A podcast prompted Smith to share his views on where origin fits into the natural diamond story and the viability of branded diamonds.
What you might have missed
A feature on the New Designer Gallery at the upcoming JA New York Summer show and a blog post on the diamond industry’s new policy on color grades were among the most-read stories on National Jeweler last week.

New York--Here are the top stories on NationalJeweler.com for the week of July 12 to 18, according to Google Analytics.
1. 10 new designers to see this summer
The work of the 10 jewelry designers who are exhibiting in the New Designer Gallery at the upcoming JA New York Summer Show are highlighted in this story and accompanying slideshow.
2. 10X Blog: Not any color you like
In her latest blog post, Editor-in-Chief Michelle Graff discusses the new policy laid out by the WFDB, IDMA and CIBJO designed to combat over-grading in the diamond industry.
3. Economy, competition led to the end for Maine chain
The attorney who handled the bankruptcy filing for G.M. Pollack & Sons talked with National Jeweler last week about factors that forced the 60-year-old jewelry business to liquidate.
4. Amazon moves record number of units on ‘Prime Day’
Amazon moved 398 items per second during its first “Prime Day” but social media reaction to the e-tailer’s one-day sales event was not all favorable.
5. 128-year-old department store will be no more
Macy’s Inc. announced last week that it is closing its downtown Pittsburgh location, which has been in business as a department store under one nameplate or another since 1887.
The Latest

The association selected eight recipients for the funding program, which is in its second year.

Whether celebrating America’s 250th birthday or the USA’s World Cup run, July birthstone jewelry can double as a patriotic accessory.

Colored gemstones, artisan finishes, mixed metals, and meaningful details are shaping demand in bridal jewelry.

Around 20 pieces of jewelry were stolen from the museum dedicated to French jeweler and glassmaker René Lalique.


The “Summer of ’96” campaign and collection celebrate the year the brand was founded for its 30th anniversary.

After eight years, Gilbertson is leaving his post at the mining company, which is currently facing a slew of operational challenges.

DCA is preparing the next generation of professionals by supporting workforce development, leadership growth, and career advancement.

The new location is set to open this winter, featuring the retailer’s first rotating jewelry designer residency.

The pop artist appears in the latest campaign for the “Laurence Graff Signature” collection.

One-of-a-kind pearls take the shape of ice cream cones, frogs, submarines, and other imaginative charms.

Charlotte Rose said her election is “a sign that this is an industry capable of change.”

Sponsored by Rio Grande Jewelry Supply

The American jewelry house, founded by Latvian immigrants, has been creating American flag brooches since 1917.

The artwork celebrates the Atlanta jeweler’s legacy and symbolizes its commitment to supporting local artists and its community.

Its team can evaluate jewelry and watches, as well as luxury handbags, artwork, and collectibles.

Falling oil prices were a factor in the slight month-over-month improvement.

The new offering comprises more than 120 bridal and engagement ring styles with natural and lab-grown diamonds.

The clock is part of the celebration for the soon-to-open Rolex headquarters on New York City’s Fifth Avenue.

The public relations professional is remembered for her benevolent generosity and unwavering commitment to those around her.

The new watch commemorates Pokémon’s 30th anniversary.

The luxury retailer is now called Exemplar Luxury Group.

The “Lady” collection is a new take on old beauty standards with gemstone-adorned hair pins and combs, a compact mirror necklace, and more.

The new line is included in the e-tailer’s curation of jewelry celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

All active members who earned their credential or designation before Dec. 1, 2025, are required to recertify.

The new jewelry collection uses a colorful palette of onyx, malachite, tiger’s eye, mother-of-pearl, lapis, turquoise, and coral.

Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry is celebrating 30 years in the Ridgeland, Mississippi community.






















