Penny Ruston, Cofounder of WJA Chicago, Dies

By Rob Bates | June 25, 2025

Panorea “Penny” Ruston, a pioneering saleswoman in the industry and an early member of the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA), died June 20 in Pensacola, Fla. She was 80.

Originally from Chicago, Ruston started her jewelry career in 1962 after graduating from high school, at local store Trabert & Hoeffer. She eventually became one of the industry’s first female outside sales reps, working for such well-known brands as Lagos, Ebel, and Roberto Coin.

She also helped form the Chicago chapter of WJA, where she was known for mentoring women pursuing a career in jewelry. In 2014, WJA recognized her as one of its “Shining Stars.”

Linda Orlick, one of WJA’s cofounders, tells JCK via email: “Penny’s laugh was infectious, she lit up every room she walked into. When she traveled to New York, she would stay with me and my children. It was nonstop laughing. How I will miss her, how the industry will miss one of the ultimate professionals. Penny’s once-in-a-lifetime friendship will always stay in my heart.”

Adds Kathryn Kimmel, former senior vice president and chief marketing officer for GIA: “Penny was one of a kind. She had a lifelong love affair with gems and jewelry and impeccable taste and style. Throw in her humor, street smarts, tough-but-fair sales skills, and you have a winning combination that uniquely positioned her for a very successful career in the jewelry industry.

“No matter how busy, Penny always found time to share her great counsel and wisdom to inspire students, young sales associates, and those seeking a career in the jewelry industry. This was Penny’s special sauce.”

Ruston is survived by her husband of 55 years, Jim; son Michael; two grandchildren; two brothers; and a sister.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ruston’s name to Gulf Coast Kid’s House, an advocacy organization for children in Florida’s Escambia County.

(Photo courtesy of the Ruston family)