12–12:45 P.M.
A panel of plugged-in store owners discuss “Gen Z Jewelry Shoppers: Trends, Preferences, and Insights.”
3–3:45 P.M.
Designers and retailers tackle “Marketing That Connects With All Demographics.” Tip: Everyone appreciates authenticity.
RETAIL
4–4:45 P.M.
Curious about “Trends in Engagement and Fashion Jewelry”? Industry experts reveal all in this session.
A BUSTLING DAY 1 OF LUXURY FOUND EXHIBITORS IN TWO CAMPS: ACCESSIBLE, ALTERNATIVE-MATERIAL DESIGNS FOR VALUE-DRIVEN SELF-PURCHASERS AND NO-APOLOGIES HIGH JEWELRY FOR BUYERS WHO’VE NEVER BLINKED
The Venetian Expo, Just Jules’ Julie Romanenko (LUX400A) teed up her latest line: “It’s the hottest new thing,” said the Scottsdale, Ariz.–based designer.
Ironically, Romanenko was referring to a collection of rather old things: vintage 9k gold lock pendants inspired by a charm from her mother’s Sweet 16 bracelet. The designs, which feature 14k gold bezels and chains, start at $3,000 retail.
“I’m working really hard not to do the $10,000 pieces,” she said. Romanenko wasn’t the only jeweler committed to offering accessibly priced designs, but for many exhibitors, the definition of affordability at a time when gold continues to hover around $4,500 per ounce was difficult to pinpoint.
“We’re not in that market where $500 up or down makes any difference.”
—Michael Hakimian, Yoko London
BY VICTORIA GOMELSKY
Unlike last year’s Luxury show, when gold peaked around $3,200 and buyers largely leaned in, the precious metal’s precipitous rise over the past year has divided
the trade into two principal camps: designer-led brands catering to value-conscious self-purchasers; and bigger, diamond-centric brands focused on selling large, natural stones to buyers for whom inflation has barely registered.
Retailer Lisa Vinicur of Diane Glynn Jewelry in Jenkintown, Pa., summed up the former camp: “$4,000 is the new $2,000,” she said as she tried on a pair of gold and diamond earrings at designer Fern Freeman’s booth in NouvelleBox (BASSANO2602). “The sweet spot customer wants something for $2,500 and that’s really difficult.”
That helps explain why Freeman incorporated a slew of chic alternative materials into her collection, including black-coated stainless steel, white ceramic, and wood. “We’re back to wood—wood is good,” Brett Freeman, Fern’s husband, said as he gazed, wistfully, at his chunky gold ring. “My wife made this for me 30 years ago when gold was $200.”
At Tacit (also in the NouvelleBox ballroom), a 2-year-old brand from fine jewelry designer Michelle Fantaci, colorful ceramic-coated silver is the main ingredient in a 14k gold and diamond line she created expressly for gift-givers and self-purchasers.
Watches and AI and social—oh
KAREN DYBIS
Independent designers with fresh takes on colored stones and goldsmithing gather in one ballroom. BY
AMY ELLIOTT
Natural diamonds in yellow and brown are more popular than ever.
MELISSA ROSE BERNARDO
Remember when mixing metals was passé? No longer!
MELISSA ROSE BERNARDO
CONTINUED FROM COVER
Love Locks necklace with 0.6 ct. emerald; $5,200; Just Jules
“The core of the brand retails from $1,000 to $2,800,” Fantaci said, pointing to her new Bodega Pool Party collection, which she described as “a surreal mashup” of beach balls, lollipops, and other playful jewels interspersed with an alphabet of puffy letter charms designed to look like miniature helium balloons.
New York–based Maura Green, another NouvelleBox exhibitor, also embraced whimsy with her carved mother-of-pearl and abalone charms, such as a flying pig, which retail from $500 to $1,000.
And yet for every exhibitor promoting fun, affordable jewels, there was a corresponding brand doubling down on luxe designs in 18k gold. High-end pearl brand Yoko London (LUX704), back at Luxury after a multiyear hiatus, showed new pieces from its Zypp collection of statement pearl and diamond jewels featuring working zippers.
