Ana Khouri Scores the Gem Award for High Jewelry Excellence

By Karen Dybis | January 09, 2026

Designer Ana Khouri (pictured) will receive the 2026 Gem Award for High Jewelry Excellence at the Jewelers of America’s 24th annual Gem Awards ceremony in March.

“Through a sculptural approach rooted in fine art, Ana Khouri has established a distinct and influential voice within high jewelry, defined by exceptional craftsmanship and ethical materials,” said Amanda Gizzi, senior vice president of corporate affairs for Jewelers of America (JA), in a statement.

“Ana Khouri’s work continues to elevate the category, offering designs that resonate deeply with collectors while expanding the boundaries of what high jewelry can be,” Gizzi said.

Considered one of the most prestigious awards in the jewelry industry, the Gem for High Jewelry Excellence goes to a company or individual who have created collections that increase consumer demand for high jewelry, JA said in the statement.

Khouri was previously nominated for a Gem Award for Jewelry Design. She is known for one-of-a-kind sculptural jewels, which she shows at the New York City salon she opened in 2013. She founded her eponymous brand in 2002.

Khouri has had solo exhibitions at Phillips, Sotheby’s, and Christie’s as well as the TEFAF New York art fair, and her work has been featured by fashion e-tailer The Row. All Khouri’s jewelry is crafted with Fairmined 18k gold, platinum, and ethically and responsibly sourced gemstones, according to the JA statement.

This year’s Gem Awards will be held at Cipriani 42nd Street on Friday, March 13. In addition to Khouri’s honor, awards will be given in the categories of jewelry design, media excellence, and retail innovation. Mark and Candy Udell of London Jewelers will receive the Gem Award for Lifetime Achievement.

(Photo courtesy of Jewelers of America)