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.
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
More on Majors
The Latest
CollectionsAug 28, 2026
Dolly Parton Would Have Loved This Butterfly Necklace This Buddha Mama butterfly is our Piece of the Week honoring the legend, who embraced the beautiful insect as her symbol.
SourcingAug 28, 2026
Gareth Penny to Give Opening Speech at CIBJO Centenary CongressThe former De Beers CEO, and perhaps its next owner, will be a featured speaker at the event, slated for Sept. 4-7 in Italy.
IndependentsAug 28, 2026
Day’s Jewelers Honored With 3 Workplace AwardsThe employee-owned jeweler was named a “Best Place to Work” in Maine, New Hampshire, and for women.
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.
CollectionsAug 27, 2026
Pandora Expands ‘Talisman’ Collection as Lawsuit Continues The second iteration of the jewelry collection was inspired by the zodiac and the four elements: earth, water, air and fire.
Weekly QuizAug 27, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
SourcingAug 27, 2026
OFAC Renews License Allowing Import of ‘Grandfathered’ Russian Diamonds General License 104B supersedes General License 104A, which was set to expire on Sept. 1.
CrimeAug 27, 2026
Customs Seizes Nearly 900 Pieces of Counterfeit JewelryThe package, intercepted in Indianapolis, contained fake Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry.
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.
IndependentsAug 27, 2026
Jessica McCormack to Open First West Coast StoreThe new location in Costa Mesa, California, marks the brand’s second store in the United States and fourth standalone location worldwide.
FinancialsAug 27, 2026
Movado’s Q2 Sales Up As Younger Consumers Take Interest in WatchesThe fashion watch category was once threatened by the Apple Watch, but consumers are now opting for new wearables, said Movado’s CEO.
SurveysAug 26, 2026
5 Jewelry Insights From The RealReal’s Resale ReportThe report delves into trending styles, the most popular jewelry brands by city, and why Belle Époque jewelry could be the next big thing.
Lab-GrownAug 26, 2026
AGTA Now Requiring Members to Call Lab-Grown Gems ‘Synthetic’The association added the requirement to its revised "Code of Ethics" and released the 17th edition of its “Gemstone Information Manual.”
SurveysAug 26, 2026
Consumer Confidence Dips in August Amid Anticipatory Anxieties Respondents were concerned about the future of the labor market and their income as well as the rising prices of gas and groceries.
TrendsAug 26, 2026
Boucheron’s New Campaign Celebrates Its ‘Question Mark’ NecklacesThe campaign highlights the asymmetrical high jewelry necklace style that the jeweler first created in 1879.
Events & AwardsAug 26, 2026
Harry Winston Exhibition to Open in ShanghaiIt will explore the life of “The King of Diamonds” and showcase more than 165 creations from the brand.
CrimeAug 25, 2026
Florida Woman Scammed Out of $1.5M in Jewelry, Precious MetalsTwo suspects have been arrested in connection with the complex phone scam.
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.
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.
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.
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.
