Our Mission

Our mission is to build a thriving and inclusive community for all Illinois Jewelry and watch Industry professionals.

To bring this mission to life, we have launched a suite of dynamic programs designed to deliver tangible

benefits to our members and strengthen our industry as a whole.

Social Engagement & Community Building

  • Peer Networking: Regular informal gatherings, happy hours, and social events designed to build lasting relationships among peers.

  • Industry-Wide Events: Flagship celebrations and social mixers that break down silos across retailers, bench jewelers, watchmakers, and suppliers.

Educational Programs & Scholarship Fund

  • Workshops & Seminars: Practical training sessions and expert-led webinars that equip members with modern technical, operational, and business skills.

  • Re-Established CJA Scholarship Fund: Directly investing in the next generation of talented bench jewelers, watchmakers, and gemologists through educational funding and grants.

Political Advocacy & Legislative Voice

  • Government Representation: Amplifying our unified voice in municipal and state government to champion policies that protect local businesses.

  • District Safety & Civic Partnership: Active collaboration with civic leaders, municipal officials, and local law enforcement leadership to maintain a safe business environment.

An Inclusive Community for Illinois Trade Professionals

The CJA proudly represents a diverse, interconnected, and expanding network of professionals across Chicagoland and the state of Illinois:

  • Retail Showrooms & Multi-Generational Business Owners

  • Master Bench Jewelers & Custom Jewelry Designers

  • Watchmakers, Horologists, & Timepiece Specialists

  • Loose Diamond, Gemstone, & Precious Metal Dealers

  • Appraisers, Gemologists, & Laboratory Technicians

  • Emerging Craftspeople & Trade Students

GET INVOLVED