AuctionsDec 10, 2025
Francis Ford Coppola’s Watch Sells for $10.8MThe filmmaker’s personal F.P. Journe “FFC” prototype was the star of Phillips’ recent record-setting watch auction in New York.
IndependentsJul 17, 2025
Gina Ferranti of GiGi Ferranti Jewelry Dies at 59
The Brooklyn-based jewelry designer is remembered as a true artist and a rare talent.
Gina Ferranti of GiGi Ferranti Jewelry died July 8 at the age of 59. (Image courtesy of Gina Ferranti’s Facebook page)
New York—The jewelry industry is mourning designer Gina “GiGi” Ferranti, who passed away earlier this month.
Ferranti died on July 8 at the age of 59 due to ovarian cancer, according to information shared by family and friends.
The Brooklyn-based jewelry designer began her career in the fashion industry before completing her graduate gemologist degree and founding her fine jewelry brand in 2015, according to the GiGi Ferranti Jewelry website.
She channeled her Italian-American heritage, New York City background, an appreciation for architecture, and a love of family into her work.
Her first three jewelry collections were named after her nieces, Bianca, Gianna, and Sophia.
“As a designer, my inspiration is always through architecture and geometry and where they kind of blend,” she said in a previous interview with National Jeweler.
Her “Graffito” collection celebrated New York City’s graffiti murals and took inspiration from the historic frescoes in Pompeii.
The “Lucia” collection mirrored the stained-glass windows of storied Italian churches she saw in her travels through Positano, Capri, and along the Amalfi Coast.
The “Portofino” collection was inspired by the Italian Riviera, specifically the seaside town Portofino. It included her own take on the cornicello and penne pasta-inspired links.
Fellow jewelry designers, industry members, family, and friends took to social media to share their grief and memories.
Her niece, Gianna Sciortino Casillo, shared her memories of her aunt in a Facebook post, describing her as a second mother.
“Aunt Gina was one of the most incredible women I’ve ever known. She was pure light. The kind of person who made you feel safe, seen, and deeply loved. Aunt Gina was a true artist, and the heartbeat of every room she walked into,” she wrote.
“She made everything beautiful, from the jewelry she designed to the way she showed up for people. Always dancing, always laughing, always lifting others higher. Her love was big, bold, and unforgettable.”
In an Instagram post, Benjamin Guttery of Third Coast Gems wrote, “Her light was contagious, her words uplifting, and her smile unforgettable. I'll never forget you, my friend. Your art will live on and become heirlooms for future generations.”
“Gina was bright and strong and full of love. The jewelry that she delighted in designing for her brand felt so much like her personality: bold and colorful and welcoming and joyful,” wrote Becky Stone of Diamonds in the Library.
In a Facebook post, jewelry historian Beth Bernstein said, “Gina was a bright light and beautiful, both inside and out. She was a rare talent in the jewelry business and a rare friend. Genuine, understanding, giving, big-hearted, and always willing to help.”
Services were held at The Gardens of Boca Raton in Boca Raton, Florida, from July 14-15, with a funeral mass on July 15.
Ferranti died on July 8 at the age of 59 due to ovarian cancer, according to information shared by family and friends.
The Brooklyn-based jewelry designer began her career in the fashion industry before completing her graduate gemologist degree and founding her fine jewelry brand in 2015, according to the GiGi Ferranti Jewelry website.
She channeled her Italian-American heritage, New York City background, an appreciation for architecture, and a love of family into her work.
Her first three jewelry collections were named after her nieces, Bianca, Gianna, and Sophia.
“As a designer, my inspiration is always through architecture and geometry and where they kind of blend,” she said in a previous interview with National Jeweler.
Her “Graffito” collection celebrated New York City’s graffiti murals and took inspiration from the historic frescoes in Pompeii.
The “Lucia” collection mirrored the stained-glass windows of storied Italian churches she saw in her travels through Positano, Capri, and along the Amalfi Coast.
The “Portofino” collection was inspired by the Italian Riviera, specifically the seaside town Portofino. It included her own take on the cornicello and penne pasta-inspired links.
Fellow jewelry designers, industry members, family, and friends took to social media to share their grief and memories.
Her niece, Gianna Sciortino Casillo, shared her memories of her aunt in a Facebook post, describing her as a second mother.
“Aunt Gina was one of the most incredible women I’ve ever known. She was pure light. The kind of person who made you feel safe, seen, and deeply loved. Aunt Gina was a true artist, and the heartbeat of every room she walked into,” she wrote.
“She made everything beautiful, from the jewelry she designed to the way she showed up for people. Always dancing, always laughing, always lifting others higher. Her love was big, bold, and unforgettable.”
In an Instagram post, Benjamin Guttery of Third Coast Gems wrote, “Her light was contagious, her words uplifting, and her smile unforgettable. I'll never forget you, my friend. Your art will live on and become heirlooms for future generations.”
“Gina was bright and strong and full of love. The jewelry that she delighted in designing for her brand felt so much like her personality: bold and colorful and welcoming and joyful,” wrote Becky Stone of Diamonds in the Library.
In a Facebook post, jewelry historian Beth Bernstein said, “Gina was a bright light and beautiful, both inside and out. She was a rare talent in the jewelry business and a rare friend. Genuine, understanding, giving, big-hearted, and always willing to help.”
