Press Releases

Veteran Industry Journalist Rob Bates Launches The Jewelry Wire

New independent publication will deliver daily reporting, commentary, and industry discussion.

Published

3 weeks ago

March 24, 2026

Press Releases

(PRESS RELEASE) NEW YORK – March 2026 – Rob Bates, one of the jewelry industry’s most recognized journalists, today announced the launch of The Jewelry Wire, a new independent publication dedicated to delivering news, reporting, and commentary for the global jewelry trade.

Rob Bates

Bates spent 28 years at JCK, where he became one of the industry’s most widely read reporters and commentators. Over the course of a journalism career spanning nearly 35 years, he has also worked at National Jeweler and has received 12 editorial awards, including the American Gem Society’s Triple Zero Award and two Jesse H. Neal Awards recognizing excellence in business journalism.

The Jewelry Wire will publish four to five newsletters each week, providing coverage of the industry’s most important developments alongside commentary, expert discussion, and curated resources for professionals across the trade.

The publication aims to combine original reporting with perspective and dialogue from leaders throughout the industry.

“The jewelry business has never been more complex or more interesting,” said Bates. “With The Jewelry Wire, I want to create a publication that is reader friendly, well informed, and independent, with news and conversations that help the trade navigate the challenges ahead.”

Each edition will feature major industry news supported by original reporting, analysis from Bates and other industry voices, and discussions with both trade insiders and outside experts. The newsletter will also include curated links and insights designed to help readers stay informed about developments shaping the business.

The publication will also invite contributions from analysts, reporters, and industry professionals to expand the range of perspectives included in the conversation.

Subscription to The Jewelry Wire will initially be free, with an optional paid tier planned for later phases that will provide additional exclusive content. Readers who remain on the free tier will continue to receive regular issues and updates.

Bates will continue to co-host the JCK Podcast, The Jewelry District, and contribute editorial coverage to JCK alongside the launch of his new publication.

“I’ve reported on the jewelry business for nearly 35 years,” Bates said. “This is an opportunity to take that experience and build the kind of publication I’ve always wanted to create.”

About The Jewelry Wire: The Jewelry Wire is an independent newsletter and reporting platform covering the global jewelry industry. Founded by veteran journalist Rob Bates, the publication delivers news, commentary, and expert discussion designed to inform and connect professionals across the trade.

After 35 Years in Kent, Bonaci Fine Jewelers Found the Right Partner to Close the Right Way

Bob Bonaci spent 35 years building a jewelry business and community presence in Kent, Washington. When he decided it was time to retire, he knew the process would take careful planning — and the right help. Fellow jewelers who’d been through it pointed him to Wilkerson. The results exceeded expectations. Wilkerson’s hands-off approach let Bonaci step back while the team handled every detail, meeting his personal and financial goals throughout. “It is phenomenal, the success that we’ve had.” Watch Bob share his retirement story.