From a Betta fish brooch to a “dragon’s trove” of zircon eggs, here are seven pieces that’ve stuck with Associate Editor Lauren McLemore.
WJA Office Manager Fired, Arrested for Alleged Theft
Kimberly Galvin was let go by the Women’s Jewelry Association and has been arrested after it was discovered that she allegedly had been funneling money meant for the WJA into her own accounts.
Poughkeepsie, N.Y.--The Women’s Jewelry Association has fired office manager Kimberly Galvin and issued an alert to members after discovering that she allegedly had been diverting funds meant for the WJA into her personal accounts.
Galvin’s alleged crime came to light when WJA Executive Director Bernadette Mack noticed an oddity in some of the organization’s records.
According to the WJA, it is believed that the illegal activity began in March and involved situations in which Galvin had verbal or written access to people’s credit card numbers, such as via membership application or renewal forms, or when she was handed a credit card while working the sign-in desk at New York events.
It is unknown at this time exactly how much money was stolen, as the investigation in the case is ongoing.
The WJA fired Galvin, who had been with the organization for two-and-a-half years, after learning of her alleged crime, and she was arrested by the Poughkeepsie City Police Department on Tuesday.
According to online court records, she is scheduled to appear in court again on Monday in front of Judge Thomas J. O’Neill.
Dutchess County Assistant District Attorney Andrea Long is handling the case. She did not return a call or email seeking comment on Thursday.
As of Thursday afternoon, there was no defense attorney information on file for Galvin.
In a statement shared with National Jeweler, WJA President Brandee Dallow said the organization “has and continues to represent the best of what our industry is about,” and that won’t change due to the actions of one individual.
She also said, “We are working closely with authorities to ensure a swift and complete resolution to this situation. Our organization, comprised of hundreds of dedicated industry professionals who volunteer their time, will only become stronger moving forward.”
The WJA said that while any information entered into the organization’s website is secure, out of an “abundance of caution” it is urging all members or other persons known to participate in national events to check their credit card statements for random charges, regardless of how they paid.
This would include charges that appear to be in the name of WJA that they did not initiate, incorrect charges that appear to be in the names of companies that might be familiar and charges initiated through mobile payment company Square Inc.
It also sent members a link to this document outlining further steps they can take to protect their information.
The WJA said
The Latest

Groundbreaking New Mexico Governor-elect Deb Haaland wore the earrings, our Piece of the Week, when she declared victory on Tuesday.

Jost goes on an epic journey, traversing rough seas and encountering a cyclops, to discover the perfect holiday gift.

With customization becoming more expected in engagement ring shopping, the Bridal Builder makes the process tangible.

Sponsored by GCAL by Sarine


From shrinking budgets to AI elves, here are five takeaways from holiday reports by Bain, Adobe, Mastercard, NRF, and insights from YouGov.

The designers combined their talents for Little Pet Portraits, hand-painted miniatures of our best friends set in a piece of jewelry.

A Diamond Is Forever's holiday campaign reimagines natural diamond icons for a new generation celebrating individuality.

Its non-bridal fine jewelry remains the star of the show, recently launching new collections inspired by Elizabeth Taylor and Jane Goodall.

“Joy: The Swarovski Musical” features Ariana Grande as the leading lady in scenes inspired by classic musical montages.

The lab will bring back its complimentary next-day service for some reports starting next week.

New collections and relevant marketing pushed the company forward, while Pandora’s lab-grown diamond sales continue to lag.

The citywide celebration, slated for Nov. 16-22, is set to host more than 175 events, including live jewelry-making demos.

Lanessa Elrod, former president and CEO of Louis Vuitton Americas, has stepped into the role as the retailer celebrates 125 years.

A replica of one of the most powerful objects in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the glove is heading to auction next month in Abu Dhabi.

Klein, who had his own marketing agency and worked for Gabriel & Co. and Trans American Diamond, is remembered as a kind man.

To enter the giveaway, locals can purchase a featured beverage from one of eight participating restaurants in Houston and Austin, Texas.

The grant recipient will be awarded $50,000 as well as mentoring meetings with executives at David Yurman and other industry executives.

The winners include a non-NAJA member seeking training, a member beginning NAJA courses, and a member becoming a Certified Master Appraiser.

The rare jewel, which has links to Russia’s Romanov dynasty, is estimated to fetch up to $2 million.

Jewelers of America announced the additions to its board of directors following its annual general meeting, held last week.

The jewelry collection supports Yamaguchi’s Always Dream foundation, which provides reading and educational resources to families in need.

Spectrum’s “Best of Show” honors went to a 101-carat Paraiba carved to look like Medusa that has a magnet-activated LED light.

Our Halloween Pieces of the Week are four “Eye” pendants, each set with colorful gemstones.

Alexis Hoopes expanded eBay’s “Authenticity Guarantee” program during her tenure.

The Rolex-owned retailer’s new 4,700-square-foot store’s façade honors the Pacific Northwest’s evergreen forests.

Get into the Halloween spirit with this roundup of 13 spooky jewels.






















