CollectionsJun 23, 2026
Francesca Villa Goes ‘On the Road’The capsule collection looks to vintage trunk pins that echo the spirit of speed, freedom, and the mythology of the American road trip.
Brought to you by
Investing in the Next Generation of Bench Jewelers
The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship from Jewelers of America returns for a second year.
Brought To You By Jewelers of America
The industry is facing a shortage of skilled bench jewelers. It is one of the pressing challenges that is targeted directly at retail jewelers and is part of the critical need to attract new talent. Jewelers of America has recently reinvested in several programs targeted to address this need.
Last year, Jewelers of America launched the Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship. Following up on the success of the inaugural year, Jewelers of America is once again seeking talented students from across the United States to apply for the Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship. The scholarship is a partnership with Jewelers of America and the Holtzman family that provides tuition assistance to students enrolled in an accredited bench jeweler or metalsmith education program at an accredited college, university, or training school.
Jewelers of America has long been committed to supporting workforce development in the jewelry industry. The Holtzman Bench Scholarship is part of a larger initiative to attract new talent, provide access to education, and ensure a pipeline of skilled professionals for the future. The scholarship complements JA’s Bench Professional Certification Program, which sets national standards for bench jewelers and supports their continued development and recognition. In addition, JA’s Careers in the Jewelry Industry guide offers a comprehensive look at career paths across the trade—from design and retail to technical craftsmanship—giving students a clear roadmap to success in the industry.
Last year, three promising recipients received scholarships through the Holtzman program, using the funding to attend respected institutions including the Gemological Institute of America, New Approach School for Jewelers, and Stuller’s training program. In an industry where skilled bench jewelers are in high demand, this scholarship is more than just financial aid—it’s a bridge to meaningful careers and long-term industry vitality.
"My parents, Seymour and Evelyn Holtzman, have always believed that service and bench jewelers are the foundation of the jewelry industry,” said Steven Holtzman, Vice Chairman of CD Peacock. “By providing this scholarship, we honor my late father's legacy and hope to ignite a passion in someone to help launch a brilliant career."
With a focus on low-income students, the scholarship is designed to open doors for those who may not otherwise have access to this level of specialized training. By investing in the next generation, Jewelers of America continues to champion the growth, sustainability, and diversity of the jewelry industry.
The deadline to apply for this year’s scholarship is June 20.
The deadline to apply for this year’s scholarship is June 20.
To learn more about the scholarship and to apply, please visit our website or contact JA’s Member Services at (800) 223-0673.
More on Independents
The Latest
SourcingJun 23, 2026
New Paraíba Tourmaline Source Reportedly Discovered in EthiopiaSSEF issued a notice about the potential new source of the sought-after gemstone, citing “credible reports” from trade sources.
MajorsJun 23, 2026
Etsy Says ‘Shop Other Jeffs’ This Prime DayAs Amazon Prime Day kicks off, Etsy is encouraging shoppers to support small businesses.
Brought to you by
Wedding Band Trends 2026: Personalization Takes Center StageColored gemstones, artisan finishes, mixed metals, and meaningful details are shaping demand in bridal jewelry.
Events & AwardsJun 23, 2026
AGA Announces 2026 Scholarship WinnerCole Winward is the recipient of 2026 AGA Gemological Scholarship.
Weekly QuizJun 17, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
EditorsJun 22, 2026
15 Pieces of Jewelry That Brought Us Joy in Vegas Whether they evoked nostalgia, wonder, or laughter, these jewels put a smile on our faces.
Events & AwardsJun 22, 2026
Plans Announced for New Trade Show in BaselScheduled for April 2027, Basilia will be the first watch and jewelry trade show held in Basel since the collapse of Baselworld in 2020.
Brought to you by
Building the Future of Jewelry Retail: DCA Expands Education, Leadership Development, and Workforce SolutionsDCA is preparing the next generation of professionals by supporting workforce development, leadership growth, and career advancement.
