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The Jewelry District

The Jewelry District

176 episodes — Page 1 of 4

Episode 171: Conversations, Watches, Tariffs, QVC

May 6, 202627 min

Episode 172: Guest David Siminski

Apr 22, 202628 min

Rebecca Foerster Guests on 'The Jewelry District'

Apr 13, 202629 min

Episode 169: 24 Karat, JIS, Signet, De Beers Sightholders

Apr 8, 202627 min

Ep 168Episode 168: Guest Rebecca Foerster

Appearing in a new video format, JCK’s Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates interview Rebecca Foerster, the CEO and president of Hearts on Fire North America. Rebecca, who recently won JVC’s Stanley Schecter Award, shares how her experiences growing up in New York City, working in cosmetics and fragrances, and her introduction to the manufacturing side of the jewelry industry shaped her view of and affection for the business. She also lends her perspective on what successful retailers are doing right, as well as the place in the market for lab-grown and natural diamonds. Title sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com) Watch here: https://youtu.be/8okt8FjLmwc

Mar 25, 202629 min

Ep 167Episode 167: Tucson, Tariffs Update, Gold Volatility, De Beers

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates talk about takeaways and trends from the time capsule that was the Tucson gem shows. Victoria comments on the unique timing of the events, which occurred right before the tariffs were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court and right after the gold price hit a soaring high of over $5,500. Despite this, the mood was positive and the trends were clear. From reddish pink stones and the phrase “K-shaped economy,” Victoria shares the repeating refrains she heard. Rob breaks down the status of the tariffs, post-Supreme Court ruling. The hosts both weigh in on the volitility of the metals market. Finally, Rob shares his thoughts on the ongoing sale of De Beers and the many other factors affecting the diamond market. Title sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com)

Mar 11, 202632 min

Ep 166Episode 166: Guest Eddie LeVian

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview Eddie LeVian, CEO of Le Vian, who regales them with his family’s history with jewelry that dates back to the 1500s. They discuss the pivotal moments that shaped Le Vian’s identity as a brand including the story behind chocolate diamonds (hint: a well-known JCKer plays a part!). They delve into how Le Vian’s trend forecasts started and where the intel behind the trends comes from. Eddie may even tease some future trends at the end, so listen closely. Title sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com) Sponsor: Facets of Fire (facetsoffire.com/retailer-testimonials)

Feb 25, 202626 min

Ep 165Episode 165: Brilliant Earth, CBG, Metal Refining, Watch Woes

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about Brilliant Earth's new showroom in Beverly Hills, which Victoria had just visited, and what she learned about what the 2026 bridal customer is looking for and how retailers are meeting that moment. They highlight the brand’s shift toward experiential, hospitality-driven retail and the shifting role of sustainability in consumer decisions. Rob reports on how gold and silver prices are affecting refiners in a surprising way and shares takeaways from the CBG Show in Miami. Finally, the pair discuss the watch market and takeaways from LVMH Watch Week. Title sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com) Sponsor: Facets of Fire (facetsoffire.com/retailer-testimonials)

Feb 11, 202624 min

Ep 164Episode 164: Guest Bruce Bridges

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview Bruce Bridges, president and CEO of Bridges Tsavorite and president of AGTA. Their deep, sprawling conversation covers Bruce’s upbringing in Kenya, his family’s deep ties to mining in Africa, and the complex, devastating story of his father Campbell Bridges’ murder. Beyond the details of what happened that day and Bruce’s long, arduous fight for justice, he also shares his father’s legacy: the gems Campbell is famous for discovering and naming as well as his dream of creating an elephant sanctuary on the family’s mining claims. Bruce shares his insights into the current state of the tariffs and his perspective on how they are affecting the gem shows in Tucson. Finally, he teases some of the special gems he’ll be showcasing there. Title Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com) Sponsor: Facets of Fire (facetsoffire.com/centurion)

Jan 28, 202630 min

Ep 163Episode 163: 2026 Predictions

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about their 2026 predictions—however murky the future may be. They share their observations on how the bifurcation of demand and the strain on the middle class have affected luxury categories. Rob wonders if the year bring more stability to the diamond market, enabling the industry to roll out marketing campaigns to usher in a natural diamond revival. Victoria covers the colored stone and metal trends she’s tracking, and how the gold price is shaping designers’ choices in materials. The hosts also discuss how tariffs will affect the Tucson shows, what 2026 means for the watch business, and the future of the jewelry market in the Middle East. 2026 is already off to an exciting start. Title Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com) Sponsor: Facets of Fire (facetsoffire.com/centurion)

