JCK editors Jennifer Heebner and Carrie Soucy [pictured below] won the American Gem Society‘s Richard T. Liddicoat Journalism Award in the Industry/Trade Reporting category for “Seal of Disapproval,” which appeared in the Winter 2008 issue of JCK Luxury. The article investigates heightened consumer interest in product origins due to recent issues with imports.

Former JCK editor Russell Shor, now with the Gemological Institute of America, received the award in the Trade Journal category for the Gems & Gemology feature “From Single Source to Global Free Market: The Transformation of the Cultured Pearl Industry.”

The Liddicoat awards are given to journalists who make an exceptional contribution to the understanding of gemology and the jewelry industry.

Jewelers of America has launched a new online program to help jewelers improve their businesses. Called Thriving in 2008, it includes daily tips at tips.jewelers.org and a weekly electronic newsletter. Jewelers can sign up for the e-newsletter at Jewelers.org.

Frédéric Piguet S.A., which owned 35 percent of François Golay S.A., has acquired the other 65 percent of its shares from owners Jean-Marc Berney and Yves Berney. Frédéric Piguet S.A., part of the Swatch Group, makes luxury watch components and movements.