CrimeDec 12, 2022
4 Suspects Arrested in TN After Attempted Smash-and-Grab Jewelry Robbery CrimeDec 20, 2022
The Biggest Security Mistakes Jewelers Are Making Right Now
Ahead of the holidays, JSA’s John Kennedy outlines five common jewelry crimes and what to do, and not to do, if they happen in your store.
New York—While the final data won’t be in until early 2023, Jewelers’ Security Alliance President John J. Kennedy estimates jewelry crime hit a five-year high this year.
Retailers are nervous as they prepare for what typically are some of the busiest days of the year in their stores.
While it’s too late for many to make long-term investments or wholesale changes in security equipment or procedures, there are small adjustments jewelers can make immediately that might help.
Below, Kennedy outlines the five types of jewelry crimes JSA sees happening most frequently right now and shares tips for preventing, or mitigating the effects of, these crimes.
1. Distraction Thefts
Biggest mistake: Showing too much product at once and/or leaving the showcase unlocked during presentations
Kennedy said the number of skilled distractions thefts is on the rise after declining in 2020 and 2021, when COVID restrictions limited travel.
Often, these thefts involve a group of people—three to five, or even more—coming in together, flashing cash or bragging about how much they are going to spend, and then asking to see multiple pieces of jewelry.
“Their goal,” Kennedy said, “is to get as much product out [of the showcases] as possible and confuse you as much as possible.”
The suspect will then either palm the jewelry and/or reach in an open showcase to grab it.
One member of the group also might distract the store’s salespeople while another heads to the safe to see if it’s unlocked. If it is, they clean it out, Kennedy said.
He said jewelers also need to keep showcases locked, show only one item at a time, and keep track of the product as it’s being shown.
He also noted that retailers should be wary of people entering the store in groups of three or more.
2. Safe Burglaries
Biggest mistake: Not responding to any and all communications from the alarm company
More sophisticated gang of burglars are also circulating again as COVID travel restrictions are lifted, with suspects cutting wires or otherwise disabling a store’s electrical box in order to take out the alarm system and security cameras.
They then enter the store through the roof, or via an adjoining store that is unoccupied, unalarmed, or otherwise easily can be entered.
Once inside, “These people go after your safe. They have the tools or equipment to saw into [it],” Kennedy said, and this means big losses.
In these types of burglaries, jewelers receive messages along the lines of “communication error” or “power interruption” from their alarm company, but they don’t respond in the same way they do when they get an alarm alert.
That is a mistake, Kennedy said.
“You must respond to any type of anomaly you get from your alarm company. You have to go to the store, or have somebody go to the store, with the police.”
He added that retailers need to have a robust call list for the alarm company so someone is always available to respond, regardless of how many people are on vacation, out sick or otherwise unavailable.
Jewelers who have done so have seen burglars fleeing the scene, scared off by the arrival of police.
Related stories will be right here …
Retailers are nervous as they prepare for what typically are some of the busiest days of the year in their stores.
While it’s too late for many to make long-term investments or wholesale changes in security equipment or procedures, there are small adjustments jewelers can make immediately that might help.
Below, Kennedy outlines the five types of jewelry crimes JSA sees happening most frequently right now and shares tips for preventing, or mitigating the effects of, these crimes.
1. Distraction Thefts
Biggest mistake: Showing too much product at once and/or leaving the showcase unlocked during presentations
Kennedy said the number of skilled distractions thefts is on the rise after declining in 2020 and 2021, when COVID restrictions limited travel.
Often, these thefts involve a group of people—three to five, or even more—coming in together, flashing cash or bragging about how much they are going to spend, and then asking to see multiple pieces of jewelry.
“Their goal,” Kennedy said, “is to get as much product out [of the showcases] as possible and confuse you as much as possible.”
The suspect will then either palm the jewelry and/or reach in an open showcase to grab it.
One member of the group also might distract the store’s salespeople while another heads to the safe to see if it’s unlocked. If it is, they clean it out, Kennedy said.
He said jewelers also need to keep showcases locked, show only one item at a time, and keep track of the product as it’s being shown.
He also noted that retailers should be wary of people entering the store in groups of three or more.
2. Safe Burglaries
Biggest mistake: Not responding to any and all communications from the alarm company
More sophisticated gang of burglars are also circulating again as COVID travel restrictions are lifted, with suspects cutting wires or otherwise disabling a store’s electrical box in order to take out the alarm system and security cameras.