“People are not resistant to prices at all,” said Yoko chief executive Michael Hakimian. “We’re not in that market where $500 up or down makes any difference.”
The number of people crowding the booth at Rahaminov (LUX622), home to an astonishing array of six-figure natural diamonds—such as a ring set with a 36 ct. cushion-cut diamond the size of a bird’s egg—suggested that the much-talkedabout K-shape economy was in full effect.
At Yael Designs (LUX412), owner and founder Yehouda Saketkhou unveiled Odyssey, the brand’s first-ever high jewelry collection, featuring diamondand gem-encrusted designs—such as a Great Barrier Reef cuff bracelet centered on a spectacular 9.69 ct. Lightning Ridge opal—starting at $120,000 retail.
“I’ve been collecting stones for many years—really special stones—and I decided to base the collection on all the travels I’ve done over the past 25 years,” Saketkhou said.
“It’s also the next step in our company. We’re going more toward high jewelry. We feel there’s really good momentum.”
Indeed, the vibe on the show floor on Day 1 was upbeat and optimistic across the board. At Gumuchian (LUX713), a returning Luxury exhibitor, co-owner Myriam Gumuchian showed off the New York City–based fine jewelry brand’s best-selling Moonlight collection. “My goal is to get 10 new clients here, people I’ve never heard of, and I think I’m going to do it,” she said.
Susan Klemt Williams, president at the Chicago-based Artistry (LUX605), called attention to a new range of gem-set pieces featuring saturated purple garnets, “blushtone” zircon, and “sultry” gray spinels.
“People are buying,” Williams said.
“There’s still some, ‘Oof, that’s how much now?’ but we’re seeing a lot of optimism. It was a good year last year despite it all.”
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212-764-6080
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Sessions like 2025’s “Fashion & Wedding Trends” always offer can’t-miss insights.
Watches and AI and social—oh my! This year’s JCK education program is more variety-packed than ever.
BY KAREN DYBIS
THE JCK TALKS education program is back for JCK Las Vegas 2026. Grab your calendars, browse all the sessions online (lasvegas.jckonline.com), and start picking your favorites.
This year’s tracks include AI & Analytics, Business Management, Marketing, Corporate Responsibility, Retail Trends, Customer Experience, Social Media, and Hot Topics (e.g., the state of the diamond and colored gemstone markets). New this year: Watches, to coincide with the Timepieces at Luxury & JCK neighborhoods.
“JCK Talks underscores the value of stepping away from the show floor to engage with the ideas shaping the future of the industry, offering attendees a chance to gain context, perspective, and actionable insight from voices across the jewelry and watch landscape,” says JCK event director Jennifer Hopf.
The AI & Analytics track offers a closer look at how jewelry retailers are using data and emerging technologies to better understand their clients and drive smarter decisions, Hopf says. Corporate Responsibility will include conversations around ethics, sustainability, and regulation, highlighting the growing importance of accountability across the jewelry supply chain. Retail Trends explores the changing brick-andmortar store environment with insights into how consumer behavior continues to reshape the in-store experience. These talks also will look at e-commerce, as retailers seek to become omnichannel to match consumers’ interests in shopping via websites or social media on their smartphones.
Hopf says the JCK show team is especially excited to debut the Watches track, “exploring market momentum, collector trends, and opportunities for growth within this evolving category.”
Here are just a few of the 2026 JCK Talks that we’re looking forward to and that are sure to fill up quickly. Can’t make one (or more) of your favorite sessions?
Don’t fret: JCK Pro members ($349) get access to JCK Talks sessions postshow. You can upgrade at the JCK Pro registration desk or the JCK Pro lounge on the show floor.
