Associate Editor Natalie Francisco lists the trends she spotted during Jewelry Market Week that will dominate the second half of 2026.
Walmart’s US CEO stepping down
Walmart announced Thursday that Greg Foran will be the new president and CEO of Walmart U.S. effective Aug. 9 replacing Bill Simon who is “transitioning out of the company.”

Bentonville, Ark.--Walmart announced Thursday that Greg Foran will be the new president and CEO of Walmart U.S. effective Aug. 9 replacing Bill Simon who is “transitioning out of the company.”
Simon has headed Walmart’s U.S. operations since 2010. He was passed over for the job of Walmart president and CEO when it was announced Mike Duke was retiring, and the retailer has been struggling with sales in the U.S. during his tenure. The retailer’s most recent U.S. results showed that it experienced a flat first quarter.
A 35-year retail veteran, Foran, 53, will report directly to Walmart President and CEO Doug McMillon, who became CEO in February.
He joined Walmart in 2011 and became president and CEO of Walmart China in March 2012.
Foran was promoted to president and CEO of Walmart Asia earlier this year; Walmart said it will announce Foran’s successor in this position at a later date.
Prior to joining Walmart, Foran held a number of positions with Woolworths, including managing director of supermarkets, liquor and petrol with responsibility for more than $40 billion in sales. He also served as general manager of Big W, Woolworths’s discount store business, and general manager of Dick Smith Electronics.
“(Foran’s) depth of knowledge and global experience will bring a fresh perspective to our business, McMillon said. “His … experience in general merchandise and commitment to e-commerce will help us serve our customers even more effectively for years to come.”
Outgoing president and CEO Simon will be available to Walmart on a consulting basis for the next six months to ensure a seamless transition, the company said.
“The needs of our customers are changing dramatically and we have an enormous opportunity to serve them in new and different ways,” Foran said.
Walmart remains one of the largest sellers of fine jewelry in the United States, with sales volume on the level of the large specialty jewelry chains such as Sterling Jewelers (Kay Jewelers, Jared the Gallery of Jewelry) and Zale Corp.
The Latest

Its app now reflects increased prices for Mozambique ruby, as well as changes to its Burma ruby charts.

The revamped, elevated space will feature a two-story Patek Philippe atelier and a rooftop patio for parties.

DCA is preparing the next generation of professionals by supporting workforce development, leadership growth, and career advancement.

The special-edition piece marks the 140th anniversary of the iconic beverage brand.


Here are 13 small charms to inspire your layered looks this summer.

Found by a metal detectorist, the ring likely belonged to a wealthy, possibly royal, owner, said Noonans.

As gold prices rise, today’s retailers are looking for alternatives at prices that will appeal to wider audiences.

Our Pride Month Piece of the Week, the “Margaux” ring, is part of the wife-and-wife team’s new “Lovestoned” collection.

The group has named the keynote speaker and announced a new pavilion for its next event, which is slated for September.

From lions and hippos to snails and fish, Senior Editor Lenore Fedow wrangles her picks for cutest jewelry critters in Las Vegas.

The big stone will be fashioned into a 20.26-carat diamond in celebration of the retailer’s 100th anniversary this year.

Marie-Laure Cérède will join Chanel as the new director of its jewelry creation studio, starting in October.

At the JCK show, the lab-grown diamond brand teamed up with Jewelers for Children to support Make-A-Wish India.

Ilana McCabe is Signet’s vice president of public relations and brand communications.

It was a banner day for blue gemstones, with another blue diamond topping $8 million and a 41-carat sapphire going for $2.3 million.

The approval means the retailer is on track to exit bankruptcy proceedings this summer.

The men are believed to be part of the group of several masked suspects that robbed Marc Robinson Jewelers in April.

The bridal-focused brand is also launching its Custom Atelier this summer, a digital custom design tool for its authorized retailers.

The De Beers Group CEO also discussed tariffs, Desert Diamonds, and the pending sale of De Beers in an interview with Michelle Graff.

The industry veteran is bringing his 56-year run in the fine jewelry sector to an end.

The panel discussion will feature LGBTQ+ leaders across the jewelry, luxury, and creative industries.

Inspired by a locket that got run over, the “Smash” capsule collection reimagines the shape of Lichtenberg’s signature style.

The company has promoted Katherine Whitacre to the role.

The jewelry manufacturer has added Taylor Swift-esque diamond shapes, and more silver, gold vermeil, and gold-plated jewelry.

Morrison has been marketing diamonds on and off since the early 2000s and said she is leaving to “pursue new projects.”

Those born in June can celebrate with pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone jewelry.





