Jan 14, 202629 min

Ep 162Episode 162: Guests Olivia Landau and Kyle Simon

In the latest episode of The Jewelry District, JCK news director Rob Bates and JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky talk to a husband and wife team: Olivia Landau (co-founder and CEO) and Kyle Simon (co-founder and COO) of The Clear Cut—a New York City-based brand that creates custom engagement rings and other jewelry with the option to do so completely virtually. They talk about the origin story of their company, from Instagram DMs to a full-time tech-enabled operation; how they fill the niche between an in-store experience and an overwhelming online marketplace; their unapologetic focus on natural diamonds; trends in the engagement ring space; and their ideas about the importance of storytelling around diamonds. Title sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com) Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com)

Dec 17, 202528 min

Ep 161Episode 161: CIBJO and 'Synthetic,' a Rare Watch and Gem

In the latest episode of The Jewelry District, JCK news director Rob Bates shares his takeaways from the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) Congress in Paris, including the question of whether CIBJO should change the terminology around lab-grown diamonds in their Blue Books. JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky talks about Philips’s record-breaking Decade One watch auction and its star lot item, a 1943 Patek Phillippe with an intriguing story. Finally, the hosts discuss another rare item with a mysterious history: the Florentine Diamond. Title sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com) Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com)

Dec 3, 202524 min

Ep 160Episode 160: Guest Susan Posnock

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Susan Posnock in her capacity of Director of Public Affairs and Education at Jewelers of America. Susan explains the many ways that JA serves the industry. They discuss how the tariffs are impacting jewelry businesses and JA’s advocacy efforts on tariffs as well as other issues. They also talk about Susan’s other role (though not strictly industry-related) as Rob’s spouse. We learn how the pair met, and whether they talk shop at home, in a prime example of the family-oriented nature of the jewelry industry.

Nov 19, 202528 min

Ep 159Episode 159: The Louvre Heist, Gold Price, and High Jewelry

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about the Louvre heist and the possible reasons behind it. They cover the gold price, which continues to soar, and jewelers’ and consumers’ sentiments about its enduring value. Victoria reports on the high jewelry scene in L.A., where she attended two events held by Bulgari and Boucheron. Finally, the touch on predictions about holiday spending (hint: it depends on who you’re talking about). Title sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com) Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com)

Nov 5, 202527 min

Ep 158Episode 158: Guest Bella Neyman, NYCJW

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates chat with Bella Neyman, founder of New York City Jewelry Week (NYCJW), an action-packed set of events that take place each year in mid-November. Bella shares how the event got started back in 2018, where she found inspiration for the festival, what her goals were in launching it, and—most importantly—what exciting talks and activities are in store for this year. Bella teases a few events to look out for and explains this year’s theme, Art Worn, which focuses on the artistry of jewelry. Title Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com) Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com)

Oct 22, 202528 min

Ep 157Episode 157: Rolliefest, Tariffs, De Beers

In this latest episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates cover a highly exclusive watch collector event called Rolliefest, where guests don’t even find out where they’re meeting until just before. There, Victoria met passionate watch collectors, admired their highly unique timepieces, and even shared some of her own. Rob is watching the tariff space as he reports on a new exemption that gives the jewelry industry a much-needed—if minor—break. The hosts also discuss the ongoing sale of Anglo American’s majority stake in De Beers, and the mechanics of Botswana making a play for ownership. Title Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com) Sponsor: De Beers (adiamondisforever.com)

Oct 8, 202524 min

Ep 156Episode 156: Live From Converge

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share interviews they did live at Converge—a combination of AGS Conclave and GIA Symposium at GIA’s campus in Carlsbad, California. They checked in with Elyssa Jenkins-Pérez, Katherine Bodoh, Elizabeth Gibson, Georgie Gleim, Sara Murphy, Elizabeth West, Pinny Gniwisch, and Terry Chandler. They get these experts’ points of view on a gamut of topics: trends they’re stocking up on for the holidays; how the industry is handling lab-grown diamonds; the benefits and drawbacks of AI; and key takeaways from the packed agenda of professional development and education offered. Follow along with our Q&As to be a fly on the wall at the event or if you attended, check in with fellow jewelry industry professionals. Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual ([email protected])

