WatchesApr 16, 2026
Cartier Brings Back the RoadsterThe “watchmaker of shapes” debuted the reworked version of the vintage sports car-inspired timepiece at Watches & Wonders.
Events & AwardsMar 31, 2021
Gem Awards, JA National Convention Will Be Virtual This Summer
The events won’t be held in person until 2022.
New York—Jewelers of America has announced this summer’s Gem Awards and the Jewelers of America National Convention will happen virtually.
The Gem Awards’ virtual edition is slated for Thursday, July 15, 2021. The annual awards gala, typically held every January, honors individuals and brands whose work raises visibility of the jewelry and watches industry.
This year marks the 19th annual gala.
The Jewelers of America National Convention, meanwhile, is only in its third year. The educational conference, open to JA members and their staffs, is also scheduled to happen virtually on July 19 and 20, 2021.
In a statement, JA said it wasn’t confident in the timing of GEM Awards and the National Convention due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
JA President and CEO, David J. Bonaparte, said, “We have been carefully evaluating how COVID-19 will impact the National Convention and GEM Awards this summer. While it was not an easy decision, our board and committees have decided that hosting the events virtually is in the best interest of our attendees and staff."
“We are hard at work producing two incredible virtual events that the entire industry will now have front row seats for. We hope you will all join us, from the comfort of your homes and businesses, to celebrate, network and learn."
Both virtual events will be free to attend. Convention attendees must be employed at an active JA member, though non-member companies can access special, limited time membership deals to gain entry.
In addition to educational presentations, the convention will feature special keynote speakers and interactive networking opportunities.
2022’s Gem Awards are already scheduled for Friday, January 14, 2022 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.
JA’s Director of PR and Events, Amanda Gizzi, added, “We were looking forward to seeing everyone dressed up in their finest jewels and celebrating together. While that is not possible this summer, the virtual Gem Awards will be calling for everyone to get dressed up, grab a cocktail, and get immersed in the celebration.”
Gizzi noted this summer’s convention marks a special JA anniversary.
“The National Convention will be the culmination of our celebrations for our 115th anniversary so guests will be encouraged to register early to be part of the celebrations.”
More information on the Gem Awards is available online at jewelers.org/gemawards, and more information on the JA Virtual National Convention at jewelers.org/convention.
The Gem Awards’ virtual edition is slated for Thursday, July 15, 2021. The annual awards gala, typically held every January, honors individuals and brands whose work raises visibility of the jewelry and watches industry.
This year marks the 19th annual gala.
The Jewelers of America National Convention, meanwhile, is only in its third year. The educational conference, open to JA members and their staffs, is also scheduled to happen virtually on July 19 and 20, 2021.
In a statement, JA said it wasn’t confident in the timing of GEM Awards and the National Convention due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
JA President and CEO, David J. Bonaparte, said, “We have been carefully evaluating how COVID-19 will impact the National Convention and GEM Awards this summer. While it was not an easy decision, our board and committees have decided that hosting the events virtually is in the best interest of our attendees and staff."
“We are hard at work producing two incredible virtual events that the entire industry will now have front row seats for. We hope you will all join us, from the comfort of your homes and businesses, to celebrate, network and learn."
The JA National Convention will also be held virtually again this year.
Both virtual events will be free to attend. Convention attendees must be employed at an active JA member, though non-member companies can access special, limited time membership deals to gain entry.
In addition to educational presentations, the convention will feature special keynote speakers and interactive networking opportunities.
2022’s Gem Awards are already scheduled for Friday, January 14, 2022 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.
JA’s Director of PR and Events, Amanda Gizzi, added, “We were looking forward to seeing everyone dressed up in their finest jewels and celebrating together. While that is not possible this summer, the virtual Gem Awards will be calling for everyone to get dressed up, grab a cocktail, and get immersed in the celebration.”
Gizzi noted this summer’s convention marks a special JA anniversary.
“The National Convention will be the culmination of our celebrations for our 115th anniversary so guests will be encouraged to register early to be part of the celebrations.”
More information on the Gem Awards is available online at jewelers.org/gemawards, and more information on the JA Virtual National Convention at jewelers.org/convention.
More on Events & Awards
The Latest
IndependentsApr 16, 2026
Edge Retail Academy Updates Leadership TeamAs demand for jewelry retail coaching grows, the company has established a dedicated business coaching leadership team.
MajorsApr 16, 2026
Stuller’s Latest Mountings Catalog Is Out NowThe “Mountings 2026-2027” catalog showcases Stuller’s largest and most diverse assortment to date with more than 400 new mounting styles.
Brought to you by
Discover Timeless Treasures: A Showcase of Antique Jewelry & Timepieces in Las VegasGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
CrimeApr 16, 2026
FBI Issues Warning to Refineries, Retailers Due to High Price of GoldThe alert states that burglary crews are targeting jewelry businesses and details how jewelers and refineries can protect themselves.
Weekly QuizApr 16, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
PodcastsApr 15, 2026
Episode 4: The Natural Diamond DilemmaSally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.
MajorsApr 15, 2026
Spark Creations’ Randy McKenzie Dies at 72 McKenzie spent 45 years with Spark Creations and is remembered for being kind, dedicated, and hardworking.
Brought to you by
Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show: Showcasing the Most Collectible Merchandise from Across the GlobeGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
WatchesApr 15, 2026
These Are the New Rolex Watches for 2026Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
FinancialsApr 15, 2026
Kering’s Jewelry Shines in Q1, Gucci’s Struggle ContinuesThe luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.
SourcingApr 15, 2026
Diamond Club West Coast Names 2026 BoardKalpesh Jhaveri was re-elected as president for a third year.
TechnologyApr 15, 2026
This Jewelry Brand’s Video Series Is Up for a Webby Award“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
De Beers Expands ‘Desert Diamonds’ Beacon Into BridalThe campaign seeks to reignite desire for natural diamond engagement rings by highlighting the “distinct character” of warm-toned diamonds.
FinancialsApr 14, 2026
LVMH’s Q1 Sales Sink 6% Amid Middle East ConflictPlus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
International Jade Summit to Return to MontereyPresented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.
CollectionsApr 13, 2026
Uniform Object’s New Jewelry Collection Centers on the ‘Carbon Form’The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
Couture Announces New Show in MiamiThe jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.
CrimeApr 13, 2026
JSA Offers Reward in Oregon Jewelry Store Armed RobberyJSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.
WatchesApr 10, 2026
These Watches Have Increased in Value the Most Since 2018, Says Chrono24The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.
CollectionsApr 10, 2026
Ophelia Eve’s Toggle Pendant Holds Your SecretsThe “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.
ColumnistsApr 09, 2026
Jewelry Demand Isn’t Stronger, Prices Are Just Higher Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.
MajorsApr 09, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Promotes Nathalie Verdeille to SVP, Chief Artistic OfficerIn her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Jacob & Co. Rolls Out Its Sequel to ‘The Godfather’ Musical Watch“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”
Events & AwardsApr 09, 2026
JCK Announces Jesse Itzler as 2026 Keynote SpeakerOrganizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.
SourcingApr 09, 2026
AGA To Honor ‘Quiet Leadership’ With New AwardThe Alan Hodgkinson Medal recognizes gemologists who are consistently generous with their time and expertise.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Oris Names New CEO, CFOThe Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.
CollectionsApr 08, 2026
Hearts On Fire Celebrates 30 Years By Asking a QuestionThe “What’s Your Signature?” campaign invites women to think about how they see themselves.
