New York, NY. October 18, 2023.
Celebrate Four Decades of Empowerment: The WJA Ruby Gala Shines in NYC
The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) is proud to announce its highly anticipated WJA Ruby Gala, a landmark event set to illuminate New York City on November 2nd, 2023. This extraordinary evening, held at the iconic The Pool in the historic Seagram Building, not only commemorates WJA’s 40th anniversary but also serves as a crucial fundraiser for the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in an evening of unparalleled elegance, invaluable networking opportunities, world-class entertainment, and meaningful philanthropy, all in support of empowering women across the global jewelry and watch industries.
A Milestone Event: Honoring 40 Years of Impact
Four decades ago, the Women’s Jewelry Association embarked on a visionary journey to champion and advance women within the dynamic jewelry and watch sectors. What began as a bold idea has flourished into a global force, fundamentally transforming countless careers and shaping the industry itself. The WJA Ruby Gala stands as a vibrant testament to this enduring legacy, a celebratory convergence of past achievements and future aspirations. This 40th-anniversary celebration is more than just an event; it’s a powerful affirmation of WJA’s unwavering commitment to fostering professional growth, forging meaningful connections, and cultivating a more inclusive and equitable environment for women at every stage of their careers. Attendees will join industry leaders, innovators, and philanthropists in recognizing the profound impact WJA has made, while simultaneously contributing to the sustained success of its mission.
The Grandeur of The Pool: An Iconic NYC Setting
The WJA Ruby Gala promises to transport guests into a realm of timeless glamour and sophisticated luxury, perfectly embodied by its venue: The Pool, nestled within the hallowed halls of New York City’s legendary Seagram Building. Completed in 1959 and meticulously restored in 2016, this interior landmark is a rare architectural masterpiece, renowned globally for its unparalleled refinement and mid-century modern aesthetic. The Seagram Building, a beacon of power and prestige, has long been a favored haunt for giants in the fashion, film, and non-profit industries. The Pool, with its captivating ambiance and impeccable design, offers a truly unique backdrop for an event of such significance. Its hallowed reputation for hosting some of the city’s most exclusive and prestigious gatherings perfectly aligns with the WJA Ruby Gala’s commitment to creating an unforgettable experience that reflects the brilliance and artistry inherent in the jewelry and watch industries.
An Evening of Exquisite Entertainment and Culinary Delights
Red Carpet Welcome and Champagne Reception
The evening will commence with an arrival experience designed to captivate and delight. Guests will make their grand entrance onto a vibrant red carpet, where the renowned lenses of Patrick McMullan via Getty Images will immortalize their finest moments. A graceful flight of stairs will guide attendees past the restaurant, through private doors, where they will be welcomed by greeters adorned in exquisite, bejeweled gowns by Astarte Creative. Along the hallway, attentive butlers will offer flutes of champagne on silver trays, setting an immediate tone of enchantment and sophistication for the night ahead. This elevated beginning promises to immerse guests in an atmosphere of luxury from the very first step.
A Feast for the Senses: Gourmet Dining by Major Food Group
Upon entering the reception area, guests will be treated to an elevated cocktail reception, thoughtfully designed with an array of immersive experiences and engaging entertainment. The culinary journey, curated by the globally acclaimed Major Food Group—the hospitality empire behind many of New York’s most celebrated establishments, including THE GRILL, Carbone, Torrisi, and Lobster Club—promises an unparalleled gastronomic experience. Passed hors d’oeuvres will circulate, followed by access to gourmet dinner stations featuring a harmonious blend of culinary artistry across their signature concepts. Every dish is crafted to leave guests feeling thoroughly satisfied and delighted. Complementing the exquisite cuisine, a curated selection of cocktails, premium spirits, fine champagne, and exquisite wines will flow freely throughout the evening, ensuring every palate is catered to with impeccable taste and generosity.
A Symphony of Performances and Esteemed Recognition
The evening’s entertainment is meticulously designed to create an unforgettable sensory experience. Acclaimed performers will grace the stage, beginning with the extraordinary harpist Lexie Lowell by Élan Artists, who, in collaboration with a talented percussionist, will weave sultry grooves ranging from the soulful melodies of Sade to the classic rock of Fleetwood Mac and beyond. Their captivating performance will be accompanied by mesmerizing duo aerialists from Astarte Creative, who will perform against the ethereal backdrop of backlit window chain curtains, their hand-beaded, haute couture costumes adding to the visual splendor. Following this artistic display, internationally acclaimed urban rhythm musicians Drumadics by Élan Artists will ignite the room with a high-energy performance featuring dynamic trumpets, saxophones, and bucket drums. This vibrant introduction will lead to the evening’s distinguished emcee, John Green, President & CEO of Lux Bond & Green. A poignant moment of the night will be dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of WJA’s founding members, international board and chapter past presidents, and deserving scholarship recipients, honoring their pivotal roles in shaping the organization’s rich history and promising future.