Clio Godrèche of Fondation Haute Horlogerie will lead the panel “The New Watch Customer: Understanding How Gen Z Is Reshaping the Watch Market.” These young shoppers tend to be educated on watchmaking and more interested in how brands work than in following flashy trends. (Friday, May 29, 3–3:45 p.m., Spotlight Stage)
If you want to know how influencers can help build online and real-life audiences, “Maximizing Reach: Strategies for Successful Influencer Campaigns” is for you and your team. Panelists include Brand Pierre’s Pierce Woodward (@pierce_woodward), who has 59.8 million likes on TikTok, and Tracey Ellison (aka @thediamondsgirl), whose enthusiasm for fine jewelry has earned her 1.3 million+ Instagram followers. (Friday, May 29, 4–4:45 p.m., Spotlight Stage)
fire. “The Trend Shift: How Digital Culture and Celebrities Influence Jewelry Buyers”—a talk that includes Ginnina D’Orazio of PR agency/showroom D’Orazio World, Instagram influencer and jewelry designer Julia Hackman Chafé (@juliachafe), and designer Shahla Karimi—will help retailers understand the big moments driving conversation in jewelry, as well as how to position their marketing and merchandising to capitalize on these viral sensations. (Saturday, May 30, 4–4:45 p.m., Showcase Stage)
CUSTOMER
In “Tailored Experiences: Meeting the Needs of Watch and Jewelry Shoppers,” watch expert and JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and her panel (including David Douglas Diamonds founder Doug Meadows) will break down consumer behavior and the experience-driven expectations shaping the watch industry. (Sunday, May 31, 12–12:45 p.m., Spotlight Stage)
“JCK Talks offers attendees a chance to gain context, perspective, and actionable insight from voices across the jewelry and watch landscape.”
—Jennifer Hopf, JCK event director
Leaders within the diamond industry tackle what’s happening in this ever-changing market in the always-anticipated annual session “State of the Lab-Grown Diamond Industry.” Moderated by JCK contributing editor Rob Bates, the panel—featuring GCAL by Sarine president Angelo Palmieri, among other guests—promises to be unfiltered and challenging, and, if previous years are any indication, standing room only. Get your seat early. (Saturday, May 30, 11–11:45 a.m., Showcase Stage)
When pop-culture trendsetters like Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus get engaged, the ring they choose can set the jewelry world on
PR guru Jen Cullen Williams is known for moderating spicy discussions around how jewelry brands and designers market themselves. This session, “Your Brand, Your Story: Building and Growing Your Personal Brand,” looks at how industry professionals can shape their identity while also supporting and elevating their company’s brand. Panelists include representatives from the retail, brand, and agency world, such as Scribe Jewelry designer Elizabeth Gibson, founder and CEO of Texas retailer Eliza Page; social media marketing expert Shea Curry from Catch Social; and Day’s Jewelers VP of marketing Nikia Levesque. (Sunday, May 31, 3–3:45 p.m., Showcase Stage)
REWARD YOUR BEST WITH ICONIC BRANDS THE POWER OF ONE FROM CITIZEN WATCH AMERICA
Since debuting her brand in 2019, the New York City–based designer has shown an affinity for unusual inspirations such as jellyfish, ripe red cherries, and even a tin of sardines.
From beguiling carved stone or seashell charms to stackable gold earrings, her work offers an appealing mix of Victorian sentimentality and modern esprit.
Bioluminescent Jellyfish charm with chalcedony, abalone, diamonds, and Australian opals in 14k gold; $4,750; Maura Green
A favorite among buyers and editors, the Copenhagen-based designer trained as a goldsmith at Georg Jensen and has since evolved her techniques to embrace a more whimsical aesthetic. Discover delicate charms, pendants, and other treasures rich with intricate details, often inspired by fairy tales, enchanted gardens, and forest floors.
18k gold mini popsicle necklace with ruby beads, $4,620, charm holder, $2,560, coral strawberry, $5,940 pink pearl, $1,980; Lene Vibe
SEVEN INDEPENDENT DESIGNERS OFFERING REFRESHING TAKES ON COLORED STONES AND ARTISAN GOLDSMITHING IN ONE BALLROOM
by Amy Elliott
Widely known as Jewels With Jules on Instagram, New York–based Julia Hackman Chafé is making her trade-show debut with a collection of playful, everyday-wearable designs set with rainbow sapphires. Because her father, a prominent gem dealer, is the president of gemstone wholesaler Intercolor USA, she has access to exceptional stones—and demonstrates a flair for arranging them in fresh, modern compositions.
