The Gem Awards always feel special, but this year hit differently. Walking into a room filled with people who care deeply about this industry reminded me why I love what I do. It wasn’t just about the awards. It was about the energy, the people, and the shared passion that connects all of us.
Showing Up as Ourselves
Everyone looked amazing. The ECJ team was dressed to the nines, and we were easily the most colorful group in the room. We were decked out in jewelry from both our own collection and Lumi Vintage, which made it feel even more personal and expressive.
That sense of individuality is something I never take for granted. Being able to show up fully as ourselves, especially in a space like this, felt really powerful.
Celebrating With Our People
We were joined by some incredible special guests, including Amanda St Paul, Monica Stephenson of Anza Gems, Elle Hill of Hill and Co, Diego Moncada of DM Studio, and Fang Wu of Lumi Vintage. My parents, Dave and Deb Phillippy, were also there, which made the night even more meaningful.
Having that mix of industry peers, collaborators, and family in one place made the experience feel grounded and celebratory at the same time.
Full-Circle Moments
One of the most unexpected highlights of the night was running into someone I graduated with. Erica Spain, who now works at Foundrae, and I both studied jewelry at Tyler School of Art. I hadn’t seen her since graduation.
Standing in that room together felt surreal. It was one of those moments that makes you pause and reflect on how far you’ve come.
Honoring Talent and Craft
It was amazing to celebrate Johnny Nelson, the recipient of the David Yurman Grant. We were also seated with Jules Kim and Lorraine West, who were finalists, which made the experience even more inspiring.
Being surrounded by such talent and creativity is always a reminder of how much innovation is happening in this industry.
Seeing Our Work Come to Life
The new collection pieces did not disappoint. Wearing brand new designs on the red carpet and watching them catch the light was such a rewarding moment.
There’s something special about seeing your work outside of the shop, in a completely different environment, and realizing it holds its own.
The Energy in the Room
We may not have taken home the award for Retail Innovation, but we definitely felt the love. Every time the Emily Chelsea Jewelry name was mentioned, the response from the room was loud, genuine, and unforgettable.
It honestly felt like one big hug from the entire community. That kind of support stays with you.
What Happened After Matters Too
The ripple effect after the Gem Awards has been just as meaningful. Hearing Lauren of Harwell Godfrey give her insights on the show on the Rough Cut podcast meant a lot, especially coming from someone I admire deeply.
Those moments, the ones that happen after the spotlight fades, are often the ones that stick the most.
What I’m Taking with Me
If there’s one thing I’m holding onto from this year, it’s this: showing up authentically matters. The connections, the recognition, and the energy all come from being true to who you are and what you create.
And that’s something I’m bringing with me into everything we design and do next.
