Design Art and Photography

New York–Seats are still up for grabs for the seventh annual Jewelry Information Center (JIC) GEM Awards gala, taking place this Friday at Manhattan’s Cipriani 42nd Street.

The Jan. 9 event will honor Harper’s Bazaar editor-in-chief Glenda Bailey, hip-hop pioneer and entrepreneuer Russell Simmons, and luxury brand Chopard, each for representing the best in the fine jewelry and watch industry.

Bailey will be recognized with the GEM Award for Excellence in Journalism, while Simmons will accept in the category of Jewelry Style. Chopard, the only company to be singled out this year, will be presented with the award for Corporate Communications.

“Each of the 2009 honorees adds a special dimension to our industry,” JIC board chairman David Bouffard said in a media release. “In their own unique and qualified voice, each honoree raises the visibility and status of fine jewelry and watches as a gift of love directly to a wide range of consumers.”

Adding extra excitement to the evening will be master of ceremonies Samatha Harris, co-host of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars and a seasoned entertainment news journalist.

For information regarding tickets, contact Helena Krodel at (646) 658-5819. To learn more about the JIC, the GEM Awards and sponsorship opportunities, visit the JIC’s Web site, JIC.org.