Whether you recognize their jewels or are just discovering them now, these designers’ talent and vision make them ones to watch this year.
Episode 1: High Gold Prices, the Diamond Dilemma, & What’s Next
Was 2025 a good year for jewelers? Did lab-grown diamonds outsell natural? Find out on the first episode of the “My Next Question” podcast.
Hosted by JA’s Amanda Gizzi and National Jeweler’s Michelle Graff, the first episode features two very special guests—Sherry Smith, vice president of coaching strategy and development at the Edge Retail Academy, and Edahn Golan, who got his start as a jewelry journalist before transitioning into a full-time industry analyst and co-founding data platform Tenoris.
Smith and Golan shared what they know about jewelry sales for both large and independent jewelry retailers in 2025—including how natural diamonds performed in comparison with lab grown—and made some predictions for 2026.
The full episode is available to view above or on the National Jeweler YouTube channel.
You can subscribe to the My Next Question podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
The Latest

Buyers are expected to gravitate toward gemstones that have a little something special, just like last year.

Plus, JSA’s Scott Guginsky discusses the need for jewelers to take more precautions as the gold price continues to climb.

Criminals are using cell jammers to disable alarms, but new technology like JamAlert™ can stop them.

Morris’ most cherished role was being a mother and grandmother, her family said.


“Vimini” is the first chapter of the “Bulgari Eternal” collection that merges archival pieces with modern creations.

The third edition will be held in Half Moon Bay, California, in April.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

The grant is in its first year and was created to recognize an exceptional fine jewelry designer whose star is on the rise.

Data built on trust, not tracking, will be key to success going forward, as the era of “borrowed attention” ends, Emmanuel Raheb writes.

Heath Yarges brings two decades of experience to the role.

Pete’s boundless curiosity extended beyond diamond cut and he was always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the topic.

Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Buccellati, and Vhernier had another successful holiday season, Richemont reported this week.

Our Piece of the Week is Lagos’ “Bee” brooch that was seen on the red carpet for the first time on Sunday.

Trevor Jonathan Wright led a crew in a string of armed robberies targeting South Asian-owned jewelry stores on the East Coast.

The program recognizes rising professionals in the jewelry industry.

A new lifestyle section and a watch showcase have been added to this year’s event.

Avocados From Mexico is celebrating those who love to double-dip in game day guacamole with a 14-karat yellow gold tortilla chip necklace.

Petra Diamonds unearthed the 41.82-carat, Type IIb blue diamond at the Cullinan Mine.

The brand is trading its colorful fabric cords for Italian leather in its “Lasso” baby locket bracelets.

National Jeweler and Jewelers of America’s popular webinar series is evolving in 2026.

The department store chain owes millions to creditors like David Yurman, Roberto Coin, Kering, and LVMH.

The award-winning actor’s visionary approach and creativity echo the spirit of Boucheron, the brand said.

Edge Retail Academy honored Burnell’s Fine Jewelry in Wichita, Kansas, with its annual award for business excellence.

In a market defined by more selective consumers, Sherry Smith shares why execution will be independent jewelers’ key to growth this year.

The family-owned jeweler’s new space is in a former wholesale produce market.

Ivel Sanchez Rivera, 52, has been arrested and charged in connection with the armed robbery of Tio Jewelers in Cape Coral, Florida.


















