Karen Dybis

2 days ago | jckonline.com | Brittany Siminitz |Rob Bates |Karen Dybis

As JCK Las Vegas draws ever closer, its full lineup of activities has been released. The show takes place June 6–9 at the Venetian Expo. “We’re thrilled to bring back beloved events while expanding our offerings with new prestigious award programs and unique experiential and networking opportunities to engage with the entire industry,” said Sarin Bachmann, senior vice president of RX’s jewelry portfolio (which includes JCK), said in a statement.

2 days ago | jckonline.com | Kathy Passero |Brittany Siminitz |Rob Bates |Karen Dybis

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.

2 days ago | jckonline.com | Rob Bates |Karen Dybis |Brittany Siminitz |Victoria Gomelsky

Tim Roark, a prominent wholesaler of colored stones who was a board member of several industry groups, died on April 28. He was 82. Following his graduation from Yale University in 1965, Roark joined the U.S. Navy and saw combat during the Vietnam War. After leaving the service, he sold mutual funds and other securities for International Overseas Services in Africa.

3 days ago | jckonline.com | Karen Dybis |Annie Davidson Watson |Brittany Siminitz |Rob Bates

Jewelry artist Ariana Boussard-Reifel says her latest collection is a tribute to women’s relationships, the power drawn from them, and their capacity to transform people. The New York City–based designer named her spring line Nina to honor the Mesopotamian goddess of the waters(alternatively known as Nanshe). Given the goddess’ connection with the ocean, the names of some pieces in the 40-piece collection are words with water associations, such as eddy and monsoon.

3 days ago | jckonline.com | Rob Bates |Karen Dybis |Annie Davidson Watson |Brittany Siminitz

Industry veteran Nicky Mehta has joined New York City–based Ashi Diamonds as head of business development. In his new role, Mehta will help boost the success of Ashi’s independent retail partners. He has spent over 30 years at Diamond Days, his family’s jewelry business, and will continue to be involved in that company. Mehta is president of the Connecticut guild of the American Gem Society (AGS) and formerly led AGS’ New York/New Jersey chapter. Mehta holds a Graduate Gemologist diploma from GIA.