More than 600 people attended the Jewelry Information Center’s sixth Annual Gem Awards on Jan 11 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. This year’s honorees were: Bulgari for Corporate Communications, Excellence in Marketing; Terry Burman, Sterling Jewelers Inc. for Lifetime Achievement; and Roberta Naas for Excellence in Jewelry and Watch Writing.
 

Francois Kress, CEO of Bulgari North America 
Francois Kress, CEO of Bulgari North America who accepted the award on the company’s behalf, was introduced by football legend, Dan Marino. Marino, a Hall of Fame football player has had a long-standing relationship with the luxury brand. Other presenters for the evening were Mark Light, president and chief executive of Sterling Inc. who introduced Burman; and Jason Binn, founder and CEO of Niche Media who presented the award to Roberta Naas. For the sixth consecutive year, mistress of ceremonies, Deborah Norville, anchor of Inside Edition and author of several books, hosted the evening. 

David Bouffard, Sterling Jewelers, Myriam Gumuchian, JIC chair,
and Terry Burman, Sterling Jewelers
Now a well-established event and annual gathering of industry leaders and professionals, JIC’s Gem Awards recognizes the outstanding achievements of individuals and companies whose work raises the visibility and status of fine jewelry and watches. The Gem Awards honor retailers, manufacturers and media who meet the stringent criteria to be leaders in their field.

JCK