MajorsApr 07, 2025
Jewelers Mutual Expands to Australia Via New AcquisitionMajorsApr 16, 2025
WJA Announces Board Members, New Chicago Chapter President
The announcements follow a tumultuous start to 2025 for WJA, which saw a wave of resignations following controversial statements about DEI.
New York—The Women’s Jewelry Association has announced its 2025 board of directors and two new regional chapter presidents in the wake of a rocky start to the year.
By the end of January, the leaders of four of the 20-plus regional chapters of the Women’s Jewelry Association, along with numerous national board members, had stepped down following weeks of controversy surrounding remarks made by WJA National Board President Gabrielle Grazi regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) during the organization’s national annual membership meeting in December 2024.
On March 25, WJA sent an email listing its board of directors for 2025 as it stands now.
Nicole Fein, senior vice president of marketing at Kwiat and Fred Leighton, is the communications chair; Robyn Fields, vice president of sales at Goldstar Jewellery, is the secretary and membership chair; and Laurie T. Watt, an owner of Mayer & Watt, is the vice president of chapter affairs.
Jacqueline Cassaway, CEO of Diamond Wealth Ventures, returns as the organization’s past president. Cassaway was president of WJA from January 2020 through December 2021.
The email also announced the board members who are continuing their service in 2025.
Robert Goldberg, a global licensing executive, is WJA’s VP of Governance & Development; Melissa Rodgers of M. Schamroth & Sons is chair of Mentoring & Education; Donna DeLucia of National Chain is chair of Inclusion & Belonging; Tanya Parikh, owner of Janvier Diamond Concierge, and Lotanna Amina Okpukpara, director and gemologist at Mina Stones.
Three days later, on March 28, Parikh and Okpukpara sent an email to the national board, which was later forwarded to National Jeweler, announcing their resignations.
They wrote: “We [resign] because we can no longer align ourselves with the repeated and documented pattern and practice of the National leadership to take actions often in our names without proper prior consultation nor the ability to discuss, which violate the WJA National bylaws, policies and fiduciary obligations.
“Further, on numerous occasions, communication from the board has been improperly conducted, deprioritized, and marginalized despite our efforts of involvement.”
Parikh and Okpukpara continued, “As the last two women of color on the National board, and in light of recent events, we are concerned that values to which WJA has ascribed in the past and are important to us are no longer important to this board. We cannot stand by this conduct any longer.”
The email also states that their names and titles were removed from the WJA website before they had submitted a written resignation, which they said is a violation of the National bylaws, Article IV, Section 5.
Neither Parikh nor Okpukpara responded to National Jeweler’s request for comment on their letter.
Grazi said in an email to National Jeweler that WJA does not comment on any details of board director departures.
Related stories will be right here …
By the end of January, the leaders of four of the 20-plus regional chapters of the Women’s Jewelry Association, along with numerous national board members, had stepped down following weeks of controversy surrounding remarks made by WJA National Board President Gabrielle Grazi regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) during the organization’s national annual membership meeting in December 2024.
On March 25, WJA sent an email listing its board of directors for 2025 as it stands now.
Nicole Fein, senior vice president of marketing at Kwiat and Fred Leighton, is the communications chair; Robyn Fields, vice president of sales at Goldstar Jewellery, is the secretary and membership chair; and Laurie T. Watt, an owner of Mayer & Watt, is the vice president of chapter affairs.
Jacqueline Cassaway, CEO of Diamond Wealth Ventures, returns as the organization’s past president. Cassaway was president of WJA from January 2020 through December 2021.
The email also announced the board members who are continuing their service in 2025.
Robert Goldberg, a global licensing executive, is WJA’s VP of Governance & Development; Melissa Rodgers of M. Schamroth & Sons is chair of Mentoring & Education; Donna DeLucia of National Chain is chair of Inclusion & Belonging; Tanya Parikh, owner of Janvier Diamond Concierge, and Lotanna Amina Okpukpara, director and gemologist at Mina Stones.
Three days later, on March 28, Parikh and Okpukpara sent an email to the national board, which was later forwarded to National Jeweler, announcing their resignations.
