Ed Bridge to Receive Lifetime Achievement Honor

RAPAPORT... Jewelers of America (JA) has named Ed Bridge, chairman of Ben Bridge Jeweler, as the recipient of its 2020 GEM Award for LifetimeAchievement. The GEM Awards honor the outstanding achievements ofindividuals or companies whose work raises the visibility and status of finejewelry and watches. "Ed has undoubtedly increased the professionalism for thejewelry industry," JA president David Bonaparte said Wednesday. "His commitmentto his family business is unwavering and his leadership on the boards of somany jewelry-industry associations has been immensely appreciated by all thosewho benefit from his contributions." Bridge was the CEO of the family-run store until hisretirement in November, when he was succeeded by his daughter, Lisa Bridge. Hehas served on the board of JA, Jewelers for Children and the Jewelers VigilanceCommittee. He was inducted into the National Jeweler's Retailer Hall of Fame in2003 and, together with his family, received the American Gem Society LifetimeAchievement Award. Image: Ed Bridge. (Jewelers of America)