Celebrity jeweler and watchmaker Jacob Arabo of Jacob & Co. will be a featured guest speaker during the opening session of the Gemological Institute of America’s 16th annual Jewelry Career Fair on July 28 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

Arabo, who came to the U.S. from Russia when he was 16, began his jewelry career by enrolling in a jewelry design course. Soon after, he started designing his unique pieces in New York’s Diamond District for a number of jewelry labels and private clients. In 1986, Arabo opened his own business and began designing products under his brand, Jacob & Co. By the mid- to late1990’s, Arabo’s unique creations gained popularity with many music industry icons as well the recording industry’s rising stars and Arabo’s fame as a celebrity designer has continued to grow.

“Jacob is a perfect guest speaker for Career Fair, because he truly exemplifies how someone who is passionate about gems and jewelry and committed to success can find a dream career in this fabulous industry,” said Kathryn Kimmel, GIA’s vice president of marketing and public relations, and a co-founder of Career Fair.

Career Fair participants will also have an opportunity to receive insights and tips from other noted jewelry industry leaders and experts. Speaker sessions and workshops, such as “Marketing Yourself for Success,” allow attendees to learn about the latest employment trends, what employers are looking for, and how to maximize skills and training to turn a dream job into a career.

Job seekers can acquire contacts and industry specific advice through one-on-one career coaching sessions with top experts, workshops, and résumé reviews.

In addition, the event allows employers to meet a large number of well-trained, highly-qualified candidates who are enthusiastic about a career in the jewelry industry. Recruiting takes place from 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Held twice a year, Career Fair was founded by GIA and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California.

Employers interested in recruiting at either event can contact GIA’s Career Services office at 800-421-7250, ext. 4195, or email Kimberly Northup. For more information, job seekers can also call GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair hotline at 800-421-7250, ext. 4100, or e-mail Career Fair.

JCK