Naresh Balani has been appointed Chairman, JEWELLERY MACHINERY & ACCESSORIES (JMA)  Forum. JMA Forum aims at building a strong association for Jewellery Machinery & Allied Industry and works towards the betterment and development of this sector.

Representing a wide spectrum of stakeholders — from manufacturers to traders — JMA members collectively address the evolving needs of the jewellery industry. Through a continuous focus on technological upgrades and process innovations, the JMA Forum ensures that cutting-edge solutions are readily accessible, empowering the industry to enhance efficiency, precision, and creativity.

The Indian jewellery machinery sector is thriving due to a combination of factors, including strong domestic demand, increasing exports, and technological advancements. The sector is well-positioned for continued growth, with a focus on automation, innovation, and meeting evolving consumer preferences. 

Naresh Balani, Chairman, JMA Forum said. ““I am truly honored to assume the role of Chairman of the JMA Forum. With deep gratitude, I sincerely thank all our members and mentors for placing their trust in me. I take on this responsibility with a strong commitment to progress, unity, and innovation in the jewellery machinery sector.

Together with our core committee members, we will focus on skill development through zonal seminars, the launch of our official industry magazine, and expanding the JMAIIE exhibition to multiple cities across India. These initiatives are aimed at driving knowledge, empowering our members, and fostering nationwide growth in our industry.”

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has announced the appointment of Pritesh Patel as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 4, 2025. Patel, who currently serves as GIA’s Chief Operating Officer, will take over the role from Susan M. Jacques, who will retire at the end of this year after more than a decade in the leadership position

The announcement follows a global search by GIA’s Board of Governors and marks a significant leadership transition at the nearly century-old institution. Patel becomes one of the few leaders to rise through the institute’s ranks, having joined GIA in 2015 as Chief Information Officer before being promoted to COO in 2017.

In his new role, Patel will lead GIA’s global operations, which span education, laboratory services, research, and instrument development. Outgoing CEO Susan Jacques, who has been with GIA in various leadership capacities for over 30 years, will continue as a strategic advisor until her formal retirement in December 2025. During her tenure, Jacques oversaw GIA’s navigation through major industry and global shifts — including the rise of lab-grown diamonds, the COVID-19 pandemic, and evolving consumer expectations — all while reinforcing the institute’s core mission of protecting public trust in gems and jewellery.

Platinum Guild International (PGI) expanded its leadership team, appointing Vaishali Banerjee as Head of Global Market Development. She will also retain her current role as Managing Director – India & Middle East, two key regions for the metal’s growth.

“This is a transformative time for platinum,” said Vaishali Banerjee. “We are witnessing a shift in global sentiment towards meaningful consumption. Platinum — with its rarity, preciousness, and enduring value — is perfectly poised to accompany this moment. I look forward to further strengthening our presence in India and the UAE while building momentum across key and emerging global markets.”

Further reinforcing its leadership bench, PGI has elevated Pallavi Sharma to Deputy Country Manager – India & Middle East. With these regions remaining strategic priorities, the move highlights PGI’s continued focus on driving platinum’s growth through direct market engagement, strategic partnerships, and targeted development initiatives.

“I’m excited to take on this new role at such a dynamic juncture,” said Pallavi Sharma. “Platinum’s narrative is evolving rapidly, and our focus will be on deepening consumer connections and expanding retail partnerships to ensure sustainable category growth across India and the UAE.”

These leadership changes come as platinum gains renewed attention for its price advantage and intrinsic value, positioning it for a promising new growth phase globally.