Borsheims' ‘Ike-It’ Award Goes to Shop Manager
Marti Stephens was honored with the annual award.

Each year, it is awarded to one associate who embodies Borsheims’ commitment to customer service and demonstrates the company’s core values, the company said.
Stephens, who was nominated and selected by her colleagues at Borsheims, was presented with the award on Feb. 20.
As shop manager, Stephens oversees the daily duties of each department in the Borsheims shop, including bench jewelers and polishers, the appraisal team, shop support service, engraving and watch repair.
In 2000, Stephens started with the company as an appraisal lab coordinator. She left briefly and returned in 2012 as a jewelry appraiser.
Since then, she has worked as senior jewelry appraiser, shop support supervisor, assistant shop manager, and in her current role, shop manager.
She holds a Graduate Gemologist degree from the Gemological Institute of America, as well as a degree in jewelry design from the Fashion Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Stephens has been an Omaha resident for 23 years and resides with her husband Cory and children Bennett and Norah.
“Marti’s dedication and passion represent the very spirit of Borsheims,” said Borsheims CEO and President Karen Goracke.
“Through her exceptional leadership, she has not only elevated the performance of our shop team, she has also set a benchmark for all of us. She is a true asset, and her impact extends to the positive culture she fosters. We are fortunate to have her as a driving force in our organization.”
Borsheims’ “Ike-It Employee of the Year Award” is a tribute to Ike Friedman, who owned Borsheims from 1947 to 1989.
The honor was created in 1992, the year after Friedman died. This is the 32nd year the company has presented the award.
The Latest

Pete’s boundless curiosity extended beyond diamond cut and he was always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the topic.

Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Buccellati, and Vhernier had another successful holiday season, Richemont reported this week.

Our Piece of the Week is Lagos’ “Bee” brooch that was seen on the red carpet for the first time on Sunday.

Criminals are using cell jammers to disable alarms, but new technology like JamAlert™ can stop them.

Trevor Jonathan Wright led a crew in a string of armed robberies targeting South Asian-owned jewelry stores on the East Coast.


The program recognizes rising professionals in the jewelry industry.

A new lifestyle section and a watch showcase have been added to this year’s event.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

Avocados From Mexico is celebrating those who love to double-dip in game day guacamole with a 14-karat yellow gold tortilla chip necklace.

Petra Diamonds unearthed the 41.82-carat, Type IIb blue diamond at the Cullinan Mine.

The brand is trading its colorful fabric cords for Italian leather in its “Lasso” baby locket bracelets.

National Jeweler and Jewelers of America’s popular webinar series is evolving in 2026.

The department store chain owes millions to creditors like David Yurman, Roberto Coin, Kering, and LVMH.

The award-winning actor’s visionary approach and creativity echo the spirit of Boucheron, the brand said.

In a market defined by more selective consumers, Sherry Smith shares why execution will be independent jewelers’ key to growth this year.

Ivel Sanchez Rivera, 52, has been arrested and charged in connection with the armed robbery of Tio Jewelers in Cape Coral, Florida.

The supplier’s online program allows customers to search and buy calibrated natural and lab-grown diamond melee, including in fancy shapes.

The new show will take place Jan. 23-25, 2026.

A monthly podcast series for jewelry professionals

Associate Editor Natalie Francisco highlights her favorite jewelry moments from the Golden Globes, and they are (mostly) white hot.

Yantzer is remembered for the profound influence he had on diamond cut grading as well as his contagious smile and quick wit.

The store closures are part of the retailer’s “Bold New Chapter” turnaround plan.

Through EventGuard, the company will offer event liability and cancellation insurance, including wedding coverage.

Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.

The credit card companies’ surveys examined where consumers shopped, what they bought, and what they valued this holiday season.

Kimberly Miller has been promoted to the role.

The “Serenity” charm set with 13 opals is a modern amulet offering protection, guidance, and intention, the brand said.























