A new addition to the “Heirloom” collection, this one-of-a-kind piece features 32 custom-cut gemstones.
Nancy B. & Co. Founder Nancy Brewer Dies at 78
She was known as a pioneer for women in the jewelry and gem industries.
Los Angeles—Nancy B. & Co. jewelry designer Nancy Brewer died Aug. 5.
She was 78.
Brewer created her namesake jewelry company in 1978 and was particularly known for her gold earrings and colored gemstone jewelry, all targeted toward working women like herself.
Brewer headed Nancy B. & Co. until 2005, when she sold it to B.A. Ballou. Carla Corporation subsequently acquired the company and still manufactures its designs today.
In an announcement of her passing, GIA noted that Brewer “paved the way for women in the gem and jewelry industry.”
She was a member of the Gemological Institute of America’s Board of Governors from 1997 to 2007.
“Nancy’s manufacturing expertise, along with her creativity and business acumen, perfectly positioned her as the ideal GIA board member at that time,” said Kathryn Kimmel, retired GIA senior vice president and chief marketing officer.
Many at GIA remembered her warmly.
Dione D. Kenyon, current chair of the GIA Board of Governors, said, “I was fortunate to know Nancy for over 35 years as a mentor and dear friend. She was a remarkable woman and entrepreneur; brave, self-made, and one who gave back to our industry and fostered the development and success of her peers.
“I am one of many who are deeply grateful for the encouragement, support and leadership she provided over the course of her career.”
GIA President and CEO Susan Jacques added: “I fondly remember Nancy as gregarious, determined and always ready to offer strategic guidance as a valued member of GIA’s Board of Governors.
“Her charisma and drive set her apart as a pioneer in the 1970s, at a time when there were few women-owned gem and jewelry businesses. Nancy was a mentor and inspiration to so many women in the trade. It was an honor to have known her and we greatly appreciate all that Nancy contributed to GIA and the jewelry industry.”
In addition to her role at GIA, Brewer served on the boards of Manufacturing Jewelers and Silversmiths of America, the Jewelry Information Center, Women’s Jewelry Association, Jewelers Board of Trade, Jewelers Vigilance Committee, The Plumb Club, the 24 Karat Club of New York, and the Jewelry Circle, City of Hope.
The Latest
Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.
The move will allow the manufacturing company to offer a more “diverse and comprehensive” range of products.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
From now through mid-May, GIA will be offering the reports at a 50 percent discount.
De Beers’ rough diamond sales were down 18 percent year-over-year in its latest round of sales.
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
The Patek Philippe expert will serve as personal curator for the brand-focused company.
The 553-square-foot shop is aboard the Carnival Jubilee cruise ship.
NDC filed a complaint against Skydiamond for use of phrases like “diamonds made entirely from the sky.”
John Carter received the AGS’s highest honor Tuesday afternoon at Conclave in Austin, Texas.
LVMH said the company performed well despite an uncertain geopolitical and economic environment.
B&D Sales and Service held a ribbon-cutting event for its new location in Cranston, Rhode Island.
It’s ultra-feminine and filled with gold, pearls, and soft pastels.
Emily Highet Morgan and Emily Bennett have joined the agency’s team.
Its updated book for mountings is also now available.
She has been with the organization since 2010, most recently serving as its chief officer of PR and industry relations.
Joyce’s Jewelry sued the bank after cybercriminals drained its accounts of nearly $1.6 million through a series of wire transfers.
Hosted by Freeman’s | Hindman, the sale will take place May 7-8.
The auction house said all 24 timepieces offered in its underground sale of rare and avant-garde watches quickly found buyers.
From lab-grown diamonds and AI to the inevitable Taylor Swift mention, here are some of Conclave’s most intriguing educational offerings.
From cybersecurity liability to trade show coverage, insurance experts share tips on how to build the right policy.
The charm is a modern rendition of the evil eye amulet that has been worn for thousands of years.
Ahead of its trade show next month, TJS awarded free registration and accommodations to one jewelry professional and three students.
By the end of this year, SRK’s diamond manufacturing complexes will achieve net zero emissions, one of an impressive array of achievements.
Members can still sell lab-grown stones, it said, but only natural gems are allowed on the show floor.