Gem Awards, JA National Convention Will Be Virtual This Summer
The events won’t be held in person until 2022.
New York—Jewelers of America has announced this summer’s Gem Awards and the Jewelers of America National Convention will happen virtually.
The Gem Awards’ virtual edition is slated for Thursday, July 15, 2021. The annual awards gala, typically held every January, honors individuals and brands whose work raises visibility of the jewelry and watches industry.
This year marks the 19th annual gala.
The Jewelers of America National Convention, meanwhile, is only in its third year. The educational conference, open to JA members and their staffs, is also scheduled to happen virtually on July 19 and 20, 2021.
In a statement, JA said it wasn’t confident in the timing of GEM Awards and the National Convention due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
JA President and CEO, David J. Bonaparte, said, “We have been carefully evaluating how COVID-19 will impact the National Convention and GEM Awards this summer. While it was not an easy decision, our board and committees have decided that hosting the events virtually is in the best interest of our attendees and staff."
“We are hard at work producing two incredible virtual events that the entire industry will now have front row seats for. We hope you will all join us, from the comfort of your homes and businesses, to celebrate, network and learn."
The JA National Convention will also be held virtually again this year.
Both virtual events will be free to attend. Convention attendees must be employed at an active JA member, though non-member companies can access special, limited time membership deals to gain entry.
In addition to educational presentations, the convention will feature special keynote speakers and interactive networking opportunities.
2022’s Gem Awards are already scheduled for Friday, January 14, 2022 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.
JA’s Director of PR and Events, Amanda Gizzi, added, “We were looking forward to seeing everyone dressed up in their finest jewels and celebrating together. While that is not possible this summer, the virtual Gem Awards will be calling for everyone to get dressed up, grab a cocktail, and get immersed in the celebration.”
Gizzi noted this summer’s convention marks a special JA anniversary.
“The National Convention will be the culmination of our celebrations for our 115th anniversary so guests will be encouraged to register early to be part of the celebrations.”