Events & AwardsJun 22, 2026
Gem Awards Opens 2027 Nomination PeriodSubmissions for the milestone 25th annual Gem Awards will be accepted across three categories from now through July 31.
WatchesJun 22, 2026
Snoopy Inspires New ‘Flying Ace’ Ball WatchThe beloved beagle dons his aviator outfit for the new Engineer Master II Snoopy Flying Ace timepiece.
AuctionsJun 18, 2026
Paraíba Tourmalines Sell for $3.4M at Sotheby'sThe recent high jewelry auction, which also featured the sale of a 10-carat blue diamond, was “a celebration of color.”
CollectionsJun 18, 2026
Michelle Obama Wears Almasika Earrings Symbolizing Feminine PowerShe wore the “Le Cauri Endiamanté” earrings, our Piece of the Week, in the Obamas’ first dual portrait for the Obama Presidential Center.
PodcastsJun 17, 2026
Episode 6: Las Vegas 2026-Trends, Traffic, Broken BathroomsCouture’s Michelle Orman joins Amanda Gizzi and Michelle Graff for this special post-Market Week episode of My Next Question.
GradingJun 17, 2026
SSEF Issues Warning on Refilled EmeraldsThe lab is seeing emeralds with filler added post-testing enter the market, accompanied by reports that indicate little to no treatment.
WatchesJun 17, 2026
Patek Philippe’s ‘Visionary’ Leader Philippe Stern Dies at 88 The third generation of the Stern family to head Patek Philippe, he navigated the “quartz crisis” and preserved the brand’s independence.
MajorsJun 17, 2026
James Avery to Revamp In-Store Retail ExperienceThe Texas-based jeweler is gradually rolling out a new experience-forward layout in its stores.
MajorsJun 17, 2026
Seahawks’ Super Bowl Ring Blends Meaningful Design, Technical CraftsmanshipThe Super Bowl LX champions were honored with diamond and blue sapphire rings by Jason of Beverly Hills.
Policies & IssuesJun 17, 2026
Community for Ethical Jewelry Names New Executive DirectorMarianna Smirnova previously spent a decade working with the Responsible Minerals Initiative, in addition to other relevant roles.
MajorsJun 16, 2026
5 Things to Know About the 2026 NBA Championship TrophyThe New York Knicks took home the Larry O'Brien Trophy crafted by Tiffany & Co.
TrendsJun 16, 2026
Post-Vegas Jewelry Trend Report: Big Beads, Western Flair, White MetalsAssociate Editor Natalie Francisco lists the trends she spotted during Jewelry Market Week that will dominate the second half of 2026.
SourcingJun 16, 2026
GemGuide Updates Ruby PricesIts app now reflects increased prices for Mozambique ruby, as well as changes to its Burma ruby charts.
MajorsJun 16, 2026
Sasha Primak Hires New Design DirectorThe manufacturer has tapped Alicia Arnold, the former director of custom design at Tiny Jewel Box.
WatchesJun 15, 2026
G-Shock, Coca-Cola Partner on Bottle-Inspired WatchThe special-edition piece marks the 140th anniversary of the iconic beverage brand.
TrendsJun 15, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: Tiny Charms Are TrendingHere are 13 small charms to inspire your layered looks this summer.
AuctionsJun 12, 2026
16th-Century ‘Hogback’ Diamond Ring Going Up for Auction in LondonFound by a metal detectorist, the ring likely belonged to a wealthy, possibly royal, owner, said Noonans.
CollectionsJun 12, 2026
Chouette Designs To Launch Collection Celebrating All Types of LoveOur Pride Month Piece of the Week, the “Margaux” ring, is part of the wife-and-wife team’s new “Lovestoned” collection.
Events & AwardsJun 12, 2026
CBG Announces Plans for Phoenix ShowThe group has named the keynote speaker and announced a new pavilion for its next event, which is slated for September.
