Popular speaker Shane Decker drew a crowd as the keynote speaker on Monday, Aug. 14, where he addressed “How to Double Your Average Ticket Sale.” Decker’s fans piled on the accolades on social media, with one person gushing about his longtime column in the magazine and others posing with him in selfie photos.

On the show floor, more educational seminars took place on Monday and Tuesday. Among them were Just Be You: How to Match Your Store Environment with Your Culture and Model, How to Overcome the Most Difficult Customer Objections, How to Prep for Fourth Quarter Based on Current Retail Trends, and 3 Ways to Update Your Store on a Budget. Popular INSTORE columnists and retailers featured on the pages of the magazine led thoughtful discussions and offered tips on how to elevate businesses.

“It was great to see the pages of INSTORE come to life with so many of our columnists and peers present for the show,” Eileen McClelland, managing editor.

Winners of the Bench Pressure Challenge, meanwhile, emerged on Monday after two days of competition. Two separate challenges included a “mystery box” of materials — including one unusual item — sent to three bench jewelers who then designed a piece using the materials and brought it to the show. The jewelers explained to the audience how and why they used their materials and techniques. A second Timed Challenge involved resizing, setting and finishing a piece using materials given out at the show and completed within a three-hour period by three other competitors.

The winner of the Mystery Box Challenge was Shayna Egan from Green Lake Jewelry Works in Seattle, and the winner of the Timed Challenge was Jimmy Butts from Sissy’s Log Cabin in Pine Bluff, AR.

Exhibitors and show shoppers were pleased with the event’s location, layout and vibe.

“One opening day, we did triple the goal we set for ourselves for the entire show,” said Kimberly Collins of the eponymous gemstone firm. “Retailers restocked some loose colored gemstones, including a huge blue zircon from Cambodia and teal sapphires. We also sold a beautiful ruby tennis necklace, and there was also lots of interest in rainbow jewelry and Barbie pink.”

“We signed up five new accounts on our first day,” noted Larry Rodgers of Lavish Jewelry Cleaner. “We met a lot of store owners that we’ve never seen at any other show.”

“It was great to reconnect with people,” said Alan Goodheart of Goodheart’s Jewelry in Overland Park, KS. “We haven’t been to a show since before the pandemic. We’ve had two great days of buying and the party was amazing—the food, the music, the excitement.”

Dates for next year’s show are already set for Aug. 11 – 13, 2024, to be held again in Rosemont at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

For more information, log onto  theinstoreshow.com or direct any questions to INSTORE staff at info@theinstoreshow.com.

About The INSTORE Show 2023

The INSTORE Show 2023 offers exhibitors the opportunity to connect with highly engaged buyers who will come to discover the latest curated products, services and innovations. This is a must-participate event for suppliers, designers, manufacturers and service providers who are industry mainstays as well as those who are shaping the future of the jewelry industry. Review the Exhibitor Prospectus and Application here or email exhibit@theinstoreshow.com to learn more!

The post The INSTORE Show 2023 Ends on a High Note with Robust Sales, Great Speakers and Dates Set for Next Year appeared first on INSTOREMAG.COM.

“This is Stuller’s first chain catalog,” says Alix Gonsoulin, vice president of merchandising. “Chain is a vital link in our industry – so why not make a comprehensive guide to our assortment of chain for jewelry making in addition to chain-related components, repair tools, supplies, and selling systems?” Each of these catalogs also contains a unique selection of features designed to improve a jeweler’s experience and provide them with the best selection of products needed to get the job done.

Highlights from Chain & Components 2024-2025 include

• All things chain and chain-related components and tools in our first comprehensive chain catalog.
• Featured sections such as classic and on-trend chain, men’s chain, custom length chain, permanent jewelry, chain components, and chain repair.
• A permanent jewelry section with our best-selling chains, findings, tools, and equipment.
• New badges indicating Hollow, Permanent Jewelry, and New Expansions.

Highlights from Findings & Metals 2024-2025 include

• More than 1,000 new styles or expanded selections of current bestsellers.
• Enhanced Buyer’s Guides through each section.
• Lab-grown diamond options highlighted with the LG badge and made easy to find at the end of each applicable section.
• New Expansions badge on new sizes or qualities added.
• Additional pricing through the Fabricated Metals sections.
• Addition of item numbers within Fabricated Metals to make ordering easier.

