Supplier News: Week of July 7

By Brittany Siminitz | July 07, 2025

Speakers Sought for Next Jewelry Symposium

The Jewelry Symposium (TJS) is looking for industry experts to present at its spring 2026 event, set to take place next May 16–19 in Detroit. Topics include manufacturing, technology, business practices, benchwork, gemstones, metals, sustainability, sourcing, and finding skilled employees.

“I have heard it said that in any industry there is a very small percentage of true experts,” said past TJS speaker Chris Ploof in a statement. “Presenting at TJS is an honor and a wonderful way for attendees to learn directly from these experts.

“The future of our industry will be dependent on our ability to share the knowledge and skills we have learned over time with future jewelry-makers. Presenting at TJS is one of the best ways to assure our combined and continued success,” Ploof added.

To be considered as a TJS 2026 presenter, find more information and the necessary forms at thejewelrysymposium.com/be-a-speaker. Deadline for submissions is Aug. 1, 2025.

Zillion Announces Women in STEM Scholarship Winner

Insurance company Zillion has awarded its annual Women in STEM scholarship to Purdue University electrical engineering student Meredith Tiderington.

“Zillion has always embraced a test-and-learn strategy to improve the customer experience and redefine insurance norms,” said Adam Black, Zillion’s managing director, in a statement. “Ms. Tiderington has demonstrated a keen ability to take on problems and work through them with curiosity and logic. We’re excited to support her as she advances her career within a STEM discipline.”

Created in 2021 to aid and empower women entering the field of science, technology, engineering, or math, Zillion’s scholarship is designed to cover a portion of tuition costs at an accredited U.S. college or university.

(Photo from The Jewelry Symposium)