Kimberly Adams Russell is taking over the role from her father, David Adams, marking the third generation to hold the title.
Cecilia Gardner stepping down from the WDC
Jewelers Vigilance Committee President Cecilia Gardner is leaving her post as general counsel of the World Diamond Council, the organization that represents the diamond industry in the Kimberley Process.
Luanda, Angola--Cecilia Gardner is leaving her post as general counsel of the World Diamond Council, National Jeweler has learned.
In an email sent from Angola Friday where she was attending the Kimberley Process intersessional meeting, Gardner, who’s also president of the U.S.’s Jewelers Vigilance Committee, said “very positive reasons” fueled her decision to step down after 15 years.
“The association has matured, has professional staff (and) better engagement by the members in the substantive work of the KP,” she said.
The WDC is the body that represents the diamond industry in the KP, the process formed to stem the flow of “blood” or “conflict” diamonds into the trade. It is headed by President Edward Asscher and, late last year, hired its first full-time salaried executive director, Patricia Syvrud.
In a separate email, Asscher said that Gardner received “warm words of praise” from the KP chair at the intersessional for her work over the years with the Kimberley Process. He said the WDC plans to appoint a new counsel.
Gardner has been involved with the KP since its inception in 2000. She remains the general counsel to the U.S. Kimberley Process Authority Institute.
News of Gardner’s resignation came as the KP closed out the first of its two major annual meetings, its intersessional.
Among the issues the KP is debating this year is its leadership, as its member nations remain divided on naming a vice chair for 2015.
When the KP’s 2014 plenary meeting ended in Guangzhou, China, nations including Russia, South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo backed the election of the United Arab Emirates as vice chair, while the United States, Israel, Canada and Botswana voted for Australia.
As a complete consensus is needed for the KP to make any decisions, it has been operating without a vice chair this year.
Asscher said the KP will elect a chair and vice chair for 2016 at its plenary meeting in the fall.
Other issues discussed at the intersessional, according to Asscher, include preparing a monitoring system for the Central African Republic. The Central African Republic was suspended from the KP in May 2013 when news surfaced that rebels had used proceeds from diamond sales to take control of the government.
The KP’s next major meeting, its plenary, is scheduled to take place in November in Angola.
The Latest
As a token of womanhood, this necklace depicts when Venus was born from the sea.
The deal gives the retailer control over the distribution of Roberto Coin jewelry in the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, and Central America.
Tradeshow risks are real. Get tips to protect yourself before, during and after and gain safety and security awareness for your business.
Show your mother some love with a piece of fine jewelry.
The company’s Easton location will remain open.
Brian D. Fleming of Carla Corporation was elected to serve a one-year term in the role.
Meet Ben Claus—grand prize winner of For the Love of Jewelers 2023 Fall Design Challenge.
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry and Watch Show
Tobak, author of “Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History,” shares how the exhibition came to be, and the pieces people may be surprised to see.
Stars adorned themselves in emeralds, platinum, and myriad bird motifs, writes Associate Editor Natalie Francisco.
M.S. Rau is set to open a seasonal gallery in the high-end resort town early next month.
The branded jewelry market is thriving, said Richemont Chairman Johann Rupert.
The six designers, all participants in the show’s Diversity Action Council mentorship program, will exhibit in Salon 634.
The highlight of his collection is the coveted Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime, which could sell for up to $5 million.
The “Venetian Link” series modernizes the classic Veneziana box chain in its bracelets and necklaces.
The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship will provide tuition assistance to two low-income students.
The Swiss watchmaker said the company’s plans to use a new version of the Hallmark crown on jewelry would confuse consumers.
The executive talked about the importance of self-purchasers and how fuel cell electric vehicles are going to fuel demand for platinum.
The Indian jeweler’s new store in Naperville, Illinois marks its 350th location, part of its ongoing global expansion plans.
It will award a graduating high school student with about $10,000 toward a GIA diploma and an internship with the Seattle-based jeweler.
Wheat Ridge, Colorado police took a 50-year-old man into custody Wednesday following a two-month search.
PGI partnered with four new and seven returning designers for its annual platinum capsule collection.
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.
The men are allegedly responsible for stealing millions in jewelry and other valuables in 43 burglaries in 25 towns across Massachusetts.
“Horizon” invites individuals to explore the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, said the brand.