“With the busy holiday season approaching, these two resources, when used together, will help jewelers craft their customers’ dream jewelry,” says Tiffany Adams, executive director of findings, tools, and metals. “Our hope is that they become important resources for every jeweler’s business.”

Learn more about each of these catalogs, visit here and here.

About Stuller

In 1970, Matthew Stuller founded Stuller Inc. headquartered in Lafayette, Louisiana. The prime manufacturer provides a wide range of goods and services for jewelry professionals worldwide. Stuller’s core product categories include bridal jewelry, wedding bands, fine jewelry, mountings, diamonds, gemstones, findings, metals, tools, packaging, and digital solutions.

The post Stuller Releases Two New Catalogs appeared first on INSTOREMAG.COM.

“It’s great to be back in Chicago,” said Trace Shelton, editor-in-chief of INSTORE. “Watching the Bench Pressure Challenge take place again and seeing so many familiar faces has been such a pleasure.”

The INSTORE Show aims to be a premier trade event for independent fine jewelry professionals, including jewelry store owners, managers and buyers, as well as industry suppliers. Keynote speaker and award-winning marketer and cultural translator Marcus Collins addressed a packed room of retailers on Sunday morning in his “A Cultural Look at Consumer Meaning-Making and Brand Consecration,” while more seminars took place throughout the day. Another highlight? The Bench Pressure Challenge, organized by MJSA, which is happening on the show floor. More seminars are taking place each day of the show.

Retailer attendees expressed delight in being able to attend the show not only for the 200 booths on the exhibition floor but to soak up the education for which the INSTORE brand is known. “This show offers a lot of great seminars geared toward sales staff,” said Mark Binkley of Cooper & Binkley Jewelers, Brighton, MI. “We brought 8 out of 10 of our staffers.”

Vendors, too, had a robust first day, with a line of merchants queuing up early to start shopping.

“We are very happy,” says Sebastian Velasquez of INOX Men’s Jewelry. “This show is bringing in a lot of people whom we haven’t seen in a while or don’t go to other shows. We met store owners we’ve wanted to work with, and we’ve already signed up 16 new accounts.”

For more information, log onto  theinstoreshow.com or direct any questions to INSTORE staff at info@theinstoreshow.com.

About The INSTORE Show 2023

The INSTORE Show 2023 offers exhibitors the opportunity to connect with highly engaged buyers who will come to discover the latest curated products, services and innovations. This is a must-participate event for suppliers, designers, manufacturers and service providers who are industry mainstays as well as those who are shaping the future of the jewelry industry. Review the Exhibitor Prospectus and Application here or email exhibit@theinstoreshow.com to learn more!

The post INSTORE Kicks Off 2023 Show with Cram Day Education, 200-Plus Booths and Keynote Speaker Marcus Collins appeared first on INSTOREMAG.COM.

Building on the resounding success of last year’s event, Conversations in Park City promises to be an even greater celebration of innovation, collaboration and forward thinking within the jewelry industry. This exclusive retreat brings together a diverse group of industry executives, both established and on the rise, for a captivating weekend of networking, learning and unmatched activities amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Deer Valley.

At Conversations in Park City, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with thought-provoking content that goes beyond the traditional industry discussions. The retreat features future-focused insights from renowned trends futurist and practitioner, Jeff Weiner, who is returning to share his visionary perspectives on trends shaping the jewelry industry and beyond. Alongside Weiner, esteemed leaders from within and outside the jewelry industry will enrich the event with their diverse experiences and expertise.

Jewelers Mutual is committed to fostering an environment where participants can share knowledge, gain insights, and collaborate to shape the future of the jewelry industry. The unparalleled setting of the St. Regis Hotel in Deer Valley, with its world-class amenities and services, will once again provide the perfect backdrop for these transformative discussions and connections. In addition, Conversations in Park City will offer attendees the option to participate in à la carte adventure activities – hiking, mountain biking, skeet shooting, river fishing and more provide unmatched opportunities to bond with friends old and new.

“We are incredibly excited to be hosting the second Conversations in Park City retreat,” said Mike Alexander, chief operating officer at Jewelers Mutual. “Last year’s event surpassed all expectations, and we are confident that this year will be no different. It is an honor to bring together such a diverse group of industry leaders to engage in meaningful conversations, exchange ideas and explore new possibilities to continue to move the industry forward.”

