MajorsFeb 12, 2024
WJA Launches First Canadian ChapterMajorsFeb 27, 2024
Nikia Levesque Joins WJA Board as Foundation VP
The association also announced five new board members.
Longtime Day’s Jewelers employee Nikia Levesque is the new board vice president for the WJA Foundation.
New York—The Women's Jewelry Association (WJA) announced Nikia Levesque has been appointed vice president of the organization’s philanthropic arm, the WJA Foundation.
Levesque brings a decade of industry experience to the role, as well as a dedication to advancing women’s careers and a proven track record of leadership and innovation, WJA said.
"Nikia brings a dynamic blend of industry expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering women,” said Susan Chandler, WJA president and chief merchandising officer for Citizen Watch America.
“Her leadership will undoubtedly propel the WJA Foundation's mission forward, inspiring countless women to reach new heights in their jewelry careers."
Levesque is currently the vice president of marketing at Day's Jewelers, where she oversees the company's brand strategy, market development, and advertising initiatives.
She began working with the retailer while in high school, starting out in the service department.
Her expertise today spans marketing strategy, brand management, social media marketing, and customer relationship management.
Throughout her tenure at Day's Jewelers, Levesque has spearheaded projects such as launching the retailer’s new Shopify website, playing a pivotal role in the platform migration and site build.
She has also worked on developing a comprehensive brand book and coordinating strategic partnerships with brands like Maine-based company Sea Bags, which sells accessories made from repurposed sails.
Her ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive results has been instrumental in elevating Day's Jewelers' brand presence and achieving key organizational objectives, WJA said.
Levesque was also recognized in the 2023 class of Jewelers of America’s “20 Under 40,” which is currently recruiting for its next class.
“I am deeply honored to assume the role of vice president for the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation Board. This organization has a rich history of empowering women in the jewelry industry, and I am committed to advancing its mission of fostering education, mentorship, and opportunities for women,” Levesque said.
“Having started in this industry at the young age of 16, I am particularly grateful for the invaluable guidance and support I received from women who paved the way before me. Now, as I step into this leadership role, I am eager to give back and continue learning from the remarkable women in our industry. Together with the dedicated members of the board, I look forward to contributing to the growth and success of WJA, as we continue to inspire and support women in our vibrant and dynamic industry.”
Related stories will be right here …
Levesque brings a decade of industry experience to the role, as well as a dedication to advancing women’s careers and a proven track record of leadership and innovation, WJA said.
"Nikia brings a dynamic blend of industry expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering women,” said Susan Chandler, WJA president and chief merchandising officer for Citizen Watch America.
“Her leadership will undoubtedly propel the WJA Foundation's mission forward, inspiring countless women to reach new heights in their jewelry careers."
Levesque is currently the vice president of marketing at Day's Jewelers, where she oversees the company's brand strategy, market development, and advertising initiatives.
She began working with the retailer while in high school, starting out in the service department.
Her expertise today spans marketing strategy, brand management, social media marketing, and customer relationship management.
Throughout her tenure at Day's Jewelers, Levesque has spearheaded projects such as launching the retailer’s new Shopify website, playing a pivotal role in the platform migration and site build.
She has also worked on developing a comprehensive brand book and coordinating strategic partnerships with brands like Maine-based company Sea Bags, which sells accessories made from repurposed sails.
Her ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive results has been instrumental in elevating Day's Jewelers' brand presence and achieving key organizational objectives, WJA said.
Levesque was also recognized in the 2023 class of Jewelers of America’s “20 Under 40,” which is currently recruiting for its next class.
“I am deeply honored to assume the role of vice president for the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation Board. This organization has a rich history of empowering women in the jewelry industry, and I am committed to advancing its mission of fostering education, mentorship, and opportunities for women,” Levesque said.
“Having started in this industry at the young age of 16, I am particularly grateful for the invaluable guidance and support I received from women who paved the way before me. Now, as I step into this leadership role, I am eager to give back and continue learning from the remarkable women in our industry. Together with the dedicated members of the board, I look forward to contributing to the growth and success of WJA, as we continue to inspire and support women in our vibrant and dynamic industry.”
WJA also announced the appointment of the following new board members:
Brittany Merrill, general merchandise manager, DVP for Helzberg Diamonds;
Elda Fistani, vice president of retail sales for Gabriel & Co.;
Tracey Carswell, founder of Powerful in Pink and co-founder of Queer Metalsmiths;
Melissa Rodgers, director of business development at M. Schamroth & Sons;
and Robert J. Goldberg, senior vice president of business development at Citizen Watch America.
Two current WJA board members are moving into officer roles.
Mariel Diaz, founder and managing director of Accounting for Jewelers, will serve as treasurer, and Kendra Bridelle, CEO of The Bridelle Collective and luxury brand strategist at Accelarise, will serve as vice president of chapter affairs.
Since its inception in 1983, WJA has fostered a network of professionals through chapters across the U.S., Mexico and most recently, Toronto, Canada.
The WJA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) corporation, engages the trade to contribute and make an impact through the distribution of scholarships and grants, WJA said, ensuring continued support for women in the industry.
Gabrielle Grazi, WJA president-elect and vice president of retail strategy and partnerships for the Natural Diamond Council, urged the trade to actively engage with the WJA and the foundation.
"Now is the time for our industry to unite in support of women's advancement. Join us in championing diversity, mentorship, and education within the jewelry community by getting involved and becoming a member. Together, we can create lasting change and opportunities for all," Grazi said.
