(PRESS RELEASE) MONTCLAIR, NJ — The INSTORE team is elated to announce that Editor-in-Chief, Trace Shelton has been nominated for a 2025 GEM Award. Produced by Jewelers of America, the 23rd annual GEM Awards honors outstanding individuals whose work raises the visibility of fine jewelry and watches. Nominees are recognized in three categories: Jewelry Design, Media Excellence, and Retail Innovation.
Trace Shelton
As editor-in-chief, Trace Shelton has led the vision and editorial coverage for INSTORE magazine since 2016. Previously, he held senior editor and editor-in-chief roles for INSTORE’s sister publication, INDESIGN. He and the INSTORE publishing team have received nearly 100 awards including the Jesse H. Neal Awards, FOLIO, Azbee and Trade Association Business Publications International. Shelton also serves as the conference chair for INSTORE’s annual trade event, The INSTORE Show, curating educational programs designed to help fine jewelry retailers succeed.
“We are thrilled to hear of Trace’s nomination for this industry award and proud to have him on our team,” shared Matthijs Braakman, CEO of SmartWork Media. “His dedication to the brand and to powering the jewelry industry forward is evident in his work. We look forward to celebrating him during the GEM Awards next March!”
The 2025 GEM Awards are set to take place March 14 in New York City at the Cipriani. For more information about the GEM Awards and a full list of nominees, learn more here.