London-based designer Francesca Ruggiero creates jewelry that reflects traditional GrecoRoman motifs and materials. Produced by trained artisans in her hometown of Naples, Italy, the pieces mix authentic ancient coins with 18k gold, blackened silver, and diamonds to tell the stories of mythological characters as well as historical emperors and figureheads.
Designer and goldsmith Svetlana Lazar trained at the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts in San Francisco, founded her line in 2018, and won an AGTA Spectrum award in 2024. Her newest collection, Echo, highlights the sculptural, undulating quality of her metalwork, including her signature Wishing Well setting, which creates an illusion of water moving beneath gemstones.
Resonance medallion with rainbow moonstone and diamonds in 18k gold; $20,500 (pendant only); Lazar Jewels
There’s nothing quiet about this new venture from jewelry designer Michelle Fantaci, which she describes as “a love letter to freedom, play, and gritty glamour.” The line features pieces that embrace the textured sheen and pillowy shape of helium balloons across hearts, letters, lips, and even a bottle of hot sauce.
Ray of Light large drop earrings in 18k gold with 2 cts. t.w. diamonds; $22,000; Wyld Box
Vintage jewels are a general touchstone for designer Rosanna Fiedler, but ultimately her pieces emerge as sleek and contemporary, offering just the right amount of volume and presence. Made in richly textured 18k gold, the Ray of Light collection—inspired by a vintage Cartier clutch—is among the must-sees by this Miami-based brand.
by Melissa Rose Bernardo
Invented the Common Language
GIA created the 4Cs to help people understand diamond quality with consistency.
Guided by Science
Our research-driven approach ensures every report reflects careful, objective evaluation.
Confidence in the Details
A GIA report helps buyers and sellers move forward with trust and certainty.
REMEMBER WHEN MIXING METALS WAS PASSÉ? IT’S NOW PRACTICALLY DE RIGUEUR.
b y Melissa Rose Bernardo
Anchoring the GEMS pavilion, AGTA is the largest association of its kind. Opening one day before the rest of JCK on Thursday, May 28.
The Bridal neighborhood at JCK is created exclusively for wedding products and trends. From semi-mounts to bands, retailers look here for the full suite of wedding jewelry.
At the center of the JCK show floor, the Currents neighborhood highlights timeless collections and exciting new launches from renowned brands. As a key destination for major buyers, Currents serves as the heart of the JCK experience featuring our industry’s anchors.
Jewelry designers cultivate their future within the Design Collective. Rising stars and established beacons let their jewelry tell their brand’s stories through individuality and craftsmanship. At the forefront of the floor and an anchor point for media moguls and creatives, the Design Collective is where one-of-a-kind pieces are discovered.
ESSENTIALS
As the most trafficked area on the show floor, Essentials & Tech delivers cutting-edge advancements in equipment and technology for the retail jewelry sector. Hands-on demos create an immersive experience that helps retailers and manufacturers develop innovative thinking and envision the future of their business.
Where jewelry and fashion converge in a neighborhood built by trends and style. New and noteworthy brands feature everyday pieces and statement accents—bridging the world of fine and fashion. Retailers look here to find affordable, stylish and durable pieces made with high-quality materials through unique craftsmanship.
First Look offers a dynamic range of finished gold, silver and fashion jewelry at accessible price points. Located in one of the most trafficked areas of JCK, this is where immediate delivery allows for fast stocking. This high-energy area attracts retailers and wholesalers looking to source, connect and buy.
The industry’s top service companies from associations to insurance providers and financial institutions can reach the finest in the jewelry industry.
Centered on the allure of colored gemstones, Gems is JCK’s vibrant home for the most diverse range of colored stones. Opening a day before the rest of the show, Gems is anchored by industry giant AGTA—the largest association of its kind. It’s also home to international vendors from the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA), Sri Lanka and Thailand. Gems draws both domestic and international gemstone buyers, dealers, retailers and designers sourcing the latest in what’s hot in color over an extended show timeline before the rest of the industry is welcomed to JCK.
