SourcingFeb 23, 2026
Designer Eddie Sakamoto, a Humble Artist, Dies at 72Sakamoto, who died in mid-January following a sudden illness, is remembered for his humility and his masterful, architectural designs.
Brought to you by
The Italian Trade Agency's Pioneering E-Shopping Platform: A New Era for 'Made in Italy' Jewelry
The Italian Trade Agency's new platform is bridging the divide between Italian designers and the North America marketplace.
Brought To You By The Italian Trade Agency
There's a buzz of excitement in the air as the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), under the leadership of Trade Commissioner Fabrizio Giustarini, takes a monumental step in bridging the divide between Italian jewelry artisans and the North American market. The launch of their cutting-edge E-Shopping Website promises not just a commercial interface but an educational, inspirational, and educative milieu that transcends typical e-commerce platforms.
A Game-Changing Bridge Between Two Markets
In an increasingly globalized world, maintaining unique cultural characteristics while expanding the business footprint can be a challenge. This is especially true for the jewelry sector, where design and craftsmanship often bear the hallmark of the culture they emerge from.
The ITA's new platform addresses this challenge head-on by featuring an impressive roster of 121 companies. These include a myriad range of designers, brands, manufacturers, and suppliers, all of whom operate under the banner of "The Extraordinary Italian Jewelry" (TEIJ).
But the platform does not merely offer a display window; it promises to keep its visitors updated with real-time market trends. It thus takes on the role of a facilitator, fostering an environment where buyers and traders can make informed decisions. This keeps the Italian jewelry sector not just relevant but cutting-edge, ensuring that it continues to capture a significant market share in North America.
The Harmonious Blend of Craftsmanship and Innovation
At its core, the platform stands as a testament to the Italian flair for blending tradition and innovation. While it serves as a marketplace, the website is much more—a comprehensive resource designed to elevate the entire Italian Jewelry sector. From exclusive interviews with designers to how-to guides and trend analysis articles, the platform offers a well-rounded view of what 'Made in Italy' stands for in the realm of jewelry.
This initiative extends ITA’s ground breaking program to promote 'Made in Italy' jewelry in North America. Approximately 100 companies are currently part of the TEIJ initiative, bringing a wide array of materials, styles, and techniques to the table. What unites them is the globally respected 'Made in Italy' label, a guarantee of peerless design and craftsmanship.
The Significance of The Extraordinary Italian Jewelry (TEIJ) Initiative
The TEIJ initiative goes beyond mere marketing; it is a cultural ambassador, showcasing the unique Italian approach to jewelry that marries design, craftsmanship, and a distinct style. It aims to set Italian jewelry apart in an ever-competitive market, emphasizing characteristics that have been cherished and sought-after worldwide.
About ITA: The Backbone of Italian Enterprise
The Italian Trade Agency is more than a governmental organization; it's the backbone supporting the global reach of Italian companies while also encouraging foreign investment back home. With the launch of their new E-Shopping Website, the ITA has moved a step closer to establishing Italian jewelry as the gold standard—no pun intended—in luxury, artistry, and timeless elegance.
In the end, the website serves not just as a bridge but as a statement, an assertion of the Italian mastery over jewelry design and craftsmanship. It underlines the Italian commitment to luxury, and its ceaseless quest for excellence—a quest that has found a new home online.
More on Technology
The Latest
Events & AwardsFeb 23, 2026
NYCJAOS Announces Four-Day Spring ShowThe April event will feature a new VIP shopping day requiring a special ticket.
TrendsFeb 23, 2026
Dua Lipa Is Bulgari’s New AmbassadorBulgari chose the British-Albanian singer-songwriter for her powerful and enduring voice in contemporary culture, the jeweler said.
Brought to you by
DCA Enters a New Chapter in Jewelry EducationWith refreshed branding, a new website, updated courses, and a pathway for growth, DCA is dedicated to supporting retail staff development.
Policies & IssuesFeb 20, 2026
Supreme Court Rules Against Most of President Trump’s TariffsIn a 6-3 ruling, the court said the president exceeded his authority when imposing sweeping tariffs under IEEPA.
Weekly QuizFeb 19, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
ColumnistsFeb 20, 2026
Peter Smith: Happiness, Cavemen, and Jewelry SalesSmith encourages salespeople to ask customers questions that elicit the release of oxytocin, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical.
