NEW YORK: The Indian Diamond and Colorstone Association (IDCA) held its 24th annual gala awards dinner at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, NV attended by over 600 leaders in the industry. Award recipients included the world's largest retailer, Wal-Mart Stores, as 'Retailer of the Year'.

The 'E-Tailer of the Year' went to Bidz.com, founded in 1998, which now ranks second among online jewelry sites. The 'Doyenne of the Year' award was presented to Dawn McGuire, V.P. Mall Division of Sterling Jewelers and the 'Pioneer of the Year' was awarded to Harshad R. Mehta, of Rosyblue Group of Companies.

IDCA president Rajesh Bhagat stated, "We want to thank all of the presenters and recipients for making this our most exciting awards event ever." Sushil Goyal, IDCA board secretary added, "this was our 24th award event and it is our pleasure to acknowledge some of the most important people in the industry." The Keynote address was given by mega brand mogul Kathy Ireland. Bhagat said, "Kathy did a great job. She has a lot of business insight.

"IDCA was formed about 20 years ago with approximately 60 members and today has a membership of over 300 companies. The not-for-profit organization's membership represents companies owned by people of Indian origin in the diamond, colored stone and jewelry fields.