WJA Launches Responsible Sourcing, Sustainability Education Fund
It comes as the organization restructures its grant and scholarship opportunities under a new framework with pillars.

The Responsible Sourcing and Sustainability Education Fund is designed to support “mindful leaders who will emerge and help innovate the future of the jewelry and watch industries, with the goal of protecting people and the planet for generations to come,” the organization said.
The WJA Foundation will help professionals with their ongoing education in the area by collaborating with leading institutions and organizations.
One of these is NYU’s Stern School of Business Executive Education, offering courses such as “Corporate Sustainability” from Professor Tensie Whelan, director of Stern’s Center for Sustainable Business and former president of the Rainforest Alliance.
Additionally, current WJA members will get a special enrollment rate on all NYU Stern Executive Education sustainability courses with their membership.
Individual donations, corporate contributions, and sponsorships are now being accepted for the new fund. For more information or to donate, visit WomensJewelryAssociation.com.
Coinciding with its launch, WJA Foundation said it is restructuring its grant and scholarship opportunities under a new framework, which will now have pillars: General Education Fund for students looking to enter or further their careers in the jewelry and watch industries; Responsible Sourcing and Sustainability Education Fund; and future pillars to be announced in the future.
“This level of intention enables us to be more involved in the pressing needs of our industry and equip future leaders accordingly,” said WJA Executive Director Jennifer Markas.
“I’m optimistic in how the WJA Foundation will continue to play a key role in shaping the industry’s future through more targeted giving initiatives like the Responsible Sourcing and Sustainability Education Fund.”
The Latest

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

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.

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

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


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.

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

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.

From influential executives to innovative designers, we pay tribute to the people we said goodbye to this year.

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.

The luxury goods company said founder Ippolita Rostagno will remain at the brand’s helm.




