MajorsFeb 20, 2026
Jewelers Vigilance Committee Names Julie Yoakum Board ChairJVC also announced the election of five new board members.
Brought to you by
The MJSA Mentor & Apprenticeship Program: Attracting & Training the Next Generation of Bench JewelersLaunched in 2023, the program will help the passing of knowledge between generations and alleviate the shortage of bench jewelers.
CollectionsFeb 20, 2026
Boucheron’s ‘Faisceaux’ Brooch Heads to V&A MuseumThe brooch, our Piece of the Week, shows the chromatic spectrum through a holographic coating on rock crystal.
IndependentsFeb 19, 2026
Bailey’s Fine Jewelry Co-Founder ‘Mama Ann’ Bailey Dies at 100Raised in an orphanage, Bailey was 18 when she met her husband, Clyde. They opened their North Carolina jewelry store in 1948.
IndependentsFeb 19, 2026
Material Good Opens Third Location Material Good is celebrating its 10th anniversary as it opens its new store in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston.
Events & AwardsFeb 19, 2026
The Original Miami Beach Antique Show Returns in MarchThe show will be held March 26-30 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
AuctionsFeb 18, 2026
Joanna Carson’s Jewels Head to AuctionThe estate of the model, philanthropist, and ex-wife of Johnny Carson has signed statement jewels up for sale at John Moran Auctioneers.
PodcastsFeb 18, 2026
Episode 2: Jewelry Trends & Does the Red Carpet Matter?Are arm bands poised to make a comeback? Has red-carpet jewelry become boring? Find out on the second episode of the “My Next Question” podcast.
MajorsFeb 18, 2026
Select Jewelry Inks Agreement to Distribute Lightweight Gold JewelryIt will lead distribution in North America for Graziella Braccialini's new gold pieces, which it said are 50 percent lighter.
Policies & IssuesFeb 18, 2026
Community for Ethical Jewelry Looks for Executive DirectorThe organization is seeking a new executive director to lead it into its next phase of strategic growth and industry influence.
Events & AwardsFeb 18, 2026
DCA to Host Gemstone Selling Education Session at IJO EventThe nonprofit will present a live, two-hour introductory course on building confidence when selling colored gemstones.
TrendsFeb 17, 2026
A Bit of Jewelry for the Year of the HorseWestern wear continues to trend in the Year of the Fire Horse and along with it, horse and horseshoe motifs in jewelry.
SourcingFeb 17, 2026
Colored Gemstone Experts Talk Tariffs, Trends in TucsonAlthough the market is robust, tariffs and precious metal prices are impacting the industry, Stuart Robertson and Brecken Branstrator said.
GradingFeb 17, 2026
Dr. George Rossman, Former GIA Governor, Dies at 81Rossman, who advised GIA for more than 50 years, is remembered for his passion and dedication to the field of gemology.
CrimeFeb 13, 2026
JSA Offering $10K Reward in Nancy Guthrie Case Guthrie, the mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, was abducted just as the Tucson gem shows were starting.
IndependentsFeb 13, 2026
97-Year-Old New Mexico Jewelry Store To CloseButterfield Jewelers in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is preparing to close as members of the Butterfield family head into retirement.
CollectionsFeb 13, 2026
A ‘Rosebud’ Necklace for Valentine’s DayPaul Morelli’s “Rosebud” necklace, our Piece of the Week, uses 18-karat rose, green, and white gold to turn the symbol of love into jewelry.
MajorsFeb 13, 2026
JFC Announces New BeneficiariesThe nonprofit has welcomed four new grantees for 2026.
MajorsFeb 12, 2026
These 8 Saks Fifth Avenue Stores Are ClosingParent company Saks Global is also closing nearly all Saks Off 5th locations, a Neiman Marcus store, and 14 personal styling suites.
CollectionsFeb 12, 2026
British Museum Raises $5M to Keep Jewel Linked to Henry VIII, Katherine of AragonIt is believed the 24-karat heart-shaped enameled pendant was made for an event marking the betrothal of Princess Mary in 1518.
SourcingFeb 12, 2026
‘Cotton Candy’ Necklace, 35-Carat Kunzite Win 2025 ‘Buyer’s Choice’ AwardsThe AGTA Spectrum and Cutting Edge “Buyer’s Choice” award winners were announced at the Spectrum Awards Gala last week.
