Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
MJSA Expo Returns to School Jewelers
The trade show has announced its two-day educational program.

New York—The MJSA Expo is returning to the Javits Center in New York City this March.
Held concurrently with JA New York from March 15 to 17, the trade show highlights jewelry-making tools, technologies, supplies and services.
A two-day educational program is also on the agenda, with topics ranging from how to adapt to the up-and-coming trends to changes to the Federal Trade Commission’s karat gold threshold.
The MJSA Council of Custom Jewelers is expected to host forums to address challenges faced by custom jewelers, particularly pricing and client communication.
The “At the Bench Live” demos will return to the show, alongside the debut of the new MJSA Press book titled, “At the Bench Vol. 2: Tips, Techniques, and Step-by-Step Projects for Jewelers of All Skill Levels.”
Richey will host a “Critique My Line” session for designers alongside brand strategist Helena Krodel.
Meanwhile, Matthew Perosi and George Blair of the Sapphire Collaborative will share their expertise in photography and digital media in the section, and Miya Owens of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee will be available to answer legislative and regulatory questions.
A few highlighted sessions from the two-day seminar schedule are below.
Sunday, March 15
Achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals through Jewelry
11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Community Hall
Susan Wheeler, a Chicago-based jewelry designer and the founder and CEO of the Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference, will talk about her steps toward fulfilling the United Nations’ 17 sustainable goals, which range from “no poverty” to “zero hunger.” Wheeler will discuss how she built a responsible supply chain for gold, gemstones, pearls and diamonds.
On the Ground Floor: How to Identify Trends Early
4 to 5:30 p.m., Community Hall
The presentation, hosted by consultant Marlene Richey, will guide attendees on how to tell the difference between a long-term trend and a passing fad. Richey will discuss how to spot trends in the social, technological, political, economic and artistic worlds and translate that into insight on how consumers purchase jewelry.
Monday, March 16
How Low Can It Go? What the FTC’s New Gold Karat Guidelines Mean
1 to 2:30 p.m., Community Hall
This panel discussion dives into what the FTC’s new gold karat guidelines mean for the industry, how it will
MJSA’s At the Bench Live: Finish Line: Creating Cool Textures
2 to 3:30 p.m., Main Stage
This live demo will feature designers giving texture to their pieces, whether it be hammered, scratched, or other methods. Presented by Lee Krombholz of Kromholz Jewelers, the demo will show attendees how to add a little extra to a piece using basic tools and techniques.
For more information or to see the full schedules, visit the MJSA Expo website or call 1-800-444-MJSA (6572).
The Latest

The credit card companies’ surveys examined where consumers shopped, what they bought, and what they valued this holiday season.

Kimberly Miller has been promoted to the role.

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

The “Serenity” charm set with 13 opals is a modern amulet offering protection, guidance, and intention, the brand said.


“Bridgerton” actresses Hannah Dodd and Claudia Jessie star in the brand’s “Rules to Love By” campaign.

The jewelry manufacturer and supplier is going with a fiery shade it says symbolizes power and transformation.

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The singer-songwriter will make her debut as the French luxury brand’s new ambassador in a campaign for its “Coco Crush” jewelry line.

The nonprofit’s new president and CEO, Annie Doresca, also began her role this month.

As the shopping mall model evolves and online retail grows, Smith shares his predictions for the future of physical stores.

January’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.

The annual report highlights how it supported communities in areas where natural diamonds are mined, crafted, and sold.

Footage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.

The supplier has a curated list of must-have tools for jewelers doing in-house custom work this year.

The Signet Jewelers-owned store, which turned 100 last year, calls its new concept stores “The Edit.”

Linda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.

The governing board welcomed two new members, Claire Scragg and Susan Eisen.

Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.

The master jeweler, Olympian, former senator, and Korean War veteran founded the brand Nighthorse Jewelry.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.

Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.

Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.

As part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.





















