By Emily Stegman

Helene Fortunoff, president of Fortunoff and chairman of GIA's Board of Governors, was honored with the Jewelry Information Center's (JIC) Lifetime Achievement Award on Jan. 13 at the fourth annual Gem Awards in New York City.

The award is given to an individual in the fine jewelry or watch industry who has made a lasting impression on his or her peers and the industry as a whole. Amanda Gizzi, manager of Public Relations for JIC, said Fortunoff exemplifies the very essence of the award.

"Her hard work and dedication to help build the awareness and size of her company has proven her merit time and time again," Gizzi said. "She is loyal to the jewelry industry and constantly gives back by donating her time and knowledge to many trade organizations."

Lauren Bacall, a legendary actress and former spokesperson for Fortunoff retail stores, presented the honor to her longtime friend.

"Having my introduction by Lauren was special," Fortunoff said. "Our friendship spans over 25 years and she was pivotal in our opening campaign for the New York store. Seeing so many other wonderful friends attend the dinner made the evening even more memorable."

Fortunoff's career in the industry spans more than 50 years, beginning with her work to develop the fine jewelry division of her family's New York-based retail stores. Some of her many other accomplishments include becoming president of the Women's Jewelry Association, the first female member of the United States Carat Club and a National Jeweler Hall of Fame winner in 1990.

More than 600 people attended the 2006 Gem Awards, which also marked JIC's 60th Anniversary of service to the jewelry industry. Deborah Norville, journalist and anchor of "Inside Edition," was the mistress of ceremonies for the fourth consecutive year.

Other award winners included Katie Couric, of NBC's "Today" and "Dateline," for Excellence in Broadcast Journalism; Pamela Fiori, editor-in-chief of Town & Country, for Excellence in Journalism; and Peter Webster and Roberto Coin, of Roberto Coin, S.p.a., for Excellence in Marketing.