Sep 24, 202528 min

Ep 155Episode 155: Guest Scott Guginsky

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Scott Guginsky, executive vice president of Jewelers Security Alliance (JSA), a non-profit trade association dedicated to battling jewelry crime. Scott, a decorated former NYPD detective sergeant, brings listeners up to speed on the latest high-tech robberies and a recent rash of smash-and-grabs. He offers advice on how to protect yourself, your team, and your livelihood. Do: Get insurance. Don’t: Fight back during a robbery. Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com)

Sep 10, 202525 min

Ep 154Episode 154: Tariffs, American Watchmaking Revival, Executive Shuffle

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss the fallout from steep new tariffs imposed on India, the likely short- and long-term effects on the watch market from tariffs on Swiss exports, and the constant shuffle those in the jewelry industry face as they attempt to navigate the administration’s ever-shifting tariff policy. Next, Victoria updates listeners on an exciting resurgence in American watchmaking. Rob and Victoria close the podcast with a report on changes at the top levels of Ben Bridge and Kendra Scott. Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

Aug 27, 202525 min

Ep 153Episode 153: Guest Andy Koehn

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Andy Koehn, owner of Wisconsin-based family jeweler Koehn & Koehn Jewelers. The veteran retailer and diehard classic rock fan shares his philosophy on how a store is like a stage, and its staff is like a band. (Even Mick Jagger relies on discipline and preparation to keep Rolling Stones fans coming back.) Like Rob, Andy is a writer in his spare time. He brings listeners up to speed on his new, no-b.s. ring-buying guide for guys and share some clever insights on what the diamond market needs now. Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

Aug 13, 202524 min

Ep 152Episode 152: Natural Diamond Council, High Jewelry Designs

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss outgoing Natural Diamond Council president David Kellie’s legacy and the challenges ahead for the NDC. Victoria reports on several exquisite new pieces from the high jewelry world, including a million-dollar Mellerio necklace inspired by Marie Antoinette and Boucheron’s ghostly albino thistles, remarkable for their delicacy and the incorporation of nontraditional materials. Finally, Rob reveals the inspiration for his newest mystery novel, Making a Killing in Diamonds. Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com/solutions)

Jul 30, 202524 min

Ep 151Episode 151: Guest Beth Hutchens

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Beth Hutchens, founder and creative director of FoundRae. Beth explains how growing up on the Mexican border instilled a deep appreciation for mysticism in her at an early age, and how this guides her design aesthetic. She shares her strategies for navigating challenging times, dealing with copycats, and coping with soaring gold prices. Finally, she touches on the importance of brick-and-mortar retail and her commitment to supporting freedom of expression. Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com/solutions)

Jul 16, 202527 min

Ep 150Episode 150: Trends and Takeaways From the JCK Show

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share their thoughts and observations from the 2025 JCK Show. The hosts discuss the overall mood (upbeat), style trends (bold gold!), and their favorite highlights (the people!) from this year’s annual event in Vegas. Both always come away learning something new from the education offered. Victoria covers takeaways from a panel on the preowned watch market while Rob offers insights into the diamond industry from President Boko of Botswana, the De Beers breakfast, and the World Federation of Diamond Bourses event which he attended shortly after the show. Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com/solutions)

Jul 2, 202524 min

Ep 149Episode 149: Live From The JCK Show

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share interviews they did live on the 2025 JCK Show floor. They checked in with Cathy Calhoun, Rebecca Foerster, Marie-Claire Daveu, Minister Bogolo Kenewendo and other industry professionals, about the state of natural diamonds, gold prices, consumer trends and more. Sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education)

Jun 20, 202545 min

Ep 148Episode 148: 2025 JCK Show Preview

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss Victoria’s recent trip to Paris as a guest of Japanese watchmaker Credor to celebrate the brand’s update on a classic Gérald Genta timepiece from 1979. Next, the pair gear up for JCK Las Vegas by highlighting some of the exciting events on their show agenda, from Rob moderating an expert panel on cybercrime and security to Victoria reporting on emerging jewelry trends from the show floor. Other highpoints on the lineup include a keynote speech from Disney’s former head of innovation and live performances by Jason Derulo and Snoop Dogg. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org/education

