Seattle--Blue Nile Inc. has confirmed to National Jeweler that it is halting its affiliate programs in three states due to changes, or pending changes, to state sales-tax laws.

Plano, Texas--Pam Mortensen, former vice president and divisional merchandise manager of fine jewelry and watches for Wal-Mart Stores Inc., has joined J.C. Penney Inc. as senior vice president and general merchandise manager of fine jewelry, according to a release issued on Thursday by the Plano, Texas-based retailer.

The American Gem Trade Association launched trade and consumer forums to exchange a variety of industry-related information.

According to the LGI Network's June Time Tracker Newsletter, watch sales in May experienced a steeper decline than in April, but a more modest decline than seen in the first three months of the year.

Chicago--The Chicago Jewelers Association (CJA) has issued a crime alert urging jewelers in the Des Plaines and surrounding Illinois suburbs to be on the lookout for a white male seeking diamonds and trying to pay with a WAMU-certified check.

New York--Platinum Guild International (PGI) has debuted a new, online Platinum Chains catalog, which it has launched due to increased demand for platinum chains.

Millburn, N.J.--Nancy and David Fine Jewels is pleased to announce that Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Richie Furay, along with his band, will be performing for the Millburn Pride Initiative on Aug. 24.