Industry professionals who share a passion for innovation and progress are invited to join Jewelers Mutual at Conversations in Park City. As one attendee stated after participating in last year’s event, “It’s like a TED Talk for the jewelry industry.”

Space is limited. To secure a spot at this exclusive event, interested jewelry industry members are encouraged to register promptly at JewelersMutual.com/conversations. Registration deadline is August 31, 2023.

Watch video highlights of last year’s event: here.

About Jewelers Mutual Group

Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Later, consumers began putting their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their jewelry and the special memories each piece holds. Today, Jewelers Mutual continues to support and move the industry forward by listening to jewelers and consumers and offering products and services to meet their evolving needs. Beyond insurance, Jewelers Mutual’s powerful suite of innovative solutions and digital technology offerings help jewelers strengthen and grow their businesses, mitigate risk, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers’ strong financial position is reflected in their 36 consecutive “A+ Superior” ratings from AM Best Company, as of November 2022. Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Jewelers Mutual is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas and Miami, Florida. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com.

The post Jewelers Mutual Announces Return of Conversations in Park City appeared first on INSTOREMAG.COM.

“I was so impressed with the technology incorporated into the NFC microchips that EZEC specifically created for use in jewelry that I was eager to find a way to work them into my designs,” said Chris Ploof, president and founder of Chris Ploof Designs. “We were quite literally the first order for EZEC and could not be happier to be working with their technology.”

The NFC microchip is designed to work well with many types of jewelry, including pendants and bracelets. The EZEC database can be filled with important identification and health care information for easy dissemination of information by near field chip readers that are available in most modern cellular phones. All EMT (emergency medical technicians) have NFC readers available and are trained to search for medical ID jewelry at the throat, chest, and wrist. Beyond the immediate lifesaving benefit for emergency situations, Ploof envisions the jewelry with NFC chips being used in a variety of ways to enhance convenience upon check-in at medical facilities and/ or to streamline identification processes for Amber Alert victims, those suffering from amnesia, dementia, or shock.

“The seamless integration of life saving technology with the exquisite designs from master metalsmith Chris Ploof, is certain to entice even the most rugged individuals to wear Medical ID…. I’m beyond blown away at Chris’s creativity and style!” – Manos Phoundoulakis, co-founder of MyEZEC.com.

About Chris Ploof Designs

Chris Ploof Designs was founded by artist Chris Ploof in 2005. Born in Massachusetts, Chris is an award-winning master jeweler who understands and appreciates the slow, methodical process of creating beautiful jewelry. A twice winner of the prestigious Industry Leader Award, Chris loves the challenge of making customers’ visions come to life. You can learn more about Chris and his work at chrisploof.com.

The post Chris Ploof Launches NFC Medical ID Jewelry appeared first on INSTOREMAG.COM.

Qualified jewelry trade attendees register here.

As the largest JIS event of the year, JIS Fall 2023 will have over 600 domestic and international exhibitors, showcasing a wide array of fine jewelry, lab-grown products, silver, fashion designs, and cutting-edge technology. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of products and innovations shaping the future of the industry from leading companies such as Afarin, Anna Zuckerman, Bapalal Keshavlal, Breuning Inc., Doves by Doron Paloma, Stuller and more. See the full exhibitor directory here.

Notable International Pavilions will also be featured at the show, representing the finest jewelry from Italy, Hong Kong, Türkiye, and South Africa, offering visitors a truly global perspective on the latest trends and designs. Highlights of JIS Fall 2023 include the ETS Pavilion, a platform that showcases cutting-edge technology, services, and supplies aimed at enhancing businesses and revolutionizing the industry. Additionally, the Plumb Club Pavilion, a leading jewelry industry supplier organization, will present an impressive coalition of suppliers spanning all facets of the fine jewelry, diamond and watch industries.

The four-day buying event has been timed perfectly for retailers to restock their inventories before the upcoming holiday season. This will ensure that attendees have access to the latest products, guaranteeing they can meet the demands of their customers during the important shopping period.

“We are thrilled to welcome the jewelry industry back to JIS Fall 2023,” said Sara McDonough, JIS event director. “This year’s event promises to be the biggest and most exciting yet, with an extensive lineup of exhibitors, pavilions and networking events. We look forward to providing attendees with a platform to discover the latest trends, build meaningful connections, and elevate their businesses to new heights.”

