AuctionsJun 10, 2026
31.62-Carat ‘Azure Blue’ Diamond Sells For $8M+ at Christie’sIt was a banner day for blue gemstones, with another blue diamond topping $8 million and a 41-carat sapphire going for $2.3 million.
Policies & IssuesMay 11, 2017
Tiffany Got Political; Should You?
Tiffany & Co. spoke out for action against climate change this week, sparking debate both about its stance and the question: Is it bad for business to get political?
The advertisement that Tiffany & Co. ran on page 3 of The New York Times on Tuesday, May 9, calling for President Trump not to pull out of the Paris Climate Agreement. (Photo courtesy of Tiffany & Co.)
New York--Tiffany & Co. spoke out for action against climate change this week, sparking debate both about its stance and the question: Is it bad for business to get political?
The New York-based retailer had an advertisement in Tuesday’s New York Times asking President Donald J. Trump to keep the United States in the Paris Climate Agreement, the global pact to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from which the Trump administration is reportedly mulling a withdrawal.
The retailer also shared the message on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram on Tuesday morning, using black lettering against a backdrop in its signature robin’s egg blue.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the post on Facebook had more than 19,000 reactions, more than 2,000 shares and nearly 600 comments, many of which did not take issue with Tiffany’s stance but with a company that sells jewelry wading into politics.
As one user wrote: “Any responsible CEO who takes into consideration the value of their stock and a responsibility to their stockholders should never express, nor allow anyone to express, in the name of the company any sort of political opinion ever. This is not a statement of disagreement, it’s just a statement of fact. Keep business and politics separate.”
So, did Tiffany make a mistake in addressing the president and taking a position on climate change?
And is the separation of business and politics advice that all businesses, including independent jewelers, should take?
“I don’t think it’s smart for anyone to get political these days. I would not do it.” --Andrea Hansen, Luxe IntelligenceAndrea Hansen, president of Luxe Intelligence, which works on branding and business development with companies in jewelry, said while Tiffany endured some backlash for its ad, there was little risk in the company’s decision.
Environmental protection is an issue about which the retailer already has been vocal.
Tiffany was one of the most outspoken opponents of the proposed Pebble Mine in Alaska because of its potential impact on the surrounding ecosystem. The jeweler took out an ad in the Times addressing that issue and even sponsored a screening of the documentary about the project, “Red Gold,” in New York back in 2008.
Also, Hansen said, Tiffany is likely to find widespread support for its stance on climate change outside the United States.
“I think they are in a very safe place,” she said. “That they picked this one issue to be political, I feel
like they have very little to lose.”
But that doesn’t mean that getting political is a good move for other players in the jewelry industry.
“I don’t think it’s smart for anyone to get political these days. I would not do it,” Hansen said, adding that by “anyone” she means brands, jewelry designers and, especially, retailers.
“The country is 50/50, basically, and it’s not smart to take the risk of losing clients when business is already so difficult.”
Bill Gullan, president of Philadelphia-based branding agency Finch Brands, agrees with Hansen on both points--that Tiffany was not taking a big risk with its climate change ad and that retailers, particularly small, independently-owned jewelry stores, should generally avoid injecting politics into their business.
“It’s like [talking about] politics and religion and sex at the dinner table. You really need some restraint here, I think,” he said.
But what if the business owner feels compelled to speak out on an issue because they believe it’s more about speaking up for what’s right than it is about politics?
There were commenters on the Tiffany Facebook post who noted as much about the company’s climate change ad, with one person writing: “Good on you (Tiffany) for taking a stance and expressing it … I don’t think people actually understand that speaking up for climate action is important and it is beyond a mere political stand. It affects everyone. It’s about the future of our home.”
Gullan said he gives his clients two pieces of advice about taking a political stance.
Number one, they should ask themselves: Does the position you’re considering taking map very closely with the values and belief system of your customer base?
Hansen gave this same advice to National Jeweler on Wednesday, reiterating what she said when commenting on Spicer-Greene’s conversation-starting billboard back in March--know your audience.
Gullan said the number two question to ask is: Do you, the brand, have credibility to speak on the issue?
