Jewelers Mutual, GIA Launch Scholarship for Aspiring Gemologists
The “Ron Harder Gemological Scholarship” application window is open until April 30.

Jewelers Mutual has provided $50,000 to fund the new Ron Harder Gemological Scholarship. It will award $10,000 annually, over the next five years.
The scholarship is named in honor of Ron Harder, who served as the CEO of Jewelers Mutual from 1982 to 2007 and whose legacy in the jewelry industry is marked by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and education, said Jewelers Mutual.
"I am delighted to see Jewelers Mutual and GIA investing in future gemologists,” said Harder.
“This scholarship reflects our shared dedication to nurturing talent and ensuring the industry's continued growth and success."
Applicants must be enrolled in GIA’s gemology program.
Along with their application, applicants are required to submit an essay between 500 and 1,000 words explaining how the scholarship will assist with their completion of the program and prepare them for a career in the jewelry industry.
“Education is at the heart of our mission, and we are grateful for Jewelers Mutual’s support to empower students with the knowledge and skills to launch successful gem and jewelry careers,” said Susan Jacques, GIA president and CEO.
The deadline for applications is April 30. To apply, visit GIA’s application portal.
The Latest

Co-founders Afzal Imram and Lin Ruiyin brought their son’s story of a cosmic egg, toadstool, and railroad to life in their new collection.

The best time to prepare for the holiday season is right now, according to columnist Emmanuel Raheb.

This year’s winner is Morgan Keefe, who is currently studying at GIA to be a gemologist.

The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship from Jewelers of America returns for a second year.

“The Jewelry Book” comes out this September.


The company is focused on modernizing the custom jewelry buying experience with e-commerce tools like product visualization and 3D styling.

Following its recent acquisition, the storied brand has updated its leadership team and regional managers.

The countdown is on for the JCK Las Vegas Show and JA is pulling out all the stops.

AGS also named the recipient of its “Women in Leadership” scholarship.

The 20-karat yellow gold and diamond wrap ring is modeled after the Monstera plants in the garden of the brand’s Miami villa.

Rocksbox President Allison Vigil shared the retailer’s expansion plans, and her thoughts on opening stores in malls.

The creator of the WJA Chicago chapter is remembered as a champion for women in the jewelry industry and a loving grandmother.

The decline was consistent across age groups and almost all income groups, with tariffs and inflation still top of mind.

The “Playlist: Electric Dreams” collection brings lyrics from the musician’s song, “Little Wing,” to life through fine jewelry.

The event is set for May 16-19 in Detroit, Michigan.

The Vault’s Katherine Jetter is accusing the retailer of using info she shared for a potential partnership to move into Nantucket.

Agents seized 2,193 pieces, a mix of counterfeit Cartier “Love” and “Juste Un Clou” bracelets, and Van Cleef & Arpels’ “Alhambra” design.

The designer brought her children’s book, “The Big Splash Circus,” to life through a collection of playful fine jewelry characters.

The trade association has chosen the recipients of the funding initiative it formed to foster the growth and sustainability of the industry.

The organization has also announced this year’s slate of judges.

Associate Editor Natalie Francisco shares 20 additional pieces that stood out to her at the Couture show.

Lori Tucker started at Williams Jewelers when she was 18 years old.

The “Marvel | Citizen Zenshin” watch is crafted in Super Titanium and has subtle nods to all four “Fantastic Four” superheroes on the dial.

The “XO Tacori” collection was designed to blend luxury and accessible pricing.

National Jeweler and Jewelers of America discuss the standout jewelry trends and biggest news to emerge from the shows this year.

Signatories to the “Luanda Accord” committed to allocating 1 percent of annual diamond revenue to the Natural Diamond Council.

The winning designs captured the “Radiance” theme.