Part of "Safe and Secure" outreach program, funded by JCK Jewelry Industry Fund

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has announced the release of Safety Solutions, a comprehensive safety manual aimed at preventing accidents, illnesses, and overall health threats in the jewelry industry. It is the first step in the expansion of MJSA's "Safe and Secure" outreach program, designed to equip jewelry manufacturers and retailers with the tools and resources necessary to remain compliant with all national, state, and local safety regulations, and avoid fines.
Safety Solutions covers the most common types of violations found in jewelry shops, and offers easy-to-understand instructions to correct hazards and provide safe working environments. Among the manual's 15 detailed chapters are sections on hazard communications, creating an injury and illness prevention program, and ensuring bench, casting, and chemical safety. In addition, solutions to common building code, fire safety, and hazardous material violations are identified.
"All too often businesses fail to comply with crucial safety regulations, leaving the potential for devastating consequences," said MJSA President/CEO James F. Marquart. "With this new publication, the industry now has a valuable resource to ensure this potential is eliminated and safety becomes a top priority for everyone."
Partially funded by two grants from the JCK Jewelry Industry Fund, MJSA's "Safe and Secure" program features several components. In addition to the Safety Solutions manual, MJSA will publish several Compliance Solutions supplements tailored to help jewelers comply with local ordinances in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Providence, which were all selected for their high concentration of jewelry manufacturers. To complement these valuable publications, MJSA is also planning several "Safe and Secure" meetings in those selected cities, where experts will be on hand to address important safety regulations and practices; special "Safe Bench" seminars (as part of AJM Magazine's interactive "At the Bench Live" seminar series) at top industry trade shows across the nation, including JCK Las Vegas; a monthly "Safe Bench" Column in AJM Magazine; and a comprehensive "Safety Package," which offers many of these resources at a discounted price.
Copies of Safety Solutions are $25 for MJSA members and $45 for non-members. To order the manual or learn more about the outreach program, please contact 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3028; log onto www.mjsainc.com; or visit the MJSA booth during various industry trade shows across the country.
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PROVIDENCE, RI — AJM: The Authority on Jewelry Manufacturing, the monthly magazine of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), recently received two awards recognizing its efforts to inform the jewelry industry of the latest production techniques and technologies.
The American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE) honored AJM with a Regional Award in the "Technical Articles" category of ASBPE's 26th Annual Awards Competition. The winning entry, "In a New Light" by contributing writer John Shanahan, offered an incisive overview of how high-volume manufacturing facilities are incorporating laser welding technology to speed production and improve quality. It was one of 2,450 entries to the competition, twice the number of any other national business publication award contest. (This is the second time that Shanahan has received ASBPE honors; in 2001 he received both Regional and National awards for his e-commerce case study, "Big E, little e.")
In addition, AJM editor Tina Wojtkielo received the Technology Award from the Santa Fe Symposium, "in recognition of excellence in sharing quality technical information with the jewelry industry." The symposium, which is internationally recognized as one of the industry's premier conferences on the latest technology developments in jewelry manufacturing, annually honors those helping to advance the industry. This is the fifth time that AJM or an AJM editor has received the Technology Award.
"These recent honors further solidify AJM's reputation as the premier magazine for technical and business information in the jewelry industry," said James F. Marquart, MJSA president/CEO. "Thanks to the hard work and talents of our magazine staff, AJM is meeting its mission of providing readers with the information they need to succeed in a competitive international marketplace."
AJM, the flagship publication of MJSA, is devoted to the manufacture and sale of fine and fashion jewelry. It keeps readers informed of the leading manufacturing techniques and technologies, as well as the latest fashion trends and sales and marketing advice to ensure manufacturers maximize their sales.
In addition to Marquart and Wojtkielo, the staff includes associate publisher Rich Youmans, editorial coordinator/special projects editor Shawna Kulpa, contributing editors Suzanne Wade and Deborah Yonick, advertising director Alan Cruickshank, and account executive Marilyn Leibman.
For more information, visit AJM Online at www.ajm-magazine.com.

Providence, RI–Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) recently received two Awards of Publication Excellence in the sixteenth annual APEX Awards, including an award of excellence for its Web site, MJSA Online (www.mjsainc.com).
MJSA Online offers a multitude of features and services, including the Buyers’ Guide Online search engine, which allows buyers to directly e-mail suppliers and request more information about products and services. It also features an expanded government affairs section with the latest legislative news and contact information; instant access to best-selling publications and technical resources; and additional search engines for industry events and trade shows, jewelry educational programs, and nearly 1,000 articles from MJSA’s award-winning monthly trade publication, AJM: The Authority on Jewelry Manufacturing.
In the book category, MJSA/AJM Press received an award of excellence for The AJM Guide to Lost-Wax Casting. A one-stop resource for all areas of casting, this publication offers an abundance of best practices, handy tips, and troubleshooting techniques from leading industry experts. Many of the chapters were adapted from articles published in AJM Magazine.
The book retails for $33.95 and is available through MJSA as well as leading industry distributors and Amazon.com. (MJSA offers the book to its members at the discounted price of $27.50.) To order or to receive more information, please visit the InfoCenter section at www.mjsainc.com; call 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038; or e-mail mjsa@mjsainc.com.
Sponsored by Communications Concepts Inc. in Springfield, Virginia, the APEX Awards are judged by panel of communication experts and based on excellence in graphic design and editorial content.

PROVIDENCE, RI -- Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has published a new white paper, Fair Trade and the U.S. Jewelry Industry: A Strategy for Manufacturers to Compete Globally in the 21st Century, which sheds light on international trade imbalances and their negative effect on U.S. manufacturers. Now available for free downloading at www.mjsainc.com, the report "is the strongest piece that MJSA has ever produced on the export challenges faced by U.S. manufacturers, and it is the centerpiece of MJSA’s government affairs program," said James F. Marquart, MJSA president/CEO.
The white paper will be sent to key U.S. federal government officials, such as Secretary of Commerce Donald Evans, U.S. Trade Ambassador Robert Zoellick, and Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Chris Padilla. Prepared by the association under the auspices of the MJSA Government Affairs Committee, the report not only analyzes the trends and policies that have led to these huge trade imbalances, but also presents the building blocks upon which the government and U. S. jewelry manufacturers can begin to level the playing field in the international market.
"The white paper clearly identifies the issues that impact our industry's ability to compete globally," Marquart said. These issues include the need for harmonized global trade tariffs; the proliferation of non-tariff trade barriers, in particular the overvaluation of the Chinese yuan; and the increasing burden of structural costs, such as health care, on U.S. manufacturers.
He added that the report also serves as a guideline for manufacturers looking to expand their own exporting programs and participate in MJSA's legislative agenda. "I urge all companies to not only download a copy of the report, but also contact their federal legislators to ensure that our current trade policies are amended. As the MJSA slogan states, we are Stronger Together -- and nowhere is that more true than in influencing government legislation."
Along with the free downloadable version, bound copies of the white paper are also available for $5.00 plus shipping for members and $15.00 plus shipping for non-members. For more information, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, or email mjsa@mjsainc.com.
To download the paper, go to the MJSA Legislative Affairs page on the MJSA Web site.

PROVIDENCE, RI- In a victory for the jewelry industry, Congress has passed the "American Jobs Creation Act of 2004." The bill, which MJSA and its members had actively pushed, repeals the Foreign Sales Corporation/Extraterritorial Income (FSC/ETI) tax subsidy. The President has promised to sign the bill, and its passage is an important step toward repeal of the E.U.'s retaliatory tariffs on jewelry and other targeted U.S. products.
The EU began phasing in $4 billion in tariffs on March 1, 2004, several months after the World Trade Organization deemed the FSC/ETI subsidy illegal. Of the more than 1,600 targeted products on the retaliation list, jewelry and precious stones account for 36 percent-the largest percentage among the targeted sectors. Accordingly, MJSA has been active in this issue from the beginning by joining forces with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and a coalition of other affected industries, talking about the importance of the issue with journalists, writing letters to Congress, and encouraging our members to get involved individually.
"This is a major win," says MJSA President/CEO James F. Marquart. "MJSA and its members directed many resources toward resolving this issue, and the bill's passage will help our industry better compete globally."
In addition to repealing the FSC/ETI programs, the bill also includes a new deduction for income from U.S. "production activities," a provision MJSA supported.
The E.U. is under no obligation to repeal the tariffs, which currently stand at 12 percent. However, observers are optimistic that it will do so soon. For updated information, visit the Government Affairs section on MJSA Online, at www.mjsainc.com

MJSA and Ganoksin to collaborate on new imprint focusing on bench practices; first title will focus on working with flex-shafts
Providence, RI -- Continuing their information-sharing partnership, Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) and The Ganoksin Project will collaborate on a new series of books dedicated to basic bench practices.
The first book, to be published by MJSA/AJM Press under the imprint "Orchid in Print," will be How to Make the Most of Your Flex-Shaft. Written by Karen Christians, owner of the Metalwerx school in Waltham, Massachusetts, the book will focus on how jewelers can ensure they choose the right flex-shaft systems and accessories for their needs, and operate them safely at maximum efficiency. It will also include a chapter of tips compiled from the Ganoksin technical archive, which includes postings from the popular Orchid forum as well as the related "Tips from the Jeweler's Bench" e-newsletter. The book is scheduled to be published in the summer of 2005.
The prime sponsor for the flex-shaft book is The Bell Group/Rio Grande, the Albuquerque, New Mexico-based suppliers of tools and equipment, gemstones, findings, and display and packaging.
Patron sponsors are The Foredom Electric Co. in Bethel, Connecticut, and 3M Inc., which is headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota.
"This new imprint is a logical addition to the list of MJSA/AJM Press titles," said James F. Marquart, president/CEO of MJSA. "Our award-winning series of books have become common references in many shops and schools, and we are pleased to be able to work with the industry's pre-eminent online resource to extend the information available to the industry."
"As part of the ongoing collaboration between MJSA and Ganoksin, I am very excited about the new 'Orchid in Print' books," said Dr. E. Aspler (Hanuman), founder of The Ganoksin Project (www.ganoksin.com). "These books will concentrate on the basics of jewelry technique, equipment, and the jeweler's environment, collected from the discussions and questions gleaned from the archives of the Orchid community. We are very happy that MJSA has taken on the project of making this valuable information available in book form."
The trade book division of MJSA, MJSA/AJM Press has published three books since its formation in 2001: The Platinum Bench by Jurgen J. Maerz, At the Bench by Gregg Todd and Greg Gilman, and The AJM Guide to Lost-Wax Casting. A fourth book, 101 Bench Tips for Jewelers by Alan Revere, will be available in December 2004. All have been based on articles and columns that originally appeared in MJSA's monthly trade magazine, AJM: The Authority on Jewelry Manufacturing.
For more information about the "Orchid in Print" series, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572 or 1-401-274-3840, or e-mail at mjsa@mjsainc.com

Providence, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) and AJM Magazine are pleased to announce the winners of the AJM Innovation Awards, a new awards program that celebrates those products and processes making a difference in jewelry manufacturing.
The 2004 AJM Innovation Award-winning products are:
The Neutec 510 and 515 casting machines with Flowlogic - The Albuquerque, New Mexico-based Neutec has redefined casting technology by doing away with the vacuum pump. The Neutec 510 and 515 casting machines feature pressure differential casting, an approach in which a pressurized neutral atmosphere is introduced to the casting chamber.
Envisiontec Perfactory RP system - Invented by German engineer Hendrick John and marketed by Envisiontec GmbH, a German manufacturer, the Perfactory rapid prototyping system can produce a model within one to two hours, as compared to 24 hours with earlier rapid prototyping machines. It uses the new Texas Instruments Direct Light Processing (DLP) technology.
Maxmatic 3000 wax injector - Developed by Maxmatic in Saint Loubes, France, the Maxmatic 3000 uses microchip technology that fully automates the wax injection process. Unlike some wax injectors that store mold parameters in the machine, the Maxmatic 3000 stores parameters on a microchip mold, thereby expanding the memory space available to the user.
PUK 2 precision welder - Developed in Germany by Lampert Werktechnik GmbH, the PUK 2 is an automatic spot welder suitable for permanent and tack welding applications. Designed to give workshops with 10 people or fewer welding results comparable to those of laser welders, the PUK 2 can be used on all precious metals, as well as stainless steel, titanium, bronze, copper, and tin.
Mokume gane sheet and rod - Phill Baldwin and Clarkdale, Arizona-based Reactive Metals Studio are the creator and supplier, respectively, of pre-formed mokume gane sheet and rod. By providing pre-patterned mokume in a variety of combinations as well as customized products, they are opening members of the jewelry industry to new design possibilities.
Argentium Sterling Silver - Developed by Peter Johns of Argentium Silver Co. Ltd. in the United Kingdom, Argentium Sterling Silver is a trademarked alloy currently produced under license by Stern-Leach Co. in Attleboro, Massachusetts. It does not firescale, is anti-oxidizing, has low heat and electrical conductivity, has increased ductility, and can be heat-treated to achieve twice the hardness of standard silver.
PolishPlus with MiracleMedia - This new mass finishing technology was developed by Peter Richardson of Aurum Plus Resource and Development in San Bernardino, California. Suitable for any surface, including gemstone, Richardson's PolishPlus process with MiracleMedia is a dry mass media polishing system that incorporates a patent-protected submicron dry finishing media and special vibratory finishing machines with oscillatory motions of over 6,000 cycles per minute. The resulting polish is reportedly comparable to the finest finishing attained on supercomputer components.
Castaldo's VLT silicone molding rubber - This most recent trademarked product from Castaldo in Franklin, Massachusetts, allows manufacturers working in CAD/CAM to use their resin or wax patterns as master models and mold them in as little as one hour, eliminating the need to go through the time-consuming process of creating a metal master model.
Wolf's Precision Wax Carvers, Wolf Wax by Ferris - Portland, Maine-based jeweler and educator Kate Wolf has produced a set of tools, as well as a new type of wax, that offer model makers new ways to not only hone their skills, but also present the final wax to a customer. Wolf's Precision Wax Carvers, a set of 18 chromium manganese steel tools, are produced in conjunction with Ikohe Inc. in Mahwah, New Jersey. Wolf Wax by Ferris is produced by the Ferris division of Kindt-Collins Co. in Cleveland.
Click here to view all of the award-winning products.
The Innovation Awards kick off "Thinking Ahead: the MJSA/AJM Innovation Initiative," which is intended to spur on and celebrate innovation in all areas of the industry. The awards will be presented on March 6 at the Expo New York Gala, which will be held at the Bryant Park Grill. There will also be additional product information available throughout the Expo in a special Innovation Area located behind the MJSA/AJM booth on the show floor. Expo New York will also feature two panel presentations directly related to the Innovation Initiative.
For a full description of the winning products or more information about the Innovation Initiative, see the December issue of AJM Magazine, or visit www.ajm-magazine.com. Continuing updates will be posted at www.mjsainc.com.
The winners were selected by a renowned panel of judges from around the world including: James Binnion, James Binnion Metal Arts LLC, Bellingham, Washington; Michael Coan, Fashion Institute of Technology, New York City; Dr. Christopher Corti, World Gold Council, London; Dr. Valerio Faccenda, technical consultant, Aosta, Italy; Dr. Jorg Fischer-Buhner, Forschungsinstitut fur Edelmetalle und Metallchemie (FEM), Schwabisch Gmund, Germany; Mark Grimwade, metallurgical consultant, Northwood, Middlesex, United Kingdom; Charles Lewton-Brain, goldsmith, author, educator, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Jurgen J. Maerz, Platinum Guild International USA, South Coast Metro, California; Apollonius Nooten-Boom II, Hean Studio Limited, Kingsland, Herefordshire, United Kingdom; Gay Penfold, Jewellery Industry Innovation Centre, University of Central England, Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom; and Tino Volpe, Tiffany & Co., Cumberland, Rhode Island.

Providence, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) is pleased to announce that it has partnered with PAETEC Communications Inc., a nationwide communications solutions provider, and Payment Resources International, LLC, one of the fastest growing credit card and electronic payment processors in the United States.
PAETEC provides MJSA members bundled communications services, including local and long distance phone services and high-speed Internet access, at discounted rates. With PAETEC, members will receive overall telecommunications savings and the convenience of dealing with one carrier.
Also, a new payment processing program is now available through Payment Resources International (PRI). PRI offers MJSA members services that include the acceptance of all credit and debit cards, automatic electronic billing, direct collection via electronic funds transfer, gift cards, and more.
For more information about these outstanding new member benefits, contact an MJSA member services representative, at 1-800-444-6572 to request an analysis.

PROVIDENCE, RI - MJSA/AJM Press, the award-winning trade book division of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), has announced the release of its newest publication: 101 Bench Tips for Jewelers, written by Alan Revere. The book is based on the monthly column in AJM Magazine and is designed to help jewelers speed production, improve quality, and raise profits at the bench.
Known throughout the jewelry industry, Alan Revere is a German-trained master goldsmith, an award-winning jewelry designer, and the founder of the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts in San Francisco, which is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary. He has earned international recognition for his dedication to sharing information and training the next generation of jewelers.
101 Bench Tips for Jewelers compiles his most valuable bench tips and tricks, and covers all aspects of bench work, from soldering to stone setting, piercing to final polish. Topics include modifying common bench tools, using household items as valuable bench aids, and tricks to help with difficult repairs.
The cost of the book is $36.50 for MJSA members and $42.95 for non-members, and is available through MJSA as well as leading industry distributors. To order or to receive more information, please visit www.mjsainc.com or call 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038; e-mail mjsa@mjsainc.com.
MJSA/AJM Press is the trade book division of MJSA, focusing primarily on the technical aspects of making and repairing jewelry. Its award-winning publications include The AJM Guide to Lost- Wax Casting, At the Bench: An Illustrated Guide to Working with Gold and Silver (by Gregg Todd and Greg Gilman), and The Platinum Bench: An Illustrated Guide to Easy Platinum Repairs and Fabrication (by Jurgen Maerz).

