The glittering 23rd annual Gem Awards lit up New York City on March 14, honoring the best of the best in fine jewelry and watches—from design geniuses to media icons and retail royalty.
✨ Where it all went down: Cipriani 42nd Street
🎤 Who kicked it off: Jewelers of America’s CEO Dave Bonaparte and CFO Annie Doresca shared plans for a bold new 3-year strategic vision focused on success, ethics, and professionalism in jewelry.
🏆 First win of the night? Chanel, baby!
The High Jewelry Excellence Award went to Chanel for its fearless “Haute Joaillerie Sport” collection. Accepting the award, Olivier Kessler-Gay, Chanel’s U.S. head of watches and fine jewelry, gave a shoutout to Gabrielle Chanel’s audacious legacy.
📰 Next up, Media Excellence!
2024 winner Tanya Dukes passed the torch to Sam Broekema, editor-in-chief of Only Natural Diamonds. With gratitude to journalists, family, and the Gem Awards team, Broekema said, “I always feel like the next issue is the best one.” Runners-up included Paige Reddinger and Trace Shelton.
💍 Retail Royalty crowned
Lisa Bridge of Ben Bridge handed the Retail Excellence trophy to Reinhold Jewelers. Accepting on behalf were Yael Reinhold and Mildred Marcano—legends in the making!
🌟 Design that hits the soul
Beth Hutchens of Foundrae accepted the Jewelry Design Award with this powerful line:
“While everyone knows the value of gold and diamonds, our true inheritance is the right to reach our full potential.”
Other fierce nominees? Sophie Bille Brahe and Selim Mouzannar.
🏅 Lifetime Achievement, a standing ovation moment
John A. Green, the heart behind Lux Bond & Green, was honored for his lifelong dedication. Introduced by Jeff Feero of Alex Sepkus as “that great of a guy,” Green urged the crowd:
“Let’s be mentors. Let’s elevate this industry to stand tall with the best of luxury.”
🎉 One night. One stage. Countless legends. The Gem Awards didn’t just hand out trophies—they lit a fire under the future of fine jewelry.