Driving Philanthropy: The High-Stakes Ruby Gala Auction
A pinnacle moment of the WJA Ruby Gala will be the thrilling auction, expertly led by the renowned auctioneer, gemologist, and jewelry specialist, Caroline Ervin, representing the esteemed Lydia Fenet Agency. This live auction presents an extraordinary opportunity for guests to acquire exclusive items while directly contributing to WJA’s vital mission. The featured lot, generously provided by Inspirato for Good, is a luxurious five-star corporate retreat package, offering an unparalleled escape to a choice of iconic properties and breathtaking destinations. Imagine indulging in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, the pristine beaches of Punta Cana, the serene beauty of Kiawah Island, or the charming ambiance of Rosemary Beach, among other coveted locations. This exceptional package also includes a valuable six-month Inspirato Travel membership, opening doors to a world of bespoke luxury travel. Beyond the featured lot, a spirited paddle raise will invite all attendees to contribute to the mission of WJA through their generous bids, embodying the true spirit of philanthropy at the heart of the gala.
A Dazzling Finale: Unforgettable Artistic Showcases
Following the excitement of the auction, guests will be treated to another spellbinding performance by Astarte Creative. This captivating dance act seamlessly blends the timeless elegance and theatricality of Moulin Rouge Paris with the vibrant, contemporary energy of modern-day pop style New York, all within a custom jewel-themed montage meticulously created exclusively for the evening’s attendees. The night will build to a spectacular crescendo with an electrifying performance by Lorenzo Laroc, the New York native virtuoso, renowned for his signature five-string plexiglass electronic violin. Lorenzo will command the stage, playing a dynamic range of musical styles, from sophisticated jazz and raw rock to passionate Latin rhythms, ensuring a truly unforgettable sonic experience. Throughout these grand performances, guests will be invited to revel in the sophisticated ambiance, enjoy the luxurious lounge areas, and fully immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings and the brilliance of the artistic showcases.
The Heart of the Mission: Empowering Women in Jewelry and Watches
The WJA 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala is not merely a celebration; it is a vital fundraising endeavor dedicated to supporting the profound mission of the Women’s Jewelry Association. For four decades, WJA has stood as an unwavering beacon of empowerment for women across the expansive jewelry and watch industries. Its core mission is to enable women in the trade to advance and develop professionally through a comprehensive suite of initiatives including robust networking opportunities, cutting-edge educational programs, impactful leadership development, and tailored member services. With an expansive network spanning nineteen national chapters and two international chapters, WJA fosters deep connections and meaningful collaborations through strong relationships and dedicated volunteerism. The organization provides an extensive array of educational and mentorship opportunities, from virtual and in-person workshops, webinars, and masterclasses, to strategic professional development partnerships. Notable collaborations include the Pearls as One Course with the Cultured Pearl Association of America, Negotiable Training supported by the JCK Industry Fund, and the innovative Jewelry Loupe Project, a six-month intensive mentorship program specifically designed for emerging designers. These programs are instrumental in cultivating talent and ensuring a robust future for the industry.
“This year marks a truly significant milestone for the Women’s Jewelry Association. We have profoundly impacted women’s lives for forty years!” exclaims Susan Chandler, WJA President and Chief Merchandising Officer for Citizen Watch America. “On November 2nd, we will celebrate alongside the entire industry and honor the countless women who have paved the way for our past, current, and future successes. I am personally very proud that the WJA remains deeply committed to engagement, inclusion, and community, placing them at the forefront of all we do. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, coupled with our Gen-Z research seminar, are prime examples of how we consistently deliver crucial conversations and foster vital growth for our membership and supporters across the jewelry and watch industry. We are immensely grateful to partner with leading organizations that make these educational moments possible, and we eagerly anticipate expanding our initiatives even further in the coming year.”
WJA is dedicated to nurturing a more inclusive, informed, and sustainable industry for all. A significant portion of the proceeds generated from each gala ticket and sponsorship will directly benefit the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation, the philanthropic arm of WJA, which judiciously distributes grants and scholarships. “The WJA Foundation’s mission is fundamentally about building relationships and maximizing opportunities for both financial support and professional development across all facets of our industry for women, whether they are just beginning, actively advancing, or enriching their careers,” adds Gabrielle Grazi, President of the WJA Foundation and VP, Head of Retail Strategy and Partnerships at the Natural Diamond Council. By successfully raising funds during the WJA Ruby Gala, the organization is strategically poised to amplify its initiatives, ensuring that women continue to thrive in the trade for generations to come. Through their participation in the gala, attendees play an active and direct role in supporting ambitious students, resilient small business owners, and dynamic emerging leaders, thereby contributing to a brighter, more equitable future for the entire industry. Individual gala tickets, various sponsorship packages, and direct donations are available for purchase and contribution here.