Download images of the Professional or Student American Vision Award Winners for 2005
PROVIDENCE, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2005 American Vision Awards (AVAs)-MJSA's annual design competition recognizing the talent and innovation of designers whose work is influencing the future design trends in jewelry. The pieces were judged on originality, creativity, presentation quality, effective use of materials, wearability, and the design's perceived manufacturing and marketing potential.
This year saw the addition of four new distinction categories-Silver Distinction, sponsored by The Silver Users Association; Mokume-gane Distinction, sponsored by Reactive Metals Studio and Shining Wave Metals; Reactive Metals Distinction, sponsored by Reactive Metals Studio, Cabot Supermetals, and Titanium Products Design Inc.; and CAD/CAM Distinction, sponsored by Model Master.
Other distinction categories, in addition to the overall Professional and Student awards, include Platinum Distinction, sponsored by Platinum Guild International USA, and Crystal Distinction, sponsored by Swarovski North America.
The 2005 AVA Winners are:
- Professional Category 1st place: Nicholas Licata of Licata Jewelers Inc. in Sylvania, Ohio; Diamondback Rings, 14k yellow and white gold with pearls and accented with diamonds.
- Professional Category 2nd place: H. James Kaya of Solair Jewelers in Boston, Massachusetts (www.jameskaya.com); platinum and 18k gold rubellite Pendant with diamonds.
- 1st Place Category Student: Anne Lund, GIA, of Alamogordo, New Mexico; 18k yellow gold wire necklace, set with diamonds, varying sizes of white and pink freshwater pearls, and a large white baroque pearl.
- 2nd Place Category Student: Yutao Liu, Fashion Institute of Technology, of New York City; reversible pendant: three-dimensional abstract flower, with diamonds and colored sapphires.
- Platinum Distinction 1st place: H. James Kaya of Solair Jewelers in Boston, Massachusetts; platinum tension-set ring with natural yellow sapphire and diamonds.
- Platinum Distinction 2nd place: Omri Adelson Dejano of New York City; Forever Love, convertible brooch/pendant made of cobalt platinum with a trillion-cut diamond, natural blue sapphire cabochons, and diamond accents.
- Crystal Distinction 1st place: Chow Hartanti of Irienna's Art in Duluth, Georgia; flower pattern necklace made with Swarovski crystals in fuchsia, olivine and clear colors.
- Crystal Distinction 2nd place: Michele Bock of MelanieMichele-Jewelry in Normal, Illinois; Star Chrysanthemum Hairpins.
- Silver Distinction 1st place: Todd Reed of Todd Reed Inc. in Boulder, Colorado; 18k gold, 22k gold, and sterling silver hand-forged pin with patina, large raw diamond cube, and brilliant-cut diamonds.
- Silver Distinction 2nd place: Marie Scarpa of Marie Scarpa Designs in Petaluma, California; Sole e Luna, sterling silver pin/pendant with curved spires set with freshwater pearls and citrines, and hand woven with fine silver and 18k wire.
- Mokume-gane Distinction 1st place: Steve Midgett of Earthshine Mokume Inc. in Franklin, North Carolina; Shell Form brooch in 18k yellow and red gold mokume-gane with pink Belizean conch pearl and diamonds.
- Mokume-gane Distinction 2nd place: Lisa Krikawa of Krikawa Jewelry Designs in Tucson, Arizona; Mokume curls, 14k palladium white gold and mokume-gane ring with moissanite and diamond accents.
- Reactive Metals Distinction 1st place: Joan Dulla of Chandler, Arizona; hand crocheted and anodized niobium-wire necklace with Swarovski crystals.
- Reactive Metals Distinction 2nd place: Charles P. Bahringer of Bayside, Wisconsin; titanium ring with diamonds (titanium is anodized aqua).
- CAD/CAM Distinction 1st place: Charles P. Bahringer of Bayside, Wisconsin; platinum ring with four slabs of onyx and diamond accents.
- CAD/CAM Distinction 2nd place: Lee Krumbholz of Krumbholz Jewelers in Cincinnati; 18k white gold “flame” ring with 11.82 ct peridot and diamond.
- CAD/CAM Distinction Honorable Mention: Vache Minassian of Golden Link of N.J. in New York City; 18k white and yellow gold reversible bracelet with blue, yellow, and pink sapphires, and diamonds.
All of the above winners will receive cash awards of up to $1,000 as well as recognition in AJM Magazine and MJSA news releases, on MJSA Online, and in leading industry publications. In addition, the first-place winner for CAD/CAM Distinction will win the Model Master CNC 1000 Milling Machine, valued at $15,500, courtesy of Model Master.
AVA winners were selected by a panel of judges, consisting of industry professionals chosen by MJSA. The judges for 2005 were Cindy Edelstein of Jeweler's Resource Bureau; Michael Coan, Jewelry Department Chair, Fashion Institute of Technology; Peggy Jo Donahue, Editor in Chief, Professional Jeweler; Beth Braverman, Associate Editor, National Jeweler; Colleen Chiron, Segment Marketing Manager, Swarovski; and Jill Kenik of Acropolis Studios Inc.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America and the World Gold Council announced today the development of the White Gold Whiteness Index. Based on the white gold definition and color grading system developed by the industry's White Gold Task Force, it provides manufacturers and retailers with a template showing the various color grades, ensuring greater communication between manufacturers and retailers.
The announcement was made during a press conference held at Expo New York, MJSA's flagship trade show for equipment, supplies, services, and finished products.
"Retailers can use this template when ordering white gold product from their manufacturing suppliers,ensuring greater satisfaction for everyone," said James F. Marquart, MJSA president/CEO. "It also enables them to become more familiar with manufacturing processes, which can further aid them in their sales efforts."
The White Gold Task Force, which was led by MJSA and the World Gold Council, first announced the definition of white gold and the creation of the related color grading system at the 2004 Expo New York. After experiments on more than 70 samples of 10k, 14k, and 18k white gold jewelry, using the CIELab and ASTM Yellowness Index, the task force defined "white gold" as a karat gold with a Yellowness Index value of 32.0 or less. It also proposed the following grading system:
Grade 1: Good white. This grade includes alloys measuring less than 19 on the Yellowness Index, and does not require rhodium plating.
Grade 2: Reasonable white. This grade includes alloys measuring between 19 and 24.5 on the Yellowness Index. Rhodium plating is optional.
Grade 3: Poor white (incomplete bleaching). This grade includes alloys measuring between 24.5 and 32 on the Yellowness Index, and does require rhodium plating.
The White Gold Whiteness Index comprises a template showing seven actual color samples based on the three grades; instructions on its use; and a convenient carrying pouch. Available exclusively through MJSA, it costs $145 for MJSA members, $195 for non-members.
The Whiteness Index template was developed in conjunction with the color technology specialists from the GretagMacbeth Munsell Color Assurance Laboratory in New Windsor, New York.
Also available are two light sources for viewing the template: SpectraLight Junior, a tabletop viewing booth, and Sol-Source a desktop lamp. Both provide the optimum viewing light, which is similar to North Sky daylight, and are manufactured by GretagMacbeth.
For more information, contact MJSA, 45 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904; phone 1-401- 274-3840; fax 1-401-274-0265; e-mail mjsa@mjsainc.com; www.mjsainc.com.

PROVIDENCE, RI-Buyer attendance grew by ten percent this year at Expo New York, as nearly 5,500 buyers filled the aisles of the nation's largest trade show dedicated to jewelry manufacturers and suppliers.
Presented by Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), the Expo ran March 6-8 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. This year's show featured several new attractions, including a Gems & Jewelry Showcase as well as live demonstrations on the show floor. Those features, combined with the boost in buyer excitement and a stellar array of innovative technologies, contributed to what many exhibitors agreed was one of the best shows to date.
"This was one of our best Expo New York shows ever in terms of both sales and new account leads," said Steve MacDiarmid of Stuller Inc. in Lafayette, Louisiana. "There seemed to be a larger number of overseas buyers who attended. Stuller will certainly be back at Expo New York next year!"
"Traffic was very strong," said Michael Knight, president of Castaldo Products Manufacturing Corp. in Franklin, Massachusetts. "Buyers seemed particularly interested in our new products—many people came by the booth specifically to see our VLT silicone molding rubber, which won an AJM Innovation Award in December." (All of the nine Innovation Award winners were recognized in a special Innovation Area set up behind the MJSA and AJM booths.)
The live demonstrations of both equipment and processes offered buyers the opportunity to see the latest manufacturing techniques free of charge. Topics ranged from CAD/CAM and computerized engraving to metalsmithing with miniature stakes. "Attendees were able to witness the products they wanted to purchase in action," said James F. Marquart, MJSA president and CEO. "These additions added another level of excitement to an already bustling show floor."
The debut of the Gems & Jewelry Showcase, which featured a premier selection of finished jewelry and gemstones, proved another successful addition. Connected to Expo's traditional halls, the Showcase provided premium space and, with its soft-walled booths, a suitably elegant atmosphere for finished jewelry manufacturers and gem dealers (including those in the American Gem Trade Association Pavilion).
"The traffic for our booth was great," said Leon Haytayan of Haytayan Jewelers Inc. in Los Angeles, whose booth was in the showcase. "It was strong and consistent."
"The addition of the Showcase has enhanced Expo New York's reputation as a premier venue for tools and equipment, component parts, gemstones, and finished jewelry," Marquart said. "Finished jewelry and gem dealers now have an exclusive hall and exquisite surroundings. Equipment and supply exhibitors have more room to display their products, including the large-scale machinery typically offered by international exhibitors. And buyers have an even greater selection from which to choose."
Besides finding success on the show floor, many attendees decided to brush up on their knowledge by attending one or more of the "Great Minds of Jewelry Education" seminars conducted by leading industry experts. This popular seminar series covered topics such as "Generating a Culture of Innovation in Your Company," "Elements of Jewelry Design," and "Using the Internet to Your Advantage," as well as providing interactive sessions on bench tricks, stone setting, and laser repair as part of AJM Magazine's At the Bench Live.
Expo New York 2005 was also home to the industry's newest innovations, from the latest wax carvers and casting equipment to advances in polishing. Hoover & Strong was honored with the Best New Technology Award for its Tru-Seat settings, which allow a stone to be dropped into the setting and snapped into place, eliminating or greatly reducing the labor needed to cut seats and set a stone.
In addition, GemVision Corp. of Davenport, Iowa, was named recipient of the Best Multiple Booth Award, while Johnson Matthey of New York City was honored for Best Single Booth for the second year in a row.
Michael Akkaoui, MJSA chairman and president of Tanury Industries in Lincoln, Rhode Island, summed it up by stating, "MJSA has succeeded in transforming the typical jewelry industry trade show. The combination of a great show layout, stellar educational programs, and live demonstrations on the show floor added greatly to the show experience." Expo New York 2006 will be held March 12-14 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. For more information, visit www.mjsainc.com or contact 1-800-444-6572.

PROVIDENCE, RI-AJM Magazine, the flagship publication of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), has once again been honored for excellence, receiving an Award of Distinction in the 2005 Communicator Awards Print Media competition. This is the third consecutive year AJM has earned this honor.
In addition to MJSA's President/CEO and AJM Publisher James F. Marquart, the AJM staff includes Associate Publisher Rich Youmans, Editor Tina Wojtkielo, Editorial Coordinator Shawna Kulpa, Contributing Editors Suzanne Wade and Deborah Yonick, Contributing Writer John Shanahan, Advertising Director Alan Cruickshank, and Account Executives Marilyn Liebman and Terry Coughlin.
The Communicator Awards is an international awards competition recognizing work that exceeds a high standard of excellence and serves as a benchmark for the industry.
There were 5,708 entries in this year's competition, which was judged by top industry professionals. The Award of Distinction honors work that goes beyond industry standards in communicating a message or idea.
Subscription to AJM Magazine is $47 per year, $88 for two years. To subscribe, please call 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038, or log onto www.ajm-magazine.com.

Providence, RI-Alan Revere's 101 Bench Tips for Jewelers, the latest book published by MJSA/AJM Press, a subsidiary of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), has won a Gold Award in the 2005 SNAP EXCEL Awards Competition.
Acclaimed as a designer, author, educator, and innovator, Alan Revere shares his most valuable bench tips and tricks in 101 Bench Tips for Jewelers. Based on the monthly column in AJM Magazine, this publication will help any jeweler speed production, improve quality, and raise profits at the bench. The book is filled with helpful illustrations, and covers all aspects of bench work, from soldering to stone setting, piercing to final polish.
The 2005 EXCEL Awards Competition, sponsored by the Society of National Association Publications(SNAP), had more than 1,130 entries, all of which were judged on quality and overall excellence by a panel of publication experts. MJSA will be honored among the competition's winners at the fourth annual EXCEL Awards Gala, to be held Wednesday, June 29, at the Renaissance Washington D.C. Hotel in Washington, D.C.
This marks the third consecutive year MJSA/AJM Press was honored in the EXCEL competition: The AJM Guide to Lost-Wax Casting received a Silver Award in 2004,and At the Bench: An Illustrated Guide to Working with Gold & Silver, also received a Silver Award in 2003.
Copies of 101 Bench Tips for Jewelers are available for $42.95 ($36.50 for MJSA members) by contacting 1-800-444-6572, ext.3038, or logging onto www.mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-To help its members compete in today's global marketplace, Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has added two new programs-one for equipment financing and the other for affordable health care solutions-each with customized rates and services.
Today, manufacturers must rely on the latest technologies to remain competitive. MJSA members can now upgrade their operations by financing new equipment through Sterling National Bank, a financial holding company that offers a broad array of services. With competitive rates and no application fee, Sterling helps make equipment purchases easy.
"With the current influx of exports driving price points ever lower, U.S. manufacturers need to invest in the latest technological advances to maintain their competitive edge," says James F. Marquart, MJSA President/CEO. "This is one way MJSA can help its members in that effort."
Other services available through Sterling include revolving lines of credit, factoring, letters of credit, and residential mortgages.
Health care is another challenge facing jewelry manufacturers, particularly small operations that have few employees and fewer health benefit options. To help ensure these employees and their families have coverage, MJSA has teamed with BenefitProtect LLC to provide customized health care packages. Available options include major medical, limited medical, medical discount savings card, accident insurance, critical illness, dental, and term life insurance; employees can work directly with BenefitProtect counselors to build a package based on the options they need, at the deductible levels they can afford.
This too can help MJSA members remain globally competitive, "Rising structural costs, including health care, are making it difficult for U.S. manufacturers to price their products competitively and still earn a profit," said Marquart. "We hope that this program will enable them to offer their employees affordable health care choices."
For more information about these or any of MJSA's other cost-saving programs, please contact an MJSA member services representative at 1-800-444-6572, or visit MJSA Online at www.mjsainc.com.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has approved the publication of a Federal Register notice concerning the FTC's Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries, 16 C.F.R. Part 23. According to the notice, the FTC is seeking public comment on whether the platinum section of the Guides should be amended to provide guidance on how to non-deceptively mark or describe products containing between 500 and 850 parts per thousand pure platinum and no other platinum group metals. The deadline for submitting comments is September 28, 2005, and all comments should refer to "Jewelry Guides, Matter No. G711001." Comments can be sent directly to:
Federal Trade Commission/Office of the Secretary
Room 135-H (Annex Y)
600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20580
or filed online here
If you comment directly to the FTC, please print a copy of your comments and fax them to MJSA at 1-401-274-0265.
If you have any questions about this matter, please contact James Marquart at 1-401-274-3840, ext. 3021, or e-mail marquart@mjsainc.com.

Manual adopted by MJSA's newly formed New York safety group
PROVIDENCE, RI-To ensure safety awareness and compliance among jewelry manufacturers and retailers, Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) has upgraded its Safety Solutions manual to include a "safe shop" self-assessment checklist. Updates of safety guidelines and codes and an enhanced resource section have been added as well.
"When I read Safety Solutions, I learned quite a number of things that could help any manufacturer provide a safe environment for its employees," says Robert Headley, Tiffany & Co.'s vice president of technical services. "I urge all manufacturers to use this booklet's ideas now; it will be worth your time."
Safety Solutions has also been adopted as the official safety manual of MJSA's newly formed New York State Workman's Compensation Safety Group #576, which currently consists of nearly 30 members. According to Delores Agliata of Lawley Service, MJSA's endorsed insurance agent and the safety group's program manager, "Safety Solutions is a wonderful resource that could potentially reduce workman's compensation insurance costs across the country."
The manual is part of MJSA's "Safe and Secure" outreach program, which recently received its second grant from the JCK Industry Fund. Future plans for the program include producing a Safety Solutions DVD; sponsoring regional outreach programs; developing a "Safe and Secure" educational kit to be distributed in schools that offer jewelry arts programs; compiling a safety speakers bureau for both schools and companies; and expanding online safety information.
The upgraded Safety Solutions manual is available for $25 for MJSA members and $45 for non-members. For more information or to order, please contact Suzanne Mascena, MJSA director of education, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3041, or e-mail suzanne@mjsainc.com. Additional information is available online at www.mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Continuing its support for the jewelry industry, the MJSA Education Foundation recently awarded a total of $6,500 in scholarships to five student designers based on outstanding creativity, technical skill, and a passion for the jewelry industry.
The following recipients-including two former Education Foundation scholarship winners-were awarded $1,500 scholarships:
Tzu-Ju Chen of Warwick, Rhode Island, a graduate student pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in jewelry/metalsmithing at Cranbrook Academy of Arts in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. In 2004, she won the top award of $2,000.
Kate S. Erickson of Arvada, Colorado, currently enrolled at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, where she is majoring in art with a concentration in metalsmithing. She received a $1,000 scholarship from the Foundation in 2004.
Jennaca L. Davies of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, will begin an M.F.A. program in jewelry and metalsmithing at the Rhode Island School of Design.
Two other students received $1,000 scholarships:
Tricia A. Lachowiec of New Bedford, Massachusetts, is currently pursuing an M.F.A. in art and jewelry at the University of Massachusetts in Dartmouth. This is her third consecutive award: she received a $1,000 scholarship in 2004 and $2,000 in 2003.
Carol A. Salisbury of Altadena, California, will be entering her sophomore year at the Oregon College of Art and Craft in Portland to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jewelry.
The MJSA Education Foundation scholarships are made possible through the generosity of many individual donors. Endowment funds include: the Karl Augenstein Memorial Fund, the George R. Frankovich Scholarship Fund, the Michael Marcogliese Scholarship Fund, the Andrew & Frances Salvadore Scholarship Fund, and the Walter Oppenheim Fund.
The MJSA Education Foundation awards scholarships annually and distributes them in partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation to students enrolled in jewelry-related programs at colleges, universities, and non-profit technical schools in the United States. Since 1979, the MJSA Education Foundation has granted more than $100,000 to students nationwide.
For more information about the MJSA Education Foundation or how to donate, contact Suzanne Mascena, MJSA director of education, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3041, or e-mail suzanne@mjsainc.com.

