Global jewelry buyer CIRCA, in collaboration with the Council of Fashion Designers of America, announced the creation of the CIRCA/CFDA Jewelry & Accessories Business Development Forum at an inaugural panel discussion in New York City on Aug. 1.

More than 30 leading jewelry and accessories designers attended the event to learn from entrepreneurs who have grown their businesses domestically and abroad. Panelists included Mark Emanuel, co-owner of David Webb; Filipa Fino, creative director of Filipa Fino Inc.; and Peter Webster, co-owner and CEO of Roberto Coin, Inc.

“The CIRCA/CFDA Business Development Forum was created to expose talented designers to the industry’s top leaders,” Chris Del Gatto, CEO of CIRCA, said in a statement. “It’s an exciting opportunity not only to give back, but to help build the future of our industry. CIRCA is proud to support the CFDA and the jewelry industry.”

Peter Webster, co-owner and CEO of Roberto Coin; Steven Kolb, CFDA CEO; Filipa Fino, creative director, Filipa Fino, and founder and editor, FINOfile; Chris Del Gatto, co-founder, chairman, and CEO, CIRCA; Mark Emanuel, co-owner, David Webb. (Photo courtesy of CIRCA)

JCK