The schedule will be filled with engaging activities and enriching sessions, designed to create lasting connections between exhibitors and visitors. To celebrate the gathering of industry professionals and welcome new exhibitors, JIS Fall 2023, will host the New Exhibitor Happy Hour on Friday, October 13, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. This exclusive event offers complimentary cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and the hottest DJ beats in Miami Beach. For attendees looking for networking opportunities, the Silver & Fashion Pavilion pop-up on Friday, October 13, will offer fresh warm churros with delectable toppings. Another not-to-be-missed event is the Cocktails & Connections Networking Event, taking place on Saturday, October 14. Attendees can indulge in cocktails, enjoy live music from the beloved local country band Whisky Six, and connect with other industry professionals in a relaxed after-hours setting.

As an added touch of fun, JIS Fall 2023 will offer a photo booth and custom t-shirts screen printed and hand-delivered, fresh from production, as memorable keepsakes. See the full event schedule here.

Don’t miss out on the premier event for the jewelry trade this fall! Register now and secure your spot at JIS Fall 2023.

For more information about JIS Fall 2023 and to view the full list of exhibitors and event schedule, visit: here.

For more information, contact:
Lauren van Rensburg
Marketing Director
lauren.vanrensburg@rxglobal.com
+1 (203) 840-5311

About Jewelers International Showcase (JIS)

In 1979, JIS (Jewelers International Showcase) launched its first trade-only jewelry show. Four decades later, the JIS brand continues to bring together an array of leading worldwide manufacturers and wholesalers ready to market and sell their products and services to thousands of trade-only jewelry attendees from Latin America, the Caribbean, United States and beyond. JIS Shows are the premier events for immediate at-show delivery. Each event is strategically produced around the seasonal buying needs of retailers and their customers.

All JIS shows are produced by RX USA, the world’s leading event organizer, with more than 400 events in 22 countries and regions. For additional information on all JIS Events, visit jisshow.com.

About RX (Reed Exhibitons)

RX is in the business of building businesses for individuals, communities and organizations. We elevate the power of face to face events by combining data and digital products to help customers learn about markets, source products and complete transactions at over 400 events in 22 countries across 43 industry sectors. RX is passionate about making a positive impact on society and is fully committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. www.rxglobal.com.

The post JIS Fall 2023 in Miami Beach Opens Registration appeared first on INSTOREMAG.COM.

• Don’t be shy! Interact with other users. Take a little time (even five minutes a day) to follow new accounts and like and comment on others’ content. Being active and showing interest will spark interest in your own account. And when followers are engaging positively with your posts, it sends a signal that you’re trustworthy.
• Be responsive to comments and messages. Don’t leave people hanging after they’ve sent you a DM or left a question in the comments. They’ve come to social media in hopes of having a more direct, personal interaction than they can find on your website.
• Share photos of real people. Share photos of regular people celebrating their life milestones with diamonds and jewelry from your store (with permission of course). You may be surprised how many customers are happy to pause for a picture when you are celebrating with them.
• Highlight happy experiences. For customers whose happiness you don’t capture in-store, ask them to leave a review on Facebook, Yelp, The Knot, or another site they prefer. You can get extra mileage out of positive reviews by screen-shotting them to share on other social media pages.

GN Diamond Simplifies Digital Marketing 
Don’t stress if you don’t have thousands of followers. Leverage the loyal customers and rave reviews you currently have to make other shoppers take notice. And fortunately, Diamond Hunt, built specifically for independent jewelers by GN Diamond, gives you additional powerful ways to compete with online retailers. GN assists retailers with numerous high resolution images to boost your campaigns to be used on numerous social media platforms. Diamond Hunt allows our customers to gain an online loose diamond database and search portal with over $70 million of loose natural and lab created diamonds  not found on any ecommerce website.  Stores can easily display this inventory with your own branding and markups. To learn how you can take advantage of Diamond Hunt and marketing for social media simply call 800-724-8810 to speak with a representative, email sales@gndiamond.com or visit www.gndiamond.com.

The post The Importance of Engaging Customers With Social Media appeared first on INSTOREMAG.COM.

