IndependentsNov 19, 2025
Houston Jeweler Keith Shaftel Retires, Next Generation Steps In IndependentsNov 24, 2025
J.R. Dunn Jewelers Names New President
Second-generation jeweler Sean Dunn has taken on the role.
Sean Dunn, front and center, is the new president of J.R. Dunn Jewelers. He’s seen here celebrating with the Florida jewelers’ employees.
Editor's Note: This story has been edited post-publication to clarify who read the surprise letter to Sean Dunn.
Lighthouse Point, Fla.—J.R. Dunn Jewelers has named second-generation jeweler Sean Dunn as its new president.
Outgoing President Ann Marie Dunn, who is also Sean’s mother, surprised her son with the announcement at its annual employee appreciation dinner.
Sean said he thought he was about to give an appreciation speech to the jeweler’s employees when Patricia Correa-Dolezal, director of sales at J.R. Dunn, took the stage to read a letter his mother, who was unable to attend the event, had written to him.
In her letter, shared with National Jeweler, she said how proud she is of her son and how confident she is in his ability to lead.
Ann Marie and her late husband, Jim, opened their first jewelry store together in 1969, later moving into a bigger space. Jim passed away in 2021 at the age of 78.
“Sean honors Jim’s legacy while bringing his own brilliance, warmth, and vision for the future. Jim always knew Sean would be the one to carry J.R. Dunn forward, and seeing him step confidently into this role is one of my greatest joys,” said Ann Marie.
Sean said the announcement stopped him in his tracks.
“Her words left me completely humbled. Even though we had talked about this transition, it always felt symbolic, a formality. But in that moment, I understood the true meaning of this role. It is not just a title. It is being entrusted with two lifetimes of work and with honoring the legacy my parents built from nothing,” said Sean.
It was fitting to make the announcement at the employee appreciation dinner, as Sean emphasized that the heart of his family’s business is its employees.
“They deserve a workplace they are proud of, where they feel valued and connected to something meaningful. I cannot promise perfection, but I can promise this. I will lead with humility, with a clear vision, with determination, and with every bit of ability God has given me. My commitment is that we will succeed together,” said Sean.
The leadership announcements precede another milestone development for the jeweler as it prepares to open its newly expanded showroom, with more details to follow.
J.R. Dunn Jewelers is also one of 19 retailers in the U.S. and Canada to roll out De Beers’ new branded, traceable diamonds.
Related stories will be right here …
Lighthouse Point, Fla.—J.R. Dunn Jewelers has named second-generation jeweler Sean Dunn as its new president.
Outgoing President Ann Marie Dunn, who is also Sean’s mother, surprised her son with the announcement at its annual employee appreciation dinner.
Sean said he thought he was about to give an appreciation speech to the jeweler’s employees when Patricia Correa-Dolezal, director of sales at J.R. Dunn, took the stage to read a letter his mother, who was unable to attend the event, had written to him.
In her letter, shared with National Jeweler, she said how proud she is of her son and how confident she is in his ability to lead.
Ann Marie and her late husband, Jim, opened their first jewelry store together in 1969, later moving into a bigger space. Jim passed away in 2021 at the age of 78.
“Sean honors Jim’s legacy while bringing his own brilliance, warmth, and vision for the future. Jim always knew Sean would be the one to carry J.R. Dunn forward, and seeing him step confidently into this role is one of my greatest joys,” said Ann Marie.
From left, Sean Dunn, Ann Marie Dunn, and the late Jim Dunn. Ann Marie and Jim opened a jewelry store together in 1969, making Sean the second generation to lead.
Sean said the announcement stopped him in his tracks.
“Her words left me completely humbled. Even though we had talked about this transition, it always felt symbolic, a formality. But in that moment, I understood the true meaning of this role. It is not just a title. It is being entrusted with two lifetimes of work and with honoring the legacy my parents built from nothing,” said Sean.
It was fitting to make the announcement at the employee appreciation dinner, as Sean emphasized that the heart of his family’s business is its employees.
