Sakamoto, who died in mid-January following a sudden illness, is remembered for his humility and his masterful, architectural designs.

Lauren McLemore

Raised in an orphanage, Bailey was 18 when she met her husband, Clyde. They opened their North Carolina jewelry store in 1948.

Michelle Graff

Rossman, who advised GIA for more than 50 years, is remembered for his passion and dedication to the field of gemology.

Natalie Francisco

Morris’ most cherished role was being a mother and grandmother, her family said.

Lauren McLemore

Pete’s boundless curiosity extended beyond diamond cut and he was always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the topic.

Michelle Graff

Yantzer is remembered for the profound influence he had on diamond cut grading as well as his contagious smile and quick wit.

Michelle Graff

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

Natalie Francisco

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

Michelle Graff

From influential executives to innovative designers, we pay tribute to the people we said goodbye to this year.

Lenore Fedow

The former BHP Billiton leader and Gemfields chairman is remembered for his influential leadership throughout his 50-year mining career.

Lauren McLemore

Kadet, a 1994 National Jeweler Retailer Hall of Fame inductee, helped grow the family-owned retailer in the Chicago area and beyond.

Michelle Graff

She is remembered as an artist who loved her craft and was devoted to her faith, her friends, and her family.

Lauren McLemore

The third-generation jeweler is remembered as a passionate creative with a love of art, traveling and sailboat racing.

Lauren McLemore

She was remembered as a creative and generous woman of faith, who also had a sweet tooth.

Lenore Fedow

Smith recalls a bit of wisdom the industry leader, who died last week, shared at a diamond conference years ago.

Peter Smith

Barabash, Verragio’s client relations representative, was a vital member of the team and is remembered as being warm and full of life.

Michelle Graff

The Brooklyn-based jewelry designer is remembered as a true artist and a rare talent.

Lenore Fedow

Rotenberg was an active member of the American Gem Society and an accomplished appraiser who also worked with therapy dogs at a hospital.

Lenore Fedow

He is remembered for his successful entrepreneurship, generosity, and dedication to his family.

Lauren McLemore

The creator of the WJA Chicago chapter is remembered as a champion for women in the jewelry industry and a loving grandmother.

Lauren McLemore

A third-generation jeweler, Ginsberg worked at his family’s store, Ginsberg Jewelers, from 1948 until his retirement in 2019.

Michelle Graff

LeVian is remembered for her unwavering commitment to her family, community, and helping others.

Natalie Francisco

Cowlishaw earned a degree in horology after serving in World War II, working at one of the first Zales stores in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Michelle Graff

Rovinsky is remembered as a great mentor who made the employees of his stores feel like family.

Michelle Graff

LeVian is remembered for his leadership in the jewelry industry and for being a selfless and compassionate person.

Michelle Graff