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Mark and Candy Udell of London Jewelers to Receive the GEM Award for Lifetime Achievement July 25, 2025 (0 comments)
New York, NY--Mark and Candy Udell, the husband-and-wife duo at the helm of London Jewelers, one of America’s most iconic and enduring family-owned luxury jewelry retailers, will received the GEM Award for Lifetime Achievement. The Gem Awards will be held March 13, 2026.
“Together, they have transformed a single-store operation, founded in 1926, into a multi-store luxury powerhouse known for innovation, craftsmanship, and unparalleled customer service,” Gem Awards officials said in a statement.
Mark Udell, CEO, officially joined the family business in 1973 after graduating from the University of Miami and gaining early retail experience at Mayor’s Jewelers in Florida. A third-generation jeweler and grandson of founder Charles London, Mark brought a lifelong passion for watches and fine jewelry to the business. Under his leadership, London Jewelers expanded from its original Glen Cove location into a prestigious network of boutiques across Long Island and New Jersey. His industry expertise and deep relationships with top-tier brands—including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Bulgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, and David Yurman—have positioned London Jewelers as a benchmark in U.S. luxury retail, with 18 stores.
That same year, Mark married his college sweetheart, Candy Udell, who joined him in the family business and now serves as President of London Jewelers. A graduate of Hofstra University with a degree in communications, she plays an essential role in merchandising, branding, advertising and store design—helping to shape the company’s identity and elevate its customer experience. Her leadership has also been pivotal in launching meaningful philanthropic initiatives, including the founding of the Rescue Paw Foundation, which funds no-kill animal shelters and spay/neuter programs. Candy also designed the Paw Jewelry Collection, with proceeds supporting animal welfare efforts.
The Udells' shared leadership has driven major milestones for London Jewelers, including the 2025 opening of the world’s first Rolex Boutique in East Hampton, the continued expansion of their flagship store in Manhasset, and the opening of their fifth store in The Mall at Short Hills in New Jersey.
The 24th annual GEM Awards will be held March 13, 2026, at Cipriani 42nd St. in New York. The event attracts jewelry professional from across the country to come together and celebrate the nominees.