“They deserve a workplace they are proud of, where they feel valued and connected to something meaningful. I cannot promise perfection, but I can promise this. I will lead with humility, with a clear vision, with determination, and with every bit of ability God has given me. My commitment is that we will succeed together,” said Sean.
The leadership announcements precede another milestone development for the jeweler as it prepares to open its newly expanded showroom, with more details to follow.
J.R. Dunn Jewelers is also one of 19 retailers in the U.S. and Canada to roll out De Beers’ new branded, traceable diamonds.
More on Independents
The Latest
WatchesApr 16, 2026
Cartier Brings Back the RoadsterThe “watchmaker of shapes” debuted the reworked version of the vintage sports car-inspired timepiece at Watches & Wonders.
MajorsApr 16, 2026
Stuller’s Latest Mountings Catalog Is Out NowThe “Mountings 2026-2027” catalog showcases Stuller’s largest and most diverse assortment to date with more than 400 new mounting styles.
CrimeApr 16, 2026
FBI Issues Warning to Refineries, Retailers Due to High Price of GoldThe alert states that burglary crews are targeting jewelry businesses and details how jewelers and refineries can protect themselves.
Brought to you by
Discover Timeless Treasures: A Showcase of Antique Jewelry & Timepieces in Las VegasGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
PodcastsApr 15, 2026
Episode 4: The Natural Diamond DilemmaSally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.
Weekly QuizApr 09, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
MajorsApr 15, 2026
Spark Creations’ Randy McKenzie Dies at 72 McKenzie spent 45 years with Spark Creations and is remembered for being kind, dedicated, and hardworking.
WatchesApr 15, 2026
These Are the New Rolex Watches for 2026Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
Brought to you by
Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show: Showcasing the Most Collectible Merchandise from Across the GlobeGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
FinancialsApr 15, 2026
Kering’s Jewelry Shines in Q1, Gucci’s Struggle ContinuesThe luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.
SourcingApr 15, 2026
Diamond Club West Coast Names 2026 BoardKalpesh Jhaveri was re-elected as president for a third year.
TechnologyApr 15, 2026
This Jewelry Brand’s Video Series Is Up for a Webby Award“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
De Beers Expands ‘Desert Diamonds’ Beacon Into BridalThe campaign seeks to reignite desire for natural diamond engagement rings by highlighting the “distinct character” of warm-toned diamonds.
FinancialsApr 14, 2026
LVMH’s Q1 Sales Sink 6% Amid Middle East ConflictPlus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
International Jade Summit to Return to MontereyPresented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.
Events & AwardsApr 14, 2026
CBG Releases Details for Las Vegas ShowThe group has announced its lineup of speakers and a new “Rising Stars” pavilion.
CollectionsApr 13, 2026
Uniform Object’s New Jewelry Collection Centers on the ‘Carbon Form’The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
JA Accepting 2026 Impact Initiative ApplicationsThe program provides essential funding to organizations for projects that enhance the jewelry industry.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
Couture Announces New Show in MiamiThe jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.
CrimeApr 13, 2026
JSA Offers Reward in Oregon Jewelry Store Armed RobberyJSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.
WatchesApr 10, 2026
These Watches Have Increased in Value the Most Since 2018, Says Chrono24The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.
CollectionsApr 10, 2026
Ophelia Eve’s Toggle Pendant Holds Your SecretsThe “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.
ColumnistsApr 09, 2026
Jewelry Demand Isn’t Stronger, Prices Are Just Higher Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.
MajorsApr 09, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Promotes Nathalie Verdeille to SVP, Chief Artistic OfficerIn her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Jacob & Co. Rolls Out Its Sequel to ‘The Godfather’ Musical Watch“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”
Events & AwardsApr 09, 2026
JCK Announces Jesse Itzler as 2026 Keynote SpeakerOrganizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.
SourcingApr 09, 2026
AGA To Honor ‘Quiet Leadership’ With New AwardThe Alan Hodgkinson Medal recognizes gemologists who are consistently generous with their time and expertise.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Oris Names New CEO, CFOThe Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.