Jun 4, 202523 min

Ep 147Episode 147: Guest Marc Bridge

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Marc Bridge, CEO and founder of online jewelry platform At Present. A fifth-generation scion of the Ben Bridge family, Marc describes a life in the industry that began with cleaning jewelry cases as soon as he was tall enough to reach them, included a memorable cross-country trip to deliver homemade cookies to Warren Buffett, and spanned decades as a problem solver for the family firm. He urges the industry to sharpen its storytelling skills in order to deepen consumers’ appreciation for gems and explains his role as matchmaker through At Present, connecting jewelry lovers who crave unique pieces with the artisans who create them. Presenting sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education) Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

May 21, 202530 min

Interview with GIA’s Susan Jacques

On The Jewelry District’s second video podcast, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview Susan Jacques, outgoing president and CEO of GIA. Susan recounts her fascinating journey from growing up in Africa to a life-changing GIA course to an unlikely move to Omaha, where she helmed Borsheims and reported to Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett. She even spent a day behind the counter with the billionaire investor. Susan also discusses GIA’s mission, her decision to retire, what the industry must do to avoid a crisis of consumer confidence in diamonds, and the upcoming AGS/GIA Converge conference. Watch here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=MGxfPtfKj_I

May 14, 202537 min

Ep 146Episode 146: Rising Gold Prices, Tariff Questions

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates explore the ramifications of the staggering rise in gold prices and share a strategy jewelers can use to offer gold at more palatable prices. (Hint: Think vintage.) Next, the conversation turns to tariffs. What’s ahead? What’s the best way to navigate it? Jewelers learned to pivot during the pandemic, and that agility will help them weather today’s volatile times, Rob and Victoria predict. They wrap up the conversation with a preview of what to expect when JCK Las Vegas kicks off in June. Presenting sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education) Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

May 7, 202526 min

Ep 145Episode 145: Watches and Wonders, Tariffs

In this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates Victoria discuss highlights from Watches and Wonders, including a Bremont relaunch, new Bulgari pieces, and Rolex’s first new collection in 13 years. “Rolex has really thrown down the gauntlet,” with its new Dynapulse escapement, Victoria reports. Next, the pair analyze the effect the U.S. administration’s initial tariff announcements had on the jewelry industry (confusion and worry) and offer some perspective on what may lie ahead in a time of rapid change and continuing uncertainty. Presenting sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education) Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

Apr 23, 202524 min

JCK Show Trend Preview

In The Jewelry District’s first-ever video podcast, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with JCK managing editor Melissa Rose Bernardo to discuss buzzworthy trends in categories from colored stones to diamonds. With JCK Las Vegas opening on June 6 and Luxury on June 4, it’s the ideal time to catch up on the latest looks, from creative new gold and pearl earrings to Mocha Mousse gems and Guatemalan jade. JCK’s experts also analyze what surging gold prices mean for retailers and designers and share a silver lining of tumultuous times—jewelry as an emotional support purchase. Watch here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=LymEiIA_QIU

Apr 16, 202536 min

Ep 144Episode 144: Guest J.K. Symancyk

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with J.K. Symancyk, CEO of Signet Jewelers. J.K. shares his beginnings, from a theater major and aspiring lawyer to specialty retailer mogul, and what customers of sporting goods and pet supply stores have in common with jewelry store shoppers (which is actually much more than you might think!). The hosts and J.K. also dive into the details of Signet’s new strategy, “grow brand love,” what it means for Signet’s big three brands, Jared, Kay and Zales, the importance of the shift from banners to brands, differentiating the lab-grown and natural diamond categories, and the ever-evolving future of brick-and-mortar stores. Presenting Sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education) Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)

Apr 9, 202529 min

Ep 143Episode 143: 24 Karat Weekend, Tariffs, Lab-Grown Diamonds, Rolex

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates recap highlights from NYC Jewelry Week, including takeaways from The Plumb Club’s Symposium ’25 that leaders everywhere can apply to help their businesses succeed. Rob brings listeners up to speed on how the ever-changing tariff news could impact the jewelry industry and shares emerging trends from the diamond market. Finally, Victoria discusses the most-talked-about rumors and reports from the watch world, including acquisitions, major management shifts shaking up the top players, and buzz about a potential new line from Rolex. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org/education

