital experiences are blended. She then asks how Gen Z views the marketplace and how they want to shop, and if purpose-led brands are important to Gen Zers. Ziad says the American market has the capital to spend a little extra on purpose-led brands. Ziad believes we will continue to raise the bar on what sustainability looks like. Rob asks what turns Gen Zers off or what comes across as tone-deaf, and Ziad says that most marketing is cringe-inducing, and that’s why JUV consulting exists.How Gen Z Views LuxuryRob asks about luxury and how Ziad’s generation tends to look at luxury, and Ziad says luxury is in for a rude awakening as a lot of it is antithetical to Gen Z’s values. There are issues around inclusivity, income inequality, and gluttony and excess that are being scrutinized by this generation. Gen Z is concerned with what companies are paying their employees, how stable the supply chain is, and what kind of craftsmanship went into the making of the piece. Gen Z, Ziad says, is concerned with its image, and, like a brand, is trying to create who they are and show what they represent through their purchasing habits.

In This EpisodeWe’ve collected the origin stories of some past guests—including that of host and news director Rob Bates—so you can hear the different ways in which people got their start in the industry. You'll hear from Alexander Lacik, Sean Kell, Alexis Padis, Gina Drosos, and Alan Revere.Show Notes00:30 Introducing this week’s podcast02:57 Alexander Lacik, CEO of Pandora06:14 Sean Kell, CEO of Blue Nile09:48 Alexis Padis, president of Padis Jewelry  13:50 Gina Drosos, CEO of Signet Jewelers17:44 Alan Revere, founder of the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts22:40 Rob Bates, news director of JCKEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) and Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/)Producer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine, (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)Pandora Group (http://www.pandoragroup.com), Blue Nile (https://www.bluenile.com/), Padis Jewelers (https://www.padisgems.com/), Signet Jewelers (https://signetjewelers.com/), Alan Revere (http://www.revereacademy.com/), Rob Bates Author (https://robbatesauthor.com/) Show Recap(https://www.jckonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Alexander-Lacik.jpg)Alexander LacikBefore becoming CEO of Pandora, Alexander worked with a range of brands including Pringles, Vicks, Always, Olay, Pantene, Lysol, Woolite, Head & Shoulders, and more. After moving back to Sweden with his kids, he ended up working with Britax for a while before Pandora knocked on his door. He was excited to work with Pandora because it was a big Scandinavian international brand. Rob asks what the commonalities are between these successful brands.(https://www.jckonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Sean-Kell.jpg)Sean KellSean Kell, CEO of Blue Nile, came from a family who loved jewelry. He started as an engineer, then went into sales before going to business school to study marketing. He also worked at Starbucks, Expedia, and A Place for Mom before finally ending up in the jewelry industry. What attracted him to the industry in the first place: its size, and how it’s difficult for consumers to figure it out—he wants to change the industry to be a little more convenient for shoppers. Blue Nile originally operated solely on the web, but it has since opened brick-and-mortar stores to meet customers where they want to be met.(https://www.jckonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Alexis-Padis.jpg)Alexis PadisAlexis Padis is president of Padis Jewelry in San Francisco. She’s one of four kids, and she’s the only one who ended up joining the family business after spending time in an entirely different industry. She tells the story of how after selling an engagement ring to one couple she decided to make the industry here career. She also explains how her parents got into the industry. Her dad dropped out of medical school to become a jeweler, and met his Alexis’ mom in the industry.(https://www.jckonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Gina-Drosos.jpg)Gina DrososGina Drosos, CEO of Signet Jewelers, says she’s always wanted to work in an industry where she feels as though the product makes a difference in people’s lives.

