Sally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.
Mauboussin closes store, appoints new CEO in US
French brand Mauboussin has shuttered the Madison Avenue boutique it opened in 2008 and appointed new leadership for the North American market, with plans to open in a smaller space in New York later this year.
Paris--French brand Mauboussin has shuttered the Madison Avenue boutique it opened in 2008 and appointed new leadership for the North American market, with plans to open in a smaller space in New York later this year.
Isabelle Kellogg, the U.S. spokesperson for the Paris-based jewelry house, said the high cost of the rent was the reason the brand decided to close the boutique. It was located at 714 Madison Ave. between 63rd and 64th streets, a five-story space located along one of the toniest stretches of retail in the world, buffered by David Yurman on one side and Jimmy Choo on the other.
In addition, Mauboussin has appointed Rita Jammet as interim CEO for North America.
The one-year contract of Thierry Chaunu, a former executive with Damiani who was brought on board in 2013 to head Mauboussin’s expansion in North America, will run out in late summer. According to Kellogg, it is unclear if Chaunu will remain with Mauboussin in some capacity after his contract expires.
Chaunu could not be reached for comment Thursday.
Also unclear at this time is if the brand will pursue opening wholesale accounts with retailers in the U.S.
When Chaunu came on board, it was reported that Mauboussin aimed to be in a dozen doors in the U.S. market by the end of the year, selling in a mix of independent jewelers, department stores, boutiques and specialty stores.
RELATED CONTENT: Mauboussin plans to open 12 US doors in 2014
No accounts have been opened to date, however, and the company, which was set to exhibit at Las Vegas market week this year, pulled out of the Couture show.
Kellogg said the brand’s focus for now is finding a new space in New York City for its store, specifically a smaller space in Manhattan by the end of the year. “We still think it’s important for us to be in New York in some way, shape or form,” she said.
Mauboussin was established in Paris in 1827. The brand has more than 40 stores in France and eight locations outside the country, in Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, Dubai, Moscow, Tel Aviv, Beirut and Marrakesh, Morocco.
The Latest

Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

The luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

Kalpesh Jhaveri was re-elected as president for a third year.


“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.

The campaign seeks to reignite desire for natural diamond engagement rings by highlighting the “distinct character” of warm-toned diamonds.

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

Plus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.

Presented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.

The group has announced its lineup of speakers and a new “Rising Stars” pavilion.

The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.

The program provides essential funding to organizations for projects that enhance the jewelry industry.

The jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.

JSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.

The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.

The “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.

Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.

“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”

Organizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.

The Alan Hodgkinson Medal recognizes gemologists who are consistently generous with their time and expertise.

The Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.

The “What’s Your Signature?” campaign invites women to think about how they see themselves.

The big diamond’s sale added to the company’s revenue though the market remains “challenging” overall, particularly for smaller goods.

Rob Bates of The Jewelry Wire will also moderate a panel on the state of the jewelry industry during the virtual event.

The Jewelry Symposium will honor two industry veterans with lifetime achievement awards at its upcoming May event.

With their durability, brilliance, and beauty, diamonds are the perfect stone for everyday birthstone jewelry.





















