Krista Collins Walters Promoted to Publisher of Instore
She will also take on the role of vice president of jewelry for SmartWork Media, a newly created position.

Vice president of jewelry is a newly created position, the company said.
Walters was previously associate publisher of Instore. She succeeds Matthijs Braakman.
Although he is stepping down as publisher of Instore, Braakman said he will continue in his role as CEO of SmartWork Media—which he has held since 2016, according to his LinkedIn profile—and stay involved on a day-to-day basis.
“We’re creating a more organized structure around our jewelry business—with the combined efforts of Instore and the JA New York shows. A key leadership role is needed, and Krista has all the experience, expertise, and track record to step into that new role,” Braakman said.
Walters has been with SmartWork Media for more than 20 years, according to her LinkedIn profile.
As publisher, she will continue to develop the company’s media and events business within the fine jewelry industry, building on the strong foundation she has helped establish throughout her tenure with the organization.
"Krista's deep experience with our organization, combined with her intimate knowledge of the jewelry industry and the needs of our clients, positions her exceptionally well to create value for all the stakeholders we serve," said Braakman.
"This promotion reflects both her track record of success and our confidence in her vision for the future of Instore and our fine jewelry division."
Walters has been an integral part of Instore and SmartWork Media, the company said, working closely with marketers, brands, and industry partners to grow Instore’s reach and impact.
Her expertise spans content strategy, client relationships, and event development, all of which the company said have contributed to its growth in the fine jewelry space.
In her expanded position, Walters will oversee strategic direction for Instore while leading jewelry-focused initiatives across SmartWork Media's media and events portfolio, further strengthening the company's connection to the retailers and suppliers it serves.
"I'm honored to step into this role and continue the work we've built together," said Walters.
"SmartWork Media has always been driven by a commitment to serving our industry with authenticity and insight, and I look forward to deepening those relationships as we grow our media and events offerings for the fine jewelry community."
The Latest

Sponsored by Stratus Estate Buyers

Etsy CEO Kruti Patel Goyal explained why the company is letting go more than 200 employees as its performance improves.

The “Star Gazer” pendant, our Piece of the Week, is Syna’s tribute to curiosity and the discovery of something new.

Retailers are seeking new ways to attract customers, increase traffic, and create revenue – Estate buying events are a popular solution.

Museum officials are looking to the public to help cover the “exceptional” costs involved in recovering from the July 5 smash-and-grab.


The overhaul includes enhanced employee safety training and trendy earring styles, including lab-grown diamond studs.

The retailer said it had its biggest Mother’s Day ever, with strong demand for higher-priced jewelry.

Colored gemstones, artisan finishes, mixed metals, and meaningful details are shaping demand in bridal jewelry.

“Handwork: Handcrafted Objects that Made America” features historic and contemporary works, including a Diné squash blossom necklace.

The Armenian Jewelers Association’s East Coast chapter has also elected its 2026–2027 board of directors.

Onyx Partners has submitted a second offer to buy the department stores after its first offer fell through last year.

Solomon Brothers Jewelers has partnered with local cocktail bar Roaring Social on a new martini garnished with a tennis necklace.

Benjamin Siegel, son of President and CEO Hank Siegel, started working for the family business this week.

The new space features a modern design that blends Bulgari’s Roman heritage with San Diego’s coastal spirit.

Four men were charged in connection with the break-in and accused of stealing $365,000 in cash, jewelry, and designer goods.

André Branch has more than 25 years of experience with various brands, most recently serving as CEO of Ariana Grande’s cosmetics company.

New York-based atelier Gemlok is best known for creating the innovative “bridge” setting that became popular in the bridal market.

Santana Now's debut collection, “Unidad,” features symbolic motifs as well as pieces of wood from the Woodstock stage.

The 50-year-old man pleaded guilty earlier this year to robbing two jewelry stores and a pawn shop of more than $700,000 in merchandise.

The watch’s dial features an original design by Marvel comics illustrator Adam Kubert.

The new collection of lab-grown diamond and colored gemstone jewelry provides a “fresh perspective” on the category, Chatham said.

While some August babies are team peridot, the month's time-honored birthstone, others are team spinel, the newer alternative.

Edina Kiss’ “Popsicle” pendant and Karina Choudhrie’s “Ice Cream” charm satisfy that summer craving for a sweet piece of jewelry.

The massive billboard has been in the same spot on the department store’s Herald Square flagship store for decades.

The miner’s ruby and emerald auctions brought in a combined $102.9 million.

The goal is for the De Beers sale to be finished by the second half of 2026, with the subsequent approvals process expected to take a year.

David Bonaparte, along with Tim Haake and Ronnie VanderLinden, continue to lobby for tariff exemptions for diamonds, gemstones, and pearls.
























