Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
Designer Stephen Webster to Host 2017 Gem Awards
Jewelers of America has tapped the British jewelry designer to bring his specific brand of humor and flair as the host of its annual event.

New York--Jewelers of America announced that jewelry designer Stephen Webster will be the host of the annual Gem Awards, scheduled for Jan. 13 in New York.
With an eye for detail, flair and a wild imagination, Webster is widely thought to be one of the industry’s most accomplished and exciting designers, JA said. He has a workshop and design studio in London’s Mayfair neighborhood, a salon on the city’s tony Mount Street and a flagship store on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.
He draws his inspiration from English eccentricity and American iconography, wildlife, the high life, literature, theater and pop culture, the ocean and the animal kingdom, and combines a love of fine craftsmanship with a passion for music, fashion and art.
“Despite carrying the burden of a funny accent and a warped sense of unfiltered humor, the powers that be have asked me to host this year’s Gem Awards. I’m honored and looking forward to it. My wife is equally dreading it, but wouldn’t miss it,” Webster said. “Accepting that the engagement comes with responsibilities, the values of the awards committee and the nominees will be respected at all times. My name is Stephen Webster, and I endorse this message.”
The 2017 Gem Awards will honor Jim Rosenheim, chairman of Washington, D.C. retailer Tiny Jewel Box, with the Lifetime Achievement Award and present Gem Awards in four other categories, Jewelry Design, Marketing and Communications, Media Excellence, and Watch Excellence. Jewelers of America recently announced the nominees in those categories via Facebook Live.
The 2017 Gem Awards will be held at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York, but parts of the ceremony also will be broadcast via Facebook Live on the event’s Facebook page.
“We are thrilled that Stephen Webster has agreed to host the 15th annual GEM Awards,” Gem Award Chair Norman Miller said. “After Stephen presented the Gem Award for Jewelry Design last year, there was immediate consensus with the Gem Awards committee that (he) would be a terrific host for our milestone event. Trust me, you want to attend this event.”
For more information about the event or to order tickets, reserve a sponsorship, or secure an advertisement in the Gem Awards Journal, visit the Jewelers of America website.
National Jeweler is a for-profit subsidiary of Jewelers of America, though the two organizations act independently of each other.
The Latest

The credit card companies’ surveys examined where consumers shopped, what they bought, and what they valued this holiday season.

Kimberly Miller has been promoted to the role.

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

The “Serenity” charm set with 13 opals is a modern amulet offering protection, guidance, and intention, the brand said.


“Bridgerton” actresses Hannah Dodd and Claudia Jessie star in the brand’s “Rules to Love By” campaign.

The jewelry manufacturer and supplier is going with a fiery shade it says symbolizes power and transformation.

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

The singer-songwriter will make her debut as the French luxury brand’s new ambassador in a campaign for its “Coco Crush” jewelry line.

The nonprofit’s new president and CEO, Annie Doresca, also began her role this month.

As the shopping mall model evolves and online retail grows, Smith shares his predictions for the future of physical stores.

January’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.

The annual report highlights how it supported communities in areas where natural diamonds are mined, crafted, and sold.

Footage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.

The supplier has a curated list of must-have tools for jewelers doing in-house custom work this year.

The Signet Jewelers-owned store, which turned 100 last year, calls its new concept stores “The Edit.”

Linda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.

The governing board welcomed two new members, Claire Scragg and Susan Eisen.

Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.

The master jeweler, Olympian, former senator, and Korean War veteran founded the brand Nighthorse Jewelry.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.

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.

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.






















