Our Leaders

Founder: Louis E. Newman

Years Active: 1948-2008

Born in Hungary, Louis immigrated to the United States in the mid 1920’s, where he served our country during World War II. He got his start in the diamond business in 1946 running a division that sold fancy shapes for his brother-in-law Louis Glick, learning the diamond business from the very best of diamantaires. in 1948, he left Louis Glick and started his own company. Louis E. Newman, Inc., which continued to specialize in fancy-cut stones. At that same time, he established his buying office in Antwerp, and with his keen eye for beautifully cut stones and sharp buying skills, became a fixture in the diamond bourse. On New York's 47th Street he developed a reputation as the destination for the most beautiful gems, and to fellow dealers and customers alike, he always remained “uncle” Louis, a person that could be relied upon to deal with the utmost integrity.

David Friedman, Partner

Years Active: 1972-Present

In early 1972, Louis Newman welcomed his son-in-law, David Friedman, an MBA from L.I.U to the company. Immediately, David set about organizing the company and incorporating his own brand of marketing and relationship building into the business. Over the course of the next several decades, David opened the firm's second buying office in Ramat-Gan, helped build the business further by increasing the size of its inventory, developed a line of fine diamond jewelry, and expanded the customer base. During the early 1980’s, David was elected to the Diamond Dealers Club Board of Directors and adding to his list of accomplishments during the late 1990's he co-founded Ritani, a branded jewelry line; and in 2006, JBA, and active buyer and participant in the second-hand jewelry market.

Michael Taub, Partner

Years Active: 1995-Present

In Late 1995, Michael Taub, the 3rd generation, joined the firm. After earning his MBA from NYU, Michael was tasked with moving the firm forward into the 21st century. Seeing an increased demand for finer stones, he has overseen the company’s focus on larger GIA certified diamonds, and natural fancy-colored stones. Michael has also been instrumental in developing the company’s technological blueprint, and LN’s presence at domestic and international trade shows.

Royie Wachsler

Years Active: 2018-Present

In Mid-2018, we welcomed “Roy” to our firm. Coming from a family of diamond dealers and with a background in logistics Roy has applied his wide array of skills in our industry into the further development of the company’s sales, customer service and increased social media presence.