Jewelers of America (JA) will see a change in its top management in the new year, as Matthew A. Runci, the president of JA will retire on December 31, 2012. He served in this role for around 17 years. David J. Bonaparte will be taking over as president from January 1, 2013. David has formerly served as vice president of JCK Brands for Reed Exhibitions.

Runci was instrumental as JA’s president, in bringing the JA to focus on enhancing professionalism, transparency and consumer confidence, while also helping establish the Kimberley Process, the Clean Diamond Trade Act, and the Responsible Jewellery Council, reports say. As he retires, Runci will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at Jewelry Information Center's annual GEM Awards on January 11, reports add.