BIJC to Honor Simone I. Smith at Upcoming ‘Rock the Jewels’
The award ceremony will recognize the designer and other nominees for their impact on the industry and commitment to BIJC’s mission.

Held on Nov. 16 as part of New York City Jewelry Week, the event will celebrate those who have made their mark on the industry and forwarded BIJC’s mission.
The celebration, which coincides with the 50th anniversary of hip hop, will recognize how the music genre has influenced the gem and jewelry industry.
Smith will receive the first BIJC “Rock the Jewels Award” in honor of her “contributions to the jewelry industry, her outstanding resilience, philanthropic endeavors, and her unwavering support of the Black community,” said BIJC.
Smith, a 19-year cancer survivor, was diagnosed with stage III chondrosarcoma, a rare bone cancer.
Her journey inspired her to launch Simone I. Smith Jewelry in 2011.
Smith’s first design, a now-signature lollipop pendant dubbed “A Sweet Touch of Hope,” came about after her lollipop tattoo was altered during surgery.
She later designed a full collection with a focus on hoop earrings.
In 2018, Smith launched Sister Love, a partnership with Mary J. Blige. The line took inspiration from their friendship and a shared love of statement jewelry.
Most recently, Smith designed “Majesty for Men,” a collection of men’s jewelry inspired by her husband, LL Cool J.
“I’m excited to be recognized by the BIJC with the first ever ‘Rock The Jewels Award’ because I absolutely love rockin’ jewels,” said Smith.
“My love for jewelry has allowed me to create and design pieces that make women and men feel good, look good, and build confidence. It’s a blessing to lift up and shine a light on others, especially Black and Brown creatives in the jewelry industry. I believe in the power of accessories, especially a big pair of hoops.”
BIJC will also present awards in four other categories.
The organization will present a Lifetime Achievement Award to a supporter of BIJC with more than 20 years of “significant impact on the industry.”
The “Behind the Shine Award” will be given to an individual who has made significant contributions to BIJC behind the scenes.
The nominees are Grace Barretti, senior marketing manager at Greenwich St. Jewelers; Monalisa DePina, account executive at Reed Exhibitions USA; and Anna Samsonova, founder of Samsonova Consulting.
The “Rising Star Award” will be presented to an up-and-coming designer in the industry.
The nominees are Ashley Alexis of Omi Woods, Jessenia Landrum of Jevela, and Aziza-Abdullah Nicole of Aziza Handcrafted.
The “Shining Together Award” will honor allies, either companies or individuals, who are committed to supporting BIJC and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the industry.
The nominees are Greenwich St. Jewelers, JCK, and Signet Jewelers.
“Congratulations to Simone and the nominees of the inaugural BIJC Awards ceremony. It is paramount to celebrate the achievements of Black professionals and rising talent in the gem and jewelry industry,” said BIJC President Annie Doresca.
“This event celebrates luminaries and visionaries whose contributions have been pivotal in our industry’s evolution, while underscoring BIJC’s commitment to uplift every trailblazer on their journey to success.”
The winners will be announced at “Rock The Jewels.” For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the event website.
Editor's Note: This story has been updated post-publication to correct the event date.
The Latest

Located on Rodeo Drive, the store’s design was inspired by Hollywood and Los Angeles culture.

The new location continues the brand’s celebration of its 25th anniversary.

The online watch marketplace’s “Time Is Our Thing” campaign highlights the importance of time.

The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship from Jewelers of America returns for a second year.

She will oversee strategic planning, fundraising, industry partnerships, and the launch of the Gem Legacy Campus in Tanzania.


Working with Amazon’s Counterfeit Crimes Unit and law enforcement, Pandora helped to shut down a large-scale counterfeit network in China.

The jewelry company has closed its three California brick-and-mortar stores, as well as its online shop, for now.

The countdown is on for the JCK Las Vegas Show and JA is pulling out all the stops.

He is remembered for his successful entrepreneurship, generosity, and dedication to his family.

The jewelry store chain has reportedly been struggling with costs related to tariffs as well as tough retail competition.

Welcome warm summer days with red hot rubies perfectly chosen as July’s birthstone.

Co-founders Afzal Imram and Lin Ruiyin brought their son’s story of a cosmic egg, toadstool, and railroad to life in their new collection.

The best time to prepare for the holiday season is right now, according to columnist Emmanuel Raheb.

“The Jewelry Book” comes out this September.

The company is focused on modernizing the custom jewelry buying experience with e-commerce tools like product visualization and 3D styling.

Following its recent acquisition, the storied brand has updated its leadership team and regional managers.

AGS also named the recipient of its “Women in Leadership” scholarship.

The 20-karat yellow gold and diamond wrap ring is modeled after the Monstera plants in the garden of the brand’s Miami villa.

Rocksbox President Allison Vigil shared the retailer’s expansion plans, and her thoughts on opening stores in malls.

The creator of the WJA Chicago chapter is remembered as a champion for women in the jewelry industry and a loving grandmother.

The decline was consistent across age groups and almost all income groups, with tariffs and inflation still top of mind.

The “Playlist: Electric Dreams” collection brings lyrics from the musician’s song, “Little Wing,” to life through fine jewelry.

The event is set for May 16-19 in Detroit, Michigan.

The Vault’s Katherine Jetter is accusing the retailer of using info she shared for a potential partnership to move into Nantucket.

Agents seized 2,193 pieces, a mix of counterfeit Cartier “Love” and “Juste Un Clou” bracelets, and Van Cleef & Arpels’ “Alhambra” design.

The designer brought her children’s book, “The Big Splash Circus,” to life through a collection of playful fine jewelry characters.

The trade association has chosen the recipients of the funding initiative it formed to foster the growth and sustainability of the industry.