This month, Jewelers of America (JA), the industry’s largest retail trade organization, turns the grand old age of 115.
The New York City–based group was founded in 1906, when two trade groups—the American Retail Jewelers Association and National Retail Jewelers Association—came together to create the American National Retail Jewelers Association, which would later become Jewelers of America. Coincidentally, National Jeweler, the publication that JA purchased in 2015, was founded the same year.
To commemorate its milestone, JA is offering its members discounted sales and management certification exams for $19.06 (they generally cost $55) through August 31. All JA members are now eligible to take the Level 1 Sales Professional Certification free of charge.
The group is also offering discounted memberships of $115 for companies interested in joining the group through the end of the year.
Jewelers of America recently showcased 115 fun facts about the organization on its Instagram page. The full list can also be seen here.
The organization is known for its Gem Awards and national convention, both of which were held virtually this year.
(Disclosure: The author’s wife works for this organization.)
Top: Jeweler of America’s 2020 Gem Awards (photo courtesy of Jewelers of America)
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