The paperless and fully digital IIJS Premiere accommodated 3,250 stalls and welcomed 1,850 exhibitors, spread over an expansive area of 70,000+ sq. mtrs of exhibition area across the two venues. The event witnessed more than 2,100 visitors from over 65 countries, including the USA, UK, UAE, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Fiji, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, Muscat, Italy, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Kuwait, Germany, Turkey, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and many more. The distinguished guest list included hosted delegations from 16 nations, elevating the event to an unparalleled international stature. More than 25 hotels were booked across Mumbai and had 10,000 room nights for the exhibitors and visitors! The event also had an Italian Pavilion at the machinery section and had exhibitors from 7 countries.

The grand show was marked with the distinguished presence of Shri Sunil Barthwal, Commerce Secretary, Department of Commerce; Mr. Mike Hankey, Consul General, Consulate General of USA; Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA; Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group; Mr. G.R. Radhakrishnan, Managing Director, GRT Jewellers India Pvt. Ltd.; Mr. C K Venkataraman, Managing Director at Titan Company; Mr. G.R. Ananthapadmanabhan, Managing Director, GRT Jewellers India Pvt. Ltd.; along with Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions; Mr. Mitesh Gajera, Co-convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC and Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director amongst others.

Shri Sunil Barthwal, commerce secretary, Department of Commerce, engaged with international delegates and GJEPC board members at IIJS Premiere. Shri Barthwal said, “IIJS is one of the largest exhibitions of gems and jewelry in the world, and we can take pride in what we are doing. The gem & jewelry sector is a very important one for the Government because it is highly labor-intensive. It generates a huge amount of creativity among our youth and it is linked to not only the people who are cutting and polishing, but also designing jewelry. So I think this is one of the most versatile industries and it’s very important for us. As Government, we’re looking at the whole value chain of gems & jewelry, right from mining to the final selling. In particular, we’re looking to develop the studded diamond jewelry segment which is at the higher value end.”

Mr. Vipul Shah, chairman, GJEPC, said, “”IIJS Premiere 2023 has achieved unprecedented success, surpassing all previous records and exceeding our expectations. It has singlehandedly reversed market sentiments and kickstarted the business cycle into high gear, perfectly timed ahead of the festive and wedding seasons. IIJS Premiere 2023 is estimated to have seen business worth ₹70,000 crore being generated for the trade, which is far beyond anyone’s wildest dreams. As an exhibition, IIJS has truly come into a league of its own.”

Shah further added, “Drawing participation from 65 different countries, and a varied assemblage of over 2100 international buyers, this gathering holds the potential to breathe new life into the country’s exports in the months to come.”

Mr. Mike Hankey, consul general, Consulate General of USA, said, “I congratulate those in the gem and jewelry industry for the success of IIJS Premiere 2023. The United States understands the considerable importance of the diamond manufacturing industry to India and its immense contribution to employment that I’ve seen personally.”

Mr. Paul Rowley, executive vice president, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group said, “It’s clear from the success of IIJS Premiere 2023 that the landscape in India will be a perfect platform for growth. India was already one of the world’s top markets, but it has also been the fastest growing major market this year. We have a detailed and dedicated footprint and roadmap for global issues such as carbon footprint, traceability of diamonds, gem stones for the environment, socio-economic development and diversification, etc. Natural diamonds are the ultimate symbols of love and good work in the jewelry business improves the lives of all stakeholders.”

On this momentous occasion, GJEPC launched the logo of India Jewellery Park, Mumbai. Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, who was previously the Chairman of India Jewellery Park, said, “The industry will be witnessing a burgeoning demand for gems and jewelry as things come to normal, not only in India, but also across the world. The new jewelry park, an ambitious project of GJEPC, stands as a testament to our commitment. Jewellery Park Mumbai is an innovative venture, a first-of-its-kind integrated gem and jewelry industrial park, designed to encompass manufacturing units, commercial spaces, residences for industrial workers, and comprehensive commercial support services. This strategic initiative will undoubtedly provide valuable assistance to jewelry manufacturers and traders seeking to expand their presence in Maharashtra, fostering new businesses and fortifying existing ventures. Moreover, this transformative undertaking is projected to generate an additional 1 lakh jobs in the sector, thereby contributing significantly to the region’s economic growth and employment opportunities.”

