The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) held its 26th Annual Awards for Excellence at New York City’s Pier 60, on July 27, 2009. It was an occasion of honouring contributions to the trade, including trade bodies, designers and retailers.

WJA unveiled its Hall of Fame Corporate Award for Excellence, and presented the same to Gemological Institute of America (GIA). GIA President and CEO Donna Baker said, “The Institute is a longtime proponent of WJA and its mission, and we are proud of the women who have contributed to the Institute's many achievements throughout its history.”

The WJA Hall of Fame Ben Kaiser Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Matt Runci, president and CEO of Jewelers of America. At the event, Runci was introduced by retailer John Green and Steven Kaiser, son of the award’s namesake and last year’s recipient. Green noted Runci’s many efforts to giving helping the industry evolve. Runci mentioned the award to be special as he reflected on his first job -- teaching at a women’s college - and his worl tenure with Ben Kaiser, whom he described as a gracious mentor.

The WJA Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Diane von Furstenberg, a renowned fashion designer, accepted her honour underlining her mission to “empower women via fashion, mentoring, and philanthropy.” She also mentioned to be drawn to designing jewellery and expressed gratitude for being accepted to the jewellery industry.

The WJA solicits its membership to nominate those who excel in various areas of the jewellery industry. The recipients for the 2009 Awards for Excellence included: Gena Alulis, Cliq by Superfit, King of Prussia, PA (Manufacturer/Dealer/Supplier Category); Kathy Corey, Day’s Jewelers, Waterville, ME (Retail Category – fewer than 15 stores) ; Brandee Dallow, Julius Klein Group, Scarsdale, New York (Marketing and Communications Category); Dione Kenyon, Jewelers Board of Trade, Warwick, R.I. (Special Services Category); Cheryl Kremkow, Modern Jeweler, New York City (Editorial/Reporting/Publishing Category); Ann Lagos, Ann King Design, Philadelphia, PA (Design: Fine Jewelry & Watches Category); Robin Lutin, JCK International Publishing Group, Los Angeles (Sales Category); Bea Spiech, Macy’s, New York City (Retail - More than 15 stores). WJA president, Yancy Weinrich, mentioned that, “We are indebted to these women and to all of the nominees for serving as role models for all of us in the jewellery industry. We can learn from their successful careers and from their commitment to giving back to this industry and their communities. We are enriched by their examples and leadership.”

The event hosted 550 attendees, who contributed to raising funds for the WJA scholarships and grants programme. The silent auction raised approximately $30,000 for WJA scholarships and grants programme.

The evening was conducted amongst glitz and glamour, and sights and sounds by Phat Strad Electric String Quartet added the entertainment element. In conclusiong Weinrich noted that “This gala celebrates the best of this industry.”