Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
NYJDI’s New Trio of Classes Promote Manufacturing and Design
The trilogy of courses for the spring is meant to encourage jewelry designers to become entrepreneurs.

New York--The New York Jewelry Design Institute has launched a trilogy of courses meant to encourage jewelry designers to become entrepreneurs.
The courses focus on expertise in digital design and introduce students to local manufacturing opportunities in New York City that “make 3-D files a wearable reality,” the institute said.
In “Understanding Jewelry CAD” students will learn the ins and outs of leading jewelry CAD program 3Design, creating their first computer-aided jewelry designs and then having the option to create a rapid prototype in wax using the 3-D file they have created.
NYJDI also said it will make in-person introductions between students and companies in the city that can print and cast prototypes in gold or silver, as well as set stones, to help produce a finished piece.
“Designing in Shaper” is meant to help enhance 3-D skills, building on those developed in the 3Design program. Shaper and 3Design are combined in this course for comprehensive jewelry modeling, which also will teach innovative freeform artistic sculpting and texturing.
“Although nothing will ever take the place of a beautiful handmade piece of jewelry, designers today are moving more and more into the digital age,” said Jenine Lepera Izzi, creative director of NYJDI. “Learning all the tools that are available is very powerful. There are things you can do by hand that you cannot do in CAD, just as there are things done in CAD that cannot be done by hand. Being able to do both creates phenomenal pieces, and we want to be sure we help aspiring local jewelry designers succeed in the business.”
The third course in the series, “Sculpting with ZBrush,” teaches the basics of jewelry sculpting by creating key jewelry forms. ZBrush allows those looking to take things to the next level to enhance the digital jewelry CAD files with structural details, like digital clay.
“Designing in Shaper” is a six-session class, held every Monday from now through April 24 at a cost of $375. “Sculpting with ZBrush” also is a six-session class, held every Thursday from April 25 through May 30, for $395. Meanwhile, “Understanding Jewelry CAD” is flexible and offered as private lessons throughout the year. It costs $1,695.
For more information about the courses, contact NYJDI at 212-777-5393 or email info@nyjdi.com.
The Latest

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.

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

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


“Bridgerton” actresses Hannah Dodd and Claudia Jessie star in the brand’s “Rules to Love By” campaign.

Founded by jeweler and sculptor Ana Khouri, the brand is “expanding the boundaries of what high jewelry can be.”

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The jewelry manufacturer and supplier is going with a fiery shade it says symbolizes power and transformation.

The singer-songwriter will make her debut as the French luxury brand’s new ambassador in a campaign for its “Coco Crush” jewelry line.

The nonprofit’s new president and CEO, Annie Doresca, also began her role this month.

As the shopping mall model evolves and online retail grows, Smith shares his predictions for the future of physical stores.

The trade show is slated for Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at The Lighthouse in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood.

January’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.

The annual report highlights how it supported communities in areas where natural diamonds are mined, crafted, and sold.

Footage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.

The supplier has a curated list of must-have tools for jewelers doing in-house custom work this year.

The Signet Jewelers-owned store, which turned 100 last year, calls its new concept stores “The Edit.”

Linda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.

The governing board welcomed two new members, Claire Scragg and Susan Eisen.

Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.

Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.

Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.






