They then enter the store through the roof, or via an adjoining store that is unoccupied, unalarmed, or otherwise easily can be entered.
Once inside, “These people go after your safe. They have the tools or equipment to saw into [it],” Kennedy said, and this means big losses.
In these types of burglaries, jewelers receive messages along the lines of “communication error” or “power interruption” from their alarm company, but they don’t respond in the same way they do when they get an alarm alert.
That is a mistake, Kennedy said.
“You must respond to any type of anomaly you get from your alarm company. You have to go to the store, or have somebody go to the store, with the police.”
He added that retailers need to have a robust call list for the alarm company so someone is always available to respond, regardless of how many people are on vacation, out sick or otherwise unavailable.
Jewelers who have done so have seen burglars fleeing the scene, scared off by the arrival of police.
3. Smash-and-grab robberies
Biggest mistake: Trying to stop the suspects or otherwise interfering
In some smash-and-grab robberies, the suspects are armed with guns or knives in addition to the sledgehammers or whatever implement they are using to destroy showcases.
Jewelers can mitigate losses in the short term by not putting all high-value merchandise in the same showcase or keeping some items in the safe.
Longer-term, they can invest in laminated showcases that are smash-resistant.
The most important thing, though, is for retailers to just stay out of the way when a smash and grab is happening, Kennedy said.
Don’t try to stop the robbers by throwing things at them—like a chair or, as Kennedy saw in one instance, a stapler—or otherwise getting involved. It’s dangerous and can lead to injuries, as happened recently at a Macy’s store in the Atlanta suburbs, or even death.
4. Grab-and-run thefts
Biggest mistake: Showing multiple items at a time and/or putting a tray full of jewelry on the counter
Kennedy said grab and runs are the most common type of jewelry crime. It’s simple and exactly what it sounds like; a salesperson brings out a couple of necklaces or watches, and the suspect snatches them and runs out the door.
While he admits it’s tricky to tell salespeople not to show product to customers, showing one item at a time reduces the risk of major losses, as does not leaving trays of jewelry out on the counter.
This is especially true when dealing with new customers, or when someone comes in and asks to see the “most expensive” watches, necklaces, etc., the store has.
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
5. Three-minute burglaries
Biggest mistake: Leaving product out and visible when the store is closed
Three-minute burglaries refer to incidences in which the suspects smash in a window or door and take whatever is there to grab. They don’t take very long and, unlike rooftop safe burglaries, aren’t normally committed by professional criminals with a lot of know-how, tools, or organization.
Kennedy said retailers can mitigate losses from three-minute burglaries simply by putting product in the safe at night. If there isn’t room in the safe, then at least store it out of sight.
Also, do not cover showcases with cloth when the store is closed.
“They assume there is something there. Even if there is no product there, it increases the risk,” he said.
More on Crime
The Latest
ColumnistsAug 25, 2026
Proof Before Purchase: The Gen Z Way to BuyIn her first column for National Jeweler, Jennifer Shaheen asks jewelers if they know how to connect with the next generation of consumers.
Events & AwardsAug 25, 2026
SSEF Opens 2026 Applications for Gemology Education ScholarshipsThe annual awards cover tuition for an on-site educational course at the Swiss lab, as well as flights and lodging.
TrendsAug 25, 2026
Brent Neale Celebrates Blackberry Farm’s Anniversary With JewelryThe jeweler partnered with the Tennessee resort to honor its 50th anniversary with limited-edition blackberry pendants and earrings.
Brought to you by
Your Piece Could Be the One Editors Talk AboutSubmit your pieces for a chance to win in this year's competition.
EditorsAug 24, 2026
Q&A: Reeds Jewelers VP Genna Zimmer on 80 Years in BusinessThe third-generation jeweler shared how the North Carolina retailer is celebrating this milestone and the love story that started it all.
Weekly QuizAug 20, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Events & AwardsAug 24, 2026
Rio Grande, MetalWerx Host Argentium Silver WorkshopThe class, led by renowned metalsmith Cynthia Eid, highlighted Argentium silver as an alternative to gold amid high prices.
Events & AwardsAug 24, 2026
JIS Miami Opens Fall 2026 RegistrationThe show is slated for Oct. 16-19 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
Brought to you by
Why More Jewelry Retailers Are Hosting Turnkey Estate Buying EventsRetailers are seeking new ways to attract customers, increase traffic, and create revenue – Estate buying events are a popular solution.
