The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) announced the appointment of Howard M. Pomerantz, former executive director of Kerr Products, as executive director of GIA GEM Instruments.

Charles & Colvard Ltd., recently named Dennis M. Reed as vice president, sales.

Idaho Opal & Gem Corp. has appointed Chris Mockett, G.G., as colored gemstone manager and buyer.

Bill Montalto Sr., chief administrative officer for Sterling Jewelers Inc., has been elected to serve on the board of directors of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC).

Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) recently appointed Jennifer Perkins to the position of director of membership and Yancy Weinrich to the position of vice president of planning and development. Perkins will be based at the organization’s headquarters in Rhode Island. Weinrich will work from MJSA’s New York office.

JewelAmerica Inc. has named Rick Birnbaum vice president of sales and marketing for The John Lennon Jewelry Collection. Prior to joining JewelAmerica, he served as senior vice president of sales for Seiko Corporation of America.

Leach & Garner has announced the following appointments: Bob Young has been named customer service manager. Young is a 35-year L&G veteran. Linda M. Coutu has joined the sales and marketing department in a dual role of marketing manager-wholesale customers and select New York account representative. Eric S. Cunha joins Leach & Garner as marketing coordinator. Johanna C. Ortiz has joined the sales and marketing department as a customer service provider and inside sales representative. Beth A. Ruhle has joined the new product development team as a product development specialist. Michael P. Araujo is supporting the new product development department with pricing and setup responsibilities.