Jewelry Information Center's 2013 GEM Awards Honors Jewelry Icons

NEW YORK, Jan. 14, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Jewelry Information Center (JIC) – the consumer education arm of Jewelers of America – held its 11th Annual GEM Awards gala on January 11, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York. Considered "the Academy Awards of the fine jewelry industry," the evening gathered Hollywood and jewelry icons to recognize the outstanding achievements of individuals whose work raises the visibility of fine jewelry and watches. Lara Spencer, of ABC's "Good Morning America," hosted the gala wearing a multi-strand emerald necklace and emerald earrings from Gemfields.

The evening celebrated extraordinary jewelry design as actress and model Brooke Shields presented the GEM Award for Jewelry Design to jewelry designer Ippolita. The award honored Ippolita's unique design aesthetic that will surely shape the future of jewelry design. An Italian artist and designer, Ippolita is known for her handcrafted fine jewelry that is feminine and wearable everyday – not just special occasions. Her jewelry is fashion-forward and colorful and incorporates a diverse group of materials. Brooke Shields glowed wearing Ippolita's signature jewelry stacked high.

Jewelry designer and philanthropist Brooke Garber Neidich presented the GEM Award for Journalistic Excellence to Stellene Volandes, Style Director of Town & Country. Volandes received the award for her consistent excellence in reporting on fine jewelry and watches. She increases consumer awareness of fine jewelry through her body of work, which includes Town & Country's jewelry-focused sections like "Style Spy" and "Sourcebook."

The evening concluded with the presentation of the GEM Award for Lifetime Achievement to Matthew A. Runci, former President & CEO of Jewelers of America and the Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America. Susan M. Jacques, President and CEO of Borsheims Fine Jewelry and Gifts, presented the award to Runci and recounted his career highlights, all of which are marked by a dedication to responsible business practices and a commitment to maintaining consumer confidence in fine jewelry.

Learn more about the GEM Awards at www.JIC.org/gemawards. View the image gallery at https://www.patrickmcmullan.com/site/event_detail.aspx?eid=42930&home=1

For more information about Jewelry Information Center, visit www.JIC.org, the online source for fine jewelry and watch trends and shopping tips.

SOURCE Jewelers of America