The chief executive of Platinum Guild International has been given a prestigious award for his work in promoting the role of women within the jewelry industry.

James Courage was given the Ben Kaiser Lifetime Achievement Award at the Women's Jewelry Association's 27th Annual Awards for Excellence Gala, which was held in New York on Monday (July 26th).

The award is given to "men in the industry who have demonstrated a strong commitment to the advancement of women", according to National Jeweler.

Mr Courage, who has been chief executive of the organization since September 1996, said that "there can be no higher accolade", the publication reported.

Other figures recognized on the night included Susan Jacques, president of Borsheims, who was given the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Sarah Graham won the award in the category 'Design: Fine Jewelry and Watches'.

Another big name who attended the event to hand out awards was Ivanka Trump, who has designed her own line of jewelry and who, famously, wore platinum selections to her own wedding.