EditorsJan 16, 2026
Remembering Pete Yantzer for His Contributions and His Kindness Pete’s boundless curiosity extended beyond diamond cut and he was always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the topic.
SourcingDec 11, 2017
Avi Raz of A&Z Pearls Set to Retire
He will exhibit at major trade shows in 2018 to sell off the business’s loose pearl and jewelry inventory before closing it.
Avi Raz of A&Z Pearls will sell off the business’s inventory next year before closing it so he can retire.
Los Angeles--After 36 years in business, Avi Raz of A&Z Pearls has decided to retire and close his business.
“I am very grateful to everyone in this industry, an industry and community that facilitated such a rewarding career filled with friendship, travel and adventure.”
Raz will transition out of the business over the next few months by offering A&Z Pearls inventory--including loose pearls and pearl strands in a range of pearl sizes and pearl types, a variety of pearl jewelry in 14-karat and 18-karat gold and one-of-a-kind pearl designs--at cost.
He will exhibit at major trade shows in 2018, such as AGTA GemFair Tucson, the IJO shows and JCK.
Raz was a recipient of the Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California’s Excellence in Service award this year. He was recognized at the club’s 73rd annual Dinner Dance, held at the Beverly Hills Hotel in October.
He serves on several boards of trade organizations, including the AGTA board of directors, The Jewelers Board of Trade, and The JCK Advisory Board for all JCK shows.
Raz also is a member of the GIA Alumni Association, has donated a one-of-a-kind piece from A&Z Pearls to the GIA museum’s permanent collection, and participated in the review of pearl material developed for the GIA’s educational program.
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