Services were held at The Gardens of Boca Raton in Boca Raton, Florida, from July 14-15, with a funeral mass on July 15.
More on Independents
The Latest
WatchesDec 10, 2025
There’s A New Rolex Boutique in MiamiThe new location in the Design District pays homage to Miami’s Art Deco heritage and its connection to the ocean.
SurveysDec 10, 2025
Consumer Confidence Drops in November Inflations, tariffs, and politics—including the government shutdown—were among consumers’ top concerns last month.
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.
SourcingDec 10, 2025
NAJA Announces Details for 2026 ‘Ace It’ Winter Conference“Longtime favorite” presenters, as well as first-time speakers, will lead talks and workshops at the annual event in Tucson next year.
Weekly QuizDec 04, 2025
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Events & AwardsDec 10, 2025
MJSA Names 2025 Responsible Design Challenge WinnerSilas Smith of Meridian Metalworks won the challenge with his pendant that blends Australian and American landscapes.
AuctionsDec 09, 2025
‘Desert Rose’ Diamond Sells for $8.8M in Abu DhabiThe sale of the 31.68-carat, sunset-hued stone was part of Sotheby’s first series of events and auctions in Abu Dhabi.
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.
ColumnistsDec 09, 2025
Holiday Sales Happen in December, Most Decisions Don’tMost customers who walk into your store this month have made up their minds. Your job is to validate their choice, Emmanuel Raheb writes.
TrendsDec 09, 2025
‘Once Upon a Time,’ Guzema Debuted Its Holiday CollectionThe collection features characters and motifs from Ukrainian folklore, including an enchanted mirror and a magic egg.
TechnologyDec 09, 2025
Gemvision Releases Updated MatrixGoldMatrixGold 3.11, the newest version of the jewelry design program, offers more flexibility, precision, and creative control.
Events & AwardsDec 09, 2025
MJSA Showcase Pavilion Returning to JA New York The pavilion will be part of the 2026 JA New York Spring show, scheduled for March 15 to 17.
MajorsDec 08, 2025
Juell Kadet, a ‘Lifelong Pillar’ of Rogers & Hollands, Dies at 96Kadet, a 1994 National Jeweler Retailer Hall of Fame inductee, helped grow the family-owned retailer in the Chicago area and beyond.
TechnologyDec 08, 2025
You’ve Heard of Smart Watches and Rings; Meet Smart EarringsBilled as the world’s smallest wearable, Lumia Health’s new smart earrings have a health tracker subtly embedded in the back.
TrendsDec 08, 2025
Amanda’s Style File: Celebrating December’s BirthstonesDon’t let those with December birthdays feel blue. Help them celebrate their month with blue zircon, turquoise, and tanzanite.
CollectionsDec 05, 2025
Piece of the Week: Robinson Pelham’s ‘Tsar Star’ EarringsThe new pink sapphire version of the piece dances with its wearer in the brand’s “Icons After Dark” holiday campaign.
TrendsDec 05, 2025
Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2026 Is … WhiteA choice that’s generated a lot of commentary, Pantone says “Cloud Dancer” marks a fresh start and encourages relaxation and creativity.
MajorsDec 05, 2025
Stuller Releases ‘Wrapped in Wonder’ CampaignThe manufacturer’s holiday campaign features a gift guide filled with trending designs and jewelry that can be personalized.
CrimeDec 04, 2025
Man Arrested After Allegedly Swallowing Fabergé Egg PendantThe man was charged with theft, accused of ingesting the necklace while in a jewelry store in Auckland, New Zealand.
Supplier BulletinDec 04, 2025
Introducing Shop Natural Day: A New Movement Celebrating Natural DiamondsSponsored by De Beers Group
WatchesDec 04, 2025
Casio Shrinks its G-Shock WatchThe classic 5600 series G-Shock has been scaled down to about a tenth of its size, becoming a fully functioning watch ring.
Events & AwardsDec 04, 2025
AGA Announces 2026 Tucson Speaker LineupThe association’s annual conference and gala will take place Feb. 4, 2026, during the Tucson gem shows.
Events & AwardsDec 04, 2025
CBG Announces Speaker Lineup for 2026 Miami Event The January show will include a workshop for jewelry retailers on implementing AI to strengthen their businesses.
TrendsDec 03, 2025
Miley Cyrus Debuts Edgy Engagement RingFellow musician Maxx Morando proposed to the star with a chunky, cushion-cut diamond ring designed by Jacquie Aiche.
Policies & IssuesDec 03, 2025
Costco Joins Growing Wave of Retailers Suing for Tariff Refunds The retailer, which sells billions in fine jewelry and watches, is suing the Trump administration and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol.
SurveysDec 03, 2025
A Record 202.9M Shoppers Turned Out Thanksgiving WeekendBlack Friday is still the most popular shopping day over the five-day holiday weekend, as per the National Retail Federation’s survey.
AuctionsDec 03, 2025
Fabergé’s 'The Winter Egg' Achieves Record $30MThe historic egg, crafted for Russia's ruling family prior to the revolution, was the star of Christie’s recent auction of works by Fabergé.
