The seventh annual Jewelry Information Center will honor Glenda Bailey, Chopard, and Russell Simmons at its GEM Awards gala, to be held Jan. 9, 2009, at Cipriani 42nd Street.

Bailey, editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar magazine since 2001, will be recognized with a Gem Award for Excellence in Journalism. Chopard, with its “Tradition of Excellence,” will be presented with the GEM Award for Corporate Communications. Simmons, music mogul and fashion entrepreneur, will accept the GEM Award in the category of Jewelry Style.

“Each of the 2009 honorees adds a special dimension to our industry,” said David Bouffard JIC board chairman. “In their own unique and qualified voice, each honoree raises the visibility and status of fine jewelry and watches as a gift of love directly to a wide range of consumers. This has been Jewelry Information Center’s mission for over 64 years. We’re proud to recognize the contributions that the 2009 JIC honorees make to our industry.” 

Samantha Harris (pictured), co-host of Dancing with the Stars, will be the new host and master of ceremonies.

JIC launched the GEM Awards in 2003 to honor leaders in our industry and in the media. It has become one of the premiere events in the fine jewelry and watch industry.

JCK