HONG KONG
Explore the Hong Kong jewelry market organized by HKJMA. Located in the Level 1 Ballrooms. Opening one day before the rest of JCK on Thursday, June 5.
INDIA
Selection of vendors & designs from India.
Discover a selection of the best design & manufacturing companies from Italy.
JAPAN
Selection of vendors & designs from Japan.
KOREA
Selection of vendors & designs from Korea.
LAB GROWN
The Lab Grown area at JCK helps key players in the industry gain and grow market share. Sourced by retailers, designers, manufacturers and wholesalers alike, this is the only location in the entire industry where growers will attract the most ROI.
Step into style in JCK's Lifestyle Pavilion. This area is dedicated to accessories, decor, unique gifts, and all the things that serve as a perfect complement to existing jewelry collections.
LUXURY
The pulse of the elite jewelry world, reserved for the industry’s finest retail stores and brands. Fusing a secure buying environment with a high-energy atmosphere, this is where the true business of the elite jewelry world happens. The setting, the ambience – all of it's what makes Luxury luxury
MEXICO
Selection of vendors & designs from Mexico.
NATURAL DIAMONDS
sponsored by Natural Diamond Council
The definitive source for natural diamonds, the Natural Diamond neighborhood at JCK is where all facets of the industry explore a diverse range of shapes, cuts and quality from around the world. Through unmatched hands-on sourcing, this is where retailers, designers, manufacturers, wholesalers, dealers and brands seek the finest stones in the natural diamond industry.
THE PLUMB CLUB
The Plumb Club represents an association of wholesale jewelry suppliers representing the fine jewelry, diamond and watch sectors.
RETAIL INNOVATION
The incubator of Essentials & Tech, Retail Innovation serves as the launching pad for startups and emerging companies to shape future advancements in jewelry retail. This is where retailers and manufacturers uncover the latest in services that will change the way they do business.
THAILAND
Selection of vendors & designs from Thailand.
TIMEPIECES BY LUXURY & JCK
The destination for prestigious watch brands in The Venetian Ballrooms.
TÜRKİYE
Selection of vendors & designs from Türkíye.
FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2026
7:30 am – 9:30 am De Beers Group Breakfast (Advance Registration Required )
9:30 am – 6:00 pm JCK & Luxury Open
9:30 am – 6:00 pm JCK Key Retailer Lounge
8:30 pm – 10:30 pm JCK After Hours: Welcome Networking (Purchase Required )
SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2026
7:30 am – 9:30 am JCK Keynote: Jesse Itzler Sponsored by Angola´s Diamond Potential
Colored Stone Jewelry Grand Prize Winner
Vanessa Fernández Studio
Colored Stone Jewelry Over $30,000 Winner
Pompos Jewelry
Colored Stone Jewelry
$10,001–$30,000 Winner Biolgems
Colored Stone Jewelry
$5,001–$10,000 Winner Yael Designs
Colored Stone Jewelry
$2,501–$5,000 Winner
Tresor
Colored Stone Jewelry
$2,500 & Under Winner
Gabriel & Co.
Colored Stone Jewelry Influencers’ & Editors’ Choice Zome Luxury
Colored Diamond Jewelry Winner & Editors’ Choice Khepri Jewels
Colored Diamond Jewelry Influencers’ Choice Rahaminov Diamonds
Diamond Jewelry Over $10,000 Winner, Influencers’ & Editors’ Choice
Vanessa Fernández Studio
Diamond Jewelry
$10,000 & Under Winner
Frederick Goldman
Lab-Grown Jewelry Winner
Angara
Lab-Grown Jewelry Influencers’ Choice
Smiling Rocks
Lab-Grown Jewelry Editors’ Choice
Anye Designs
Pearl Jewelry Over $2,500 Winner, Influencers’ & Editors’ Choice
Jiahn
Pearl Jewelry
$2,500 & Under Winner
Shy Creation
Gold Jewelry Over $2,500 Winner
Gabriel & Co.
