The De Beers Group CEO also discussed tariffs, Desert Diamonds, and the pending sale of De Beers in an interview with Michelle Graff.
10 Jewelry News Stories You Might Have Missed
Baselworld loses major brands, thoughts on the future of retail, an update on the Paycheck Protection Program, and more.

New York—Last week, Rolex, Patek Philippe, and other major watch and jewelry brands severed ties with Baselworld, the Paycheck Protection Program ran out of money, and more.
Throughout this crisis, we are 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 all the jewelry industry news related to COVID-19, visit NationalJeweler.com/Coronavirus.
1. Squirrel Spotting: What Will Retail Look Like After COVID-19?
Consumers will return to physical stores, writes Peter Smith, and jewelers need to be ready for them.
2. Rolex, Patek, Chanel Exit Baselworld for New Watch Show
It will be held in conjunction with Watches & Wonders Geneva in April 2021.
3. LVMH’s First-Quarter Sales Fall 17%
The watches & jewelry division was among the hardest hit, with sales dropping 26 percent.
4. Diamond Dealer Manny Gordon Dies of COVID-19
The Brooklyn native and founder of Manny Gordon Trading was 79.
5. Bob’s Watches Launches Affiliate Program for Independents
“Partners in Time” was created to provide retailers with incremental revenue during the COVID-19 pandemic.
6. De Beers, Tiffany Among Those Donating Millions to COVID-19 Relief
A few of the major players in the jewelry industry have given large sums of money. Here’s where the money is going.
7. Royal Chain Has a New Rainbow Collection
It’s inspired by children’s rainbow artwork posted in their windows during quarantine.
8. MCH Group to Decide Baselworld’s Fate in the Next Few Weeks
The announcement that five major brands are leaving the show has organizers reconsidering its future.
9. March Retail Sales Plunge, Marking Biggest Decline on Record
With businesses closed and consumers staying at home, U.S. retail sales posted a steep decline last month.
10. The Paycheck Protection Program Is Out of Money, For Now
An additional $250 billion is on the table, but lawmakers have yet to come to an agreement.
The Latest

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.

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

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.

With the trade and customer trust in mind, GIA® developed NextGem™ – on-demand training designed specifically for retail.

The platform allows retailers to guide clients through a customizable engagement ring buying experience in a branded interface.

Jim Springer, owner of Dunkelberger’s Fine Jewelry, is heading into retirement.

When conducting its May consumer confidence survey, The Conference Board asked extra questions about consumers’ budgeting strategies.

The “Tunnel” charm, our Piece of the Week, celebrates Pride Month with its design inspired by hope and the light at the end of the tunnel.

The jewelry industry is reassessing its positioning as Gen Z reshapes the retail landscape and lab grown continues to gain market share.

Up for auction at Sotheby’s, the collection of Tempelsman’s personal effects includes a Cartier Tank watch Jackie O. gifted him.

The Miami-based fine jewelry brand will host its first summer residency in the Colorado mountain town from June 5 to Aug. 23.

The organization also announced its international board of directors for the 2026-2027 term.

Saks Global confirmed the closure this week, spelling the end for a store that’s been part of downtown Dallas for more than 100 years.

Smith discusses how managers should handle a top performer's exit, warning that a poor response could have a lasting impact.

The Gemological Institute of America is now a 30 percent stakeholder in Tracr, the De Beers-backed blockchain for diamonds.

The retailer is bringing Rolex Certified Pre-Owned watches to five U.S. cities in 2026 for collectors to see, try on, and purchase.

The actress and entrepreneur stars in the jeweler’s new campaign that celebrates life’s quiet moments.

The price of gold has risen, affecting the number of pieces designers make, the materials they use, and how they position themselves.

The jewelry retailer is zeroing in on Zales, Jared, Kay Jewelers, and Blue Nile as it looks to create unique brand identities for each.

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, a development economist, will head the fund created to help Botswana diversify its economy.

Sotheby’s has appointed the former Phillips executive as its global head of private sales and retail in its watches division.

A private collection of five Paraíba tourmalines also will be up for sale at Sotheby’s High Jewelry auction in New York, scheduled for June 16.

From Gen Z’s view of luxury to “doom spending,” these are the six consumer trends to note this year.