Yuan's value must change further to impact trade imbalance
PROVIDENCE, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) said today that it welcomed China's recent decision to no longer peg its currency against the U.S. dollar, creating a system that could lead to fairer trade conditions. However, the association noted that the move was only a first step; further re-evaluation of the currency would be necessary to effect any meaningful economic impact.
"The overvaluation of the Chinese yuan has been one of MJSA's key legislative goals in its push toward fair trade conditions," said James F. Marquart, MJSA President/CEO. "We have worked with the National Association of Manufacturers to raise the profile of this issue, and China's response to pressure applied by the U.S. is very positive. Now we need to see whether China will use its new system to create meaningful movement in the yuan’s value."
By pegging its currency to the U.S. dollar, China had given its exports a strong advantage over those of other Asian countries. Those nations in turn held down the value of their own currencies. This distortion had contributed to what is today a severe trade imbalance between eastern and western countries, and particularly between the United States and China. (The trade deficit between the two countries reached nearly $162 billion last year; jewelry accounted for over $1.6 billion.)
China will now value the yuan against a "basket" of foreign currencies, allowing for greater flexibility. Analysts said the move would raise the value of the yuan by only about 2 percent, far too low to affect prices or impact the trade imbalance. However, the new system allows for more continued movement.
"We will continue to monitor the exchange rate of the yuan, and to press for fair trade conditions overall," Marquart said. "While this is a good first step, we still have work to do."

New "interim" final rules require action by January 2006
For updates on the PATRIOT Act, or to order MJSA's "Complying with the USA PATRIOT Act" handbook, click here.
To order John Satagaj's downloadable pdf version, click here.
Providence, RI-To help jewelry manufacturers and suppliers understand the "interim" final rules for the USA PATRIOT Act, Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has published a handbook/CD detailing what companies must do to comply with the new rules, which go into effect Jan. 1, 2006. The handbook/CD was developed by John Satagaj, an attorney who is MJSA's legislative counsel and an expert in the jewelry industry. The handbook costs $49 for MJSA members and $59 for non-members.
"It is important that the industry understands the USA PATRIOT Act," says James F. Marquart, MJSA President/CEO. "This handbook will allow readers to easily determine if the new rules pertain to them, and if so, how to ensure the rules are implemented correctly."
The rules were issued by the U.S. Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on June 9. They state that if a company both bought and sold more than $50,000 in "covered goods" during the prior calendar or tax year, it must comply with the rule and have a written anti-money laundering plan in place by Jan. 1, 2006. "Covered goods" include jewels, precious stones, and precious metals, as well as finished jewelry that derives 50 percent or more of its value from those three areas. Companies that do not meet both the purchase and the gross sales thresholds will not have to comply.
The rule also exempts retailers, except if they have purchased, during the tax or calendar year, more than $50,000 in covered goods from persons other than U.S. dealers or other retailers (that is, the retailer purchased the goods from members of the general public or foreign sources of supply). If a company must comply, it will have four principle responsibilities.
First, it must have a written anti-money-laundering plan incorporating policies, procedures, and internal controls.
Second, it must designate a compliance officer to implement and update the plan.
Third, it must provide ongoing education and training related to the plan.
Fourth, it must provide for independent "testing" to monitor and maintain the plan.
MJSA's handbook and accompanying CD presents an overview of how manufacturers and suppliers can meet these responsibilities, and includes a sample anti-money-laundering plan. The CD also contains printable forms that the U.S. Treasury will require companies to file for specific transactions, as well as relevant excerpts from the USA PATRIOT Act and the related Bank Secrecy Act.
MJSA is also sponsoring a series of seminars in key locations, including New York City, Los Angeles, and Providence, in which MJSA representatives and Treasury officials will be available to answer questions and further explain the new rules. The seminars will also include breakout sessions in which those employees on the "front lines" -- e.g., sales and purchasing personnel -- can explore specific questions about assessing risks.
For more information about the handbook/CD or the seminars, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572 or 1-401-274-3840, or e-mail mjsa@mjsainc.com. The new "interim" final rule and FAQs can be found at www.fincen.gov/wn_main.html.
MJSA will post updates on this issue as they become available at www.mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) recently received three Awards of Publication Excellence in the seventeenth annual APEX Awards. The honors included an award of excellence in the "Total Publication Programs" category, which recognized AJM Magazine, 101 Bench Tips for Jewelers by Alan Revere (published by MJSA/AJM Press), the 2005 AJM Events Calendar, and MJSA's Success newsletter.
The 2005 AJM Events Calendar was also honored in the "Calendars, Posters, & Certificates" category. And for the third year in a row, the association received an award in the "Web Sites" category for MJSA Online.
Sponsored by Communications Concepts Inc. in Springfield, Virginia, the APEX Awards are judged by a panel of communication experts and are based on excellence in graphic design, editorial content, and the ability to achieve overall communications excellence.
For more information on any of the above publications or to place an order, please visit the InfoCenter section at www.mjsainc.com; call 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038; or e-mail mjsa@mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-The Armenian Jewelers Association (AJA) and The Golden Circle Club in New York are co-sponsoring MJSA's USA PATRIOT Act compliance seminar in New York City. The seminar will feature John S. Satagaj, author of MJSA's new Complying with the USA PATRIOT Act handbook and CD, as well as treasury officials. The event will take place:
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
1 - 4:30 p.m.
Fashion Institute of Technology
7th Ave. at 27th Street, New York City
The seminar is geared toward executives, senior managers, or employees designated as their companies' Anti-Money-Laundering Compliance Officers, as well as those on the "front lines," such as sales and purchasing personnel. Each presentation will offer opportunities to explore specific questions about compliance and risk assessment.
"It is important that the industry understands the USA PATRIOT Act," says James F. Marquart, MJSA President/CEO. "These seminars will allow attendees to determine if the new rules pertain to them, and if so, how to ensure the rules are implemented correctly."
The following speakers will be available to answer questions and further explain the new rules:
John S. Satagaj, MJSA's legislative counsel and author of MJSA's Complying with the USA PATRIOT Act handbook.
Steve F. Crogan, Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Department of Homeland Security, Immigration, and Customs Enforcement, Boston.
Deborah Silberman, Assistant Director of Regulatory Policy Office, Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
Seminars are free for MJSA, AJA, and The Golden Circle Club members, who can also purchase MJSA's new handbook/CD, Complying with the USA PATRIOT Act by John S. Satagaj, at the event for $49. Non-member rates are $59 for the handbook/CD, and $50 to attend the seminar.
To register for a seminar or to order a handbook/CD, please contact Louly Vorasane at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3037, or e-mail louly@mjsainc.com. The new "interim" final rules and FAQs can be found at www.fincen.gov/wn_main.html. MJSA will post updates on this issue as they become available at www.mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI--The Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) Jewelry Academy has expanded to offer customized training for the jewelry industry. Customized training can be provided at the customer's facility or at MJSA headquarters in Providence, Rhode Island.
Many industry leaders, such as Zale Corp., have already signed up for the Academy's customized training programs. "The demands for customized training have been incredibly high," says Teresa Shannon, director of the MJSA Jewelry Academy. "We are working with companies to provide the education and training they need to maintain a qualified workforce." The training provided ranges from the technical, such as soldering, plating, and stone setting, to the non-technical, such as ethics, customer service, and sales.
The academy recently provided on-site training for JK Findings, a subsidiary of JK Jewelry Inc. in Rochester, New York, and Providence, Rhode Island-based manufacturer Herff Jones Inc., both of whom were very pleased with their training experience.
"It is difficult to find employees with jewelry assembly and soldering experience in our area," says Susan Palermo, JK Findings' director of human resources. "After months of searching for employees with the proper skill set, we decided to contact MJSA about the on-site training program."
The 20-hour training program consisted of 10 employees, including managers and supervisors from various departments. According to Palermo, the class was extremely informative regardless of the student's skill level. "We would not hesitate to recommend this program to others in the industry."
The MJSA Jewelry Academy training at Herff Jones Inc. is ongoing. The academy is currently putting together a program in advanced polishing, which will be taught on-site at Herff Jones. This will be the third course the Jewelry Academy has put together for Herff Jones employees. The prior two courses consisted of bezel setting and bench work.
For a list of scheduled classes, or to request customized training, please contact Teresa Shannon at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3015, or e-mail teresa@mjsainc.com. Updates are posted at www.mjsainc.com.

Funds will support jewelry educational programs
Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) hosted its 6th Annual Education Foundation Golf Tournament on July 26 at Agawam Hunt in Rumford, Rhode Island. A total of 124 golfers helped raise over $8,000 at the event, which helps fund industry education.
The event kicked off with a buffet lunch and ended with cocktails and dinner followed by the awards presentation and live auction, which included such fabulous items as rounds of golf at exclusive clubs and sports memorabilia signed by members of the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots.
The money raised from the tournament will, through the MJSA Education Foundation, fund the development of future educational programs designed to support and advance the industry. The Foundation also awards scholarships to promising young designers and coordinates a national safety outreach program.
Besides supporting a great cause, participants displayed outstanding efforts on the golf course, especially the following award winners:
Low Gross Individual Winner: Robert Rubino of Bank of America Precious Metals.
Low Gross Team Winner: Robert Rubino; Sam Philbrick, Bank of America Precious Metals; Ted Leach, Leach & Garner; and Richard Powers, Cookson Precious Metals.
1st Low Net Team Winner: Paul Mongeau; Austin Carr and Dick Smith of Stern-Leach Co.; and Mark Oliari.
2nd Low Net Team: Ed DeCristofaro and Derrick Gross, both of LDC Inc.; John Antonacci, Eagle Marketing; and Kenneth LaFauci, L& M Torsion Spring & Finding.
Closest to the Pin: Mark Phelps of Labyrinth Business Solutions.
Longest Drive: Craig Menard of Computer Associates, Inc.
The putting contest was won by John Antonacci, who donated his prize winnings back to the foundation.
Major sponsors included Swarovski North America Ltd., Labyrinth Business Solutions, FedEx, Rofin-Baasel Inc., Stuller Inc., Bank of America Precious Metals, Freeman, Aurafin-OroAmerica, Computer Associates Inc., Skies America, Cape Cod Wireless, and The Beacon Mutual Insurance Co.
The 2006 Education Foundation Golf Tournament will be held at Lake of Isles in North Stonington, Connecticut and will feature simultaneous play on two Rees Jones-designed courses: The resort course (open to public) and the premier members-only private course. Register today for first priority to play on the private course.
For more information or to sign up for the 2006 tournament, please contact Katherine Eayrs at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3040, or e-mail katherine@mjsainc.com.

PROVIDENCE, RI-Michael Akkaoui, Chairman of MJSA, announced today the appointment of Frank Dallahan as President and CEO of MJSA effective October 1, 2005. Dallahan replaces James F. Marquart, who, as previously announced, will be retiring from MJSA at the end of September. "Frank brings great industry achievement, credentials, and contacts to this position," said Akkaoui. "We look forward to his contributions to all of MJSA's diverse interests, including its educational programs, membership initiatives, AJM Magazine, and Expo New York."
Dallahan brings over 30 years of specific jewelry industry experience to MJSA. He previously worked with the JCK Group, which he joined in 1997. He served as publisher of JCK magazine from 1999 through 2004. Prior to joining JCK, Dallahan held senior management positions with Krementz & Co., ArtCarved Bridal Jewelry, and the William Schneider Company.
Marquart will continue to work with MJSA as an advisor and consultant, focusing primarily on government affairs. "Jim Marquart has done a remarkable job during his 10 year career at MJSA," said Akkaoui. "The Board of Directors and I are very appreciative of all his contributions and wish him the best in his retirement."

Announces Upcoming Classes
Providence, RI-The Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) Jewelry Academy has partnered with the 3D Jewelry Design Institute in Los Angeles to offer CAD/CAM courses with training in MATRIX and RHINO, as well as 3-D design. Courses will be available for all levels of experience, and will be offered in five languages -- Arabic, Armenian, English, French, and Turkish -- to accommodate the area's diverse population.
The Academy will eventually offer the same courses on both the East and West coasts. "Our plan is to have the same curriculum available in Los Angeles and Providence," says Teresa Shannon, director of the MJSA Jewelry Academy.
Other courses being planned for the West Coast in the immediate future will focus on invisible setting and, through the Diamond Council of America, diamonds and colored stones. In addition, the Academy is working on establishing a location in New York, in conjunction with the Fashion Institute of Technology, that will offer CAD/CAM courses.
The following are scheduled courses that will be offered by the MJSA Jewelry Academy, starting in October 2005:
Beginning Matrix 4.0
Oct. 17, 18, 19, 20, & 21, Los Angeles
Nov. 14, 15, 16, 17, & 18, Los Angeles
Beginning Matrix 5.0
Dec. 12, 13, 14, 15, & 16, Los Angeles
Jan. 9, 10,11, 12, & 13, Los Angeles
Jan. 23, 24, 25, 26, & 27, New York City
Feb. 6, 7, 8, 9, & 10, Los Angeles
March 20, 21, 22, 23, & 24, Los Angeles
April 10, 11, 12, 13, & 14, Los Angeles
May 8, 9, 10, 11, & 12, Los Angeles
June 12, 13, 14, 15, & 16, Los Angeles
Intermediate Matrix 5.0
Nov. 29 & 30, Dec. 1 & 2, Los Angeles
Feb. 21, 22, 23, & 24, Los Angeles
March 7, 8, 9, & 10, New York City
April 18, 19, 20, & 21, Los Angeles
June 26, 27, 28, & 29, Los Angeles
Invisible Setting
Oct. 24, 25, 26, & 27, Los Angeles
Jan. 16, 17, 18, & 19, Los Angeles
May 22, 23, 24, & 25, Los Angeles
DCA Diamond Course
February 7 & 9, Los Angeles
February 14 & 16, Los Angeles
February 21 & 23, Los Angeles
February 28 & March 2, Los Angeles
Laser
Nov. 16 & 17, Providence
Jan. 17 & 18, Providence
March 22 & 23, Providence
May 17 & 18, Providence
Stone Setting Series
-Bead Setting
Jan. 30 & 31, Feb. 1 & 2, Providence
-Channel Setting
Feb. 20, 21, 22, & 23, Providence
-Prong Setting
March 6, 7, 8, & 9, Providence
-Invisible Setting
March 27, Providence
March 28, 29, 30, & 31, Providence
To register or for more information, please contact Dawn Orsini at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3028, or e-mail dorsini@mjsainc.com. Updates will be posted at www.mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA), in conjunction with AJM Magazine, and Jewelers of America (JA), have collaborated to present "At the Bench Live" seminars at four new venues. Featuring some of the industry's most renowned jewelers, AJM's "At the Bench Live" contains valuable bench techniques, tips, and tricks from some of the industry's top experts.
"As in so many areas in today's world, techniques and technology continue to change in jewelry manufacturing-including in bench work," said Frank Dallahan, MJSA President and CEO. "Retail jewelers need to know these new developments and, as important, see them implemented. In At the Bench Live presentations, they can learn from world-class jewelers how to ensure their bench is a profit center."
"By collaborating with MJSA and AJM, we can offer our members and others a year-long opportunity to learn from bench jewelers working at a bench in real time," said Matthew Runci, JA President and CEO. "Jewelers can witness a visually dynamic presentation filled with important tips and techniques."
The first collaborative At the Bench Live program will be held on January 22, 2006, at the winter JA New York Show in the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. There, Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of Anton Nash will present two seminars, "Working with Gemstones" and "Tool Modification;" Blaine Lewis of the New Approach School for Jewelers will offer "Channel Setting Made Easy;" and Karen Christians of Metalwerx will present "Making the Most of Your Flex-Shaft."
Other AJM's "At the Bench Live" programs are currently scheduled for Midwest Jewelry Expo in Madison, Wisconsin (March 25-26), the summer JA New York Show (July 30-August 2), and the Oklahoma Jewelers Association’s 100th Anniversary event in Oklahoma City (September 15-17).
For more information about AJM's "At the Bench Live" seminars, please contact Rich Youmans, MJSA director of communications at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3025, or e-mail ryoumans@mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) members are doing their part to help those devastated by Hurricane Katrina.
MJSA members raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help Katrina victims, with many companies matching employee contributions. Companies include retail giant Zale Corp. ($110,000); Fantasy Diamond Corp. in Chicago ($28,112); The Jewelers Board of Trade in Warwick, Rhode Island ($8,000); and Solidscape Inc. in Merrimack, New Hampshire ($6,200). Salvadore Auctions & Appraisals of Warwick, Rhode Island, held fundraising auctions that raised over $150,000.
Stuller Inc. (www.stuller.com) in Lafayette, Louisiana, established the Stuller Inc. Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund, in which 100% of every dollar donated goes to agencies that can make a difference to those in need of help. Companies that have donated to this fund include Bank of America Precious Metals in Providence; Johnson Matthey in New York; and Signity Americas, Ltd. in Texas.
Other companies, such as Aquatronics Industries in Riverside, Rhode Island, Otto Frei in Oakland, California, and Oxygen Generating Systems International in Amherst, New York, have donated equipment. Aquatronics Industries donated a mobile water purification system to process and purify contaminated city tap water and create potable bacteria-free water; Oxygen Generating Systems donated equipment for medical oxygen cylinder refilling; and Otto Frei donated tools and equipment to customers in the disaster area.
Gem Diamond Company (www.gemdiamond.com) in Houston, Texas, and Precious Metals West (www.preciousmetalswest.com) in Los Angeles, both dedicated pages of their Web sites to help displaced jewelry industry workers needing assistance in finding work, office space, and other forms of support.
Some companies donated basic necessities, such as clothes, non-perishable food, diapers, bottles, and baby formula. They include Hoover & Strong, Richmond, Virginia; Midstates Recycling & Refining, Des Plaines, Illinois; and Peterson & Young Goldsmiths, Inc., Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. While Chamilia in New York City created the Katrina bead to signify, as the company puts it, "our hearts go out to you and our hands are there to help." All proceeds from the beads will go directly to the American Red Cross.
Gem Certification and Appraisal Lab (GCAL) in New York City is producing and underwriting a CD with a new and original song, "Southern Rains," with proceeds from sales going directly to the American Red Cross or a charity of the donor's choice.
The following MJSA members also contributed to the Hurricane Katrina relief effort:
A & H Manufacturing Company (Johnston, Rhode Island) matched employee contributions.
A.G. & G. Inc./Vieste Rosa Ltd. (Johnston, Rhode Island) sent donation to the American Red Cross.
Aaura Inc. (Chicago, Illinois) sent 400 lbs. of comfort items to shelters.
Artediam Ltd. (New York City) conducted a food and clothing drive to raise money with all donations sent to the American Red Cross.
Aurafin LLC (Tamarac, Florida) sent money to the Salvation Army.
Cardona Industries USA (Great Neck, New York) donated to the American Red Cross.
Creative Services Inc. (Mansfield, Massachusetts) matched employee donations to the American Red Cross.
Dana Augustine Inc. (Kennesaw, Georgia) matched employee contributions to charity organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army, the American Red Cross, and the Humane Society of the United States.
Diamond Designs Inc. (Aklow, Ohio) donated to the American Red Cross.
George H. Fuller & Son Co. (Pawtucket, Rhode Island) matched employee contributions and donated to the American Red Cross.
Hindley's Jewelry Inc. (Spokane, Washington) donated $300 to the American Red Cross.
Innovation Jewelry Inc. (Los Angeles) sent donations to the American Red Cross and retail stores.
J.J. Chambers & Co. (Atlanta) donated $500 to the American Red Cross.
James A. Murphy & Son (S. Attleboro, Massachusetts) donated cash.
Jewelers Mutual Insurance Co. (Neenah, Wisconsin) donated cash to the American Red Cross.
Karen's Jewelers (Oak Ridge, Tennessee) offered customers watch pins and free watch batteries in return for a $10 donation.
Magee Jewelry (Penascola, Florida) sent $500 to the American Red Cross.
Melanie Michele Headpieces & Jewelry (Normal, Illinois) sent money to the American Red Cross, the Humane Society, the Louisiana SPCA, and NAACP.
Myron Toback Inc. (New York City) sent money and became an authorized representative for the American Red Cross.
Nancy B. & Co. (Culver City, California) sent checks to the American Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity.
Navikan Inc. (Chicago) donated to the American Red Cross.
Orlanda Olsen Inc. (New York City) sent a check to the American Red Cross.
R & J Jewelers (Reno, Nevada) donated all repair pickup receipts for one day, and also placed a cannister at the counter for customer donations.
Rudolph Findings (New York City) donated $500 to the American Red Cross.
Sierra West Jewelers (Drem, Utah) donated to the L.D.S. Foundation.
Simons Jewelers (St. Louis, Missouri) donated to the American Red Cross.
Sonya Ltd. (Christiansted, VI) made an initial donation of $1,000 and 20 percent of all Hurricane Katrina bracelet sales will go to the non-profit Hurricane Hunter Association.
Tiffany & Co. (New York City) donated to relief organizations from its Texas stores and plan further donations to an organization dedicated to rebuilding devastated areas.
Xuron Corp. (Saco, Maine) made employee and corporate donations to the Bush/Clinton Relief Fund.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) elected several new board members at its 102nd Annual Meeting on Nov. 9, 2005, at Kirkbrae Country Club in Lincoln, Rhode Island.
Elected officers were First Vice Chair Alan Bell of the Bell Group, Albuquerque, New Mexico (re-elected); Second Vice Chair Richard Powers of Cookson Precious Metals, Providence; Secretary Pat Patten of The Jewelry Group Inc., Redondo Beach, California (re-elected); and Treasurer Joseph Sisto of Leach & Garner-General Findings, North Attleboro, Massachusetts.
The newly elected board members were Robert M. Kempler of Samuel Aaron International, Long Island City, New York; Stuart Lee of Sterling Inc., Akron, Ohio; Paul W. Nordt III of John C. Nordt Company, Roanoke, Virginia; and Robert C. Rubino of Bank of America, Providence. Board members elected to a second term included Edwin F. Leach of Leach & Garner-General Findings, North Attleboro; Dave Meleski of Aurafin/OroAmerica, Burbank, California; and Samuel Sandberg of Sandberg & Sikorski, New York City.
Former board members Ira Bergman of Fabrikant and Sons, Inc., New York City; Brian Fleming of Carla Corporation, East Providence; John Green of Lux Bond and Green, West Hartford, Connecticut; and Howard Pomerantz of Gemological Institute of America, Newport Beach, California, were all recognized for their service.
The evening also included a keynote address by Dana Lee Cole, senior vice president for corporate affairs and corporate secretary for the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), as well as a tribute to former President/CEO James F. Marquart and the introduction of Frank Dallahan, MJSA's new president/CEO.
Sponsors for the 2005 Annual Meeting were JCK Events, FedEx, Payment Resources International, Bank of America, and PAETEC Communications.
For more information about the Annual Meeting or other MJSA events, please visit www.expo-newyork.com.

