What’s really worrying U.S. consumers isn’t the present situation; it’s what the economy is going to look like six months from now.
10 Jewelry News Stories You Might Have Missed
Store closures, the RapNet row, auction house updates and more.

Throughout this crisis, we will be doubling our “stories you might have missed” feature from five to 10 to bring readers the best of our coverage on how the pandemic is impacting the jewelry industry.
To catch up on news related to COVID-19 at any time, visit this specially created page of NationalJeweler.com.
1. Signet Temporarily Closes All North American Stores
The retailer’s employees will be paid through April 4, but may soon face reduced hours and pay as the coronavirus weighs on the company’s balance sheet.
2. Companies Pull Goods off RapNet in Droves After Price Cut
Mobilized via Instagram, hundreds of companies have removed their diamonds from the trading platform in protest.
3. The Rap Price List Is Suspended Until May 1
While it remains in limbo, others are stepping in to offer free membership or even launch new platforms.
4. Jewelry Designers’ Production Grinds to a Halt in NYC, Los Angeles
Meanwhile, international production is turning into a saving grace.
5. MK Diamonds’ Julio Ramirez Dies at 43
He succumbed to an undiagnosed illness with symptoms similar to the coronavirus.
6. How the Big Jewelers Are Weathering the Coronavirus
From store closures to employee benefits, here’s how U.S. specialty jewelers are handling business in the midst of COVID-19.
7. CBG, JIS Push Jewelry Trade Shows Back to Fall
The American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute also has postponed its Time-Con event.
8. Here’s How the Auction Houses Are Responding to Coronavirus
A rundown on which jewelry and watch auctions have been postponed, which are taking place online, and how the houses are operating.
9. Coach’s Corner: A Call for Togetherness
Columnist Pat Henneberry shares her thoughts on how members of the jewelry industry can support each other during these difficult times.
10. Northeastern Fine Jewelry Lends a Hand to Local Restaurants
The family-owned jeweler is donating a portion of its gift card proceeds to local restaurants in the Capital Region in New York as both weather the coronavirus pandemic.
The Latest

Now called The Instore Jewelry Show, it will include holiday-focused education, interactive workshops, and a window display contest.

It includes pricing for unenhanced Colombian emeralds in the fine to extra fine range.

Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA

The “Sea of Wonder” collection features pieces inspired by the ocean, from its waves to flora and creatures like urchins and sea turtles.


The 23-carat fancy vivid blue diamond, set to headline Christie’s May jewelry auction, was expected to sell for as much as $50 million.

G.B. Heron Jewelers in Salisbury, Maryland, is set to close as its owner, Jeff Cassels, retires.

Six new retail businesses were selected for the 2025 program, which began in January.

Emmanuel Raheb outlines the differences between the two platforms and posits that the most successful jewelers use both.

The miner said its April sale featured a mix of commercial-quality primary rubies and secondary rubies of varying quality.

U.S. customs agents in El Paso, Texas, intercepted the package, which would have been worth $9 million if the jewelry was genuine.

Health monitors become statement pieces when paired with the brand’s new collection of stackable diamond-studded bands.

Ten organizations were selected this year.

Kim Carpenter and Sam Gevisenheit have joined the brand.

“Shell Auranova” is the next generation of the brand’s bridal line, featuring half-bezel engagement rings with bold and fluid designs.

Boucheron and Pomellato performed well in an otherwise bleak quarter for Kering amid struggles at Gucci.

Designer Deborah Meyers created her birds from oxidized sterling silver, rose-cut diamond eyes, and Akoya Keshi pearl feathers.

The company said it expects sightholders to remain “cautious” with their purchasing due to all the unknowns around the U.S. tariffs.

Sponsored by the Gemological Institute of America

Simon Wolf shares why the time was right to open a new office here, what he looks for in a retail partner, and why he loves U.S. consumers.

A third-generation jeweler, Ginsberg worked at his family’s store, Ginsberg Jewelers, from 1948 until his retirement in 2019.

The company failed to file its quarterly reports in a timely manner.

The organization also announced its board of directors.

Charms may be tiny but with their small size comes endless layering possibilities, from bracelets to necklaces and earrings.

Paola Sasplugas, co-founder of the Barcelona-based jewelry brand, received the Fine Jewelry Award.

A platinum Zenith-powered Daytona commissioned in the late ‘90s will headline Sotheby’s Important Watches sale in Geneva next month.

The Signet Jewelers-owned retailer wants to encourage younger shoppers to wear fine jewelry every day, not just on special occasions.