He draws on two commercials that aired during this year’s Super Bowl to illustrate the concept of credibility.
Airbnb aired an ad that was a montage of people of different races, religions, genders and ages that sent a message of acceptance and tolerance. Gullan said as a company that promotes global travel and its clients immersing themselves in different cultures, this was a fine message for Airbnb to send.
Audi’s commercial, meanwhile, expressed its support for equal pay for equal work and was roundly criticized. It’s a message that seemingly came out of nowhere for the car company, a company, Gullan pointed out, that does not have a single woman on its board.
“Go for it, speak your truth, do you, but understand there are risks in terms of how your customers feel and react,” he said.
“Brands needs to be careful. There’s a lot of raw nerves and live wires about this stuff.”
But that doesn’t mean that getting political is a good move for other players in the jewelry industry.
“I don’t think it’s smart for anyone to get political these days. I would not do it,” Hansen said, adding that by “anyone” she means brands, jewelry designers and, especially, retailers.
“The country is 50/50, basically, and it’s not smart to take the risk of losing clients when business is already so difficult.”
Bill Gullan, president of Philadelphia-based branding agency Finch Brands, agrees with Hansen on both points--that Tiffany was not taking a big risk with its climate change ad and that retailers, particularly small, independently-owned jewelry stores, should generally avoid injecting politics into their business.
“It’s like [talking about] politics and religion and sex at the dinner table. You really need some restraint here, I think,” he said.
But what if the business owner feels compelled to speak out on an issue because they believe it’s more about speaking up for what’s right than it is about politics?
There were commenters on the Tiffany Facebook post who noted as much about the company’s climate change ad, with one person writing: “Good on you (Tiffany) for taking a stance and expressing it … I don’t think people actually understand that speaking up for climate action is important and it is beyond a mere political stand. It affects everyone. It’s about the future of our home.”
Gullan said he gives his clients two pieces of advice about taking a political stance.
Number one, they should ask themselves: Does the position you’re considering taking map very closely with the values and belief system of your customer base?
Hansen gave this same advice to National Jeweler on Wednesday, reiterating what she said when commenting on Spicer-Greene’s conversation-starting billboard back in March--know your audience.
Gullan said the number two question to ask is: Do you, the brand, have credibility to speak on the issue?
He draws on two commercials that aired during this year’s Super Bowl to illustrate the concept of credibility.
Airbnb aired an ad that was a montage of people of different races, religions, genders and ages that sent a message of acceptance and tolerance. Gullan said as a company that promotes global travel and its clients immersing themselves in different cultures, this was a fine message for Airbnb to send.
Audi’s commercial, meanwhile, expressed its support for equal pay for equal work and was roundly criticized. It’s a message that seemingly came out of nowhere for the car company, a company, Gullan pointed out, that does not have a single woman on its board.
“Go for it, speak your truth, do you, but understand there are risks in terms of how your customers feel and react,” he said.
“Brands needs to be careful. There’s a lot of raw nerves and live wires about this stuff.”
More on Policies & Issues
The Latest
MajorsJun 10, 2026
Saks Global Receives Bankruptcy Court Approval for ReorganizationThe approval means the retailer is on track to exit bankruptcy proceedings this summer.
CrimeJun 10, 2026
2 Suspects Arrested in Texas Jewelry Store RobberyThe men are believed to be part of the group of several masked suspects that robbed Marc Robinson Jewelers in April.
Brought to you by
All Eyes on Gold Prices. Alternatives to Look For. And What to BEWARE of in VegasAs gold prices rise, today’s retailers are looking for alternatives at prices that will appeal to wider audiences.
CollectionsJun 10, 2026
Sylvie Debuts ‘Elevated’ Bridal Collection Inspired By Designer’s RingThe bridal-focused brand is also launching its Custom Atelier this summer, a digital custom design tool for its authorized retailers.
Weekly QuizJun 05, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
EditorsJun 09, 2026
Q&A: Al Cook on the Lab-Grown ‘Bubble,’ Dwindling Diamond Supply The De Beers Group CEO also discussed tariffs, Desert Diamonds, and the pending sale of De Beers in an interview with Michelle Graff.
