Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.
Chicago Jewelers’ Association Celebrates 145 Years
The theme of the black-tie gala to fete the occasion in January is the lasting power of both the organization and jewelry’s place in special moments.
Chicago—The Chicago Jewelers’ Association is ringing in its 145th year with a black-tie gala this January.
The event is titled “Rising to the Challenge Today … Tomorrow … Forever,” a nod to the organization’s plan to “be around for a long time to come.”
“The Chicagoland area is an important link bridging the east with the west in the jewelry industry,” said CJA President Rodger Kadet in a press release announcing the event.
“We have a strong pulse on what the average American is looking for in the jewelry they wear.”
The CJA, one of the oldest jewelers’ associations in the U.S., noted that while the industry continues to evolve, jewelry still plays an important role in celebrating life’s milestones.
The gala will showcase the organization’s historical milestones through a series of lit displays.
Guests will also hear from several recipients of the Tom Foody Scholarship Program, named after a late member of the organization; the fund has raised a quarter of a million dollars in scholarship funds for Chicago high school students looking to continue their education.
Cocktail music will be provided by Peter Lerner’s Jazz Trio followed by dinner and dancing music by The Gentlemen of Leisure. Attendees can also enter for a chance to win a diamond.
The gala will be held on Saturday, Jan. 18 at the Hotel Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile.
For more information, contact CJA president Rodger Kadet by phone at 312-609-0500 or by email at rodger@rodgerkadetltd.com.
The Latest

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.


Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.

As part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.

It marks the third time the country has headed the Kimberley Process. Ghana will serve as vice chair.

The new Bulova x Stetson designs highlight two animals often associated with the American West—the bison and the Texas Longhorn.

Its residency at Yamron Jewelers will run through May 2026.

The retailer is expanding into areas with large Indian and South Asian populations.

The Italian brand has opened its first flagship amid the peaks of the Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy.

The new curation at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County showcases rare gem and mineral specimens in their uncut, natural state.

The couple pleaded guilty to concealing at least $127 million in cash transactions at its precious metals businesses.

Consumers shared concerns about prices, inflation, tariffs, trade, and politics in the survey’s write-in response section.

In February 2026, the auction house will move its headquarters to the former Steinway Hall, a neoclassical landmark on Billionaires’ Row.

The new show will take place Jan. 23-25, 2026.

The former BHP Billiton leader and Gemfields chairman is remembered for his influential leadership throughout his 50-year mining career.

The LVMH-owned brand has partnered with the costume design union to revamp its award for 2026.

The luxury titan inked a deal to acquire an initial minority stake in the jewelry manufacturer with a pathway to full ownership by 2032.

The company’s curation of unsigned vintage and estate jewelry debuted at the Bloomingdale’s in Costa Mesa, California.

In the recent multi-shipment seizure, CBP also found counterfeit Audemars Piguet, Moncler, and Chrome Hearts items.

Helzberg’s Chief Retail Officer Mitch Maggart shared details about its tests of a new store concept rooted in an elevated luxury experience.

Jewelers of America execs and National Jeweler editors discuss tariffs, the sky-high gold price, and the engagement that broke the internet.



















