Pittsburgh, Penn.— The jewelry industry lost one of its brightest lights on Sept. 25, as Nina Pugliese, a cornerstone of Henne Jewelers in Pittsburgh, passed away at age 65 after a battle with brain cancer.
Pugliese joined Henne Jewelers in 1978 at just 18 years old, beginning her career in sales under the late third-generation jeweler Jack Henne. Over the next 46 years, she became a force within the family-owned retailer—rising from top sales associate to jewelry buyer, designer, and the creative mind behind the store’s celebrated displays and curated collections.'
As a buyer, she traveled across the U.S. to bring back pieces that shaped Henne’s identity. She also designed custom works for clients and launched her own signature line, Exclusively by Nina, sold only at Henne Jewelers. Beyond jewelry, she applied her artistry to floral and interior design.
“Her artistry, eye for quality, and devotion to customers set a standard of excellence that shaped the store’s identity,” the company said.
Pugliese’s presence was more than professional—she was remembered for her vibrant personality, spontaneous joy, and generosity of spirit. She greeted everyone with a smile, shared desserts with colleagues, and infused even everyday interactions with warmth.
Outside of the store, she was deeply committed to charity work, particularly supporting children’s causes, local ministries, and community initiatives. Her faith remained central to her life.
A Family’s Tribute
John G. Henne, fourth-generation owner of Henne Jewelers, described her impact in personal terms:
“Nina wasn’t just a colleague; she was family. Her legacy is woven into the very fabric of our business. She touched thousands of lives with her warmth, her talent, and her faith. We will forever be grateful for the love she poured into Henne Jewelers and into our customers.”
A celebration of her life will be held Oct. 13 at Allison Park Church. She is survived by her five brothers—David (Kate), Paul (Renee), Michael (Colleen), Samuel (Nancy), and Joey (Deeters)—as well as nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews.
Tradition vs. Transition
Nina Pugliese represented the old-school artistry of jewelry retail, rooted in trust, legacy, and creativity. Her passing inevitably raises the question: how will jewelers like Henne—steeped in tradition—adapt to a market where lab grown diamonds and shifting consumer values demand reinvention?
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