PROVIDENCE, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has announced its educational program for MJSA Expo New York 2006. The MJSA Jewelry Academy at Expo New York will run March 12-14 and feature an array of seminars, including several "At the Bench Live" demonstrations as well as the introduction of "Thinking Ahead: The CAD/CAM Experience," a presentation of the MJSA/AJM Innovation Initiative. In addition, MJSA, in collaboration with the Jeweler's Resource Bureau, will present Designer Day, a full-day conference to be held on March 11, one day prior to MJSA Expo.
"MJSA is very excited about the quality of the program for this year's Expo New York," says Suzanne Mascena, MJSA director of education. "By starting the day earlier, we have significantly increased the number of sessions and, for the first time, will provide educational opportunities for exhibitors as well as attending buyers."
Some highlights of the program include the following:
"Bench Tips and Tricks for the Platinumsmith," by Jurgen J. Maerz, will kick off the seminars on Sunday Morning, March 12. Based on his forthcoming book, Adventures at the Bench: Tricks and Tales, this presentation will provide instruction on a variety of bench techniques. Also included on Sunday will be "Working Together to Gain a Competitive Edge," an interactive panel discussion in which manufacturers and retailers will discuss how they can collaborate to tackle industry issues such as conflict diamonds, country of origin, and more.
Monday's sessions will include "Selling Yourself and Your Company," a presentation by Duvall O'Steen and Shaye Strager of the World Gold Council, which will discuss such topics as branding and developing an effective press kit. Monday's program will also include "What's Hot? 2006 & Beyond" by Lisa Bruno of Accessor-eyes LLC. This presentation will identify jewelry design, color, and accessory trends that will shape the first decade of the new millennium. It will illustrate those trends through some of MJSA Expo New York 2006 exhibitors' products.
Also in the lineup on Sunday and Monday are "At the Bench Live" demonstrations, providing access to some of the industry's renowned experts. Presenters will include Michael David Sturlin, Arthur Anton Skuratowicz, Bradney W. Simon, Blaine Lewis, Kate Wolf, Alan Revere, Karen Christians, and Charles Lewton-Brain.
The program will end on Tuesday, March 14, with "Thinking Ahead: The CAD/CAM Experience," a presentation of the MJSA/AJM Innovation Initiative. This half-day session will include live demonstrations coupled with two overview sessions on CAD and CAM, as well as a roundtable discussion.
On Saturday, March 11, MJSA and the Jeweler's Resource Bureau will present Designer Day, a full-day conference that will provide an interactive and comprehensive look at the business strategies, technologies, and artistic resources designers need to bring their creations from concept to market. Also included will be MJSA's American Vision Award (AVA) Luncheon, where the winners of the 2006 awards will be announced and their work celebrated. The AVA design competition annually recognizes the talent and innovation of designers whose work is influencing future design trends.
For a full schedule or to register online for any of the above programs, please visit www.expo-newyork.com.

PROVIDENCE, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has announced a new opening night cocktail party, "Good Libations," to be held at MJSA Expo New York on Sunday, March 12, 2006, from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. Conveniently located on the south concourse of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, the cocktail party will allow exhibitors and attendees to unwind and mingle with their peers after a busy day on the show floor, and will feature an array of hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and music. Tickets cost $60 per guest.
For more information or to purchase tickets for the party, or to register for Expo New York 2006, please visit www.expo-newyork.com.

The First Book in the New "Orchid in Print" Series is Now Available
Providence, RI-MJSA/AJM Press has released Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft, the first book collaboratively produced by Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) and The Ganoksin Project. Written by teacher and metalsmith Karen Christians, owner of the Metalwerx school in Waltham, Massachusetts, the book focuses on how jewelers can ensure they choose the right flex-shaft systems and accessories for their needs, operate safely at maximum efficiency, improve quality, and speed production.
The first book in over two decades devoted to the flex-shaft, Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft is part of a new series, "Orchid in Print: Maximum Bench Work," named after Ganoksin's Orchid discussion group. Its chapters focus on topics such as choosing the proper motor and handpiece, selecting available accessories and attachments, and ensuring proper maintenance and safety procedures. It also includes a chapter of tips compiled from the Ganoksin technical archive, which includes postings from the popular Orchid forum as well as the pages of AJM Magazine. All chapters are illustrated with full-color photos (more than 100 throughout). They also contain numerous tables and charts that enable readers to compare and choose systems and accessories that best meet their needs.
The prime sponsor for Making the Most of Your Flex-Shaft is The Bell Group/Rio Grande. Patron sponsors are Foredom Electric Co. and 3M Inc.
"MJSA's mission simply put is to provide useful, actionable information and opportunities to help our members operate their businesses more profitably, our new book, Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft, does just that," said MJSA President/CEO Frank Dallahan.
"Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft is an excellent start for the 'Orchid in Print' series," said Dr. E. Aspler (Hanuman), who founded The Ganoksin Project (www.ganoksin.com) in 1996 and has since overseen its growth into a leading online information resource for jewelers worldwide. "It will educate beginners to the trade and enlighten professionals, and is a truly valuable asset in the library of any metalsmith and jeweler."
The book costs $29.50 for MJSA members and $34.95 for non-members. It is available through the industry's leading book distributors, as well as Amazon.com. Books can also be ordered directly from MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038, or online at the MJSA/AJM Press page.
MJSA/AJM Press is the trade book division of MJSA, focusing primarily on the technical aspects of making and repairing jewelry. Its award-winning publications include The AJM Guide to Lost-Wax Casting, At the Bench: An Illustrated Guide to Working with Gold and Silver (by Gregg Todd and Greg Gilman), The Platinum Bench: An Illustrated Guide to Easy Platinum Repairs and Fabrication (by Jurgen Maerz), and 101 Bench Tips for Jewelers (by Alan Revere).

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) and AJM Magazine recently honored seven products in the second annual AJM Innovation Awards competition, which recognizes the most creative tools, technologies, and processes introduced during the past year. The winners-which ranged from a versatile computer-aided milling machine to a pre-cut setting that simplifies and speeds stone placement-were all featured in the December 2005 issue of AJM.
"In today's global market, in which countries with low-wage labor forces and low structural costs automatically gain an advantage, many U.S. manufacturers have realized that they must rely on innovative strategies to survive," said Tina Wojtkielo Snyder, AJM Magazine's editor. "Through the Innovation Awards program, we’re able to identify those tools that will best enable companies to compete successfully."
The 2005 AJM Innovation Award-winning products are:
3M's FX Polishing Wheels-The 3M FX polishing wheel is a polishing tool developed to eliminate or reduce a jeweler's need for buffs and compounds, which can generate problems such as loss of detail, precious metal removal, heat, and compound and buff residue. The wheel has the ability to follow the curves and contours of the jewelry piece, making the operation go much faster than with a traditional polishing buff. It can also be used with water to burnish metal, covering file marks and scratches.
Ti-Research's Cast/T Casting Machine and NoWax Compound-Manufactured by Ti-Research in Mainbernheim, Bavaria, Germany, the Cast/T tabletop centrifugal casting machine is designed to fill a void in products available for small shops. With a capacity of 250 grams of gold, the Cast/T allows jewelers to cast in small quantities, such as those for master models or small production runs, in a variety of metals. Innovation Award judges were impressed with not only the unit's compact size of 265 mm high and 170 mm in diameter, but also its performance and price (the basic model costs $2,500). NoWax is a light-curing resin casting compound suitable for the creation of irregulary shaped objects. It is designed to burn out completely ash-free.
Roland ASD's JWX-10 Model Maker-Designed to quickly produce detailed wax jewelry models, the JWX-10 Model Maker by Roland ASD in Lake Forest, California, is a four-axis desktop milling machine that is compatible with all CAD software files and comes with CAM software. It was also developed to make jewelry design and manufacturing processes faster, simpler, and more profitable. According to Innovation Award judges, the JWX-10's low price point of $9,995 allows it to play an important role in "embedding CAD/CAM in the ordinary jeweler's workshop."
Ransom & Randolph's Ultra-Vest MAXX Investment-The Ultra-Vest MAXX Investment by Ransom & Randolph in Maumee, Ohio, helps jewelers to overcome the problems associated with casting white palladium gold. It is designed to reduce the formation of gas porosity, eliminate flashing and spalling defects, and provide a smoother casting surface. In addition, the Ultra-Vest MAXX is also suitable for use in the direct casting of rapid prototype models.
Hoover & Strong's Tru-Seat Setting-Hoover & Strong in Richmond, Virginia, developed Tru-Seat settings for princess-cut diamonds to speed up the setting process and improve quality. Designed with the seat pre-cut, the Tru-Seat reduces setting errors that can lead to broken prongs or broken stones. The design also ensures the seat is always proportional and level.
Next Factory's DigitalWax 010-Developed exclusively for use in the jewelry industry, the DigitalWax 010 is a rapid prototyping system that uses a stereolithography process to build 3-D models. Offering a laser scanning speed of 8 to 30 mm/second, the system employs a proprietary photosensitive resin that enables DigitalWax to produce models that can be easily polished and finished using standard tools and techniques.
The winners were selected by a renowned panel of judges from around the world including: James Binnion, James Binnion Metal Arts LLC, Bellingham, Washington; Michael Coan, Fashion Institute of Technology, New York City; Dr. Christopher W. Corti, World Gold Council, London; Dr. Jorg Fischer-Buhner, Forschungsinstitut fur Edelmetalle und Metallchemie (FEM), Schwabisch Gmund, Germany; Mark Grimwade, metallurgical consultant, Northwood, Middlesex, United Kingdom; Charles Lewton-Brain, goldsmith, author, educator, inventor of fold-forming, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Jurgen J. Maerz, Platinum Guild International USA, South Coast Metro, California; Gay Penfold, Jewellery Industry Innovation Centre (JIIC) University of Central England, Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom; and Tino Volpe, Tiffany & Co., Cumberland, Rhode Island.
The Innovation Awards are part of "Thinking Ahead: The MJSA/AJM innovation Initiative," which is intended to spur on and celebrate innovation in all areas of the industry. This year's Innovation awards will be presented at MJSA Expo New York at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 12, 2006, at the special Innovation Area located at the rear of the hall. MJSA Expo New York will also feature a half-day CAD/CAM presentation on Tuesday, March 14, as part of the Innovation Initiative.
For a full description of the winning products or for more information about the Innovation Initiative, see the December issue of AJM Magazine, or visit www.ajm-magazine.com. For more information or to register online for MJSA Expo New York 2006, please visit www.expo-newyork.com.

In an administrative ruling, the U.S. Treasury has exempted dealers who purchase and sell silver from complying with the USA PATRIOT Act's rules, which went into effect Jan. 1.
When the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN, the Treasury agency primarily responsible for enforcing the act) issued the final rules in June 2005, it indicated there would likely be some changes after the fact. Now, according to FinCEN, those who deal in silver will not have to establish an anti-money-laundering program, pending issuance of revisions to the rules.
"The administrative ruling, while issued to one specific inquiry, can serve as guidance to others until the final rules are cleared," said John Satagaj, MJSA's legislative counsel, who authored MJSA's Complying with the USA PATRIOT Act: A Guide for Dealers in Precious Metals, Stones, or Jewels. The status of silver as a precious metal is just one of the questions that the Treasury Department is currently considering, Once the final rules are cleared, MJSA will update the compliance guide.
The final rules state that any persons or businesses within the United States must establish an anti-money-laundering program if, during the prior calendar or tax year, they both purchased more than $50,000 in covered goods and received more than $50,000 in gross proceeds from the sale of those goods. "Covered goods" comprise jewels, precious metals, precious stones, and finished goods that derive 50 percent or more of their value from those materials.
For more information about the USA PATRIOT Act, or to purchase a copy of the MJSA compliance guide, go to the MJSA Government Affairs page.

Education, enlightenment, and encouragement for jewelry design entrepreneurs
Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) and Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler's Resource Bureau will present Designer Day on Saturday, March 11, 2006, at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.
Designer Day is a full-day conference which provides an interactive and comprehensive look at the business strategies, technologies, and artistic resources designers need to bring their creations from concept to market. This year's program includes Effortless Selling by Keith Rosen of ProfitBuilders offering ways to dramatically increase selling performance and income by building upon each person's natural strengths, competencies, and talents; The 3-Minute Pitch by ViewPoint Showrooms covering how to make a great first impression; and "Designing for Life" by Robert Lee Morris, one of today's most talented designers, providing invaluable insight and advice. The program will also include breakout workshops on topics such as database management, taking your jewelry on the road and to shows, understanding profitability, and knowing your customer.
Also included as part of the Designer Day conference is MJSA's American Vision Award (AVA) luncheon, where the 2006 AVA winners will be announced and their work celebrated. The AVA design competition annually recognizes the talent and innovation of designers whose work is influencing future design trends. All winning designs will be on display for thousands of buyers and exhibitors during MJSA Expo New York on March 12-14, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.
Tickets for Designer Day cost $175 each for MJSA (www.mjsainc.com) and Jeweler's Resource Bureau (www.jewelersresource.com)members; $195 for non-members. For more information or to register, please visit www.expo-newyork.com.

Providence, RI-MJSA's 2006 American Vision Award (AVA) Design Competition winners were honored during the luncheon at the Designer Day Conference on Saturday, March 11, at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. In addition to the Professional and Student Category winners, several Professional entries were honored in special Distinction Categories.
Professional Category 1st place: Todd Reed of Todd Reed Inc. in Boulder, Colorado; patinaed silver speculum with flush-set brilliant diamonds, and a cluster of raw diamonds set in 18k gold.
Professional Category 2nd place: Thomas Dailing of Thomas Dailing Designs in Stevens Point, Wisconsin; yellow and white reflective pendant with a Madeira citrine, and accented with Hessonite garnets, colored sapphires, and brilliant-cut diamonds.
Student Category 1st place: Jung Hyun Ra, Fashion Institute of Technology, New York City; "Drooping Earrings" of 14k gold with jade.
Student Category 2nd place: Hae Jin Park, Fashion Institute of Technology, New York City; necklace inspired by a woman’s scarf.
Platinum Distinction 1st place: James Kaya of Solair Jewelers in Boston, Massachusetts; "Golden Bridge" ring with yellow sapphires in platinum and 18k white gold.
Platinum Distinction 2nd place: Adam Shirley of Adam Shirley Design in Birmingham, Michigan; Taper Eternity Band in platinum and 18k yellow gold with diamonds.
Silver Distinction 1st place: Todd Reed of Todd Reed Inc. in Boulder, Colorado; patinaed silver speculum with flush-set brilliant diamonds, and a cluster of raw diamonds set in 18k gold.
Silver Distinction 2nd place: Nina Basharova of New York City; platinum silver bangles with semi-precious stones.
Crystal Distinction 1st place: Caito Amorose of MoonWater Designs in McKeesport, Pennsylvania; "The Queens Jewels" a collar with clear crystal rondels that wind and twist around the wearer's neck.
Crystal Distinction 2nd place: Chow Hartanti of Irlenna's Art in Duluth, Georgia; double-sided crystal necklace.
Mokume-gane Distinction 1st place: Steve Midgett of Earthshine Mokume Inc. in Franklin, North Carolina; "Orbit" brooch in titanium and tantalum, accented with 22k gold and a diamond.
Mokume-gane Distinction 2nd place: Lisa Krikawa of Krikawa Jewelry Design in Tucson, Arizona; "Life Drops" necklace, composed of palladium white gold and sterling mokume-gane, diamonds, and stainless steel cable.
Reactive Metals Distinction 1st place: Steve Midgett of Earthshine Mokume, Inc. in Franklin, North Carolina; "Orbit" brooch in titanium and tantalum, accented with 22k gold and a diamond.
Reactive Metals Distinction 2nd place: Jackie Goetz of Jewelers Workshop in Madison, Wisconsin; necklace with pierced tree design in 18k red and royal gold and 14k green gold, riveted to a colored sheet of titanium set with diamonds. The necklace is accented with gold flowers set with purple sapphires.
CAD/CAM Distinction 1st place: Charles P. Bahringer of illumine i titanium in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; titanium ring with purple anodized inner grooves and diamonds.
CAD/CAM Distinction 2nd place: Lee Krombholz of Krombohlz Jewelers in Cincinnati, Ohio; "Starry Night Band" ring developed with various sized diamonds in a star-themed ring.
Sponsors for the Distinction Categories included Platinum Guild International for Platinum Distinction; Swarovski for Crystal Distinction; Silver Users Association for Silver Distinction; Reactive Metals Studio and Shining Wave Metals for Mokume-gane Distinction; Reactive Metals Studio, Cabot Supermetals, and Perryman Company for Reactive Metals Distinction; and Gemvision for CAD/CAM Distinction.
The judges for 2006 were Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler's Resource Bureau; Michael Coan, Jewelry Department Chair, Fashion Institute of Technology; Beth Braverman, Associate Editor, National Jeweler; and Mark Schneider of Schneider Design.
Digital images are available upon request.

