Rob Bates

New York

News director https://t.co/sWAEBQv8OK, writer/reporter on diamond & jewelry biz, cohost of Jewelry District podcast Mystery novelist https://t.co/mhXNo3w5EW. Book 3 out now

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Articles

JCK Announces Events Lineup for Upcoming Las Vegas Show

1 day 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.
From Decades Lounges to Snoop Dogg, JCK Las Vegas 2025 Brings The Heat

1 day ago | jckonline.com | Victoria Gomelsky |Rob Bates

News flash: The JCK show is kicking off June 6. It’s a must-attend event for anyone with a stake in the jewelry business, whether you’re a supplier, buyer, or someone who simply needs to stay abreast of industry products and trends. One of the best things about the 33-year-old show is how dynamic it is.
GIA's Susan Jacques

1 day 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.
Get a Load of These New Lines Debuting at Luxury 2025

1 day ago | jckonline.com | Victoria Gomelsky |Rob Bates

The Luxury show opens at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas to invited guests on June 4, and to all JCK attendees on June 6. Home base for the industry’s finest bridal jewelry manufacturers as well as high-end designers, the event is a bonanza of newness. Below, we offer a sneak peek at new collections debuting at Luxury.
Colored Gemstone Dealer Tim Roark Dies

1 day 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.
For the Latest in Engagement Rings, Consider Brown

1 day ago | jckonline.com | Brittany Siminitz |Victoria Gomelsky |Rob Bates

Ever since I found out that Gen Zers seem to be gravitating toward brown center stones in their engagement rings (this according to the 2025 Pinterest wedding trends report), I can’t stop thinking about how much I enjoy the idea. Brown has been gaining speed since last fall, a departure from summer’s bright colors and a little taste of the quiet luxury left behind after Succession wrapped its final season.
Nina Collection Boldly Pays Homage to Women's Relationships

2 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.
Nicky Mehta Joins Ashi Diamonds

2 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.
Britt's Pick: Hine Fine Jewelry's Double Buckle Necklace

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

Initial jewelry isn’t hard to find, it’s true, and that’s why a personalized piece that makes your heart skip a beat—like this Double Buckle necklace—is all the more special. A part of Hine Fine Jewelry’s debut collection, First Rodeo, the necklace is themed with reimagined classic cowboy elements.
New York Philanthropist Lucille Coleman's Van Cleef & Arpels Jewels Head to Auction

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

Lucille Coleman, a New York society figure who died last June at age 93, left a legacy of philanthropy and style that shines as brightly as her impeccable jewelry collection. Christie’s is set to auction this remarkable assemblage during its Magnificent Jewels auction in New York on June 17. Coleman’s discerning eye favored the artistry of Van Cleef & Arpels, and the Christie’s sale includes the breathtaking array of the maison’s Mystery-set jewels she had acquired.