JA Names 2026 GEM Award Winners

Jewelers of America (JA) presented accolades to industry veterans including Mark and Candy Udell, Ana Khouri, and Sylvia Furmanovich at the 24rd annual Gem Awards last week in New York.

The Udells of London Jewelers received the Lifetime Achievement accolade, JA said Monday.

Taking home the award for High Jewelry Excellence at the March 13 event was Ana Khouri. Meanwhile, the JA announced the winners of the remaining categories live at the black-tie gala.

Sylvia Furmanovich won the GEM Award for Jewelry Design. Cece Fein-Hughes and Catherine Sarr were the other nominees in the category. 

The award for Media Excellence went to Thomas Waller, with Nicole Martine Chapoteau and Emili Vesilind also nominated.

Jessica McCormack picked up the GEM Award for Retail Innovation. Day’s Jewelers and Emily Chelsea Jewelry were also nominated in the category.

David Yurman awarded the 2026 David Yurman GEM Awards Grant to Johnny Nelson. “The David Yurman GEM Awards Grant is our commitment to the next generation of extraordinary talent,” said Yurman. “It reflects our long-term vision and belief in nurturing what’s next for innovative jewelry design. What truly sets Johnny apart is the meaning embedded in his work. His designs fuse his own heritage, identity, and artistry, creating pieces that spark conversation and invite reflection.”

Image: Jewelers of America Gem Awards gala. (Jewelers of America)