Providence, RI-The seventh annual MJSA Education Foundation Golf Tournament will take place simultaneously on the public and private courses at the prestigious Lake of Isles in North Stonington Connecticut, on July 25, 2006. Located across from Foxwoods Resort Casino, Lake of Isles will provide a great experience for both golfers and non-golfers. In addition to a great round of golf, the tournament will feature contests for longest drive and closest to the pin, as well as a hole-in-one competition and a putting contest. There will also be a live auction and a raffle.
Voted "Best New Course" in 2005 by both Golf Digest and Golf Magazine, Lake of Isles features two par 72 courses, each with over 7,200 yards from the championship tees. Non-golfers can book a Foxwoods resort package for $210 and enjoy a massage, use of the fitness center and locker rooms, and try their luck in the casino, as well as attend the cocktail reception and dinner. Shuttle service will be provided from the golf course to the casino. Room blocks are available for $140 a night, and can be reserved by calling 1-800-FOXWOOD (1-800-369-9663) or online at www.foxwoods.com. Reference group code F22885 at Grand Pequot Tower.
Participation in the tournament is $210 per player, and includes golf, cart rental, lunch, cocktail reception, lavish dinner buffet, and more. Tickets are also available for lunch only ($30 per person) or dinner reception only ($100 per person). Space is limited.
This annual event benefits the MJSA Education Foundation. In addition to awarding more than $100,000 in scholarships, the MJSA Education Foundation is constantly developing new programs to benefit both the industry and the community. Current projects include student internships and scholarships for industry skills training through the MJSA Jewelry Academy.
Sponsorships for this event are still available. For more information about sponsorships or to register to play, contact Katherine Eayrs, MJSA events coordinator, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3040, or e-mail katherine@mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) held "Thinking Ahead: The CAD/CAM Experience" on Tuesday, March 14, 2006, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. during MJSA Expo New York 2006. More than 75 attendees learned about the various CAD/CAM options available during this half-day seminar, as well as how designs can be taken from concept to completion digitally.
A part of the MJSA/AJM Innovation Initiative, the seminar featured live presentations from some of the leading CAD software providers. Individual stations, each staffed by a two-person design team, focused on ArtCAM, Matrix 5.3, Rhino, 3Design Jewel, Mastercam, and 3D Engrave. Attendees moved from station to station to learn how each program took pre-chosen design projects from sketch to rendering, overcoming the challenges inherent in each design. Attendees could also view pre-built wax models of the designs to see how various rapid prototyping and milling machines handled the parameters of each project.
"It's great having all the software here for viewing," said Marc Adwar of Adwar Casting Co. "Our economy will always be a global one, and CAD/CAM is a great way to allow us to compete with foreign suppliers."
"One of my goals is to bring CAD/CAM to Pratt's jewelry program," said Patricia Madeja, associate professor of fine arts at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. "This was a great way to learn about the different programs available and determine which one will best fit my needs."
Running simultaneously witht he demonstrations was a panel discussion focused on CAM options and capabilities moderated by Steven Adler of Automated 3D Modeling Inc. and comprising both vendors and users. Panelists included John Stewart of ModelMaster; Dave Hayes of Haas Automation Inc.; Iven May of CNC Software Inc., Mastercam; Rich Motto of CADBlu; David Olson of Roland ASD; Al Siblani of Envisiontec; and Jim Westberg of Solidscape.
This was followed by an open roundtable discussion in which attendees and current CAD/CAM users exchanged real-life experiences and technical advice. Discussion leaders included Charles Bahringer of illuminei i titanium LLC, a two-time American Vision Award winner in the CAD/CAM Distinction category; Michael Buczala of Master Digital Models Inc.; Dana Buscaglia of Judith Ripka; Vadim Pugachevskiy of Avon Products Inc.; and Greg Stopka of JewelSmiths jewelry service studio.
For more information, please visit www.mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) held its flagship show, MJSA Expo New York, on March 12-14, 2006, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. More than 5,000 representatives from 46 states and 34 countries attended MJSA Expo New York this year, which featured nearly 400 booths, a brand-new cocktail party, free demonstrations on the show floor, and the MJSA Jewelry Academy at Expo New York seminars.
On the first day of MJSA Expo New York, buyers flooded onto the show floor in search of the latest technologies, supplies, and finished goods and gems. Throughout the day, exhibitors were scrambling to handle the rush of customers. "The doors opened at 10 a.m. and we were swamped instantly," said Michael Knight, president of Castaldo Products Manufacturing Corp. in Franklin, Massachusetts. "The move to a single hall was a good one." Alan Bell, a director of The Bell Group in Albuquerque, New Mexico, agreed: "Having everyone in one room is a real advantage for all of the buyers."
Besides finding success on the bustling show floor, many attendees decided to brush up on their knowledge from leading industry experts by attending one or more of the MJSA Jewelry Academy at Expo New York seminars. These seminars included such topics as casting and fabricating palladium, building a successful jewelry design business, working with gemstones, and critiquing your Web site. It also provided interactive sessions on crocheting with gold, stone setting, and flex-shaft tips as part of the At the Bench Live demonstrations, as well as a half-day program focusing on CAD/CAM that gave suppliers the opportunity to demonstrate their products for attendees.
Sponsors for the seminar programs were FedEx Express; Rio Grande in Albuquerque, New Mexico; SNAG/Metalsmith in Eugene, Oregon; and Southeastern Findings in Tucker, Georgia.
"The palladium seminar addressed all the questions one would be facing when working with a new metal," said renowned jewelry designer Scott Kay of Teaneck, New Jersey. "The presenters did a great job of taking technical information and making it accessible-anybody who wasn't there really missed a lot."
The first day of MJSA Expo New York 2006 also included the presentation of the 2nd Annual AJM Innovation Awards, where attendees met the winning products' developers and distributors and learned how innovation is the key to their success. It ended with the debut of Good Libations, MJSA Expo New York's brand new cocktail party, conveniently held on the south concourse of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.
For more information about MJSA Expo New York 2006, please visit www.expo-newyork.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) and Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler's Resource Bureau presented Designer Day on Saturday, March 11, 2006, at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.
An annual event, the full-day conference once again provided an interactive and comprehensive look at the business strategies, technologies, and artistic resources designers need to bring their creations from concept to market. "Each year, our attendees arrive with open minds and myriad of questions, and it's a pleasure to see them learn so many different business practices that they can take and apply to their business," said Edelstein.
This year's program included "Effortless Selling" by Keith Rosen of ProfitBuilders, which offered ways to dramatically increase selling performance and income by building upon natural strengths, competencies, and talents. Key among his strategies was questioning potential customers. Rather than immediately launching into a sales pitch when meeting a potential client, Rosen suggested that designers should first learn as much possible about the client, and find out what is important to them-as well as if they have any initial concerns about entering into a business relationship. WIth such information in hand, he said, designers could best determine how to meet a customer's needs and close a sale. Rosen also offered advice and anecdotes about prospecting, following up on initial contacts, and developing an MVP-"Most Valuable Proposition"-that would set a business apart from its competition.
The morning portion also featured "The 3-Minute Pitch" by Laura Brown of ViewPoint, which covered how to make a great first impression. Brown emphasized that designers had to focus on their "stories"-those unique characteristics that separate one business from another. From eclectic materials (e.g., the raw diamonds of Todd Reed) to an iconoclastic personal history, designers should determine what sets them apart and then encapsulate it; this can serve as the nucleus of a short, effective presentation that will capture a potential client's attention.
Although the day is geared toward design entrepreneurs, manufacturers attended as well. "I found the seminar on the three-minute sales pitch especially relevant," said Torry Hoover of Hoover & Strong in Richmond, Virginia. "Even though I'm not a designer, I do sell jewelry and the information provided here today is relevant for manufacturers as well."
The program also included breakout workshops on topics such as database management, taking your jewelry on the road and to shows, understanding profitability, and knowing your customer. Attendees also tested their three-minute pitches before a panel of experts.
The conference ended with one of the day's highlights, "The Artist as Shaman" by Robert Lee Morris. After beginning the presentation with a short film, Morris performed a "smudging" ritual with burning sage, which is believed to drive out bad spirits, feelings, or influences. He then talked about his experiences becoming a certified shaman. "All artists are shamans," said Morris. "When they get inspired and are filled with artistic energy, that is a shamanistic intervention."
Also included as part of the Designer Day Conference was MJSA's American Vision Award (AVA) luncheon, where the 2006 AVA winners were announced and their work celebrated. Winning designs were also on display for thousands of buyers and exhibitors during MJSA Expo New York on March 12-14, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.
For more information on Designer Day or the AVAs, please visit www.mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) will once again present its At the Bench Live program, which features hands-on interactive demonstrations conducted by some of the industry's leading jewelers, at JCK Las Vegas on June 3-5, 2006, in the rear of the Galileo Ballroom of the ET&S Pavilion.
This year's sessions will feature a diverse range of topics, from working with palladium to cleaning and detailing CAD-milled waxes:
Saturday, June 3
- "Preparing for Palladium" by Daniel Ballard, Precious Metals West; Stewart Grice Hoover & Strong; B.J. Williams, Johnson Matthey; and Teresa Frye, Techform Advanced Casting Technology.
Sunday, June 4
- "Crocheting with Gold" by Michael David Sturlin of Micheal David Sturlin Studio.
- "Working with Computer Milled and Grown Waxes" by Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of Anton Nash LLC.
- "Saving Irreplaceable Stones: Tips for Working with Gem-Set Jewelry" by Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of Anton Nash LLC.
Monday, June 5
- "The Price is Right: Pricing and Promotion Strategies" by Michael David Sturlin of Michael David Sturlin Studio.
- "Thinking Ahead: Innovative Tools & Techniques" by Kate Wolf of Wolf Tools
- "Fancy Free: Working with Custom Waxes" by Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of Anton Nash LLC.
All At the Bench Live sessions are FREE of charge and will take place in the rear of the Galileo Ballroom of the ET&S Pavilion at JCK Las Vegas. For more information, contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA Jewelry Academy director, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, or e-mail teresa@mjsainc.com.
For a full description of these sessions, please visit www.mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) will once again partner with Jewelers of America to present its At the Bench Live seminars at the JA New York Summer show on Sunday, July 30, 2006, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. Featuring some of the industry's most renowned jewelers, At the Bench Live contains valuable bench techniques, tips, and tricks.
The JA seminars will feature:
- Tom Weishaar, C.M.B.J., who will present "Fitting the Mold: Mass Production Through Mold Making" and "Don't Leave Money on the Table: Profiting from Repairs."
- Michael Bondanza, who will present "The Importance of Craftsmanship."
- Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of Anton Nash LLC, Co-author of the 2005 MJSA/AJM Press book, Working with Gemstones: A Bench Jeweler's Guide, who will present "Keeping Stones Intact: Identifying Problem Gems."
For more information about At the Bench Live seminars, please contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA Jewelry Academy director, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, or e-mail teresa@mjsainc.com. For a full description of these sessions, please visit www.mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) will debut the Trade Show for Jewelry Making (TSJM), on September 27 & 28, 2006, at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence. The show will run from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. each day.
MJSA Trade Show for Jewelry Making (TSJM) is a new regional trade show serving jewelry makers of all sizes - from artisans and designers operating out of small shops to large manufacturing operations - throughout New England. TSJM will provide these industry professionals with a unique opportunity to see, in one convenient location, a full range of the products they need to make their jewelry and successfully operate their businesses including beads, chain, findings, components, gemstones, pearls, tools, equipment, packaging, displays, software, services, and more. For the first year of the show, MJSA anticipates approximately 100 exhibitors and expects to reach 1,000 buyers.
Since making the initial announcement about this brand new show, MJSA has received a very strong response from the jewelry community to both the concept of the show and its location. Providence was chosen due to the numerous requests for a new Providence trade show that MJSA has fielded over the years, as well as the long history of jewelry making in the area.
The Rhode Island Economic Development Corp. estimates that there are more than 1,000 companies in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts engaged in some form of traditional jewelry manufacturing. And these numbers don't include the thousands of individual jewelry makers and small studio-based companies that are engaged in making and selling jewelry.
Advanced registration is FREE for MJSA members and non-members. On-site registration is $10 for non-members.
For more information about exhibiting or attending the Trade Show for Jewelry Making, click here or contact Bruce Coltin, MJSA trade show sales manager, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3023, or e-mail bruce@mjsainc.com.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) has announced its brand unification campaign designed to create a more cohesive identity for the association. The first step in MJSA's brand consolidation strategy is changing the name and the look of its monthly magazine.
AJM Magazine is now MJSA Journal. Along with the magazine's new name and look, MJSA Journal also features expanded editorial to include regular articles on finance, sales, and marketing, as well as technical and manufacturing topics. These changes will better enable readers to not only produce quality jewelry, but also market and sell it profitably.
MJSA has always delivered valuable information and opportunities to its members to help them grow revenues, reduce costs, and operate more profitably. It accomplished this through not only the magazine, but also through trade shows, especially its flagship MJSA Expo New York, and through educational programs from the MJSA Jewelry Academy.
The brand unification campaign, along with the new MJSA logo, will bring all the MJSA "products" under one roof, creating a more cohesive identity for the association and its endeavors, and strengthening MJSA's recognition throughout the industry.
"I've long believed in leading by example. This change in MJSA reflects a greater recognition of the importance of marketing in general and branding in particular," said MJSA President/CEO Frank Dallahan. "It is our desire to have instant recognition of MJSA as a leading source of useful information and opportunities for manufacturers and suppliers to the jewelry industry."
The new MJSA look debuted at the JCK Las Vegas Show on June 3-7, 2006.
For more information on the new MJSA Journal, please contact Rich Youmans, MJSA Journal's publisher, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3025, or e-mail rich.youmans@mjsa.org.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has announced new dates for its flagship show, MJSA Expo New York, which will be held on March 18-20, 2007, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. Show hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday and Monday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
MJSA Expo New York is the largest trade show in the United States devoted to jewelry manufacturing, with the latest supplies, machinery, components, services, and finished products, all under one roof. The show features more than 400 booths, more than 5,000 buyers from various states and countries, and a full roster of educational seminars.
Expo New York also features the AGTA Pavilion, sponsored by the American Gem Trade Association; the pre-show Designer Day Conference, co-sponsored by MJSA and The Jeweler's Resource Bureau; and the MJSA Academy at Expo New York seminar program.
For more information about MJSA Expo New York, please visit mjsa.org.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has partnered with Acquire Marketing to help MJSA members increase consumer awareness and build their brands.
Acquire Marketing is a marketing solutions company that specializes in personalized direct marketing programs and handles the entire marketing process from concept through execution. This new MJSA program helps to increase brand awareness by providing professionally designed marketing materials personalized for each recipient at a discounted price for MJSA members.
"In today's jewelry marketplace, the focus of attention increasingly is on marketing and branding," said Frank Dallahan, MJSA President/CEO. "Recognition has everything to do with establishing a name and an image in the clients' minds. The Acquire program gives MJSA members the opportunity to develop a strong message and a successful promotional program that will bring positive revenue results."
For more information about this program, please contact Tom Meyers of Acquire Marketing at 1-760-650-0182, or e-mail tom.meyers@acquiremarketing.biz.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has recently announced that Rich Youmans is now the publisher of MJSA Journal (formerly known as AJM Magazine), assuming the responsibilities from MJSA President/CEO Frank Dallahan.
An editor and writer with more than 20 years' experience in publications management, Youmans joined MJSA in 1996 as the magazine's managing editor, and two years later became editor and associate publisher. In 2001, he was appointed director of communications and publications, the responsibilities of which included overseeing all of MJSA's publications.
As publisher, Youmans will continue to oversee the development of MJSA's publications. He will also be working closely with Teresa Shannon, director of the MJSA Academy, on MJSA's outreach programs, including the "Safe and Secure" program and "Thinking Ahead: The MJSA Innovation Initiative."
For more information about outreach programs or MJSA Journal, please contact Rich Youmans at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3025, or e-mail rich.youmans@mjsa.org.

