The GEM Award for Retail Excellence is awarded to a jewelry retailer who specializes in selling fine jewelry and/or watches and uses innovative strategies to create positive change to how jewelry and/or watches are sold. The retailer -- online or brick-and-mortar -- may be recognized for their excellence in e-commerce, technological advancements, in-store experience, digital applications or any combination thereof. Winner: Ben Bridge Jeweler
Ben Bridge Jeweler
For over a hundred and ten years, Ben Bridge Jeweler has had a singular mission: to be your Personal Jeweler and help you celebrate your special moments. With a commitment to quality jewelry, the highest values, and exceptional personal service. They care deeply about sustainability and protecting both the people and the environment in every stage of the supply chain. They strive to maintain the highest ethical and quality standards in the industry, including collaborating with respected partners and manufacturers that adhere to our stringent guidelines for quality control and responsible sourcing. Ben Bridge Jeweler proudly serves their customers as their personal jeweler for special moments and milestones in their many retail locations and at benbridge.com.  
Irene Neuwirth
Irene Neuwirth is an independent, fine jewelry company based in Los Angeles. Founded in 2003 by designer Irene Neuwirth, the company has emerged as a leading jewelry brand, recognized by Irene’s whimsical yet ultra-fine design sensibility. The jewelry has generated tremendous editorial attention and is a red carpet favorite. In 2014, Irene opened her flagship store on Melrose Place in West Hollywood. The jewel box space was designed by Pam Shamshiri and marked the first time Irene’s vision was realized in a full brand experience. In 2022, Irene opened a second flagship on Madison Ave, a fantastical ode to magical surrealism.
Ylang 23
A labor of love and a family business, Ylang 23 is owned and operated by founders Joanne and Charles Teichman and their daughter Alysa. The couple started their business in 1985 (born Ylang-Ylang) and transitioned to luxury in the late 90s. For almost 40 years, Ylang 23 (“ee-long”) has supported emerging designers and introduced its discerning clients to them through its store in Dallas and at ylang23.com. Ylang 23 has created a space for its clients to feel joyful through connection to designers and their jewelry. Central to that is the owners’ close personal relationship with the designers Ylang 23 represents. The company’s team and owners have always been active in the Dallas community, particularly with organizations that focus on women’s health, human rights, and food insecurity.