JA history
Over 100 years of supporting jewelers
Jewelers of America has a long-standing history of supporting jewelers in the United States. Today, our association is the leader in benefits, advocacy and more.
Jewelers of America was founded in 1906 by a group of retail jewelers as the American National Retail Jewelers Association (ANRJA). In 1957, ANRJA merged with the National Credit Jewelers Association to form the Retail Jewelers of America (RJA). The organization adopted the name Jewelers of America in 1980.
Another significant milestone came in 2009, when JA merged with the Jewelry Information Center (JIC), expanding its role to serve both the jewelry industry and consumers. To further its mission and broaden its industry reach, JA acquired National Jeweler, a trusted source for jewelry industry news, in 2015 and established strategic affiliations with the Diamond Council of America (DCA) in 2017 and Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) in 2025.
Since its founding, JA has remained dedicated to supporting jewelers—both independents and majors—and serving as a trusted resource for fine jewelry industry information.
JA Today
Jewelers of America was founded by jewelers for jewelers with a desire to advance the professionalism and ethics of the jewelry industry. Today, Jewelers of America stands as the leading national trade association for businesses and organizations serving the American fine jewelry marketplace. Representing every facet of the jewelry supply chain, Jewelers of America members stand as the most trustworthy, informed and professional jewelry businesses in the United States and beyond.
JA supports the industry through business resources, recognition in their communities and representation on current government affairs and legislation. From certifications and educational opportunities to advocating for jewelers in Washington, D.C., Jewelers of America is a pillar for small town jewelers to national chains.
Jewelers of America is governed by executives who represent the diverse fine jewelry marketplace – from multi-generation jewelry store owners to executives of national jewelry chains and luxury brands. A common thread among them is their passion for the jewelry industry and its continued success. See all the types of companies represented on Jewelers of America’s Board of Directors.
About Jewelers of America Members
Jewelers of America members include independent jewelry stores, retail chains, manufacturers and suppliers, designers and brands, and those who provide products or services to the jewelry industry.
Many of these establishments have been serving their communities and celebrating their clients’ milestones for over 100 years. Jewelers of America members commit annually to the Code of Professional Practices, upholding the high ethical standards and ensuring confidence in buying fine jewelry. Search our full list of thousands of Jewelers of America member stores in our Find A Jeweler directory.
Jewelers of America’s Mission
Jewelers of America, the most trusted and influential voice of the jewelry industry, empowers and unites its members through expert guidance and advocacy, driving excellence, integrity, and success in an ever-changing marketplace.
Our Vision
We envision a future where the jewelry industry thrives through trust, innovation, and meaningful connections, empowering every jeweler to create lasting, meaningful experiences for customers, while upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship and integrity.
Ready to join the leading industry association?
For over 100 years, JA has supported jewelers through business resources, connections and advocacy.