Damiani named Antonio Pavan as President & C.E.O. of Damiani USA with responsibily for North and South America.

Timex Group B.V., one of the world’s largest watchmakers, has appointed Arthur J. Morissette as corporate senior vice president and chief financial officer, effective June 1. He reports directly to Timex Group B.V. president and chief executive officer, Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard.

U.S. chain store sales rose 3 percent in May on a year-over-year same-store basis, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers, Inc.

Washington, D.C.—The American Society of Appraisers (ASA) Gems and Jewelry Committee is offering a jewelry appraisal course in July.

Spartanburg, S.C.—Platinum Guild International and Bench Media have joined efforts to offer Advanced Level Bench Seminars in a number of cities across the country starting this summer.

Dallas—Heritage Auction Galleries' latest auction brought in $1.4 million on 667 lots, including $107,550 for a "James Bond" Submariner Rolex watch.

Boston—Jewelry designer and manufacturer Jabel has become the lead sponsor of MicroBikeUSA, an organization that is leading a cycling effort across the United States this summer to fight against global poverty and raise funds for microfinance leader ACCION International.

Kobe, Japan—Organizers of this year's International Jewellery Kobe (IJK 2008) have announced solid business results for the show held last month.

Geneva—International watch auction house Antiquorum has revealed the identity of its new majority shareholder.

Boston—Jewelry designer and manufacturer Jabel has become the lead sponsor of MicroBikeUSA, an organization that is leading a cycling effort across the United States this summer to fight against global poverty and raise funds for microfinance leader ACCION International.