Stephen Barnes Is the New Owner of IJO
After more than 50 years, Jeff Roberts is handing over ownership of the organization to IJO President Stephen Barnes.

The announcement was made by outgoing owner Jeff Roberts during IJO’s semi-annual conference in Palm Springs, California.
“Stephen has been an integral part of the IJO family for over 25 years and has played a vital role in our organization’s success,” said Roberts.
“When I appointed him as president in August 2023, I was seeking fresh leadership to propel IJO into the future. Since then, he has demonstrated remarkable vision and dedication, making his transition to owner both natural and exciting. I have no doubt he will lead IJO to even greater heights.”
Barnes has been a longtime IJO leader with a track record of success, said the organization, which makes IJO poised for an exciting new era of expansion and innovation.
He entered the jewelry industry at an early age as a craftsman. He mastered hand engraving, watch repair, and jewelry restoration and created award-winning jewelry designs.
Barnes has over 35 years of experience in retail jewelry, having managed his family’s multi-store business and operated his own store as an absentee owner. His expertise includes business growth, financial strategy, and transition management.
He is also a consultant who has helped businesses develop systems, tools, and processes to drive long-term success.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in business management from the University of Mt. Olive, is a GIA Graduate Gemologist, and holds the title of Master Graduate Gemologist from IJO—the latter of which is held by less than 40 professionals worldwide, said IJO.
“IJO’s strength is our unity. As we move forward, we will continue to elevate the industry while upholding the highest standards of integrity and innovation. Since stepping into leadership, I have focused on modernizing our educational programs, expanding IJO teams, and enhancing next generation initiatives,” said Barnes.
“I look forward to connecting [with] all our members on a more personal level over the next few months to better understand how we can help them continue to grow. I’m truly honored to lead IJO into this exciting new chapter.”
Roberts, who is handing over ownership, has been “the heart and soul of IJO,” said the organization.
He has been with IJO for more than 50 years, from recruiting members to leading as president, CEO, and owner.
“IJO has been my life for more than five decades, and now is the perfect time to pass the torch to a leader I trust wholeheartedly,” said Roberts.
“The relationships I’ve built with our members are invaluable, and while I will certainly miss my role, I have complete confidence that Stephen will lead IJO with passion, integrity, and a visionary approach.”
For membership inquiries, contact Penny Palmer at penny@ijo.com or 800-624-9252.
The Latest

The childhood craft of making dried pasta necklaces for Mother’s Day is all grown up as the 14-karat gold “Forever Macaroni” necklace.

Set with May’s birthstone and featuring an earthworm, this ring is a perfect celebration of spring.

“Bridal 2025–2026” includes popular styles and a dedicated section for quick pricing references of lab-grown diamond bridal jewelry.

Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA

Though currently paused, high tariffs threaten many countries where gemstones are mined. Dealers are taking measures now to prepare.


Located in Miami’s Design District, the 4,000-square-foot store is an homage to David and Sybil Yurman’s artistic roots.

May babies are lucky indeed, born in a month awash with fresh colors and celebrated with one of the most coveted colored gemstones.

Six new retail businesses were selected for the 2025 program, which began in January.

The deadline to apply for the Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship is June 12.

What’s really worrying U.S. consumers isn’t the present situation; it’s what the economy is going to look like six months from now.

Now called The Instore Jewelry Show, it will include holiday-focused education, interactive workshops, and a window display contest.

It includes pricing for unenhanced Colombian emeralds in the fine to extra fine range.

The “Sea of Wonder” collection features pieces inspired by the ocean, from its waves to flora and creatures like urchins and sea turtles.

The 23-carat fancy vivid blue diamond, set to headline Christie’s May jewelry auction, was expected to sell for as much as $50 million.

Emmanuel Raheb outlines the differences between the two platforms and posits that the most successful jewelers use both.

The miner said its April sale featured a mix of commercial-quality primary rubies and secondary rubies of varying quality.

U.S. customs agents in El Paso, Texas, intercepted the package, which would have been worth $9 million if the jewelry was genuine.

Health monitors become statement pieces when paired with the brand’s new collection of stackable diamond-studded bands.

Ten organizations were selected this year.

“Shell Auranova” is the next generation of the brand’s bridal line, featuring half-bezel engagement rings with bold and fluid designs.

Boucheron and Pomellato performed well in an otherwise bleak quarter for Kering amid struggles at Gucci.

Designer Deborah Meyers created her birds from oxidized sterling silver, rose-cut diamond eyes, and Akoya Keshi pearl feathers.

The company said it expects sightholders to remain “cautious” with their purchasing due to all the unknowns around the U.S. tariffs.

Sponsored by the Gemological Institute of America

Simon Wolf shares why the time was right to open a new office here, what he looks for in a retail partner, and why he loves U.S. consumers.

A third-generation jeweler, Ginsberg worked at his family’s store, Ginsberg Jewelers, from 1948 until his retirement in 2019.

The company failed to file its quarterly reports in a timely manner.