Providence, RI-Major companies such as Stuller, Gesswein, and Gemvision have already signed up to exhibit at the new MJSA Trade Show for Jewelry Making (TSJM), which is scheduled to take place on September 27-28, 2006, at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence.
TSJM is a new regional trade show serving jewelry makers of all types-from artisans and designers operating out of small shops to large manufacturing operations-throughout New England. TSJM will provide these industry professionals with a unique opportunity to see, in one convenient location, a full range of products they need to make their jewelry and successfully operate their businesses.
Exhibitors that have signed on as of presstime include 3D Jewelry Design Institute (CAD training), A to Z Bohemian Glass (beads, findings), Aanshi Gems (gemstones), Advanced Chemical (precious metals), Au Enterprises (casting services), Bernard's (beads, findings), Crafford-LaserStar (laser systems), Frank Morrow Co. (findings), Garlan Chain (chain), Gemvision (CAD), Gesswein (tools, equipment, supplies), Hallmark Sweet/Excel (findings, chain), Jewelers Mutual (insurance for the jewelry industry), John F. Allen & Son (beads), Krohn Industries (solders, alloys), LDC Inc. (findings), Magic Novelty (findings), Metalliferous (beads, stones, findings), Metalwerx (jewelry making training), Mode International (beads), National Chain Group (chain), Parker & Smith (casting services), Pease & Curren (precious metal refiners), Premier Roll & Tool (roll tools), R.G. Flair Co. (findings), Romanoff International Supply (tools, equipment), Salvadore Tool & Findings (findings), Signature Engraving Systems (engraving systems), Solidscape (model-making equipment), Stamp-Rite Tool & Die (stampings, tools, dies), Stan Rubenstein Associates (solders, pastes, equipment), Stuller Inc. (tools, equipment, findings), Ti-Research (casting machines), Titus/Triad (engraving & stone setting), United Precious Metal Refining (precious metals, alloys, solders), Viva Gems (gemstones), Waliga Imports & Sales (findings, beads, gemstones), and Zarlene Imports (beads, gemstones).
"In planning TSJM, we set out with the goal of providing New England-area jewelry makers with an opportunity to meet the broadest possible range of suppliers, and we're succeeding beyond our expectations," said Bruce Coltin, MJSA trade show sales manager. "When jewelry makers call in to find out who will be exhibiting, they're amazed that they'll be able to see so many vital products and services in a single show-in fact, most of our exhibitors are some of the highest profile companies in our industry. As it's now shaping up, many of our exhibitors will be shaking hands with an entirely new market, and this is very exciting."
For the first year of the show, MJSA anticipates approximately 100 exhibitors and expects to reach 1,000 buyers.
Advance registration is FREE. On-site registration is $10 for non-MJSA members and free for MJSA members.
For more information about exhibiting or attending TSJM, please contact Bruce Coltin, MJSA trade show sales manager, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3023, e-mail bruce.coltin@mjsa.org, or visit mjsa.org.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has appointed Marlene Richey as its new Director of Membership. She will be responsible for building membership, overseeing member services and activities.
Among her priorities as membership director are plans to increase the number of cost-saving programs by obtaining new partners and increasing the value of existing programs. As part of this effort, she plans to research various associations outside the industry to determine what types of benefits they offer to their members. "We need to learn what programs work so we can ensure our members benefit from being part of MJSA," said Richey.
An industry veteran with over 30 years of experience, Richey is no stranger to the MJSA community. She has served as a contributing writer for MJSA's magazine and was a speaker at the Designer Day Conference, co-sponsored by MJSA and The Jeweler's Resource Bureau.
Richey previously served as Vice President of William Richey Designs in Portland, Maine, where she was responsible for the overall marketing, sales, and promotion of the business. In addition, she taught creative marketing and art business courses at the Maine College of Art, among other schools. She has served as a Director on the board of the Contemporary Design Group, the Maine Craft Association, and the Maine Jewelers of America. She was also a contributing writer for Jewelers' Quarterly and Niche Magazine, and an active volunteer for SpindelWorks, a non-profit art center in Brunswick, Maine, for artists with disabilities.
Richey is also writing a book, tentatively titled Running a Small Jewelry Design Business, which is scheduled to be released in 2007 by MJSA Press.

Providence, RI-The MJSA Education Foundation has awarded a total of $6,500 in scholarships to six student designers based on creativity, technical skill, and a passion to excel in the jewelry industry.
Among them was a student from the famed Revere Academy in San Francisco, marking the first time a scholarship has been given to someone attending a proprietary school. The MJSA Education Foundation modified the criteria because it "believes it is important to expand the number of students who can apply to the Foundation for assistance," said Teresa Shannon, MJSA Academy director.
The following students each received $2,000 scholarships:
- Carol A. Salisbury of Portland, Oregon, who is currently enrolled at the Oregon College of Art & Craft, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jewelry. This is Carol's second consecutive award. She received a $1,000 scholarship from the Foundation in 2005.
- Lizabeth A. Kelley of Cape Coral, Florida, is a student enrolled at the Revere Academy in San Francisco, where she is studying art jewelry.
One student received a $1,000 scholarship:
- Lucia A. Perluck of Barrington, Rhode Island, will begin her freshman year at Temple University in Pennsylvania to pursue a bachelor's degree in visual arts.
Three students each received $500 scholarships.
- Jennaca L. Davies of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, is currently enrolled at the Rhode Island School of Design, where she is pursuing an M.F.A. in jewelry and metalsmithing. This is Jennaca's second consecutive award. She received a $1,500 scholarship from the Foundation in 2005.
- Kate S. Erickson of Fort Collins, Colorado, is currently enrolled at Colorado State University, where she is majoring in art with a concentration in metalsmithing. This is Kate's third consecutive award. She received a $1,500 scholarship in 2005 and $1,000 in 2004.
- Melissa R. Klemm of Greenville, Michigan, is pursuing a bachelor's degree in metals/jewelry design at the Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris University in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The MJSA Education Foundation scholarships are made possible through the generosity of many individual donors. Endowment funds include: the Karl Augenstein Memorial Fund, the George R. Frankovich Scholarship Fund, the Michael Marcogliese Scholarship Fund, the Andrew & Frances Salvadore Scholarship Fund, and the Walter Oppenheim Fund.
The MJSA Education Foundation awards scholarships annually and distributes them in partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation to students enrolled in jewelry-related programs at colleges, universities, or proprietary technical schools in the United States. Since 1979, the MJSA Education Foundation has granted more than $100,000 to students nationwide.
For more information about the MJSA Education Foundation or how to donate, please contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA Academy director, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, or e-mail teresa.shannon@mjsa.org.

Competition to include Laser Distinction, Palladium Distinction, and Natural Color Diamond Distinction.
Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) continues to promote important industry trends, from technological advancements to the latest fashions, as seen in the 2007 MJSA Vision Awards (formerly known as the American Vision Awards). This year also marks the first time international applicants are eligible.
Technology continues to influence design, changing what is possible. The introduction of a Laser Distinction category, sponsored by Crafford-LaserStar Technologies, will serve to highlight those designs that were created using a laser-and in some cases could not be created any other way.
Palladium is one of the industry's hottest topics, sparked by recent seminars at both MJSA Expo New York and at the JCK Las Vegas show. Sponsored by the Palladium Alliance International, a new trade group formed earlier this year, a Palladium Distinction category has been added for 2007.
Another new organization, the Natural Color Diamond Association, will sponsor the Natural Color Diamond Distinction category. As seen at recent awards ceremonies, more celebrities have been wearing yellow, green, orange, and other diamonds with naturally occurring color-a trend that could soon add "natural color" to the list of characteristics that determine a diamond's value.
MJSA's 2007 Distinction categories will also include Crystal Distinction, sponsored by Swarovski; CAD/CAM Distinction, sponsored by Gemvision; Mokume-gane Distinction, sponsored by Reactive Metals Studio and Shining Wave Metals; and Reactive Metals Distinction, sponsored by Reactive Metals Studio, Cabot Supermetals, and Perryman Company. The MJSA Vision Awards also includes prizes for first and second-place honors in the Professional and Student categories.
Winners will receive monetary awards of up to $1,000, and will be honored at the annual Designer Day conference on March 17, 2007, sponsored by MJSA and the Jeweler's Resource Bureau. In addition, winners will receive recognition in MJSA Journal, as well as other trade publications, on MJSA Online, and at MJSA Expo New York (March 18-20, 2007).
Entries must be received by November 30, 2006. For submission guidelines and further information, please contact Louly Vorasane at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3037, or e-mail louly.vorasane@mjsa.org. Watch for updates online at mjsa.org.

Providence, RI-The MJSA Academy has announced its line-up of FREE educational seminars for the new MJSA Trade Show for Jewelry Making (TSJM). The show will take place Sept. 27-28, 2006, on the show floor at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence.
Seminars will feature some of the industry's most renowned names:
- On Wednesday, Sept. 27 at 11 a.m., Chris Ploof of Heavens to Earth Jewelry, will present "Lathe Dimensioning and Finishing."
- On Wednesday, Sept. 27 at 2 p.m., Karen Christians of Metalwerx, will present Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft."
- On Thursday, Sept. 28 at 11 a.m., LeeAnn Herreid of Individual Icons, will present "How to Build and Develop Your Studio or Shop."
- On Thursday, Sept. 28 at 2 p.m., Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler's Resource Bureau, will present "Tips From the Trenches: Secrets of Building a Successful Designer Jewelry Business."
For more information, please contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA Academy director, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, or e-mail teresa.shannon@mjsa.org. Register for TSJM online at www.mjsa.org.

Providence, RI-Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) have joined forces with Jewelers of America (JA) and the Oklahoma Jewelers Association (OJA) to offer MJSA's At the Bench Live seminars at OJA's 100th Convention and Leadership Conference, which is scheduled to take place Sept. 15-17, 2006, at the Marriott Hotel in Oklahoma City.
Seminars will take place Sunday, Sept. 17, and will feature Chris Ploof of Heavens to Earth Jewelry, who will present "Lathe Dimensioning and Finishing" (10 a.m. - noon), and Jerry Shannon, MJSA Academy instructor, who will present "Ring Sizing: Going Up" (2 - 3:30 p.m.).
MJSA's At the Bench Live seminars feature interactive bench demonstrations by the industry's most renowned jewelers presenting a range of bench skills. Seminars take place every year at MJSA Expo New York and select locations nationwide.
For more information about MJSA's At the Bench Live demonstrations, please contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA Academy director, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, or e-mail teresa.shannon@mjsa.org.

Providence, RI - Over $11,000 was raised as an all-time high of 232 golfers teed off at the seventh annual MJSA Education Foundation Golf Tournament on July 25. The tournament took place on the north and south courses at the Lake of Isles Club. Funds raised provide scholarship assistance for students pursuing jewelry-related studies.
"It was the best tournament I've ever played in," said Vincent Scalera of Swarovski. "Everyone I spoke to commented on the quality of the course." In addition to golf, the event included a cocktail reception where golfers kicked back, relaxed, and mingled with their colleagues. This was followed by a dinner and a tribute to Howard Schachter, MJSA Education Foundation chairman emeritus. Schachter was honored with a new scholarship named after him for his efforts, dedication, and commitment to industry training and education. Over the past 20 years, he supported MJSA's educational efforts by developing curricula, training programs, and acting as a liaison between the foundation and the industry.
The dinner also featured a live auction and a raffle. Michael A. Salvadore Jr. of Salvadore Auctions & Appraisals led the auction, which featured two badges to the exclusive Masters Tournament in Augusta Georgia, as well as golf foursomes at several prestigious courses.
The day ended with the announcement of the winners of the raffle; prizes included airline tickets, hotel stays, vineyard and winery tours, and a Tiffany & Co. watch. "This was the most successful social event MJSA has ever held," said Edward DeCristofaro of LDC.
Major tournament sponsors included Swarovski North America Ltd., Labyrinth Business Solutions, Johnson Matthey, FedEx, Freeman, Bank of America, Aurafin-OroAmerica, Grant Marketing, Keystone Findings, Skies America, JCK Events, Computer Associates Inc., HSBC Bank, and TransFirst (formerly Payment Resources International).
For more information about the golf tournament, please contact Katherine Eayrs at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3040, or e-mail katherine.eayrs@mjsa.org.

Providence, RI-Michael Akkaoui, Chairman of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America(MJSA), has announced that U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) will be the keynote speaker at this year's MJSA Annual Meeting. The event will take place Wednesday, November 8, at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence.
MJSA's Annual Meeting is a gathering of MJSA members and industry executives from around the country. The meeting will review the year just concluded and preview plans for fiscal 2007.
Rooms are now available for $149 a night at the Courtyard by Marriott in Downtown, Providence. For room reservations, call 1-888-887-7955 and reference MJSA. Sponsorship opportunities for this event are also available.
For more information, to register, or to become a sponsor, please contact Katherine Eayrs at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3040, or e-mail katherine.eayrs@mjsa.org. Updates will be posted online at www.mjsa.org.

Providence, RI-MJSA Press announces that its newest book, Adventures At the Bench, will be released in late fall. Written by renowned platinumsmith Jurgen J. Maerz of Platinum Guild International, the book offers step-by-step projects for platinum fabrication and repair, and features hundreds of full-color illustrations. The book also offers Maerz's best tips for bench work, as well as his favorite tales of lessons learned during his apprenticeship.
From innovative uses for clothespins and table salt to installing stones with a laser, Adventures At the Bench will join Maerz's previous award-winning book, The Platinum Bench, as an essential reference for every jeweler.
The prime sponsor for Adventures At the Bench is Johnson Matthey New York, the U.S. jewelry product arm of the multinational group renowned for its expertise in platinum group metals, alloys, and semi-fabricated materials.
Adventures At the Bench is $34.95 (plus shipping and handling); MJSA members receive a 15% discount. For more information or to order, please call 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038.
MJSA Press focuses primarily on the technical aspects of making and repairing jewelry. Its award-winning publications include 101 Bench Tips for Jewelers by Alan Revere; At the Bench: An Illustrated Guide to Working with Gold and Silver by Gregg Todd and Greg Gilman; and the Guide to Lost-Wax Casting.

Association Supports GSP Renewal for India in Exchange for Indian Associations' Lobbying Efforts to Reduce Indian Tariffs
Providence, RI - MJSA President Frank Dallahan sent a letter to members of Congress today in support of renewing the GSP program for India, with the stipulation that India must reduce its reciprocal tariffs as soon as possible within the next two years. MJSA has met with trade associations representing Indian jewelry manufacturers and have been assured that these associations will lobby the Indian government to achieve the goal of "zero for zero" tariffs within the two-year period.
The GSP (generalized system of preferences) currently allows India and several other countries to import goods into the United States duty free. In comparison, India still applies duties on American-made jewelry products.
"MJSA believes that the U.S.'s trading partners should be willing to offer the same tariff rates to U.S. companies that the U.S. offers to its trading partners," said MJSA President/CEO Frank Dallahan. "India does not currently meet that standard, but we believe that based on the commitment we have received from the Indian trade associations the GSP extension should be granted."

Providence, RI - Over 1000 buyers attended MJSA's Trade Show for Jewelry Making. Held in Providence on September 27 & 28, 2006, this new event provided jewelry makers of all types, from independent designers to large manufacturers, to see and purchase the newest tools and supplies.
Exhibitors lauded the return of an MJSA show to Providence and were pleased with the buyer turnout.
"I"m happy MJSA is again holding a show in Providence, the organization's home base," said Alfred Schoeninger of Cranston Casting. "And I'm impressed by the caliber of buyer attending."
"The show has not only brought out the large manufacturer but also the small jeweler looking for tools and supplies," said Scott Petrillo of Gesswein. "Providence needs a show like this."
The buyers too were enthusiastic about the new show.
"There's really a good variety of products to choose from," said Lori Lima of Masters of Design, a mid-sized finished goods manufacturer in Attleboro, Massachusetts. "It's terrific to have a local supply show."
"I found all of my vendors at this show," said Kimberly Wolcutt, a jewelry designer from Dallas. "It's very valuable to me."
Buyers also brushed up on their skills. Four educational seminars were held over the two days. All were well attended. Seminar presenters included Cindy Edelstein of The Jeweler's Resource Bureau with "Tips From the Trenches: Secrets of Building a Successful Designer Jewelry Business"; Karen Christians of Metalwerx with "Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft"; Chris Ploof of Heavens to Earth Jewelry with "Lathe Dimensioning and Finishing"; and LeeAnn Herreid of Individual Icons with "How to Build Your Studio or Shop."
MJSA plans to repeat the show in Fall 2007.
Click here for more information on TSJM.

Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration praises MJSA, industry for proactive approach to global competition
Providence, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA) was awarded a certificate of export achievement on November 3, for its efforts in promoting the USA Pavilion at Joya 2005 in Guadalajara, Mexico. Christopher Padilla, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration, presented the certificate to MJSA President Frank Dallahan and MJSA Chairman Michael Akkaoui at the association's Providence headquarters.
During his visit, which also included a roundtable discussion with association members, Padilla praised MJSA's proactive approach to promoting fair trade.
"Your industry is on the front lines of globalization," he said, adding that an industry can respond to global challenges in one of two ways: "It can hunker down and hope the competition goes away, or it can fight back and insist on a level playing field." He commended MJSA for its long-standing commitment to leveling that "playing field" and to opening global markets, and for efforts that have ranged from promoting the Joya pavilion to the recent negotiations with the Seepz Gems and Jewelry Manufacturers Association to lobby for reduced tariffs in India. Padilla urged MJSA to continue its proactive approach, noting that "while U.S. fine jewelry exports are up 475 percent since 1997, there's no question the playing field is not level."
Padilla also touched on the current congressional review of both the Generalized System of Preferences (or GSP, which enables qualifying countries to import goods into the United States duty free, up to specified limits) and the Competitive Needs Limit waivers that allow GSP privileges to continue after those limits have been exceeded. India is among the leading jewelry importers on the list, and Padilla encouraged MJSA and its members to continue its strong involvement in the issue.
"Domestic industries don't realize how much influence they have on things like the GSP process," Padilla said. "GSP is designed to take into account the concerns of domestic manufacturers. If a company files a protest [about a limit or a waiver], that carries great weight. The squeaky wheel gets the grease, and a little bit of effort goes a long way...I encourage you to continue to make your voice heard."
He cited the recent Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) as another example of how domestic companies can influence the process: "We heard you when you said the phase out of tariffs in [the North American Free Trade Agreement] wasn't quick enough. In CAFTA, most of the tariffs go immediately to zero." CAFTA also includes provisions for intellectual property protection and governmental pricing plans for medical problems - a direct result of industries' expressed concerns influencing trade negotiators, Padilla said.
When the subject of China was brought up, Padilla characterized the U.S. relationship with that country as "multifaceted"; while it may help us in such areas as negotiating with North Korea, it still needs to have a more market-based, flexible exchange rate for its currency. "We can cooperate in one area even when we have big disagreements in another," he said. Padilla added that while the administration opposes retaliatory tariffs, it has not backed off pressing China for fairer trade conditions.
Padilla also discussed the programs available to small and mid-sized manufacturers to help them better compete when exporting. Through Gold Key Matching Services, Commerce officers in overseas markets help companies find potential business partners. The Commerce Department also organizes trade missions, some led personally by the Secretary of Commerce, and its www.trade.gov Web site offers information, advice, and services.