Mr. Nirav Bhansali, convener of National Exhibitions at GJEPC, expressed, “I wish to convey my appreciation to both Exhibitors and visitors for their incredible support. We saw a remarkable turnout of over 50,000 visitors hailing from 1100 cities across India, marking this as the most expansive IIJS Premiere to date. The occasion also saw a substantial presence of more than 2,100 visitors from across 65 nations.”

Announcing the success of the “One Earth” initiative, Nirav Bhansali said, “Since the beginning of this year, GJEPC has embarked on a transformative journey towards environmental sustainability with the launch of the ‘One Earth’ initiative. We are proud to announce that the initiative has surpassed all expectations, achieving the target of planting 1 lakh trees. This remarkable accomplishment is not only making a positive impact on the environment but also generating an astonishing Rs. 100 crore for marginal farmers, fostering robust economic growth in rural communities. Moreover, our collective efforts will lead to a reduction of 40,000 tons of Carbon dioxide, and will produce an impressive 67,000 tons of vital oxygen and create 220 acres of lush green cover, nurturing biodiversity.”

Pritam @ IIJS Celebrations – Legends of Gem & Jewellery
IIJS Premiere felicitated the luminaries of the Gems & Jewellery industry recognizing their outstanding contributions with their dedication and passion that not only elevated the industry but also inspired generations of craftsmen and entrepreneurs. Post which IIJS witnessed a night of celebration and joy along with renowned singer Pritam who graced the industry with his mesmerizing melodies.

Jewellers for Hope
GJEPC has also helped raise funds for 13 NGOs over the last 7 years, positively impacting millions of lives. GJEPC hosted the 8th edition of its esteemed charity dinner, ‘Jewellers for Hope,’ at a glittering event, and the proceeds of the charity dinner were donated to Relief Projects India, a leading NGO focussed on women-child centric issues and education. The event was attended by industry leaders and philanthropists where leading actor Vicky Kaushal personally attended this event on behalf of Relief Projects India and spoke about the organisation and the impact it has created in India. Relief Projects India is a dedicated non-profit Trust committed to making a positive impact on the lives of the less fortunate through education, health, and awareness initiatives. The NGO’s primary focus lies in addressing critical issues such as female infanticide, foeticide, boy-child preference, and the challenges faced by women and children in rural villages.

Vicky Kaushal said, “I would like to extend many thanks and gratitude to Jewellers for Hope and GJEPC for recognising and supporting a cause which is so close to my heart – Relief Projects India (RPI). I am extremely proud of the work that RPI has put in over the years for their education programme – Mountain View School, which is dedicated on providing quality education and a safe environment to all underprivileged kids in the area. I hope and wish that you all continue your support towards all such noble causes in the years to come as well.”

IIJS introduced an initiative, Innov8 Global, for the first time, facilitating tailored product-specific matchmaking between international buyers and manufacturers. This innovative platform aims to enhance business interactions and foster productive partnerships like never before.

40-Under-40
The IIJS Premiere 2023 witnessed a defining moment as GJEPC 40 Under 40 initiative celebrated exceptional talent and innovation within the industry. This recognition ceremony, moderated by the illustrious Manisha Gupta, Commodities Editor at CNBC TV 18, was graced by influential luminaries as mentors – Mr. Sachin Jain of Forevermark, Ms. Vaishali Banerjee representing PGI, Mr. Colin Shah from Kama Jewelry, and Mr. Bobby Kothari of Jewelex. Also present at the event was Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC; Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, ED, GJEPC. These industry titans, synonymous with brilliance and achievement, lent their aura to this prestigious occasion, igniting inspiration in the emerging leaders of tomorrow.

More than an accolade, the GJEPC 40 Under 40 initiative symbolizes a movement toward innovative synergy, a collaborative symphony of exceptional minds. Chairman Shah elaborated, “The 40 Under 40 initiative is not just about recognizing individual achievements; it is about fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and collective growth.” The luminary winners, a beacon of potential and transformation, are poised to shape the future trajectory of the industry, poised to kindle positive change.

In line with its commitment to sustainability and convenience, IIJS Premiere 2023 took a giant leap towards eco-consciousness by going completely paperless. Attendees enjoyed the ease of fully digital badges, making their participation seamless and environmentally friendly.

IIJS Premiere 2023 continues to impress with its remarkable statistics and impressive offerings, bringing together the world’s gems and jewellery industry in a dazzling extravaganza that showcases the very best in craftsmanship, innovation, and global connections.

