Two Participants Complete Inaugural Ella Klein Internship
Jamie Dunton and Gabriella Botelho are the first graduates of the program, created by the WJA Foundation and Julius Klein Diamonds.

Interns Jamie Dunton and Gabriella Botelho trained on-site at Julius Klein Diamonds in New York City, receiving hands-on experience and insights into the diamond trade.
Dunton said the internship helped her apply what she learned at GIA to real life scenarios.
“Interning at [Julius Klein Diamonds] put my book knowledge to use and more,” said Dunton.
“This experience also showed me some differences from the course teachings. There are nuances in the trade that don’t exist in the textbooks, like specific terminology or writing both the shape and cut on the papers.”
Gabriella Botelho said that while she had previously received bench work training, she looked to the internship to provide her with diamond-specific knowledge.
“This internship filled that gap, giving me a comprehensive view of the diamond industry. Interacting with experts gave me a deeper, more practical understanding of the industry, especially regarding quality evaluation and trade practices,” said Botelho.
“It’s an intense, fast-paced program that offers invaluable hands-on experience. I learned far more in real-time at Julius Klein than I could have on my own or in a longer course.”
The Ella Klein Internship was designed to help women advance their diamond and jewelry careers by providing hands-on opportunities to learn from established industry and diamond professionals on the topics of diamond evaluation, sales, and industry practices.
"At Julius Klein Diamonds, we are thrilled to offer this internship program to individuals who are passionate about diamonds and committed to pursuing a career in the diamond industry," said Julius Klein Vice President Mark Klein.
"Investing in education and training is essential for success in this field, and we are excited to help interns take their careers to the next level.”
It’s named for Ella, the matriarch of the Julius Klein family, who is remembered for how she led by example. She supported dozens of special causes and organizations, benefiting thousands in their community and beyond, said the company.
“The Ella Klein Internship is a shining example of what can be achieved when industry leaders like Julius Klein Diamonds invest in the next generation of talent,” said Nikia Levesque-Meyer, president of the WJA Foundation.
“Jamie and Gabriella’s experiences reflect our mission to empower women and provide transformative opportunities that propel their careers forward. We are proud to support these incredible women and look forward to seeing their continued contributions to our industry.”
The Latest

Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.

In her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.

“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”

You deserve to know what you are selling–to protect your customers as well as your business and your reputation.

The Alan Hodgkinson Medal recognizes gemologists who are consistently generous with their time and expertise.


The Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.

The “What’s Your Signature?” campaign invites women to think about how they see themselves.

Every jeweler faces the same challenge: helping customers protect what they love. Here’s the solution designed for today’s jewelry business.

The big diamond’s sale added to the company’s revenue though the market remains “challenging” overall, particularly for smaller goods.

The Jewelry Symposium will honor two industry veterans with lifetime achievement awards at its upcoming May event.

With their durability, brilliance, and beauty, diamonds are the perfect stone for everyday birthstone jewelry.

The retailer failed to file its annual report on time and said it may issue a going concern warning.

Smith recounts a recent trip to the post office that included an uncomfortable, embarrassing, and public exchange between two employees.

John Cowley, who has more than 30 years of experience, is succeeding Tearle as the lab’s chief financial officer.

Founder Erica Silverglide has designed 35 colorful pieces set with fluorescing gemstones for the brand's first finished jewelry offering.

“Ukrainian Jewelry | Contemporary Jewelry and Art Jewelry from Ukraine” features 33 contemporary Ukrainian designers and studios.

“The Golden Now” campaign celebrates the here and now with the brand’s signature styles and a selection of its new pieces.

Signet confirmed that Caffie, president of Zales and Banter, and Bentzen, who headed Blue Nile, have left the company.

The antique jewelry dealer talks about the importance of including Black Americans in jewelry history and preserving their stories.

Both its mines faced challenges last year, from operational issues to disruptions in the market.

Iconic pieces, like the Mike Todd Diamond Tiara, appear in the superstar’s new music video for her song inspired by the actress.

The luxury retailer, which went Chapter 11 in January, announced Thursday that it has secured $500 million in exit financing.

The NouvelleBox ballroom will feature independent jewelry designers, including Lene Vibe, Wyld Box Jewelry, and Kiaia Limited.

The one-of-a-kind locket, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal three hidden images to keep close to your heart.

The new facility was also designed to better serve its growing customer base in Canada.

The campaign is a tribute to the year 1893, when Kokichi Mikimoto created the world’s first cultured pearl.

It is the only GIA school to offer the GIA Graduate Gemologist program in Chinese.





























