New York, NY – Jewelers of America (JA), the national trade association for businesses serving the fine jewelry marketplace, is now accepting applications for the Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship and the Jewelers of America Scholarship Program. These opportunities are available to employees of JA Member companies pursuing respected industry diploma programs, professional development courses, and certifications.
“Supporting education is one of the most impactful ways we can strengthen the future of the jewelry industry,” says JA President & CEO David Bonaparte. “By investing in the development of both emerging bench jewelers and retail professionals, we’re helping to build a more skilled, confident, and forward-thinking workforce.”
The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship, established through a partnership between Jewelers of America and Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman, provides tuition assistance to students enrolled in accredited bench jeweler or metalsmith programs. Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2026, with recipients selected by a review committee later that month.
The Jewelers of America Scholarship Program is open through September 30, 2026, or until funds are fully distributed. Scholarships may be applied toward programs and certifications offered by the American Gem Society (AGS), American Society of Appraisers (ASA), Diamond Council of America (DCA), Gemological Institute of America (GIA), and National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA).
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, currently employed by a JA Member store, and have a minimum of one year of experience in that store. Applicants may not be currently enrolled in another home study course offered by the participating educational providers.
To ensure broad access to funding, scholarships will be limited to one recipient per store, with a maximum of three per membership during the enrollment period from May 1 through September 30, 2026. Awards are granted based on available funds. For more information and to download an application, visit https://www.jewelers.org/ja/careers-education or contact JA Member Services at (800) 223-0673.
