The Women’s Jewelry Association has announced the nominees for its “Awards For Excellence” 2006, to be presented at the organization’s annual Gala Dinner on July 30.

The WJA Awards For Excellence recognize the passion, diversity and creativity that continue to inspire us all and make us grateful to be part of such a unique and special industry. 

The 2006 nominees are:

Designer, Fine Jewelry & Watches: Lisa Jenks, Lisa Jenks Ltd.; Mignon Faget, Mignon Faget Ltd.; Laura Gibson, Laura Gibson Designs; Caroline Ballou, Caroline Ballou Fine Jewelry; Claudia Endler, Claudia Endler Designs

Manufacturer, Dealer, Supplier for Fine Jewelry & Watches: Andrea Hill, The Bell Group; Gena Alulis, Superfit; Marie Bodman, Breitling; Victoria Tse, Christian Tse

Retail (more than 15 stores): Aida Alvarez, Mayor’s; Debbie Harvey, Shane Company; Joy Ehmann, Sterling Jewelers, Inc.

Retail (fewer than 15 stores): Cathy Calhoun, Zenker Jewelers; Laura Stanley, Stanley Jewelers; Sally Furer, Robins Bros.

Sales & Merchandising: Ellen Soto, Taché Jewelry; Susan Rothman, Hearts On Fire; Diane Vunic, Suna; Marilyn Leibman, MJSA

Marketing & Communications: Marcee Feinberg, Lazare Kaplan; Nadja Swarovski, Swarovski; Helena Krodel, Jewelry Information Center; Duvall O’Steen, World Gold Council

Editorial & Reporting: Victoria Gomelsky, Couture International Jeweler; Carrie Soucy, JCK; Antoinette Matlins, Author

Special Services: Sue Elliott, GIA; Jennifer Luker, Platinum Guild International; Wendy Rosen, Buyers Market of American Craft; Dione Kenyon, Jewelers Board of Trade.

During the night of the event, the WJA will honor Hedda Schupak with the 2006 Hall of Fame Award. Editor-in-Chief and Editorial Director of JCK magazine, Schupak has been recognized as one of the most accomplished leaders in the industry.  

Also being recognized is Terry Burman, Group CEO of the Signet Group plc and Executive Chairman of Sterling Jewelers, Inc., with the Ben Kaiser Award, awarded to men in the jewelry industry who have demonstrated a deep commitment to the advancement of women in the trade.

The “Awards For Excellence” Gala dinner will be held at the Chelsea Piers, Pier 60 in New York during the JA New York Summer show. Tickets for the event are $250 for members, $300 for non-members. Tickets and information are available online at www.womensjewelry.org or by calling the WJA Headquarters at 856-423-3156.

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