In This EpisodeYou’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) talk with Beth Gerstein, cofounder and CEO of Brilliant Earth.Show Notes00:30 Victoria and Rob introduce their guest Beth Gerstein, cofounder and CEO of Brilliant Earth08:30 Beth explains the importance of sustainability to the consumer14:11 Brilliant Earth offers both lab-grown and natural diamonds—Beth explains the difference19:10 Beth talks about Brilliant Earth’s Fairmined collection23:16 Rob and Victoria wrap up the podcast with discussion of international plans, marketing to Gen Z versus millennials, Russian diamonds, and brick-and-mortar stores and online salesEpisode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: brilliantearth.com (https://www.brilliantearth.com/), jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (http://instagram.com/jckmagazine)Show RecapIntroducing Beth GersteinVictoria and Rob introduce their guest Beth Gerstein, cofounder and CEO of Brilliant Earth in San Francisco. Victoria mentions that Brilliant Earth is really leading the charge on sustainability and ethical sourcing. As always, the JCK editors dive into Beth’s background and how she got into the jewelry industry. Beth grew up in Maryland, and both of her parents worked in government. She studied biomedical engineering and did work launching satellites, but Beth eventually realized her heart was in business and switched industries entirely.The Importance of SustainabilityBeth explains how she developed Brilliant Earth on a set of values revolving around sustainability and ethical sourcing. With diamonds being such an emotional purchase, she believed people would want to know about the sourcing of their stones. She says Brilliant Earth's customers don’t want to compromise on quality, design, or experience—but transparency is extremely important. The company recently released its sustainability report, and she wants the industry to continue to do this difficult work. Beth also confirms that it’s been six months since Brilliant Earth went public. She says it helps them to set clear objectives and have financial discipline.Lab-Grown DiamondsVictoria and Rob have questions for Beth about lab-grown versus mined diamonds, and Beth says that there’s space for both—it opens the market more. Brilliant Earth started offering lab-grown 10 years ago and sees continued success with their sale. As a retailer, she says it's Brilliant Earth's responsibility to be open about its sources for both conflict-free and lab-grown diamonds. Beth says typically the younger shopper tends to gravitate more toward lab-grown diamonds. Victoria asks about a lack of transparency when it comes to lab-grown diamond sourcing.Brilliant Earth’s Fairmined CollectionVictoria asks Beth about Brilliant Earth's new Fairmined gold (https://www.brilliantearth.com/eco-friendly-jewelry/fairmined/) collection, and Beth says she developed the collection with its customers in mind. She’s happy to be able to support artisanal and small-scale miners who are getting a fair price for their gold. She believes Fairmined gold will only grow in popularity. Victoria also asks if Beth goes to shows like JCK—and Beth has met many great suppliers since the first show. Rob asks what the most important thing about building a brand is,

In This Episode You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) talk about the industry-related effects of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and some news from the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). Note: This episode was recorded a few days before President Biden announced the U.S. ban on imports of Russian diamonds.Show Notes00:00 Victoria and Rob send well wishes to the people of Ukraine affected by the Russian invasion.04:34 Rob discusses the partly Russian government–owned Alrosa.09:51 Victoria predicts the demand of Russian diamonds in years to come.12:40 Much like diamonds, the question of gold sourcing remains as important as ever.19:00 Rob reports on AGTA and Doug Hucker’s departure.Episode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine (http://instagram.com/jckmagazine)Show RecapWishing Well to UkraineIn light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Rob and Victoria wish the best for the people of Ukraine. Victoria mentions that she was born in St. Petersburg (Leningrad at the time) and emigrated as part of the Jewish exodus from the Soviet Union in the late '70s. She fears for the repercussions of the sanctions of the Russian people for years to come, but her heart goes out first and foremost to the people of Ukraine.Alrosa and Russian ControlThe conversation pivots to discussion of Alrosa, the biggest diamond producer by volume, responsible for 30% of the world’s diamonds. It's one-third owned by the Russian government, one-third owned by the local Siberian province, and one-third publicly traded. By most standards, Alrosa takes social responsibility and social benefit seriously, meeting all of the current standards in the industry. The fact that Alrosa is directly tied to the Russian government poses a problem for it. Russian diamonds are going to be impacted greatly, Rob predicts. At the end of the day, who ultimately owns and benefits from a company is extremely important.Russian Diamond Demand Victoria brings up a statement made by Martin Rapaport on Russian diamond prices, in which he was clear that he didn’t believe prices would suffer because of the invasion, but because of the resulting inflation of things like gas, which influences consumer demand. Rob and Victoria both believe that the perception of Russian diamonds will be affected for years to come, as people will choose diamonds from other countries over diamonds from Russia.Russian Gold and Lab-Grown Diamonds Victoria wonders about Russian gold—and if Russia will be using gold to fund their regime, a thorny question that is yet to be answered. Who jewelers get their gold from is another question for jewelers to consider as sourcing, vendors, and who owns those vendors remains as important as ever. Rob predicts a bill will be enacted banning the purchase of Russian gold. Victoria predicts a lift in American-mined and -sourced gold because of this. Rob also brings up lab-grown diamonds. Victoria mentions a company in Barcelona, Spain, that markets itself as “mining-free diamonds.” Rob thinks this label is a bit disingenuous since you need mined products to create lab-grown ones.AGTA and Doug HuckerAt the end of the podcast, Victoria pivots to some non-Russian news. Rob wrote a