They wrote: “We [resign] because we can no longer align ourselves with the repeated and documented pattern and practice of the National leadership to take actions often in our names without proper prior consultation nor the ability to discuss, which violate the WJA National bylaws, policies and fiduciary obligations.
“Further, on numerous occasions, communication from the board has been improperly conducted, deprioritized, and marginalized despite our efforts of involvement.”
Parikh and Okpukpara continued, “As the last two women of color on the National board, and in light of recent events, we are concerned that values to which WJA has ascribed in the past and are important to us are no longer important to this board. We cannot stand by this conduct any longer.”
The email also states that their names and titles were removed from the WJA website before they had submitted a written resignation, which they said is a violation of the National bylaws, Article IV, Section 5.
Neither Parikh nor Okpukpara responded to National Jeweler’s request for comment on their letter.
Grazi said in an email to National Jeweler that WJA does not comment on any details of board director departures.
When the leaders of WJA’s regional chapters began resigning earlier this year, the board of WJA Chicago was the first to go, announcing via social media on Jan. 14, followed by the boards of the Northern California (NorCal), Miami, and Seattle chapters.
WJA San Diego originally was reported as one of the chapters whose leaders resigned and posted on Instagram.
However, Grazi said Tuesday that the chapter is still active, as there are several board members who remained in service.
Last week, WJA announced that Rachel Akmakjian, director of jeweler relations for jewelry insurance company BriteCo, is the new president of the WJA Chicago chapter and Aria Thomas, founder and designer of Eleux Jewelry, has been named president of the WJA Colorado chapter.
Akmakjian told National Jeweler in an email that she was honored and excited to step into the role, and that it was a privilege to serve the community. She deferred any further questions to Grazi.
Following the WJA Chicago chapter board’s resignation in late January, the Chicago chapter listing appeared to have been removed from the WJA website, but as of today, the listing has been restored as one of the 16 regional chapters shown.
Regarding the NorCal, Miami, and Seattle chapters, Grazi said that upon receipt of board nominations (either self-nominated or referral) from members, the WJA National Board Executive Committee will review and consider appointments for board service.
She also said the organization is working with individuals in Houston and St. Louis who have expressed interest in launching WJA chapters in 2025.
“We remain committed to strengthening our community and ensuring that WJA continues to be a welcoming, valuable, and supportive space for everyone in the jewelry and watch industry,” Grazi said.
“We will continue to uphold the mission that unites us—to support the advancement of women in the jewelry and watch industry through networking, education, and professional development. At our core, WJA is about women supporting women, creating space for connection, collaboration, and community, and celebrating the success of all who share a passion for this industry.”
Also, last month, the WJA Foundation launched the inaugural Bench Jeweler Scholarship in partnership with Stuller, valued at $7,500.
Applications remain open until Apr. 30, and more information is available on the WJA website.
More on Majors
The Latest
CrimeDec 01, 2025
Fourth Man Charged in Louvre Jewelry HeistThe man, who has a criminal history, is suspected of being the fourth member of the four-man crew that carried out the heist.
AuctionsDec 01, 2025
Christie’s Presents ‘Splendor & Style’ CollectionThe single-owner collection includes one of the largest offerings of Verdura jewels ever to appear at auction, said Christie’s.
IndependentsDec 01, 2025
Lustig Jewelers’ New Owner Is a Fellow Chicago JewelerMichael Helfer has taken the reins, bringing together two historic Chicago jewelry names.
Brought to you by
Impacting Tomorrow TodayHow Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.
FinancialsNov 26, 2025
Movado CEO Talks Tariffs, Growing Interest in Accessible Luxury WatchesDuring its Q3 call, CEO Efraim Grinberg discussed the deal to lower tariffs on Swiss-made watches, watch market trends, and more.
Weekly QuizNov 20, 2025
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
TrendsNov 26, 2025
Piece of the Week: Rosior’s Pumpkin RingRosior’s high jewelry cocktail ring with orange sapphires and green diamonds is the perfect Thanksgiving accessory.
