NEW BRAUNFELS, TX — After more than five decades of dedicated service, leadership, and gemological expertise, Graduate Gemologist and industry veteran Russ Whitehouse announces his official retirement from the fine jewelry sector.

A Legacy of Diamond Expertise: Russ’s career began in November 1969 with the Jewel Box Stores Corp. in Lewistown, Pennsylvania. Demonstrating early promise, Russ completed two foundational 18-month management trainee stints with Carlyle & Co., the company’s upscale division.

Driven by a passion for the craft, Russ graduated from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in 1974, earning the coveted Graduate Gemologist (GG) degree. This milestone immediately propelled him to the heart of the global diamond trade, working full-time at the Jewel Box Diamond buying office at the iconic 580 Fifth Avenue in New York City.

Leadership and Entrepreneurship: In 1975, Russ transitioned to Rochester, New York, serving as the General Manager and Diamond Buyer for Manns Jewelers. By 1979, entrepreneurship called, leading to the successful launch and operations of Court Street Jewelers in New Braunfels, Texas, a business he operated for over a decade.

The 1990s brought further executive leadership opportunities, including:

• General Manager & Buyer: Ira’s Diamond World, overseeing a 4-store regional chain out of Bluefield, West Virginia, starting in 1991.
• Corporate Representative: Joining forces in 1994 with Leslie’s “The Standard in Gold” and Wilkerson’s, specializing in fine jewelry sales and eventually becoming the Sales Operations Manager of the wholesale Division.

A Reflection on a Blessed Career

Reflecting on a lifetime spent around rare gems and fine metals, Russ shared a heartfelt final note on their 56-year journey: “I was blessed by always being around super people, and I love jewelry.”

Wilkerson’s and the industry extend its deepest gratitude for 56 years of integrity, passion, and mentorship, wishing Russ the absolute best in a well-deserved retirement.