Plus, why Saks Global’s bankruptcy may have given Bloomingdale’s an edge.
5 good reads for December
Want to learn how to be more of a “do nothing” type of leader and manager? A book released this month coaches business owners on how to stop micromanaging.

New York--Each month, National Jeweler sifts through the new releases on online book discussion site Goodreads to find four that could be beneficial for business owners and leaders.
This month’s selections include how to take on a “do nothing” leadership style, how to utilize today’s marketing and public relations to reach the right audience and boost sales, a book that discusses the type of person that starts a business and a look at what drives us as human beings.
An editor’s pick for a few fun nights of reading is included at No. 5.
1. Do Nothing!: How to Stop Overmanaging and Become a Great Leader
J. Keith Murninghan
Despite what many leaders and business owners may think, Murninghan argues that not only is the “do nothing” method of leadership possible but also is more effective than doing too much. Great leaders should do nothing, except think, make key decisions, help others do their jobs better, and add some organizational control to make sure results turn out OK.
2. The Illusions of Entrepreneurship: The Costly Myths That Entrepreneurs, Investors, and Policy Makers Live By
Scott Shane
The author, a leading expert in entrepreneurial activity in the United States, uses real data drawn from extensive research to provide information about who becomes an entrepreneur and why; how businesses are started; and the factors that are indicative of both success and failure.
3. The New Rules of Marketing & PR: How to Use Social Media, Online Video, Mobile Applications, Blogs, News Releases, & Viral Marketing to Reach Buyers Directly
David Meerman Scott
This book offers a step-by-step guide on how to leverage modern marketing and PR to communicate with buyers directly, raise visibility and increase sales, including how small businesses can use web-based content to make sure they’re getting the right information to the right audience.
4. Me, Myself, and Us: The Science of Personality and the Art of Well-Being
Brian Little
Personality psychologist Brian Little examines the new findings in personality science, what they mean for general readers and how it explains the behavior of both ourselves and others, such as whether or not our personalities are set by age 30 and if some individuals are “hard-wired for happiness.”
5. Editor’s Pick: Wild
Cheryl Strayed
After her mother died, with her family scattered to the wind and her own marriage falling apart, Strayed made a decision that
The Latest

The flawless, Type IIa stone is estimated to achieve up to $2.8 million at the auction house’s high jewelry sale in April.

Costume designer Kate Hawley wore three archival Tiffany & Co. brooches, our Pieces of the Week, while accepting her first Oscar.

You deserve to know what you are selling–to protect your customers as well as your business and your reputation.

The jewelry retailer announced changes to its store network and brand portfolio during its fourth-quarter earnings call.


From a weaker labor market to inflation, NRF Chief Economist Mark Mathews gave insight on what retailers can expect this year.

The historic stone, which sold at Elmwood’s in London, is the largest white diamond to be offered on the U.K. market in more than a decade.

Every jeweler faces the same challenge: helping customers protect what they love. Here’s the solution designed for today’s jewelry business.

Three-time Grammy award-winning artist Nelly is set to perform at the annual event at Tao Beach in Las Vegas on May 31.

The model and fashion editor’s gold evening bags were the top lots at the London sale, going for more than $25,000 each.

Fresh off winning the David Yurman Gem Awards Grant, Nelson discusses the ring that launched his career and his plans for the future.

The “stunning” Type IIb stone was found via x-ray technology at its Karowe mine in Botswana.

“The Basics of Jewelry” has been updated to include modern topics and visuals.

Held just before the Oscars, the jewelry industry’s big awards show had its share of standout jewelry, gowns, and acceptance speeches.

The Brazilian mine’s new collection features cabochons in soft, muted shades like silver and lilac.

The Academy Award-winning actress stars in Tiffany & Co.’s latest commercial, which debuted Sunday night during the Oscars.

The organizational change follows Kering’s promise of a transformation after declining sales in 2025.

Natalie Francisco rounds up the top Oscars jewels, including Rose Byrne’s Taffin necklace with a more than 20-carat yellow-brown diamond.

Béatrice Goasglas has been with TAG Heuer since 2018. She is the first woman to head the 166-year-old, LVMH-owned watch brand.

The store features the first in-store build for the jeweler’s in-house “Bella Ponte” bridal brand.

The live fine jewelry auction will take place later this week, showcasing antique pieces, rare gemstones, and signed jewels.

Our Pieces of the Week honor the 2026 nominees for the Gem Award for Jewelry Design, Silvia Furmanovich, Cece Fein-Hughes, and Catherine Sarr.

The 24-piece watch collection is set to debut in spring 2027.

Pooler, who has more than 25 years’ experience in jewelry, is now chief operating officer of Modani Jewels, Soham Diamonds, and SNJ Creations.

The reopening of the Waldorf Astoria means a homecoming for the industry group’s annual event, which will take place Saturday.

McCormack looked to the 19th century’s “golden age” of astronomy when designing her new celestial-themed collection.

Nelson will be honored as the inaugural grant winner at the Gem Awards gala on Friday.



