The post GJEPC’s IIJS Premiere 2023 Generates Highest-Ever Business of Over Rs. 70,000 Crore: An Unprecedented Success appeared first on INSTOREMAG.COM.

Sherri Burney | Karen Rice

(PRESS RELEASE) CHICAGO,IL — Hill Management Group (HMG) announces the addition of two esteemed professionals, Sherri Burney and Karen Rice, to its senior leadership team. Sherri and Karen will be integral in driving growth and operational excellence within the StrategyWerx and Werx.Marketing divisions.

Sherri Burney brings a wealth of expertise in managing complex infrastructure projects following 21 years at Verizon as a Sr. Project Manager. Holding PMP, PMI-ACP, ITIL Expert, and Six Sigma Green Belt certifications, Sherri will play a pivotal role in helping clients of the StrategyWerx and Werx.Marketing divisions drive growth and innovation by implementing streamlined marketing, sales, and operations technologies. “Sherri’s remarkable track record in managing complex technology projects is exactly what our rapidly growing company needs at this time,” said Kristin Kopaz, who rounds out the senior leadership team at HMG.

Karen Rice joins the company with a strong background in jewelry manufacturing and product development. After completing her FGA (with Distinction) in the UK, she began her career in jewelry manufacturing, first in New York City and later in New Mexico. With her experience in manufacturing and product development, most recently as the Director of Operations at Relios Inc., a US-based jewelry manufacturing company, Karen brings valuable insights into optimizing manufacturing and administration processes for growing companies. She will be responsible for enhancing systems usage, updating manufacturing flows, and integrating CRM systems.

Andrea Hill, CEO of HMG, emphasized how Sherri and Karen’s expertise will benefit clients by providing exceptional business growth planning, strategy, sales, and marketing solutions. She adds, “Building the strengths necessary to achieve our growth goals is an exhilarating journey. With the addition of Sherri and Karen, whose impressive professional expertise is matched by their collaborative and transparent work styles, I am confident that our incredible team will continue to make Hill Management Group a vital partner to our customers and a great place to work.”

The post Hill Management Group (The Werx Brands) Continues to Grow with Two New Executive Hires appeared first on INSTOREMAG.COM.

Coming October 2023, Columbia Gem House (CGH) and non-profit partner CRRIFS will launch the Jewelry for Wildlife Fundraiser supporting wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and research along the Sonoran Coast of Mexico. CRRIFS supports the health and wellbeing of the wildlife relying on the same ecosystem as Cortez Pearl oysters; Cortez Pearls being one of the featured gems in this year’s project.

100% of the raffle ticket sales will be donated to CRRIFS in support of their 2024 goal of building a saltwater tank for sea turtle rehabilitation.

About CRRIFS
CRRIFS is a non-profit organization committed to the protection and conservation of the native wildlife of Mexico. The group is responsible for a variety of programs ranging from rescue and rehabilitation of marine and terrestrial wildlife, to training local authorities and communities, involving fishermen, as well as sea turtle conservation through protecting nesting areas, and incubating then releasing baby turtles within the region of Guaymas and San Carlos along the Sea of Cortez.

Participating Designers
In conjunction with the 2023 MJSA Responsibly Sourced Design Challenge, participating designers were invited to physically create their pieces using responsibly sourced colored gems donated by Columbia Gem House. The following designers were selected to participate out of dozens of submitted applications.

• Amelia Mickelsen of Amelia Ray Jewelry
• Andres Cardenas-Whorton of Nobles Metales
• Claudia Gutsch of Goldammer Jewelry
• Hannah Smythe of Toast Fine Jewelry
• Kindred Lubeck of Jewels by Lubeck
• Liz Stefany of Carrabassett Valley Jewelry
• Megan Cochran of Megan Cochran Jewelry
• Olivia Shih of Olivia Shih Designs
• Stephanie Maslow Blackman of Metalicious Jewelry

Mark Your Calendar for October 1st
Raffle tickets and design challenge voting will be available starting October 1st, 2023.

Raffle Tickets: Columbia Gem House Jewelry for Wildlife Fundraiser
Voting: MJSA 2023 Design Challenge

You can sign up for email notifications, where all fundraiser updates will be shared here.

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