The dog days of August are upon us. While away the last weeks of summer with a podcast or a new mystery novel by JCK’s very own Rob Bates. And consider nominating yourself for a Gem Award before this week’s deadline.
LISTEN
The Jewelry District Podcast, Episode 152 (ongoing)
On the latest episode of The Jewelry District, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss outgoing Natural Diamond Council president David Kellie’s legacy and the challenges ahead for the group. Victoria reports on several exquisite new pieces in the high jewelry world, including a million-dollar Mellerio necklace inspired by Marie Antoinette and Boucheron’s ghostly albino thistles, remarkable for their delicacy and the incorporation of nontraditional materials. Finally, Rob reveals the inspiration for his newest mystery novel, Making a Killing in Diamonds.
Plumb Club Podcasts (ongoing)
The Plumb Club’s August podcasts are out. In “The Disruption in the Diamond Market and Effect on the Colored Gemstone Space,” the team at Sandeep Diamonds highlights opportunities in the colored stone category and talks about positive changes in the mining of colored gems, with more operations valuing transparency, responsible mining practices, and corporate responsibility. In “10 Pearl Myths Busted,” industry veteran Cheryl Kremkow, speaking on behalf of Mastoloni, breaks down common misconceptions about pearls, and provides information on various pearl varieties, origins, and grading factors.
READ
Making a Killing in Diamonds by Rob Bates: out Aug. 12 (ongoing)
Speaking of Rob’s new mystery novel, it comes out on Tuesday! The fourth and likely final novel in his Diamond District murder mystery series tackles the topic of lab-grown diamonds through the eyes of amateur sleuth Mimi Rosen.
NOMINATE
Gem Awards Nominations Deadline: Aug. 13 (online)
The 24th annual Gem Awards are accepting nominations through Aug. 13. As the fine jewelry and watch industry’s premier awards gala (scheduled for March 13, 2026), the Gem Awards recognizes the outstanding achievements of individuals and companies whose work raises the visibility and status of fine jewelry and watches. All submissions—from designers, editors, and retailers—must be self-nominated.
Top: Lattice diamond ring with pink spinel center in 18k yellow gold, $18,900; Tanya Farah
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