Manufacturing Jewelers and Jewelers of America join forces to unify industry advocacy
In a significant development poised to reshape the landscape of the U.S. jewelry industry, the Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) and Jewelers of America (JA) have agreed to an affiliation that will see MJSA operate under the JA umbrella. This strategic partnership, approved by MJSA members in a recent vote, aims to unify the manufacturing and retail sectors, enabling both organisations to expand their influence and address common challenges more effectively.
As the industry grapples with economic pressures, including rising tariffs and shifts in consumer preferences, the collaboration seeks to create a cohesive vision for growth and innovation. Edward DeCristofaro, chair of the MJSA board, emphasised the necessity of this union, stating, “The traditional lines dividing manufacturers and retailers have disappeared… Joining forces... will only strengthen our ability to advocate for our shared interests.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend within the industry, where the divergence between manufacturing and retail roles has diminished, necessitating a more integrated approach to advocacy and resource-sharing.
The affiliation is expected to enhance member benefits significantly, streamlining connections between designers, manufacturers, and retailers. As the two associations move forward, members of MJSA will retain their existing benefits while gaining access to JA’s extensive resources, which include connections to thousands of retail members. This integration aims to address crucial issues facing the industry, particularly as retailers continue to expand their offerings and require robust supply chains.
Under this new agreement, MJSA will maintain its longstanding mission of advancing professional excellence in jewelry making and design, a commitment it has upheld since its inception in 1903. The organisation will provide valuable access to the latest jewelry-making technology and educational resources, including the MJSA Journal, which keeps members informed of industry trends and developments. Additionally, an advisory board comprising current MJSA directors will be established to guide advocacy efforts centred on manufacturing and design, ensuring that members’ voices are well-represented.
The MJSA Education Foundation, a prominent 501(c)(3) entity within MJSA, will continue to support career and training initiatives vital for nurturing the next generation of jewelers. By aligning its programmes, such as the MJSA Mentor & Apprenticeship Program—recently recognised as a National Guidelines Standard by the U.S. Department of Labor—with JA's certification initiatives, the foundation will create new pathways for apprentices, fostering both technical and business skill development in aspiring jewelers.
This strategic alignment comes at a time when the jewellery industry is experiencing notable challenges and opportunities. With various initiatives in place, such as the upcoming MJSA ConFAB business conference and the expansion of scholarship programmes for aspiring jewelers, the new affiliation is expected to enhance educational opportunities and industry standards alike. Notably, MJSA’s investment in projects like the "Why I'm a Jeweler" video series aims to inspire a new generation of talent within the field, further addressing the workforce needs of manufacturers and retailers alike.
As the final steps of the affiliation process unfold, updates will be shared through both MJSA and JA’s platforms, marking the start of what both organisations anticipate will be a fruitful partnership. Amidst the evolving landscape of the jewelry sector, this collaboration underscores the importance of unity in facing collective challenges and seizing emerging opportunities.