RAPAPORT... US-based jewelry brand Shy Creation has appointed Kari Allen as executive vice president. Allen was previously director of sales for Gucci, before which she served as vice president of luxury jewelry and timepiece brands Charriol and Damiani, Shy Creation said last week. She was also president of Versace's US business. In her new position, Allen will focus on the company's sales and operations. She succeeds Jim Littman, who is retiring at the end of June."We are proud and excited to have Kari joining the Shy team," said the company's CEO, David Dayan. "[She] brings with her tremendous experience and insight. With our remarkable growth into the nation's diamond leader, Kari will be a critical part of our success."Image: Kari Allen. (Shy Creation)