Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), which has represented U.S. jewelry makers for over 120 years, will become part of Jewelers of America (JA).
The boards of both organizations, along with MJSA’s members, have recently approved a plan to merge the two groups. The deal is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
David Bonaparte, CEO of Jewelers of America, told JCK, “It makes perfect sense for us to unite. Both groups have some overlapping roles, so combining will create operational efficiencies and reduce costs. At the same time, members will enjoy expanded benefits.”
Bonaparte said the merger will help the industry face challenges like tariffs and G7 sanctions on Russian diamonds. “We will have a stronger voice because many manufacturers affected by these issues will be part of the unified group,” he said.
MJSA’s headquarters in Providence, Rhode Island, will close. Some MJSA employees may transfer to JA, Bonaparte added. “There will be some continuity as we work through the details,” he said.
Under the agreement, MJSA will continue to offer educational and informational resources to its members. This includes the monthly MJSA Journal and an online job board. Current MJSA members will keep all their benefits and gain access to JA’s benefits. This includes connecting with JA’s retail members.
Although MJSA will dissolve its current board, it will create an advisory board made up of its current directors. This board will provide advice on issues affecting jewelry manufacturers and designers.
The MJSA Education Foundation, a nonprofit that supports students and emerging designers and manufacturers, will continue to operate with its own board of trustees. Some MJSA programs, such as its Mentor & Apprenticeship Program, will merge with JA’s education and certification offerings.
MJSA was founded in 1903. It was originally called the Manufacturing Jewelers and Silversmiths in America, and before that, the New England Manufacturing Jewelers’ Association. Since 1959, MJSA has organized the MJSA Expo, a trade show focused on jewelry manufacturers and designers. Last year, the event was renamed the MJSA Showcase Pavilion and became part of the JA New York show.
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