Mar 26, 202526 min

Ep 142Episode 142: Tucson Show, De Beers, Signet, Audemars Piguet

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss highlights from the colored gem shows in Tucson, where designers were buzzing over Guatemalan jade. Rob updates listeners on big news from De Beers, which sealed a 10-year deal with Botswana and saw its value written down significantly. In other news, one of Signet’s largest shareholders has called for a sale of the company. Rob offers insights into the factors driving these headline-making stories. Finally, Victoria reports on the state of the Swiss watch industry as Audemars Piguet marks its 150th anniversary. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org/education

Mar 12, 202524 min

Ep 141Episode 141: Guest John Green

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates interview John Greene, president and CEO of Lux Bond & Green, a fifth-generation family-owned jewelry store based in Connecticut. John, winner of the 2025 Gem Award for Lifetime Achievement, recounts the story of a 127-year retailing tradition in his family. He also offers insights into noteworthy trends he's seeing on the sales floor. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org

Feb 26, 202527 min

Ep 140Episode 140: LVMH Watch Week, Tiffany, Tucson, Bernie Robbins

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss LVMH’s recent annual Watch Week in New York City. Highlights include Tiffany’s dazzling 13-foot Bird on a Rock sculpture, cutting-edge clocks in the shape of cars and grenades from L’Epée, and a mini miracle—a tiny mechanical Bulgari Serpenti watch. Next, Victoria and Rob share some perspective on recent reports about trouble at LVMH and downturns in the Swiss watch market. Finally, the pair honor a jeweler with a heart of gold, the late Harvey Rovinsky of Bernie Robbins. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org

Feb 12, 202526 min

Ep 139Episode 139: Guests Richard and Billie Hughes

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview our first-ever father-daughter guest duo, Richard “Dick” Hughes and Billie Hughes, co-founders of Lotus Gemology, a full-service colored gemstone testing lab based in Bangkok. The pair give listeners an insider’s guide to the complex world of colored stones. Why is describing faceted color gemstones “pure hell”? (“It’s like trying to describe the wind,” in Dick’s words.) How do experts really detect treated stones? Bonus: Find out how you can learn more from these experts in Tucson. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org

Jan 29, 202525 min

Ep 138Episode 138: Holiday Sales, Gold Prices, 2025 Color and Design Trends

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates discuss recent holiday sales results and weigh in on what 2025 may bring for jewelers as a new administration takes office, tariffs loom on the horizon, and gold prices remain high. Also discussed is the latest news from De Beers after a less-than-banner year, Rob’s upcoming mystery novel (the final installment of his Diamond District series), and how factors such as Pantone’s Color of the Year and the Year of the Snake may—or may not—impact jewelry design. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org

Jan 15, 202522 min

Ep 137Episode 137: Guest Ian Smillie

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates talk with veteran human rights activist and author Ian Smillie, one of the architects of the Kimberley Process. Ian’s unlikely career began when he volunteered to teach high school in Sierra Leone more than 50 years ago and led him to become one of the leading advocates for ending the blood diamond trade. Ian discusses his quest to improve life for artisanal miners, the threats they face from the rise of lab-grown stones, and his new memoir on a life dedicated to combatting global poverty. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Dec 18, 202428 min

Ep 136Episode 136: Holiday Outlook, Botswana and De Beers, Horology’s Oscars

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss potential ramifications of Botswana’s regime change for De Beers and American jewelers. Next, Victoria recounts her adventures in Geneva, where she was a juror for the Grand Prix de Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), the world’s most prestigious watchmaking competition. Finally, the pair shed light on what to expect this holiday sales season—and in the year ahead. Hint: buckle your seatbelt. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Dec 4, 202423 min

Ep 135Episode 135: Guest Bliss Lau

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Bliss Lau, founder and designer of her eponymous brand. BONUS: Hear a special sponsored mini interview with Howard Stone from Jewelers Mutual, who covers ways to protect your staff and store during the holiday buying season. Presenting sponsor: Tracr Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual

Nov 20, 202436 min

Ep 134Episode 134: Patek Philippe Cubitus, De Beers-Signet Ad, Roberto Coin

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates delve into the launch of Patek Philippe’s Cubitus Collection. Victoria shares insight into the revered brand’s vision for its new timepieces. Next, Rob explains the philosophy behind a moving new ad campaign by De Beers and Signet for natural diamonds. Finally, Victoria reports on a visit to Roberto Coin in Vicenza, replete with kilos of gold and a masquerade ball. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Nov 6, 202424 min

