The Jewellery Industry Fair (JIF) is proud to host the Women in Jewellery (WIJ) Panel on Saturday, August 17th at 9am at Carriageworks. This event promises to be a morning of inspiration and insight, featuring a treat of breakfast, tea, coffee, and juice. Attendees will hear from four prominent women who have made significant strides in the jewellery industry, sharing their strategies for building enduring legacies within their businesses.
Host: Janelle O’Connell
Janelle O’Connell is the General Manager of Calleija Jewellers, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and rare Argyle Pink Diamonds. Located in Sydney and the Gold Coast, Calleija is synonymous with bespoke luxury. Janelle’s leadership and dedication to industry growth make her a prominent figure in jewellery innovation.
Panelists:
Brigitte Zollo
Brigitte Zollo leads Aurum Jewels in Adelaide Arcade with over 40 years of experience. Starting in her family’s opal business, she became a licensed valuer in 1985 and gained expertise at Chez Jewels for 18 years. Brigitte’s ability to anticipate women’s jewellery preferences has made her a respected industry figure.
Lauren Sommer
Lauren Sommer co-founded Moi Moi Fine Jewellery in 2004 with her sister, pioneering moissanite and lab-grown diamonds in Australia. Their Sydney and Melbourne stores offer custom designs with a focus on ethical sourcing. Lauren’s dedication to quality and sustainability has positioned Moi Moi as an industry leader.
Nadia Neuman
Nadia Neuman, owner of Mondial by Nadia in Sydney’s Strand Arcade, continues her family’s legacy at Mondial Pink Diamond Atelier. Known for her passion for rare gemstones and sustainable materials, Nadia’s innovative designs have earned her numerous awards and industry acclaim.
Jenny Sher
Jenny Sher is a key figure at Chemgold, an Australian leader in casting, CAD, 3D printing, and refining. For nearly 40 years, Chemgold has integrated traditional techniques with modern technology. Jenny ensures the company upholds its core values of honesty and personalized customer care.
Alana Weirick
Alana Weirick is the CEO and co-founder of Moi Moi Fine Jewellery. Alongside her sister Lauren, she champions high-quality, lab-grown gemstones as ethical alternatives to mined diamonds. Alana oversees Moi Moi’s strategic direction, emphasising quality and sustainability.
he WIJ Panel at the JIF is an unmissable event for anyone in the jewellery industry. Attendees will gain invaluable insights from these accomplished women, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Whether you’re looking to be inspired, network, or learn, this panel promises to deliver.
