PGI partnered with four new and seven returning designers for its annual platinum capsule collection.
WJA Office Manager Fired, Arrested for Alleged Theft
Kimberly Galvin was let go by the Women’s Jewelry Association and has been arrested after it was discovered that she allegedly had been funneling money meant for the WJA into her own accounts.
Poughkeepsie, N.Y.--The Women’s Jewelry Association has fired office manager Kimberly Galvin and issued an alert to members after discovering that she allegedly had been diverting funds meant for the WJA into her personal accounts.
Galvin’s alleged crime came to light when WJA Executive Director Bernadette Mack noticed an oddity in some of the organization’s records.
According to the WJA, it is believed that the illegal activity began in March and involved situations in which Galvin had verbal or written access to people’s credit card numbers, such as via membership application or renewal forms, or when she was handed a credit card while working the sign-in desk at New York events.
It is unknown at this time exactly how much money was stolen, as the investigation in the case is ongoing.
The WJA fired Galvin, who had been with the organization for two-and-a-half years, after learning of her alleged crime, and she was arrested by the Poughkeepsie City Police Department on Tuesday.
According to online court records, she is scheduled to appear in court again on Monday in front of Judge Thomas J. O’Neill.
Dutchess County Assistant District Attorney Andrea Long is handling the case. She did not return a call or email seeking comment on Thursday.
As of Thursday afternoon, there was no defense attorney information on file for Galvin.
In a statement shared with National Jeweler, WJA President Brandee Dallow said the organization “has and continues to represent the best of what our industry is about,” and that won’t change due to the actions of one individual.
She also said, “We are working closely with authorities to ensure a swift and complete resolution to this situation. Our organization, comprised of hundreds of dedicated industry professionals who volunteer their time, will only become stronger moving forward.”
The WJA said that while any information entered into the organization’s website is secure, out of an “abundance of caution” it is urging all members or other persons known to participate in national events to check their credit card statements for random charges, regardless of how they paid.
This would include charges that appear to be in the name of WJA that they did not initiate, incorrect charges that appear to be in the names of companies that might be familiar and charges initiated through mobile payment company Square Inc.
It also sent members a link to this document outlining further steps they can take to protect their information.
The WJA said
The Latest
Nicolosi, president and CEO of The Kingswood Company, previously sat on WJA’s board from 2011 to 2018.
Karina Brez’s race-ready piece is a sophisticated nod to the horse-rider relationship.
Meet Ben Claus—grand prize winner of For the Love of Jewelers 2023 Fall Design Challenge.
“Horizon” invites individuals to explore the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, said the brand.
The jeweler credits its recent “Be Love” campaign and ongoing brand revamp for its 17 percent jump in sales.
The co-founder of Lewis Jewelers was also the longtime mayor of the city of Moore.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
Elvis Presley gifted this circa 1967 gold and diamond watch to Dodie Marshall, his co-star in “Easy Come, Easy Go.”
Concerns about rising prices, politics, and global conflicts continue to dampen consumer outlook.
May’s birthstone is beloved for its rich green hue and its versatility.
Jacqui Larsson joins Opsydia with nearly two decades of experience in the industry.
Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.
The “Tiffany Céleste” collection reimagines designer Jean Schlumberger’s interpretations of the universe.
The brand also created a 100-carat lab-grown diamond necklace in honor of its centennial.
Tim Schlick has been promoted from his previous position as COO.
It’s the second year for the event, slated to take place in October in Toronto.
Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA
Sales will be paused while the relocation takes place over the next few months.
“SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds” is a collaboration between the designer and celebrity stylist Misa Hylton.
The retailer is moving to a newly designed space in the same shopping center.
Gifts that are unique and thoughtful are top of mind this year, according to the annual survey.
The necklace is featured in the brand’s “Rebel Heart” campaign starring Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo.
The two organizations will host a joint event, “Converge,” in September 2025.
Big changes appear to be on the horizon for the diamond miner and its parent company, Anglo American.
Padis succeeds Lisa Bridge, marking the first time the organization has had two women board presidents in a row.