Gold Jewelry
$2,500 & Under Winner
Piyaro by Aiya Designs
Gold Jewelry Influencers’ Choice Uneek Jewelry
Gold Jewelry Editors’ Choice
Renisis
Silver Jewelry Over $500 Winner & Influencers’ Choice
Nina Lara Design
Silver Jewelry
$500 & Under Winner & Editors’ Choice
Gabriel & Co.
Mixed Metal Jewelry Winner, Influencers’ & Editors’ Choice
Norman Silverman Diamonds
Fashion/Bridge Jewelry Over $700 Winner
Alamea Hawaii
Fashion/Bridge Jewelry $700 & Under
Winner
Frederick Goldman
Fashion/Bridge Jewelry Influencers’ Choice
Nadri
Fashion/Bridge Jewelry Editors’ Choice
Nadri
Men’s Jewelry Over $2,500 Winner, Influencers’ & Editors’ Choice
Parlé Jewelry Designs
Men’s Jewelry
$2,500 & Under Winner
Thorsten
Best Price Point
$501–$1,000 Winner
Shy Creation
Best Price Point
$500 & Under
Winner
Gabriel & Co.
Best Price Point Influencers’ Choice
Stuller
Best Price Point Editors’ Choice
Frederick Goldman
Best Earring Design Over $10,000
Winner
Parlé Jewelry Designs
Best Earring Design
$5,001–$10,000
Winner
CrownRing
Best Earring Design
$5,000 & Under
Winner
Shy Creation
Best Earring Design Influencers’ & Editors’ Choice
Rahaminov Diamonds
Best Bracelet Design Over $20,000
Winner
Izi Creations
Best Bracelet Design
$5,001–$20,000
Winner
CrownRing
Best Bracelet Design
$5,000 & Under
Winner
Alamea Hawaii
Best Bracelet Design Influencers’ Choice
Rahaminov Diamonds
Best Bracelet Design Editors’ Choice
Steven Royce
Best Ring Design Over $30,000
Winner & Influencers’ Choice
Mergin
Best Ring Design
$10,001–$30,000
Winner
Rogers Jewelry
Best Ring Design
$6,100–$10,000
Winner
Kouzoupis Jewellery
Best Ring Design
$2,501–$6,000
Winner
Brilliant Earth
Best Ring Design
$2,500 & Under
Winner
Alamea Hawaii
Best Ring Design Editors’ Choice
Just Jules
Best Necklace Design Over $25,000
Winner
Norman Silverman Diamonds
Best Necklace Design Over $25,000
Winner
Rahaminov Diamonds
Best Necklace Design
$5,001–$25,000
Winner
Parlé Jewelry Designs
Best Necklace Design
$5,000 & Under
Winner
Berco Jewelry
Best Necklace Design Influencers’ & Editors’ Choice
Lindsey Scoggins Studio
Best Wedding Design Over $10,000
Winner
Uneek Jewelry
Best Wedding Design
$2,501–$10,000
Winner
Sylvie Jewelry
Best Wedding Design
$2,500 & Under
Winner & Influencers’ Choice
Brilliant Earth
Best Wedding Design Editors’ Choice
Pompos Jewelry
Best Statement Piece Over $50,000
Winner
Rahaminov Diamonds
Best Statement Piece
$10,000–$50,000
Winner
Nelson Jewellery
Best Statement Piece Influencers’ & Editors’ Choice
Marisa Perry
Gender-Neutral Jewelry
Winner
Pompos Jewelry
Gender-Neutral Jewelry Influencers’ Choice
Frederick Goldman
Gender-Neutral Jewelry
Editors’ Choice
Stuller
Platinum Jewelry Over $20,000
Winner
AG Gems & Jewelry
Platinum Jewelry
$20,000 & Under
Winner & Editors’ Choice
Parlé Jewelry Designs
Platinum Jewelry Influencers’ Choice
Marisa Perry SEE ALL WINNERS AND FINALISTS:
