The report shows that couples are searching for vintage and antique rings, gold jewelry, pearls, and colorful pieces.
Judge calls for dismissal of EEOC case v. Sterling
A federal magistrate judge has recommended dismissal of the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission’s (EEOC) claim of nationwide sex discrimination by Sterling Jewelers Inc., parent company of Kay Jewelers and Jared the Galleria of Jewelry.
Buffalo, N.Y.--A federal magistrate judge has recommended dismissal of the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission’s (EEOC) claim of nationwide sex discrimination by Sterling Jewelers Inc., parent company of Kay Jewelers and Jared the Galleria of Jewelry.
The ruling, handed down Thursday by U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy, is the latest turn in a legal battle between Sterling and the EEOC that stretches back five years.
The EEOC first filed suit against the country’s largest specialty jeweler in September 2008 after 19 former female Sterling employees who worked at stores in New York, Florida, California, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nevada, Indiana and Texas filed charges with the EEOC against Sterling on their behalf and the behalf of similarly situated employees.
In its suit, the EEOC accused Sterling of having a nationwide pattern of discriminating against women when it came to pay and promotion.
The court’s ruling, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York, states that the EEOC failed to provide evidence that it conducted a thorough, nationwide investigation of Sterling’s employment practices prior to filing the lawsuit.
“The only nationwide data specifically identified by the EEOC is Dr. [Louis] Lanier’s (an expert hired by the claimants) statistical analysis, and, having invoked privilege in response to Sterling’s inquiries in discovery, the EEOC cannot now be allowed to argue that this was the analysis referred to in its Letter of Determination, or that it took any steps to verify the reliability of that analysis,” court papers state. “Absent such proof, there is no evidence that its investigation was nationwide.”
The EEOC has until Jan. 21 to object and seek review by District Court Judge Richard J. Arcara, according to the order.
Nora Curtin, a New York-based attorney with the EEOC, said the commission is evaluating its options in light of McCarthy’s recommendation.
In an emailed statement, Sterling Jewelers notes that there are likely to be additional procedural issues and rulings in the future, in this case and a separate federal case involving essentially the same women also accusing the retailer of gender discrimination.
That case, filed in March 2008, is pending in arbitration, and the women involved have asked to pursue their claims as a class action. A hearing on this motion is set for Feb. 5.
“We want to reiterate that we take the allegations raised in both lawsuits very seriously. We are confident
Sterling said it investigated the women’s claims of gender discrimination when the issue first arose and the investigation failed to substantiate the allegations. “Therefore,” the company said, “we do not believe these charges are valid. We will defend ourselves vigorously against such allegations.”
The Latest
He’s remembered as a “font of passion,” leaving behind a legacy of dedication to his craft and community.
The first one will take place next month during the Jewelers of Louisiana’s and Mississippi Jewelers Association’s conventions.
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
The redesigned boutique features interactive displays and a workshop space for hands-on learning about watchmaking.
There is a willingness to comply with new government-mandated regulations, with an insistence that they should be practical and realistic.
A combination of factors is driving growth in the industry despite the precipitous drop in prices across the board.
Ho Brothers offers scalable solutions for the future of custom jewelry.
The zone’s modernization will enhance and increase India’s jewelry manufacturing capabilities while aiding small and mid-sized businesses.
The company plans to invest $25 million in marketing initiatives to boost awareness around its namesake and licensed brands.
Optimism about the current state of the economy was offset by anxiety around inflation and the political environment.
DDG encourages retailers to educate customers on the positive impact of purchasing natural diamonds.
Highlighting the most iconic Tiffany collections, it’s inspired by the company’s late window designer, Gene Moore.
Jen Cullen Williams and Duvall O’Steen explore how jewelers can save time and money by using AI to analyze engagement and create content.
The retailer previously turned down an $8.4 billion offer in 2018.
The Florida store’s owner Miguel Gonzalez is retiring.
The lab stresses the importance of accurate identification, as the difference in price is “substantial.”
The brand also plans to expand its retail footprint from 138 to 200 stores over the next three years.
One is reserved for a NAJA member, the other for a non-member.
Longtime employees Carie Lehrke and Megan Mattice have received promotions.
Three guests joined National Jeweler and Jewelers of America to discuss trending time periods, spotting reproductions, and more.
Chris Clipper and Robert Lepere join the company with 50 years of combined experience.
The trendy, metallic earrings wink at classic spring colors.
JSA said a man and woman pulled the safe out of an Oakland jewelry store but couldn’t quite get it into their van.
The miner’s March auction generated $19 million.
Helen McCluskey will succeed H. Todd Stitzer when he meets his 12-year term limit in June.
“Chopard x Julia Roberts” showcases the first gems cut from the 6,000-carat-plus “Insofu Emerald."