For more information about the association, or to join, visit WJA’s website or email info@womensjewelryassociation.com.
More on Majors
The Latest
CollectionsDec 05, 2025
Piece of the Week: Robinson Pelham’s ‘Tsar Star’ EarringsThe new pink sapphire version of the piece dances with its wearer in the brand’s “Icons After Dark” holiday campaign.
TrendsDec 05, 2025
Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2026 Is … WhiteA choice that’s generated a lot of commentary, Pantone says “Cloud Dancer” marks a fresh start and encourages relaxation and creativity.
CrimeDec 04, 2025
Man Arrested After Allegedly Swallowing Fabergé Egg PendantThe man was charged with theft, accused of ingesting the necklace while in a jewelry store in Auckland, New Zealand.
Brought to you by
Impacting Tomorrow TodayHow Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.
IndependentsDec 04, 2025
Step Inside JR Dunn Jewelers’ Giant New Store The Florida independent expanded its store from 8,000 to 14,000 square feet, fulfilling the vision of its late co-founder, Jim Dunn.
Weekly QuizDec 04, 2025
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Supplier BulletinDec 04, 2025
Introducing Shop Natural Day: A New Movement Celebrating Natural DiamondsSponsored by De Beers Group
WatchesDec 04, 2025
Casio Shrinks its G-Shock WatchThe classic 5600 series G-Shock has been scaled down to about a tenth of its size, becoming a fully functioning watch ring.
Brought to you by
Roseco Releases New Full-Line CatalogRoseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.
Events & AwardsDec 04, 2025
AGA Announces 2026 Tucson Speaker LineupThe association’s annual conference and gala will take place Feb. 4, 2026, during the Tucson gem shows.
Events & AwardsDec 04, 2025
CBG Announces Speaker Lineup for 2026 Miami Event The January show will include a workshop for jewelry retailers on implementing AI to strengthen their businesses.
TrendsDec 03, 2025
Miley Cyrus Debuts Edgy Engagement RingFellow musician Maxx Morando proposed to the star with a chunky, cushion-cut diamond ring designed by Jacquie Aiche.
Policies & IssuesDec 03, 2025
Costco Joins Growing Wave of Retailers Suing for Tariff Refunds The retailer, which sells billions in fine jewelry and watches, is suing the Trump administration and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol.
SurveysDec 03, 2025
A Record 202.9M Shoppers Turned Out Thanksgiving WeekendBlack Friday is still the most popular shopping day over the five-day holiday weekend, as per the National Retail Federation’s survey.
AuctionsDec 03, 2025
Fabergé’s 'The Winter Egg' Achieves Record $30MThe historic egg, crafted for Russia's ruling family prior to the revolution, was the star of Christie’s recent auction of works by Fabergé.
FinancialsDec 02, 2025
Signet Jewelers’ Q3 Sales Up Amid Continued Focus on Lower Price PointsThe retailer offered more fashion jewelry priced under $1,000, including lab-grown diamond and men’s jewelry.
CollectionsDec 02, 2025
Briony Raymond Introduces First FragranceThe eau de parfum is held in a fluted glass bottle that mirrors the decor of the brand’s atelier, and its cap is a nod to its “Sloan” ring.
SourcingDec 02, 2025
Petra Diamonds Elevates Interim CEOs to Permanent StatusVivek Gadodia and Juan Kemp, who’ve been serving as interim co-CEOs since February, will continue to lead the diamond mining company.
IndependentsDec 02, 2025
RJO Welcomes Its 1,200th Retail MemberWitt’s Jewelry in Wayne, Nebraska, is the organization’s new milestone member.
SourcingDec 02, 2025
Brendan Laurs Honored With 2025 Bonanno AwardLaurs is the editor-in-chief of Gem-A’s The Journal of Gemmology and an expert on the formation of colored gemstone deposits.
CrimeDec 01, 2025
Fourth Man Charged in Louvre Jewelry HeistThe man, who has a criminal history, is suspected of being the fourth member of the four-man crew that carried out the heist.
AuctionsDec 01, 2025
Christie’s Presents ‘Splendor & Style’ CollectionThe single-owner collection includes one of the largest offerings of Verdura jewels ever to appear at auction, said Christie’s.
IndependentsDec 01, 2025
Lustig Jewelers’ New Owner Is a Fellow Chicago JewelerMichael Helfer has taken the reins, bringing together two historic Chicago jewelry names.
MajorsDec 01, 2025
PGI Debuts Platinum-Filled Holiday Gift GuideThe guide features all-new platinum designs for the holiday season by brands like Harwell Godfrey, Ritani, and Suna.
FinancialsNov 26, 2025
Movado CEO Talks Tariffs, Growing Interest in Accessible Luxury WatchesDuring its Q3 call, CEO Efraim Grinberg discussed the deal to lower tariffs on Swiss-made watches, watch market trends, and more.
TrendsNov 26, 2025
Piece of the Week: Rosior’s Pumpkin RingRosior’s high jewelry cocktail ring with orange sapphires and green diamonds is the perfect Thanksgiving accessory.
IndependentsNov 26, 2025
Greenwich St. Jewelers Launches Colorful Holiday CampaignThe “Embrace Your True Colors” campaign features jewels with a vibrant color palette and poetry by Grammy-nominated artist Aja Monet.
MajorsNov 26, 2025
Serafino Consoli Names New VP of Sales, Brand Development for the AmericasLuxury veteran Alejandro Cuellar has stepped into the role at the Italian fine jewelry brand.