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) talk with Holly Wesche, owner of Wesche Jewelers about everything from rocket launches to lessons learned in the past two years.Show Notes01:20 The JCK editors introduce Holly Wesche, owner of Wesche Jewelers.03:50 Holly describes how she got started in the jewelry industry.07:10 Holly remarks on the tremendous success Wesche Jewelers has seen in the past two years.09:00 The group discusses the paradigm shift that has occurred in the past two years in retail.17:20 How have store events changed at Wesche Jewelers?19:30 Victoria asks what product trends Holly has seen.21:00 Rob asks Holly about the benefits of her involvement in associations.Episode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com), @jckmagazine (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)Show RecapIntroducing Holly WescheRob and Victoria introduce their guest, Holly Wesche, owner of Wesche Jewelers. She is based in Melbourne, Fla., on "the space coast," near Cape Canaveral. They move on from rocket launches to how Holly's career launched. Holly describes how, despite her family's business, she fell into jewelry retail by chance. Growing up, she had not considered entering the industry. When Holly was in school studying journalism, she started a part-time job at a jewelry counter to make a little money. That's when she was "bit by the jewelry bug." When Holly got serious about her new career path, her dad had a heart-to-heart with her about taking up the family trade. He warned her to know how difficult it is to own one's own business, but he knew she would be successful.Wesche Jewelers' Success Amid The PandemicWesche Jewelers has had a strong few years recently. In 2021, they were up 48%—and that was after a very successful year. Wesche has experienced double-digit growth over the past two years, which surprised Holly and has caused her to feel gratitude. During the quarantine period, Wesche Jewelers was closed for six weeks. While the store was closed, Holly looked at the store's budget and mapped out worst-case scenarios. However, once the store reopened, business immediately began to boom. At first, she thought it was the boomerang effect and waited for the bubble to burst, but it never did.Dealing With a Paradigm Shift in RetailHolly describes how things shifted for Wesche during the pandemic and how her team was able to adapt. They were already doing curbside pickup and virtual sales, but these used to be the exception instead of the rule. Her team was well-equipped to take those skills and put them into their everyday business practice. Another example is online payments. Wesche had been looking into the Podium payment platform before the pandemic, but COVID accelerated their adoption of it. The company also improved e-commerce on its website. One of the big lessons Holly learned from this experience is always to look forward and not wait for a disaster to force her to think outside the box.Setting IntentionsThe pandemic forced retailers to improve e-commerce and adapt to meet customers where they are. Holly describes the different ways Wesche has adapted to become more intentional about the digital side of its business. She asserts that the in-person and digital experience are very intertwined,

You’ll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/victoria-gomelsky/) and news director Rob Bates (https://www.jckonline.com/writer/rob-bates/) talk about the Tucson gem shows, Kering's sale of two watch brands, small diamonds, and Rob’s new book.Show Notes00:30 Victoria talks about her time at the Tucson gem shows.09:19 Rob shares his thoughts on the sanctions on Burmese gems.14:26 Victoria and Rob discuss luxury conglomerates such as Kering.21:23 Rob recently wrote a story on how hot small diamonds are becoming. He also shares information on his new book, Murder Is Not A Girl’s Best Friend. Episode CreditsHosts: Rob Bates and Victoria GomelskyProducer and engineer: Natalie ChometPlugs: jckonline.com (https://www.jckonline.com/), @jckmagazine,  (https://www.instagram.com/jckmagazine/)robbatesauthor.com (http://robbatesauthor.com/)Show RecapArizona’s Tucson Gem ShowsVictoria just came back from the Tucson gem shows, which typically have a huge international presence, but this year drew more of an American audience. She says the dealers had really great shows, with growing interest in rare and unusual stones. One of the most expensive gems at the show was an 80.26 ct. Burmese royal blue sapphire, with a retail value north of $10 million. Victoria says the fact that this gem was displayed at the show is proof of the strength of the marketplace. People are willing to buy high-priced gems. However, Victoria says mining is still feeling the effects of the pandemic.Gem SanctionsRight before Tucson, Rob says the U.S. government put out a business advisory (https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/126/20220126_burma_advisory.pdf) warning dealers to make sure they are not sourcing gems from Myanmar (also known as Burma) because of the sanctions against the major gem miners there. Victoria wonders how these kinds of bans are enforced, and Rob says he doesn’t believe they are. If the government really wanted to enforce them, it would have to be clearer in what they actually want people to do.KeringKering is a conglomerate of luxury brands (Gucci chief among them), and it's just recently sold two watch brands, Girard-Perregaux and Ulysse Nardin. Victoria says Kering also has been really progressive in its sustainability efforts, and has been a real leader in that space. She talks about how watch brands generally have not been part of big conglomerates, and perhaps we are starting to see a return to that.Small Diamonds and Rob’s New BookRob just wrote a piece (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/small-diamonds-are-now-big/) about small diamonds and says they’re hot with prices going up. Interestingly, there also is a similar shortage on the lab-grown diamond side. Pivoting at the end of the podcast, Victoria joyously announces that Rob just had his second book published! The book, Murder Is Not A Girl’s Best Friend, is a sequel to his first, A Murder Is Forever.