It was a banner day for blue gemstones, with another blue diamond topping $8 million and a 41-carat sapphire going for $2.3 million.
Jewelry Manufacturer Marathon Acquires LeStage
The two Massachusetts-based jewelry-makers are now one, with the Marathon Company acquiring LeStage Manufacturing for an undisclosed amount.
Attleboro Falls, Mass.--Two Massachusetts-based jewelry-makers that have both been in business for well over 100 years are now one.
On Tuesday, Attleboro-based Marathon Company, maker of Kiddie Kraft jewelry, announced the acquisition of the LeStage Manufacturing Company. The amount of the transaction was not disclosed.
Based in Attleboro Falls, LeStage is a family-owned jewelry manufacturer with a history that stretches back 153 years, to 1863. Most recently, the company is known for its Cape Cod Jewelry and the LeStage Convertible Collection of bracelets and interchangeable clasps.
Marathon, also a family-owned business with a long history--it was founded in 1897--said it will continue to manufacture LeStage’s lines in the United States.
“As a family-owned and -operated business ourselves, we understand the responsibility that comes with building on the LeStage name, and we are proud to have the opportunity to do so,” Marathon President Roger Forman said in a release announcing the transaction.
LeStage President Garner LeStage said in the same release that they were “delighted” to entrust their legacy to Marathon. “We feel as if we are handing the reins to our own progeny rather than selling the company.”
Marathon said it will be exhibiting at all major jewelry industry trade shows this year, including RJO, IJO, CBG, JA New York, JIS, SJTA and JCK Las Vegas.
The Latest

The approval means the retailer is on track to exit bankruptcy proceedings this summer.

The men are believed to be part of the group of several masked suspects that robbed Marc Robinson Jewelers in April.

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

The bridal-focused brand is also launching its Custom Atelier this summer, a digital custom design tool for its authorized retailers.


The De Beers Group CEO also discussed tariffs, Desert Diamonds, and the pending sale of De Beers in an interview with Michelle Graff.

The industry veteran is bringing his 56-year run in the fine jewelry sector to an end.

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

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.

The company has promoted Katherine Whitacre to the role.

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.

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.























