Watch: Physical Retail Is Not Dead
Peter Smith joined Michelle Graff to chat about the state of brick-and-mortar stores and share a few book and podcast recommendations.
They discussed what the best stores are doing right in terms of the in-store experience, and where struggling retailers are falling short.
They also talked about the importance of using data to run your business, having cohesive branding, and hiring the right people.
Toward the end of the discussion, Smith shared a couple of his favorite retail-centric books and podcasts, including “Remarkable Retail” and “Selling Sexy: Victoria’s Secret and the Unraveling of an American Icon.”
Watch the full episode above or on the National Jeweler YouTube channel.
“My Next Question” will return next month with a recap of the Las Vegas trade shows.
Join Graff and National Jeweler Associate Editor Natalie Francisco, along with Jewelers of America’s Amanda Gizzi and Lauren Dubritz, on June 17 at 2 p.m. EDT for the 2025 “Las Vegas Rewind” episode.
Learn more and register here.
The Latest

It was a banner day for blue gemstones, with another blue diamond topping $8 million and a 41-carat sapphire going for $2.3 million.

The approval means the retailer is on track to exit bankruptcy proceedings this summer.

The men are believed to be part of the group of several masked suspects that robbed Marc Robinson Jewelers in April.

As gold prices rise, today’s retailers are looking for alternatives at prices that will appeal to wider audiences.

The bridal-focused brand is also launching its Custom Atelier this summer, a digital custom design tool for its authorized retailers.


The De Beers Group CEO also discussed tariffs, Desert Diamonds, and the pending sale of De Beers in an interview with Michelle Graff.

The industry veteran is bringing his 56-year run in the fine jewelry sector to an end.

With the trade and customer trust in mind, GIA® developed NextGem™ – on-demand training designed specifically for retail.

The panel discussion will feature LGBTQ+ leaders across the jewelry, luxury, and creative industries.

Inspired by a locket that got run over, the “Smash” capsule collection reimagines the shape of Lichtenberg’s signature style.

The company has promoted Katherine Whitacre to the role.

The jewelry manufacturer has added Taylor Swift-esque diamond shapes, and more silver, gold vermeil, and gold-plated jewelry.

Morrison has been marketing diamonds on and off since the early 2000s and said she is leaving to “pursue new projects.”

Those born in June can celebrate with pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone jewelry.

The platform allows retailers to guide clients through a customizable engagement ring buying experience in a branded interface.

Jim Springer, owner of Dunkelberger’s Fine Jewelry, is heading into retirement.

When conducting its May consumer confidence survey, The Conference Board asked extra questions about consumers’ budgeting strategies.

The “Tunnel” charm, our Piece of the Week, celebrates Pride Month with its design inspired by hope and the light at the end of the tunnel.

The jewelry industry is reassessing its positioning as Gen Z reshapes the retail landscape and lab grown continues to gain market share.

Up for auction at Sotheby’s, the collection of Tempelsman’s personal effects includes a Cartier Tank watch Jackie O. gifted him.

The Miami-based fine jewelry brand will host its first summer residency in the Colorado mountain town from June 5 to Aug. 23.

The organization also announced its international board of directors for the 2026-2027 term.

Saks Global confirmed the closure this week, spelling the end for a store that’s been part of downtown Dallas for more than 100 years.

Smith discusses how managers should handle a top performer's exit, warning that a poor response could have a lasting impact.

The Gemological Institute of America is now a 30 percent stakeholder in Tracr, the De Beers-backed blockchain for diamonds.

The retailer is bringing Rolex Certified Pre-Owned watches to five U.S. cities in 2026 for collectors to see, try on, and purchase.

The actress and entrepreneur stars in the jeweler’s new campaign that celebrates life’s quiet moments.






















