Set in a Tiffany & Co. necklace, it sold for $4.2 million, the highest price and price per carat paid for a Paraíba tourmaline at auction.
Signet Hires a New CFO, Creates Mall Leadership Team
The retailer is putting the leadership of Kay, Zales, and Peoples under one umbrella.

Akron, Ohio—Signet Jewelers Ltd. has appointed former David’s Bridal Chief Financial Officer Joan M. Hilson as its new CFO, the company announced Wednesday.
She will replace Michele Santana, who is stepping down in April.
Early in her career, Hilson spent seven years at Signet division Sterling Jewelers Inc. as the controller to the vice president of finance.
Since then, she has had more than 30 years’ experience in retail and corporate finance, working as CFO of David’s Bridal, American Eagle Outfitters and in the Victoria’s Secret stores division.
“I am excited to have Joan join Signet at such an important time for our business,” said Signet CEO Virginia C. Drosos. “I am confident that Signet will benefit from her transformational experiences and perspective, as we accelerate our Path to Brilliance transformation efforts.”
Signet also announced it is combining the leadership of its Kay, Zales, and Peoples banners under one umbrella, the “Mall Leadership Team.”
Drosos said the reorganization would allow the company to capitalize on banner growth opportunity, improve its product assortment, expand its customer targeting, and improve both the online and in-store experience for customers.
There have been are some position shifts as a result of the reorganization, but no senior executive departures, Signet Vice President of Corporate Affairs David Bouffard confirmed to National Jeweler Wednesday.
Singleton, who has held general manager roles for Zales and Piercing Pagoda, will be responsible for operational responsibilities, including merchandising, marketing and e-commerce for the mall stores.
Bill Luth, former executive vice president of Kay and a 30-year Signet veteran, has been named executive vice president of global store operations.
Kecia Caffie, former divisional vice president and general manager at Piercing Pagoda, has been promoted to senior vice president of Piercing Pagoda.
Singleton, Luth, and Caffie will answer to Sebastian “Seb” Hobbs, Signet’s president and chief customer officer.
“This is key to accelerating our Customer First strategy in year two of our Path to Brilliance transformation,” said Drosos.
Signet said the changes will not have an impact on its external financial reporting structure.
The Latest

Take luxury gifting to new heights this holiday season with the jeweler’s showstopping 12-carat sphene ring.

This year's theme is “Unveiling the Depths of the Ocean.”

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.


Starting Jan. 1, customers can request the service for opal, peridot, and demantoid garnet.

The 111-year-old retailer celebrated the opening of its new location in Salem, New Hampshire, which is its third store in the state.

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The filmmaker’s personal F.P. Journe “FFC” prototype was the star of Phillips’ recent record-setting watch auction in New York.

The new location in the Design District pays homage to Miami’s Art Deco heritage and its connection to the ocean.

Inflations, tariffs, and politics—including the government shutdown—were among consumers’ top concerns last month.

“Longtime favorite” presenters, as well as first-time speakers, will lead talks and workshops at the annual event in Tucson next year.

Silas Smith of Meridian Metalworks won the challenge with his pendant that blends Australian and American landscapes.

The sale of the 31.68-carat, sunset-hued stone was part of Sotheby’s first series of events and auctions in Abu Dhabi.

Most customers who walk into your store this month have made up their minds. Your job is to validate their choice, Emmanuel Raheb writes.

The collection features characters and motifs from Ukrainian folklore, including an enchanted mirror and a magic egg.

MatrixGold 3.11, the newest version of the jewelry design program, offers more flexibility, precision, and creative control.

The pavilion will be part of the 2026 JA New York Spring show, scheduled for March 15 to 17.

Kadet, a 1994 National Jeweler Retailer Hall of Fame inductee, helped grow the family-owned retailer in the Chicago area and beyond.

Billed as the world’s smallest wearable, Lumia Health’s new smart earrings have a health tracker subtly embedded in the back.

Don’t let those with December birthdays feel blue. Help them celebrate their month with blue zircon, turquoise, and tanzanite.

The new pink sapphire version of the piece dances with its wearer in the brand’s “Icons After Dark” holiday campaign.

A choice that’s generated a lot of commentary, Pantone says “Cloud Dancer” marks a fresh start and encourages relaxation and creativity.

The manufacturer’s holiday campaign features a gift guide filled with trending designs and jewelry that can be personalized.

The man was charged with theft, accused of ingesting the necklace while in a jewelry store in Auckland, New Zealand.

The Florida independent expanded its store from 8,000 to 14,000 square feet, fulfilling the vision of its late co-founder, Jim Dunn.

Sponsored by De Beers Group




