IndependentsNov 26, 2025
Greenwich St. Jewelers Launches Colorful Holiday CampaignThe “Embrace Your True Colors” campaign features jewels with a vibrant color palette and poetry by Grammy-nominated artist Aja Monet.
Brought to you by
Roseco Releases New Full-Line CatalogRoseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.
Events & AwardsNov 26, 2025
Grandview Klein Presents 4 Scholarships in NamibiaThe company gave awards to four students at the Namibia University of Science & Technology, including one who is a Grandview Klein employee.
IndependentsNov 25, 2025
Pearl Stringer Margaret Hoisik DiesShe is remembered as an artist who loved her craft and was devoted to her faith, her friends, and her family.
SourcingNov 25, 2025
Finestar Opens Diamond Manufacturing Facility in JohannesburgIt joins the company’s other manufacturing facilities globally, including in India, Botswana, and Namibia.
TrendsNov 25, 2025
Amanda’s Style File: Polka DotsThe polka dot pattern transcends time and has re-emerged as a trend in jewelry through round-shaped gemstones.
CrimeNov 25, 2025
Former Arizona AG Official Charged With Trafficking Stolen JewelryVanessa Hickman, 49, allegedly sold a diamond bracelet that was mistakenly sent to her home.
Events & AwardsNov 25, 2025
GIA Awards Susan Jacques With Its Highest HonorGIA’s former president and CEO was presented with the Richard T. Liddicoat Award for Distinguished Achievement.
Recorded WebinarsNov 24, 2025
Watch: Top Tips for Social Media EtiquetteSocial media experts spoke about protecting brand reputation through behaving mindfully online.
WatchesNov 24, 2025
Breitling Reveals Plans for Gallet, Universal GenèveIn 2026, the three will come together as “House of Brands,” with Gallet sold in Breitling stores and Universal Genève sold separately.
CollectionsNov 24, 2025
Muse Debuts a Wicked 'Have a Heart x Cynthia Erivo' SequelThe second drop, which includes more Elphaba-inspired pieces from additional designers, will continue to benefit nonprofit Dreams of Hope.
IndependentsNov 24, 2025
J.R. Dunn Jewelers Names New PresidentSecond-generation jeweler Sean Dunn has taken on the role.
MajorsNov 21, 2025
Natural Diamond Council Names New CEOAmber Pepper’s main focus will be on digital innovation and engaging younger consumers.
SourcingNov 21, 2025
De Beers’ Branded, Traceable Diamonds Roll Out to 19 Retailers Called “Origin by De Beers Group,” the loose, polished diamonds are being sold in a total of 30 stores in the United States and Canada.
CollectionsNov 21, 2025
Piece of the Week: Melissa Kaye’s ‘Rocky Infinity’ NecklaceThe lariat necklace features a 4.88-carat oval-cut Zambian emerald in 18-karat yellow gold.
AuctionsNov 20, 2025
Vanderbilt Jewels Shine at Phillips Sale, Pink Diamond WithdrawnA 43-carat sapphire brooch from the Vanderbilt collection was the top lot of the Geneva sale.
CollectionsNov 20, 2025
Rebecca Rau Jewels Debuts With ‘Then & Now’ CollectionRau is a fourth-generation art and antique dealer from M.S. Rau gallery whose first jewelry collection merges artifacts with modern design.
Policies & IssuesNov 20, 2025
RJC Names New Executive DirectorFormer De Beers sustainability leader Purvi Shah will take over the role in February 2026.
WatchesNov 20, 2025
LVMH Takes Minority Stake in Citizen Group-Owned Movement Maker La Joux-Perret is based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, and makes solar quartz as well as mechanical watch movements.
GradingNov 20, 2025
Julia Griffith Joins SSEF as Head of EducationShe previously taught at Gem-A and is the founder of The Gem Academy.
CollectionsNov 19, 2025
Larkspur & Hawk Celebrates 25 Years With Helena Bonham Carter CampaignThe British actress and her daughter modeled pieces from the brand’s new “Palette” capsule for its “Once Upon a Time” holiday campaign.