MajorsJun 09, 2026
Wilkerson's Russ Whitehouse RetiresThe industry veteran is bringing his 56-year run in the fine jewelry sector to an end.
Brought to you by
How Modern Training Is Becoming a Competitive Advantage for Jewelry RetailersWith the trade and customer trust in mind, GIA® developed NextGem™ – on-demand training designed specifically for retail.
Events & AwardsJun 09, 2026
Pride Month Panel to Highlight LGBTQ+ Jewelry VoicesThe panel discussion will feature LGBTQ+ leaders across the jewelry, luxury, and creative industries.
CollectionsJun 09, 2026
Marie Lichtenberg’s New Capsule Collection Is a Smash, LiterallyInspired by a locket that got run over, the “Smash” capsule collection reimagines the shape of Lichtenberg’s signature style.
MajorsJun 09, 2026
Frederick Goldman Names Director of Sales for SoutheastThe company has promoted Katherine Whitacre to the role.
MajorsJun 08, 2026
Stuller Expands Selection of Lab-Grown Diamonds, Demi-Fine JewelryThe jewelry manufacturer has added Taylor Swift-esque diamond shapes, and more silver, gold vermeil, and gold-plated jewelry.
SourcingJun 08, 2026
Sally Morrison to Depart De Beers This Summer Morrison has been marketing diamonds on and off since the early 2000s and said she is leaving to “pursue new projects.”
TrendsJun 08, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: June’s Birthstone TrioThose born in June can celebrate with pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone jewelry.
TechnologyJun 08, 2026
Overnight Mountings Launches Ring Builder PlatformThe platform allows retailers to guide clients through a customizable engagement ring buying experience in a branded interface.
IndependentsJun 05, 2026
Pennsylvania Jewelry Store To Close After 79 YearsJim Springer, owner of Dunkelberger’s Fine Jewelry, is heading into retirement.
SurveysJun 05, 2026
Consumers to Cut Back on Spending Amid Rising Prices, Survey Shows When conducting its May consumer confidence survey, The Conference Board asked extra questions about consumers’ budgeting strategies.
CollectionsJun 05, 2026
Rebel Jewelry’s Charm Symbolizes Perseverance for Pride MonthThe “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.
SourcingJun 05, 2026
State of Diamonds: The Way Forward for Natural DiamondsThe jewelry industry is reassessing its positioning as Gen Z reshapes the retail landscape and lab grown continues to gain market share.
AuctionsJun 04, 2026
Treasures from Maurice Tempelsman’s ‘Marvelous’ Life Head to AuctionUp for auction at Sotheby’s, the collection of Tempelsman’s personal effects includes a Cartier Tank watch Jackie O. gifted him.
CollectionsJun 04, 2026
Buddha Mama to Spend the Summer in AspenThe Miami-based fine jewelry brand will host its first summer residency in the Colorado mountain town from June 5 to Aug. 23.
MajorsJun 04, 2026
AGS Honors Late Peter Yantzer, Holds Time Capsule CeremonyThe organization also announced its international board of directors for the 2026-2027 term.
MajorsJun 04, 2026
Neiman Marcus’ Downtown Dallas Store to Close in SeptemberSaks Global confirmed the closure this week, spelling the end for a store that’s been part of downtown Dallas for more than 100 years.
ColumnistsJun 03, 2026
Peter Smith: When Top Talent Leaves and What It Says About YouSmith discusses how managers should handle a top performer's exit, warning that a poor response could have a lasting impact.
GradingJun 03, 2026
GIA’s Tracr Investment Is First Step Toward Industry-Owned PlatformThe Gemological Institute of America is now a 30 percent stakeholder in Tracr, the De Beers-backed blockchain for diamonds.
WatchesJun 03, 2026
The 1916 Company Taking Pre-Owned Rolexes on the Road, AgainThe retailer is bringing Rolex Certified Pre-Owned watches to five U.S. cities in 2026 for collectors to see, try on, and purchase.
IndependentsJun 03, 2026
Jessica Alba Is the New Face of Gabriel & Co.The actress and entrepreneur stars in the jeweler’s new campaign that celebrates life’s quiet moments.