Ep 133Episode 133: Guest Stephanie Gottlieb

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Stephanie Gottlieb, founder and creator of Stephanie Gottlieb Fine Jewelry, to hear how she built her business by tapping into the power of social media, what’s ahead for the brand, why she’s passionate about natural diamonds, and her picks for holiday bestsellers. BONUS: Hear a special sponsored mini interview with Jewelers Mutual Information Security Offer Grant Hansen about the most common cybercrimes and provides security tips to help jewelers avoid them. Presenting Sponsor: Tracr Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual

Oct 23, 202433 min

Ep 132Episode 132: Signet CEO Change, Independent Watchmakers

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss Signet CEO Gina Drosos’ impending retirement, reflect on her successes over the past seven years, and speculate on what’s ahead for new CEO J.C. Symancyk. Next, the conversation turns to Victoria’s recent New York Times report on the coming-of-age of independent watchmakers. These once-struggling fringe creatives are having a mainstream moment, partnering with major players in the luxury sector and seeing their pieces sell at auction for over a million dollars. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Oct 9, 202423 min

Ep 131Episode 131: Guest Julia Hackman Chafé

On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Julia Hackman Chafé, social media manager at Intercolor USA. And hear a special sponsored mini interview with Howard Stone from Jewelers Mutual, who talks store security and loss prevention. Presenting Sponsor: Tracr (tracr.com) Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com)

Sep 25, 202434 min

Ep 130Episode 130: Montana Sapphire Mine Visit; Lab-Grown Diamond Market Consolidates

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk Victoria’s tour of a Montana sapphire mine and some consolidation occurring in the lab-grown diamond industry. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Sep 11, 202424 min

Ep 129Episode 129: Guest Greg Verras

JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Greg Verras, watch design director for Shinola, a Motor City icon beloved for its “built in Detroit” timepieces. Greg shares his unlikely journey from a skateboard startup in his garage to high-end watch designer. He touches on what inspires new Shinola timepieces and collections, the hallmarks that make them uniquely American (casual accessibility meets heirloom quality), the wisdom of approaching new trends with care and caution, and the power of storytelling to sell product. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Aug 28, 202428 min

Ep 128Episode 128: LVMH at Olympics, Tiffany's Travails, Travel Retail, Hodinkee

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates question whether the Paris Olympics suffered from overbranding and ponder what it means for future games, before discussing recent missteps at Tiffany & Co. and a flurry of C-suite changes at luxury watch brands. Next, Victoria explains how and why jewelry brands are tapping into the travel boom with shops in airports and aboard cruise ships. Finally, Rob brings listeners up to speed on Hodinkee’s return to its roots as a watch blog and the factors that prompted it. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Aug 15, 202425 min

Ep 127Episode 127: Guest Constance Polamalu

Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates speak with Constance Polamalu, Chief Operating Officer of Zachary’s Jewelers, as well as the owner and founder of both Bloomstone Jewelers and Birthright Foundry. Constance shares her unique entrance into the jewelry industry, as well as the facets of each of her different businesses, from lab-grown diamonds to pieces that represent her American Samoa culture. She also offers insights into selling and interacting with different generations and clientele depending on what jewelry they are looking for. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Jul 31, 202432 min

Ep 126Episode 126: John Mayer, Russian Sanctions, Richemont, Saks and Neiman, JVC

On this week’s episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about celebrity watch collectors and investors, such as John Mayer and Jay-Z, and discuss the new Russian sanctions on diamonds that the G7 council is looking to put in place. As well, there are big changes happening at Richemont, with many of the top executives playing musical chairs, and the Saks-Neiman Marcus merger being spearheaded by Richard Baker with Amazon as an investor, raising eyebrows and leading to discussion about other “e-tailers.” Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Jul 17, 202426 min

Ep 125Episode 125: Guest Pippa Small

This week, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Pippa Small, ethical jewelry designer and founder of Pippa Small Jewellery, based in London. Pippa has traveled extensively and worked to make sure that both her materials and partnerships are sourced with good intentions. Helping people tell stories through jewelry has always been her passion, and she shares her hopes and dreams for her business, the environment, and the people she has met along the way. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com

Jul 3, 202426 min