A Community United: Leadership and Valued Sponsors
The success of the WJA Ruby Gala is a testament to dedicated leadership and widespread industry support. Monica Elias, CEO and Executive Producer of Elias World Media, serves as the esteemed Event Chair of the WJA Ruby Gala, while Susan Chandler, WJA President and Chief Merchandising Officer for Citizen Watch America, proudly holds the position of Sponsorship Chair. Both Monica and Susan receive invaluable support from a committed WJA committee, comprising Aida Alvarez, Kendra Bridelle, Gabrielle Grazi, and Ivette Nersesyan-Stephanopoulos, whose collective efforts have brought this vision to life. “This is undoubtedly one of the most highly anticipated galas of the year,” states Monica Elias. “The entire evening has been meticulously curated to beautifully emulate the inherent beauty, boundless creativity, and profound passion that define the jewelry and watch industries. From the iconic and richly historic location where the gala is being held, to the bespoke and deeply immersive performances, and the presence of renowned composers, there was an unwavering desire to create truly one-of-a-kind experiences across diverse genres that would utterly captivate our cherished guests. Most importantly, we sought to profoundly recognize the generous support received from across the trade, which has made this extraordinary evening possible. The special moments we’ve thoughtfully woven throughout the evening are symbolic of WJA’s momentous milestone achievements over these forty years. This will be an unforgettable evening of celebration, inspiration, and crucial fundraising in support of a brighter future, bringing together some of the most prominent names in media, entertainment, fashion, and philanthropy.”
The Women’s Jewelry Association extends its deepest gratitude to the esteemed gala sponsors, whose generous support has made this extraordinary event a reality. Their commitment underscores the collective dedication to empowering women in the industry: De Beers, Jewelers Mutual, Citizen Watch America, GIA, Elias World Media, JCK, Krainz Creations, Platinum Guild International, Stuller, The Centurion Jewelry Show, BOSS Logics, Chrysmela, Goldstar, Heritage Auctions, Instore, Lux, Bond & Green, Marco Bicego, Richline Group, Sheetal, Uni-Design, V&A Group, and Casadevall Group.
Be Part of the Legacy: Attend the WJA Ruby Gala
Guests attending the WJA Ruby Gala are encouraged to embrace a Black Tie optional dress code, with a special invitation to wear the color red. This choice not only symbolizes solidarity with the ruby anniversary theme but also adds a vibrant, cohesive element to the evening’s celebratory atmosphere. Tickets for this exclusive WJA Ruby Gala are limited and available for purchase directly at https://wja.wedoauctions.com. For those interested in exploring impactful sponsorship opportunities or seeking further information about the event and its beneficiaries, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected]. Your participation directly contributes to the WJA’s mission, investing in the future leaders and innovators of the jewelry and watch industries.
About the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA)
The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) stands as a trailblazing global organization, passionately dedicated to empowering and advancing women across the dynamic jewelry and watch industries. Founded in 1983, WJA was built upon the profound belief that women possess the collective power to instigate lasting change by connecting, mentoring, and recognizing one another’s accomplishments. Today, WJA has evolved into a vast, vibrant global network of professionals, encompassing a diverse array of roles from visionary designers and skilled manufacturers to innovative retailers and influential media representatives. The organization’s fundamental mission is to facilitate unparalleled professional growth through robust networking events, comprehensive educational programs, transformative leadership development initiatives, and a wide spectrum of essential member services. Through its numerous chapters strategically located across the U.S. and around the world, WJA offers a rich tapestry of benefits, including exclusive networking events, cutting-edge educational programs, impactful mentoring initiatives, and vital scholarships and grants, all designed to foster success and collaboration.
About the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation
The WJA Foundation serves as the vital philanthropic arm of the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA), operating as a dedicated 501(c)(3) corporation. Its core purpose is to profoundly further the organization’s mission by providing women in the jewelry and watch industries with essential educational and business opportunities, thereby empowering them to achieve their full career potential. The Foundation actively engages both individuals and corporations, inspiring them to contribute and make a tangible, meaningful impact on the lives and careers of countless women through the strategic distribution of crucial scholarships and grants. These financial aids are instrumental in removing barriers and opening doors to professional development, fostering a more educated and skilled workforce within the industry.