Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.
Alex Soldier Receives a Lifetime Achievement Award
Philanthropic organization United Jewish Appeal honored the jewelry designer in New York City last month.

New York—Last month, jewelry designer and sculptor Alex Soldier was honored for the body of work he has created over his lifetime.
The United Jewish Appeal (UJA) awarded Soldier its Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 UJA Federation Awards, held at the top of Manhattan’s St. Regis hotel.
The event’s host—actress, writer and entrepreneur Sonya Kreizman—introduced Soldier, saying, “This amazing artist doesn’t need any introduction since he’s well known around the world as one of the most innovative designers of our time.”
The self-taught designer, who hails from Perm, Russia and moved to the United States in 1990, accepted the honor, saying, “I would like to thank UJA Federation for this honor and recognition of my work. Thank you everyone for coming tonight to celebrate this special evening with me—an evening of art, beauty and philanthropy. Your remarkable support inspires me to create more beautiful pieces for you to wear and share with the world. Please enjoy this magical evening and always remember to give back and make our world a better place for everyone to be happy and free.”
The UJA’s annual Federation Awards recognize community leaders for their professional and philanthropic accomplishments.
Founded in 1917, the UJA raises money it then donates to nonprofits, primarily assisting Jewish communities around the world, as well as New Yorkers of all backgrounds. The organization is also greatly involved in disaster relief worldwide.
In its fiscal year ended June 30, the UJA raised $249.3 million. Part of the funds went toward helping to coordinate 29 planes and one cargo ship containing approximately 100,000 pounds of humanitarian aid to Houston, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean after the hurricanes.
The Latest

Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.


As part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.

It marks the third time the country has headed the Kimberley Process. Ghana will serve as vice chair.

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The new Bulova x Stetson designs highlight two animals often associated with the American West—the bison and the Texas Longhorn.

Its residency at Yamron Jewelers will run through May 2026.

From influential executives to innovative designers, we pay tribute to the people we said goodbye to this year.

The retailer is expanding into areas with large Indian and South Asian populations.

The Italian brand has opened its first flagship amid the peaks of the Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy.

The new curation at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County showcases rare gem and mineral specimens in their uncut, natural state.

The couple pleaded guilty to concealing at least $127 million in cash transactions at its precious metals businesses.

Consumers shared concerns about prices, inflation, tariffs, trade, and politics in the survey’s write-in response section.

In February 2026, the auction house will move its headquarters to the former Steinway Hall, a neoclassical landmark on Billionaires’ Row.

The former BHP Billiton leader and Gemfields chairman is remembered for his influential leadership throughout his 50-year mining career.

The LVMH-owned brand has partnered with the costume design union to revamp its award for 2026.

The luxury titan inked a deal to acquire an initial minority stake in the jewelry manufacturer with a pathway to full ownership by 2032.

The company’s curation of unsigned vintage and estate jewelry debuted at the Bloomingdale’s in Costa Mesa, California.

In the recent multi-shipment seizure, CBP also found counterfeit Audemars Piguet, Moncler, and Chrome Hearts items.

Helzberg’s Chief Retail Officer Mitch Maggart shared details about its tests of a new store concept rooted in an elevated luxury experience.

Jewelers of America execs and National Jeweler editors discuss tariffs, the sky-high gold price, and the engagement that broke the internet.

The luxury goods company said founder Ippolita Rostagno will remain at the brand’s helm.

Laura Burdese, who joined the Italian luxury brand in 2022, will take on the role in July.

The National Jeweler editors revisit the most noteworthy industry happenings and design trends from 2025.



