CollectionsAug 24, 2026
Francesca Villa Honors Napoleon, His Empresses In New CapsuleThe “Empresses” capsule uses 19th-century medals depicting Napoleon, Joséphine, and Marie-Louise across five one-of-a-kind pieces.
SurveysAug 21, 2026
These Are 2026’s Hottest Retailers, Says NRFThe retailers at the top of the list offer affordable products and fun, discovery-fueled experiences.
WatchesAug 21, 2026
Bremont Names Former Vacheron Constantin Exec CMODaniel Bing was formerly the marketing director for the Americas at Vacheron Constantin.
CollectionsAug 21, 2026
Bijules, Kamyen Serve Up ‘Topspin’ Tennis Bracelet Ahead of US OpenIn our Piece of the Week, the designers reimagine the tennis bracelet with green enamel wrapped around a strand of “Desert Diamonds.”
PodcastsAug 20, 2026
Episode 8: Diamond Industry Update With David Bonaparte & Ronnie VanderLindenThe industry veterans join the podcast to discuss diamond marketing, the FTC Jewelry Guides, and lobbying for lower tariffs.
TechnologyAug 20, 2026
A New AI-Powered Gemstone Identification App Is HereFounder Vik Westermann said the app is a “starting point” to inspire people to work with appraisers and gem labs, not replace them.
AuctionsAug 20, 2026
Storied Unicorn Brooch Up for Auction Gallops to New Home The Verdura brooch, which belonged to the late Virginia Fortune Ryan Ogilvy, was sold to a private collector in Asia.
Events & AwardsAug 20, 2026
MJSA Education Foundation Names 5 Scholarship WinnersThe five students were awarded a total of $10,000 through the nonprofit’s 2026 “Future of Jewelry Making” scholarship.
MajorsAug 20, 2026
Plumb Club Elects 2026-2027 BoardSteven Lerche is now beginning his term as the youngest member to become president of The Plumb Club’s elected executive committee.
MajorsAug 19, 2026
Mike Alexander To Succeed Scott Murphy as Jewelers Mutual CEO Murphy will retire at the end of the year and Alexander, currently the company’s president, will take over at the start of 2027.
Policies & IssuesAug 19, 2026
Spinelli Kilcollin Embraces Dupes With Trade-In ProgramThe jeweler is encouraging customers who own lookalike rings to come into the store and trade them for credit towards an authentic piece.
MajorsAug 19, 2026
Zales Wants You to Wear Fine Jewelry Every DayThe new campaign, “You Are The Occasion,” discourages shoppers from saving their fine jewelry for special occasions only.
SourcingAug 19, 2026
Vasant Mehta, a Dedicated Diamond Industry Leader, Dies at 81Mehta led India’s GJEPC through the 2008 financial crisis and was respected worldwide for his wisdom, integrity, and knowledge.
ColumnistsAug 18, 2026
Peter Smith: The IKEA Effect and Bridal Branding In a new column, Peter Smith posits that people actually enjoy putting together IKEA furniture, and the same is true for engagement rings.
CrimeAug 18, 2026
Thieves Snatch $1M in Jewelry From New Jersey Jeweler9lakha Jewelers in Iselin, New Jersey, was the target of a smash-and-grab robbery on Aug. 8.
Lab-GrownAug 18, 2026
Ring Concierge, Kendall Jenner’s Tequila Brand Collab on GiveawayThe jeweler has partnered with 818 Tequila to gift lab-grown diamond studs to a bride-to-be and their bridal party.
Events & AwardsAug 17, 2026
Exhibition on Louis Comfort Tiffany’s Studios to Open at The MetThe exhibition will feature more than 100 drawings of stained-glass lampshades, windows, and more, many created by women and émigrés.
CollectionsAug 17, 2026
Marquise Diamonds Dance in Spinelli Kilcollin’s ‘Wren’ CollectionMarquise-cut diamonds in drop charms are the center of the new collection, reflecting the movement of a dancer in modular styles.
Events & AwardsAug 17, 2026
There’s a New Jewelry Show Coming to FloridaThe inaugural Fort Lauderdale Jewelry, Antique, & Object Show will be held from Jan. 28 through Feb. 1, 2027.