Providence, RI - The MJSA Jewelry Academy will once again present At the Bench Live seminars at the AGTA GemFair in Tucson, Arizona. Seminars will take place at the Tucson Convention Center on Jan. 31 - Feb. 3, 2007, in the arena near the MJSA Pavilion. The MJSA Jewelry Academy has scheduled the following presenters:
January 31
- At 1 p.m. Gary Dawson of Goldworks will present "The Art of Custom Design and Custom(er) Satisfaction."
- At 3 p.m. Daniel Ballard of PM West and Kraftwerks will present "Practical Palladium."
February 1
- At 10:30 a.m. Karen Christians of Metalwerx will present "Tips and Tricks for Working with a Flex-shaft." A signing will follow for her book, Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft, published by MJSA Press.
- At 1 p.m. Jurgen J. Maerz of Platinum Guild International will present "Adventures at the Platinum Bench." A signing will follow for his new book Adventures At the Bench: Tricks and Tales, published by MJSA Press.
- At 3 p.m. Designer Michael David Sturlin will present "Crocheting with Gold."
February 2
- At 10:30 a.m. Designer Michael David Sturlin will present "How to Price Your Work."
- At 1 p.m. Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs will present "Ring Finishing with a Mini-lathe."
- At 3 p.m. Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs will present "Casting Operations for the Small Shop."
- At 10:30 a.m. Jurgen J. Maerz of Platinum Guild International will present "Tips and Tricks from the Platinum Bench." A signing will follow for his new book Adventures At the Bench: Tricks and Tales, published by MJSA Press.
February 3
- At 1 p.m. Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of the Jewelry Center will present "Stone Setting: New Approaches."
- At 3 p.m. Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of the Jewelry Center will present "Avoiding Damage to Irreplaceable Gems." A signing will follow for his book, Working with Gemstones: A Bench Jeweler's Guide, published by MJSA Press.
Otto Frei is the bench and tools sponsor for this event.
MJSA's At the Bench Live seminars feature interactive bench demonstrations by the industry’s most renowned jewelers presenting a range of bench skills. Seminars take place every year at MJSA Expo New York and select locations nationwide.
For more information about MJSA's At the Bench Live demonstrations, please contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA Academy director, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, or e-mail teresa.shannon@mjsa.org.

Providence, RI - At its 103rd Annual Meeting on Nov. 8, Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) welcomed a new chairman and elected several members to the Board of Directors. The event, held in the Rotunda Room at the Rhode Island Convention Center, featured a keynote address by U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and a tribute to outgoing MJSA chairman Michael Akkaoui.
Alan Bell of The Bell Group, Albuquerque, New Mexico, was elected as the new chairman of the board. Joining Bell as leaders of the association were Richard Powers of Stern Metals, Dave Meleski of Aurafin/Oro America, Ed DeCristofaro of LDC, Inc., and Joseph Sisto of Leach & Garner/General Findings.
Newly elected to the board of directors was Anna Martin of ABN AMRO International Diamond & Jewelry Group, New York City. Re-elected to the board of directors were Richard Frederick of Keystone Findings, Telford, Pennsylvania, and Torrance Hoover of Hoover & Strong, Richmond, Virginia. Directors to fulfill unexpired terms are Berge Abajian of Bergio, Fairfield, New Jersey, and Pat Patten of The Jewelry Group Inc., Knoxville, Tennessee.
MJSA's 103rd Annual Meeting sponsors were TransFirst, FedEx, National Chain Group, Creative Services Inc., and the Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company.
Images are available upon request.
For more information on this event, please visit mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The MJSA Jewelry Academy has announced its educational program for MJSA Expo New York, March 18-20, 2007, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. The Academy will feature an array of seminars, including several "At the Bench Live" demonstrations as well as "Thinking Ahead: Technology Day," a presentation of the MJSA Innovation Initiative, and Profit Mastery featuring Steve LeFever, Founder and Chairman of Business Resource Services:
SUNDAY, MARCH 18
10:30 a.m. - noon
- "At the Bench Live: Creating with Argentium Sterling Silver" presented by Designer and Silversmith Cynthia Eid.
- "Tips and Trips: Buying and Working with Pearls" presented by Rebecca Shemwell of Tracy Pearl.
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
- "At the Bench Live: Working with Gemstones" presented by Arthur Skuratowicz of the Jewelry Training Center.
- "Branding/Personalization/Customization Finding Your Niche" presented by Judy Lince of Georgia Jewelers Association.
3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
- "At the Bench Live: Ring Finishing Using a Mini-Lathe" presented by Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs.
- "Tips From the Trenches: Tips for Building a Successful Design Business" presented by Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler's Resource Bureau.
MONDAY, MARCH 19
8:30 - 10:00 a.m.
- "Profit Mastery: Seven Steps to Peak Performance" presented by Steve LeFever, Founder and Chairman of Business Resource Services.
10:30 a.m. - noon
- "At the Bench Live: Palladium - Service and Manufacturing Insights" presented by Mark B. Mann of Mann Design Group, Inc.
- "Not Your Usual Cast of Characters: Casting Challenging Metals" presented by Linus Drogs of AU Enterprises and Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs.
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
- "At the Bench Live: Tricks and Tales for the Platinumsmith" presented by Jurgen J. Maerz of Platinum Guild International.
- "How to Play CYA (Cover Your Assets)" presented by David Sexton of the Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company.
3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
- "At the Bench Live: Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft" presented by Karen Christians of Metalwerx.
- "Time and Stress Management" presented by Daniel Liebowitz of Watch-n-Time.
The program will end on TUESDAY, MARCH 20, with "Thinking Ahead: Technology Day," a presentation of the MJSA Innovation Initiative consisting of two two-hour sessions:
8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
- "Thinking Ahead: From CAD to CAM to Finish" where attendees will be able to watch designs as they are being created in various computer-aided design (CAD) packages and transformed into real models through various computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies.
10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
- "Thinking Ahead: Bonding Technology, From Torch to Weld to Laser" where attendees will learn about the new bonding systems, including the latest laser technologies, new welders that serve as alternatives to lasers, and hydro-flux torches (new torch technology using water).
Click here for more information or to register online for any of the above seminars.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Each year, thousands of buyers flock to MJSA Expo New York on a quest for innovative technologies. This year's attendees will see everything from stone-setting advances and myriad of new laser options to software that will make creating Web sites a breeze. The following is a sampling of new technologies that will be on display at MJSA Expo New York on March 18-20, 2007, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City:
- Unilock from Stone Set Technologies LLC in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The Unilock was designed to create its own press fit action. The product's applications have been expanded to allow setting any round stone (diamonds, genuine color, and half-round cabochons) over precious and non-precious metals as well as non-metal items such as ceramic, wood, or any semi-precious gem.
- RightClick Website Creator from Wise Choice Software in New York City. RightClick Website Creator allows users to easily upload up-to-date information from their RightClick software onto their Web sites and provides users with a variety of professionally designed templates.
- LWD4V+ Laser Welding Workstation from Zahntech Advanced Technologies in Los Angeles. The Zahntech LWD4V+ can weld all types of jewelry alloys, including platinum, gold, stainless steel, and titanium. Its features include a solid state electronic shutter with up to 20 shots per second, an internal cooling system with a 6-gallon capacity, a Leica microscope with a zoom up to 40x and more.
- BD 50/65/75/100 Laser Welding Systems from B&D Sales Corporation in Cranston, Rhode Island. The B&D bench top series compact laser welding systems provide high-performance and reliability. These user-friendly systems are available in four power systems to satisfy the welding requirements and needs of industry shop or lab: 50J, 65J, 75J, and 100J—all suitable for use with steel, alloys, gold, platinum, silver, palladium, and titanium.
- BD 30ML Micro Laser-Welder from B&D Sales Corporation in Cranston, Rhode Island. Marketed for retail repair applications, this Nd:YAG pulse laser welder is about the size of a microwave. Suitable for all metal groups, including platinum and gold, its 30-watt power supply delivers 0.5 to 25 joules of pulse energy.
- Kit 1050 Brushless Micromotor from Foredom Electric in Bethel, Connecticut. Suitable for stone setting, bright cutting, polishing, grinding, and drilling, the Micromotor Kit 1050 features high torque (7.8 N/cm) and a brushless motor design. The kit includes a control, a hand piece with a 2.35 mm collet, a variable-speed foot control, a hand piece cradle, and an extra fuse.
- Solidscape T66 Bench Top CAD/CAM from Romanoff International Supply Corporation in Amityville, New York. With the T66 Bench Top's precision, users can improve turnaround by eliminating wax carving and unnecessary post processing. In addition, it eliminates many pre- and post-build steps required by other systems and uses easy-to-dissolve wax support—no scaffolding or corrective sanding or filing needed.
- Romanoff Compact Laser Plus from Romanoff International Supply Corporation in Amityville, New York. This German-made laser welder is designed for seam and spot welding. Features include maximum pulse energy of 50 joules (providing adequate power for welding all metals), nominal power of 40 watts, a laser spot diameter range of 0.3 to 2.3 mm, and four pre-defined pulse shapes.
- Yasui Auto Clamp Injector from Romanoff International Supply Corporation in Amityville, New York. Yasui's newest automatic wax injector and mold clamp system has all the features of the deluxe system, except for the vacuum and multiple memory features. This system uses a multiple injection system to inject molds measuring up to 80 mm by 110 mm by 40 mm (3.2 inches by 4.4 inches by 1.6 inches) at temperatures ranging from 103 degree F to 193 degree F.
- Castaldo Rapido Silicone Jewelry Molding Rubber from Castaldo in Franklin, Massachusetts. The new Castaldo Rapido silicone jewelry molding rubber was produced to make tough, strong, and quality molds in only 15 minutes when vulcanized at 200 degree F/93 degree C. It can also produce wax patterns with a high-shine finish that require less clean-up and finishing.
- BrightStar Compact Laser Welder from Crafford-LaserStar Technologies in Riverside, Rhode Island. The BrightStar Compact Laser welder offers many competitive advantages in a space-saving design. The product features 50 joule pulse energy output, a state-of-the-art compact cooling system which ensures 24-hour continuous operation without overheating, and a variety of optical viewing systems for repair, assembly, and fabrication.
- Gem-E-Box from MK Digital Direct Inc. in San Diego, California. The newest version of the MK Gem-E-Box offers three types of lighting: fluorescent, for white backgrounds and natural reproduction of colors in jewelry; halogen, for rubies, amethysts, and colored stones; and LED, for adding fire and sparkle to diamonds.
- Power Led Light from MK Digital Direct Inc. in San Diego, California. With the Power Led Light, you can light a 3 foot by 2 foot area with the right color to sell your products.

PROVIDENCE, RI - MJSA members can now increase their profits by insuring their business plans are based on the latest consumer research. The JCOC Year in Review is now available to MJSA members for only $445 (regular retail price $595). This is an exclusive offer only available to MJSA members.
JCOC Year in Review provides the jewelry industry with a complete picture of the prior year's worth of consumer research. It also explores industry trends, strengths, weaknesses, and strategic recommendations for all levels of the gem and jewelry trade.
Click here to order. Please have your MJSA member number handy. For more information about this program, other MJSA benefits, or about becoming an MJSA member, contact the MJSA member services department at 1-800-444-6572, or e-mail info@mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - MJSA members now have even more incentive to refer their industry colleagues to MJSA. As of January 1, 2007, if a current MJSA member refers a new company to MJSA in 2007 and that referral subsequently joins MJSA, the referring company will receive a $25 credit towards their 2008 annual dues.
This incentive program will remain in place during all of 2007, and each new referral that becomes a member will earn the existing member an additional $25 credit.
Also, the referring company will be entered into a grand prize drawing for a state of the art all-in-one printer system donated by Staples. The grand prize winner will be announced on January 15, 2008. There is no limit to the number of prospects an existing member can recruit.
The recruitment program is valid only for new MJSA member referrals, not renewals. The prospective member must not have been a member of MJSA for one calendar year prior to the application date to qualify.
For more information, please contact the MJSA membership department at 1-401-274-3840, or e-mail info@mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The Education Foundation, MJSA's non-profit educational subsidiary, will hold its 8th Annual Golf Tournament at the Lake of Isles Golf Course in North Stonington, Connecticut, on June 25, 2007. Part of the Foxwoods Resort Casino, Lake of Isles is one of the 10 best new golf courses in the U.S. according to Golf Digest.
The 2006 tournament, which was also held at Lake of Isles, drew a record number of jewelry industry members and yielded more than $12,000 for the Education Foundation, which annually provides scholarships to promising students studying the jewelry arts.
The tournament fee of $235 per player includes golf, yardage book, bag tag, repair tool, tees, access to the superb driving range and putting green and lunch, as well as cocktails & hors d'oeuvres followed by dinner and an awards presentation.
Space is extremely limited, so reserve your spot today. In addition to having a great time, you will help the MJSA Education Foundation support its scholarship program and its development of other programs benefiting the industry. A resort package and special room rates are also available. Also, be sure to ask about sponsorship opportunities to promote your company.
To inquire about sponsorship opportunities or to register for the tournament, please contact Katherine Eayrs at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3040, or e-mail katherine.eayrs@mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The JCK Industry Fund has awarded Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) a $65,000 grant to fund the development of a modular seminar program that will expand the depth and reach of innovation throughout the industry.
The seminar program - a part of "Thinking Ahead: The MJSA Innovation Initiative" - will be developed for presentation at tradeshows throughout the industry, including JCK Las Vegas and MJSA Expo New York. It will include modules addressing key aspects for incorporating innovation into a business plan, such as how to drive growth through innovation; how to price and promote innovative products; and how retailers and key manufacturers can create customer experiences that drive sales.
Due to an increase in global competition, U.S. companies have come to rely on innovation as the key to maintaining their competitive edge. That's why "Thinking Ahead: The MJSA Innovation Initiative" was developed in an effort to spur on and celebrate innovation in all areas of the industry. The first part of the initiative - the MJSA Innovation Awards - debuted in 2004. Since then MJSA has published innovation-specific articles in MJSA Journal and sponsored seminar programs at MJSA Expo New York, including last year's CAD/CAM Day and this year's Technology Day, which focuses on both CAD/CAM and the latest bonding technologies, including lasers.
This new modular seminar program is the next evolution in MJSA's Innovation Initiative, the target audience of which will be executive teams for both manufacturers and retailers. To fund those efforts, MJSA will continue to seek sponsors, and will develop several sponsorship packages.
For more information about how to become a sponsor, contact Teresa Shannon at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, or e-mail teresa.shannon@mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The 2007 MJSA Vision Award Design Competition winners were honored during MJSA Expo New York on Sunday, March 18, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. In addition to the Professional and Student Category winners, several Professional entries were honored in special Distinction Categories.
Professional Category 1st place: Troels D. Larsen of Jacobus Goldsmiths in Laguna Beach, California; peridot, blue zircon, and green tourmaline pendant with diamonds.
Professional Category 2nd place: Patricia Madeja of Patricia Madeja Studio Jewelry in West Islip, New York; "Ferris Wheel Bracelet" in 18K gold with cognac diamond beads.
Student Category 1st place: Stefanie Kristanto of Raffles Design Institute in Singapore; 18K white gold ring with rubies and yellow sapphires, inspired by Geometry.
Student Category 2nd place: Ji Eun Lee of Savannah College of Art & Design in Savannah, Georgia; "Snow Flower" shoulder brooch with crystals and pearl swags in sterling silver with fur, Swarovski crystals, and pearls.
Palladium Distinction 1st place: Trish Yan of Grandway Development Ltd. in Ontario, Canada; "A Strong Rose" ring in 950 palladium and white gold with diamonds.
Palladium Distinction 2nd place: Nina Basharova of New York City; "Rock Candy Ring" in 950 palladium with black diamonds and a 12.5 carat tourmalinated quartz.
Laser Distinction 1st place: Thomas Dailing of Thomas Dailing Designs in Stevens Point, Wisconsin; 18K white and yellow gold pendant holding a 47.83 carat square, cushion-cut citrine with a suspension insertion setting accented with pink tourmaline, pink and purple sapphires, diamonds, and a lazulite.
Laser Distinction 2nd place: Jaime Enriquez of Jewels by Design in Calgary, Alberta, Canada; "Constellation Brooch" in 18K yellow and red gold with Mexican fire opals.
Natural Color Diamond Distinction 1st place: Nina Basharova of New York City; "Milky Way Pendant" in 18K gold and 950 palladium with 1.6 carats (tw) untreated diamonds.
Natural Color Diamond Distinction 2nd place: Liaung Chung Yen of Liaung Chung Yen Designs in Henrietta, New York; "Blossom" ring in 18K gold with 1.87 carats (tw) brown diamonds.
CAD/CAM Distinction 1st place: Olga Baranova of Ol.b Design in Brookline, Massachusetts; "Bend Ring" in 14K white gold with 15 synthetic alexandrites.
CAD/CAM Distinction 2nd place: Danny & Libby Barnes of The Alternative Jewelry Shop in Nicholasville, Kentucky; oxidized sterling silver pendant set with two 6mm round amethyst.
Crystal Distinction 1st place: Caito Amorose of Moonwater Designs in McKeesport, Pennsylvania; "Geometric Sophistication" bow tie choker with Swarovski crystals in Pacific opal, olivine, and Montana.
Crystal Distinction 2nd place: Caito Amorose of Moonwater Designs in McKeesport, Pennsylvania; "Shahrastini's Necklace" with Swarovski crystals in light grey, amethyst, rhodium plated amethyst filigree and fireballs, and sterling silver amethyst headpins.
Mokume-gane Distinction 1st place: Lisa Krikawa of Krikawa Jewelry Designs in Tucson, Arizona; "Mokume Marquise Convertible Pendant/Brooch" in tri-gold mokume-gane of 14K white gold and rose gold and 24K yellow gold with rose gold leaves and platinum tube-set diamonds.
Mokume-gane Distinction 2nd place: Wayne Werner of Havre de Grace, Maryland; two mokume-gane cuffs and one pair of mokume-gane earrings in silver and copper with diamonds and an 18K gold base.
Reactive Metals Distinction 1st place: Kelly Liddicoat of Kelly Liddicoat Designs in Boca Raton, Florida; "Eclipse" reversible pendant of titanium and 14k yellow gold with a green Tahitian pearl. The titanium is gray on one side and anodized to purple on the other.
Reactive Metals Distinction 2nd place: Kelly Liddicoat of Kelly Liddicoat Designs in Boca Raton, Florida; "Moons of Saturn" titanium ring with dark iridescent pearls surrounding a blue zircon.
Sponsors for the Distinction Categories included Palladium Alliance International for Palladium Distinction; Crafford-LaserStar Technologies for Laser Distinction; LNatural Color Diamond Association for Natural Color Diamond Distinction; Gemvision for CAD/CAM Distinction; Swarovski for Crystal Distinction; Reactive Metals Studio and Shining Wave Metals for Mokume-gane Distinction; and Reactive Metals Studio, Cabot Supermetals, and Perryman Company for Reactive Metals Distinction.
The judges for 2007 were Cindy Edelstein of The Jeweler's Resource Bureau; Michael Coan, Jewelry Department Chair, Fashion Institute of Technology; Beth Braverman, Associate Editor, National Jeweler; Mark Schneider of Schneider Design; Hedda Schupack, Editor, JCK Magazine; Steve Midgett, President, XPM West; Marlene Richey of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America; and designers Suzy Landa and Sandy Baker.
Digital images are available upon request.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Despite a Friday snow storm that crippled air transport, thousands of attendees from around the world crowded the show floor in search of the latest technologies, supplies, and finished goods and gems at MJSA Expo New York, which took place March 18-20, 2007, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.
For vendors, the show appeared to have been a rich source of contacts, sales, or both. I&J Fisnar Inc., a Fair Lawn, New Jersey, robotics company making its first appearance at the show, "had a lot of interest in our small robots, mainly for dispensing enamels," said Fisnar director Mark Saint Pe. "It looked like they went over real big with jewelry manufacturers. We did a video trial for one company that's considering a whole line of robots. It's looking like the show is going to be a success for us."
Oliver Passe of Scottsdale, Arizona-based Nventa Inc., which was showcasing its MJSA Innovation Award-winning Firescoff firescale preventer and flux, was similarly pleased. "Several major manufacturers in Europe flew to the show to see us here," he said. "We've made a lot of business contacts." Robert O. Nordt, Jr. of John C. Nordt Company in Roanoke, Virginia, added that MJSA Expo New York "provided us with a great opportunity to see our existing customers and meet new potential customers. Our palladium lines have been very well received."
Many attendees also brushed up on their knowledge at MJSA Jewelry Academy seminars, taught by leading industry experts. They included several At the Bench Live demonstrations, as well as "Thinking Ahead: Technology Day," a presentation of the MJSA Innovation Initiative.
The biggest draws this year were business-related seminars, including "Tips for Building a Successful Design Business," by Cindy Edelstein of Jeweler's Resource Bureau; "Tips and Trips: Buying and Working With Pearls," presented by Rebecca Shemwell of Tracy Pearl, and "Branding/Personalization/Customization: Finding Your Niche," by Judy Lince of the Georgia Jewelers Association. "The average designer is usually more concerned with art than business," said Joshua Edelstein of Edelstein Metalsmiths. "Judy Lince's seminar reminded us of the importance of paying attention to the business of design." In addition, virtually everyone who attended Steve LeFever's presentation on "Profit Mastery" was interested in a follow-up session in the fall.
Attendees also enjoyed great food and the company of friends at the Saint Patrick's (Next Day) Bash, MJSA Expo New York's opening night party at P.J. Clarke's, New York's famous saloon. "I've been coming to these events for 40 years, and this is one of the most pleasant evenings I've ever had," said Myron Toback of Myron Toback Inc. "Anyone who missed the party at P.J. Clarke's missed a great way to cap a terrific first day of the show," added MJSA Chairman Alan Bell of Rio Grande. The party was sponsored by Southeastern Findings Inc.
MJSA Expo New York 2008 will take place April 13-15, 2008 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. Updates will be posted at www.mjsa.org.
For more information about MJSA Expo New York, visit www.mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) will once again provide "At the Bench Live" demonstrations at JCK Las Vegas on June 2-4, 2007, in the ET&S Pavilion. This year's session will feature a diverse range of topics, from working with palladium to wax carving with a flex-shaft. Below is a full schedule:

SATURDAY, JUNE 2
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
- "Palladium Today: Its Place in the Market," a panel discussion by Daniel Ballard of PM West, Teresa Frye of TechForm Advanced Casting Technology, and Lisa Krikawa of Krikawa Designs.
3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
- "950 Palladium: The Fundamentals for Success in Design and Casting" by Teresa Frye of TechForm Advanced Casting Technology.

SUNDAY, JUNE 3
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- "How to Set up a Casting Operation in a Small Shop" by Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs.
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
- "Tips and Tales from the Platinum Bench" by Jurgen J. Maerz of Platinum Guild International.
2:30 p.m.
- Book Signing by Jurgen J. Maerz. Maerz will sign copies of his latest MJSA Press book, Adventures at the Bench: Tricks to Overcome a Jeweler's Daily Challenges, sponsored by Johnson Matthey New York.
3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
"Optimizing Your Gravers and Other Tools for Pave and Bead Setting Gemstones" by Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of the Jewelry Training Center.

MONDAY, JUNE 4
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- "Quick Start Wax Carving with Kate Wolf" by Kate Wolf of Kate Wolf Designs.
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
- "Promotion, Pricing, and Production - a Primer" by Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs.
3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
- "Safe Jeweler, Safe Shop" by Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of the Jewelry Training Center. This presentation is part of the MJSA Safe & Secure Outreach Program and is sponsored by G-TEC Natural Gas Systems.
The bench and tools are sponsored by Stuller Inc.
For more information, please contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA Jewelry Academy director, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, e-mail teresa.shannon@mjsa.org, or stop by MJSA Booth #L9 in the Sands Convention Center at JCK Las Vegas.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Alan Bell, chairman of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), announced today that the association's executive vice president, James K. McCarty, has been promoted to chief operating officer effective immediately. The appointment follows the recent resignation of Frank Dallahan, who stepped down as MJSA president/CEO to head the American Gem Society Laboratories.
Bell added that the MJSA Board of Directors will keep its prior commitment to conduct a strategic review of the association's mission and long-term goals. That review, to be led by former MJSA chairman and longtime industry veteran Curt Ley, will begin with a board retreat in early August.
"The board of MJSA thanks Frank for his significant contributions to the association, and we wish him well in his new position," Bell said. "We also have every confidence that Jim McCarty and the staff of MJSA will continue the association's fine work on behalf of its members. Our strategic review comes at an opportune time for us to evaluate the needs of our membership and the industry at large, and it will help to inform the decisions we make going forward to ensure MJSA retains its vital role as the voice of the U.S. jewelry manufacturer."
James McCarty joined MJSA as chief financial officer in 2001, and he has played a key role in the association's growth since then. He was instrumental in the establishment and enhancement of such cost-saving benefits as the FedEx high-value shipping program, which contributed to a 30 percent rise in membership over the past six years. He also streamlined operational efficiencies, including an association-wide upgrade of the association's information retrieval and storage systems.

Show to provide more products, services, and seminars
PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America has announced the return of its Trade Show for Jewelry Making (TSJM), which is scheduled to take place October 10 & 11, 2007 at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence. Now in its second year, TSJM will provide an even greater array of products and services, as well as the expansion of the education program.
TSJM debuted last year in September with more than 1,000 buyers and received rave reviews. Exhibitors and attendees alike agreed that there was a definite need for the show in Providence and this year, MJSA looks to build on that success.
"Last year's show was a good start in creating a circle of information, a network for suppliers and users," said Evan Holland of Merchants Overseas Inc., an authorized five-star distributor and recommended partner of Swarovski Crystal Components. "It's important to support the foundation, the grass roots' level of the business, the small-to-medium designer, fabricator, maker of jewelry, etc."
New exhibitors will provide an even greater array of products and services for buyers to choose from. They range from environmentally safe companies, to CAD/CAM services, to specialty metals. Such companies include Airsep, which specializes in oxygen and industrial gases; Hybrivet Systems, which offers lead detection test kits; Innovative CAD Technologies, which provides CAD/CAM services for design and prototyping; and Reactive Metals Studio, which specializes in metals, including Japanese alloys and Mokume-gane.
Returning for TSJM are some of the jewelry industry's premier companies, including Stuller Inc., Gesswein, Gemvision, Solidscape, and the Gemological Institute of America - all offering an assortment of tools, equipment, supplies, and technologies.
Also returning this year with a substantial increase of seminars is the MJSA Jewelry Academy's educational program. This year includes the addition of hands-on seminars featuring product application specialists Nick Regine and Leigh Alsfeld of Swarovski North America's Crystal Fashion Components. Regine and Alsfeld will present workshops on soldering, gluing crystal stones, and pearl knotting. These workshops will take place on the exhibit floor during both days of the show.
This year's seminar presenters include Liz Brehmer of Stuller Inc. on getting your idea or design seen by a manufacturer; Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs on pricing and lathe work; Cynthia Eid of Cynthia Eid Designs on argentium silver; Gail Levine of Auction Market Resource on the history of jewelry design; Linus Drogs of Au Enterprises on the ABCs of casting; and Jurgen J. Maerz on working with platinum.
TSJM is a regional trade show serving jewelry makers of all types and sizes - from independent jewelry makers, bench jewelers, and designers to large manufacturing operations - throughout New England. TSJM provides these industry professionals with a unique opportunity to see - in one convenient location - a full range of the products they need to make their jewelry and successfully operate their businesses.
Advance registration for the show is FREE. On-site registration is $10 for non-MJSA members, and FREE for MJSA members. To register, visit www.mjsa.org.
For more information on exhibiting at or attending TSJM, visit www.mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The MJSA Education Foundation, a non-profit educational branch of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), has awarded more than $7,000 in scholarships to seven talented student designers.
The following students, including two previous winners, each received a 2007 MJSA Education Foundation scholarship:
- Lucia A. Perluck of Barrington, Rhode Island, currently enrolled at Temple University in Philadelphia, is pursuing a B.F.A. in metals and jewelry. This is Perluck's second consecutive scholarship from the Foundation.
- Carol A. Salisbury of Portland, Oregon, currently enrolled at the Oregon College of Art & Craft, is pursuing a B.F.A. in jewelry making and design. This is Salisbury's third consecutive award from the foundation.
- Cheryl E. Acosta of Mesilla, New Mexico, will begin her studies at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence to pursue an M.F.A. in metals and jewelry.
- Jedediah A. Braun of Orangeburg, South Carolina, currently enrolled at Paris Junior College in Paris, Texas, is pursuing a Jewelers of America Level Two Bench Jeweler certification.
- Jane-Marie W. Ovanin of Amherst, Wisconsin, currently enrolled at the Rhode Island School of Design, is pursuing an M.F.A. in jewelry and metalsmithing.
- Davina R. Romansky of Akron, Ohio, currently enrolled at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, New York, is pursuing a B.F.A. in metals and jewelry.
- Erica A. Waldron of Leonard, Texas, currently enrolled at the Paris Junior College, is pursuing an associate degree in jewelry technology.
The MJSA Education Foundation scholarships are made possible through the generosity of many individual donors as well as endowment funds, including the Karl Augenstein Memorial Fund, the George R. Frankovich Scholarship Fund, the Michael Marcogliese Scholarship Fund, the Andrew & Frances Salvadore Scholarship Fund, and the Walter Oppenheim Fund. Educational programs are also made possible through the support and generosity of the MJSA Education Foundation Golf Tournament's participants.
The Foundation awards scholarships annually and distributes them in partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation to students enrolled in jewelry-related programs at colleges, universities, or proprietary technical schools in the United States. Since 1979, the MJSA Education Foundation has granted more than $100,000 to students nationwide.
For more information about the MJSA Education Foundation or how to donate, please contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA Academy director, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, e-mail teresa.shannon@mjsa.org, or visit www.mjsa.org.
Digital images are available upon request.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) recently received four awards for communications excellence in the 2007 Hermes Creative Awards Competition. The honors include a prestigious Platinum award in the "Book" category, which recognized Adventures At the Bench by Jurgen J. Maerz, and a Gold award in the "Magazine" category, which recognized MJSA Journal.
Published by MJSA Press, Adventures At the Bench offers numerous bench tips and tricks, as well as the author's favorite tales of lessons learned during his apprenticeship. The book also offers step-by-step projects for platinum fabrication and repair, and features hundreds of full-color illustrations.
MJSA's monthly magazine, MJSA Journal, provides the latest technologies and techniques, marketing and sales, financial, and business insights needed to compete in today's global marketplace.
In addition to the Platinum and Gold awards, two articles from MJSA Journal received Honorable Mention: "Standard Procedure" by Gregg Todd, and "The Tao of Bur" by John Shanahan.
In "Standard Procedure," Todd proposes a system for standardizing the designation of karat gold solders based on a universal temperature scale. In "The Tao of Bur," Shanahan receives a lesson in tool modification, bench jeweler arcana, and old Chinese wisdom from a legendary bench jeweler.
The Hermes Creative Awards are administered and judged by of the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals that consists of several thousand marketing, communication, advertising, public relations, media production, and free-lance professionals. Awards are judged based on quality, creativity, resourcefulness, and the ability to exceed the high standards of industry norm.
For more information on any of the above publications and articles, or to place and order, please call MJSA Publications at 1-800-444-6572, or visit www.mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) recently announced that Bruce Coltin has been promoted to Director of Sales & Marketing. In this role, he will be responsible for managing sales of booth space at MJSA trade shows, magazine advertising for MJSA Journal, and MJSA association membership. "My goal is to successfully redirect sales and marketing efforts in ways that will attract new customers for MJSA's diverse group of products," says Coltin.
Coltin joined MJSA as Trade Show Sales Manager in 2003, bringing more than 20 years of trade show experience to the job. He has initiated several successful association endeavors, including last year's launch of the MJSA Trade Show for Jewelry Making (TSJM) in Providence, Rhode Island. TJSM answered the need for a regional show that offers jewelry makers of all types and sizes the opportunity to purchase the newest tools and supplies needed to successfully operate their businesses.
Coltin also started the Gems & Jewelry Showcase at MJSA Expo New York in 2005. An upscale, designated area that features finished jewelry, gemstones, diamonds, pearls, and beads, the showcase continues to grow in popularity each year. In addition, he has increased the number of new companies exhibiting at MJSA Expo New York, as well as brought back former exhibitors, in order to provide attendees with an array of the latest technologies, supplies, services, and more.
Photo available upon request.

PROVIDENCE, RI - From Swarovski-led-hands-on training to expert advice on insurance for small businesses, Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) will offer numerous FREE seminars and workshops at its second annual Trade Show for Jewelry Making(TSJM).
Scheduled to take place Oct. 10 & 11 at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Downtown Providence, TSJM will offer artisans, designers, and other jewelry makers access to some of the industry's top experts, including:
Seminars:
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10
- 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
"So You Have a Great Product Idea, What Next?!" by Elizabeth Brehmer of Stuller Inc.
- 12:45 - 2:15 p.m.
"Insurance for the Home-Based or Small Business Owner" by Miriam Stoecker of Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company.
- 2:30 - 4 p.m.
"Identifying and Working With Gemstones" by Cap Beesley of the American Gemological Laboratories and Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of the Jewelry Training Center.
- 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
"The 3P's - Promotion, Pricing, and Production - a Primer" by Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11
- 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
"Creating with Argentium Sterling Silver" by Cynthia Eid of Cynthia Eid Designs.
- 12:45 - 2:15 p.m.
"Shopping the Aisles of History for Designs" by Gail Levine of National Association of Jewelry Appraisers and Auction Market Resources.
- 2:30 - 4 p.m.
"The ABC's of Casting" by Linus Drogs of Au Enterprises.

Swarovski Workshops by product application specialists Nick Regine and Leigh Alsfeld:
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10
- 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
"Soldering Made Simple"
- 2 - 4:30 p.m.
"Gluing of Crystal Stones"
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11
- 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
"Pearl Knotting"
Seminars are sponsored by National Chain Co. Bench and tools are sponsored by Stuller Inc.
Seating for the Swarovski workshops is extremely limited. Register in advance today to reserve your spot by contacting Katherine Eayrs at 1-401-274-3840, ext. 3040, or e-mail katherine.eayrs@mjsa.org. Please note that registrants must be checked in at least 30 minutes before scheduled presentation. Attendees not checked in by the designated times may have their reserved space cancelled.
Advance registration for the show is FREE. On-site registration is $10 for non-MJSA members, and FREE for MJSA members. For more information or to register, visit www.mjsa.org.
For more information on exhibiting at or attending TSJM, call 1-800-444-6572 or visit www.mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) is now accepting entries for its 17th Annual Vision Awards Design Competition. Each year, the competition recognizes the talent and innovation of designers whose work has a profound influence on the future of jewelry design.
In addition to the Professional and Student Awards, distinction categories for 2008 include the new Enamel Distinction, sponsored by Rio Grande, as well as the return of the Platinum Distinction, sponsored by Platinum Guild International. The 2008 competition also includes these distinction categories:
- Natural Color Diamond Distinction, sponsored by Natural Color Diamond Association.
- CAD/CAM Distinction, sponsored by Roland.
- Palladium Distinction, sponsored by Hoover & Strong.
- Laser Distinction, sponsored by Crafford-LaserStar Technologies.
- Mokume-gane Distinction sponsored by Reactive Metals Studio and Shining Wave Metals.
- Reactive Metals Distinction, sponsored by Reactive Metals Studio and Cabot Supermetals.
Winners will receive monetary awards of up to $1,000 and will be honored on April 13, 2008, at the MJSA Expo New York show. In addition, winners will receive recognition in MJSA Journal, as well as other trade publications, and on MJSA Online.
Entries must be postmarked by December 30, 2007.
For submission guidelines and further information, or to request an entry form, contact MJSA Vision Awards at 1-800-444-6572, e-mail info@mjsa.org, or visit www.mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - To ensure safety awareness and compliance among jewelry manufacturers and retailers, Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has created a new Safety Solutions package: an updated manual, as well as a companion DVD, which brings the manual's compliance information to life.
The redesigned manual, now in a handier 6 inch by 9 inch size, features updates of safety guidelines, codes, and legislation, as well as an enhanced resource section. The DVD, narrated by MJSA Education Foundation Director Teresa Shannon and shot on location at Stuller Inc. in Lafayette, Louisiana, shows the best bench practices for bench work and casting, how to store and use chemicals, and how to ensure your operation complies with safety codes such as California's Proposition 65.
The manual and DVD combination package is $42.50 for MJSA members; $49.95 for non-MJSA members. The manual alone is $24.95 for MJSA members; $28.95 for non-MJSA members. The DVD alone is $25.50 for MJSA members; $29.95 for non-MJSA members.
The Safety Solutions DVD is funded in part by a grant from the JCK Jewelry Industry Fund and produced in assistance from the MJSA Education Foundation. The MJSA "Safe and Secure" outreach program is sponsored by G-TEC Natural Gas Systems in an effort to promote safe practices throughout the jewelry industry.
For more information or to order, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038, or e-mail info@mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Exhibitors and attendees raved about the second annual MJSA Trade Show for Jewelry Making (TSJM), which was held on October 10 & 11 at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Downtown Providence. Geared toward the "maker" market of designers and artisans, the show once again featured a far-reaching array of products and services, from CAD/CAM technologies to crystal stones and beads, as well as an educational program of both expert seminars and hands-on workshops.
"This was my second year at the show and I think MJSA does a wonderful job putting it together," said Lisa Baillargeon of Twist Jewelry Design in North Smithfield, Rhode Island. "The atmosphere at your event is much more appealing, the classes offered were wonderful, and it was almost 'sensory overload' with all the great stone importers you were able to bring to the event. The show offered a wide variety of products without being overwhelming."
Exhibitors echoed those sentiments. "We had quite a successful show," said Gary Bleiweiss of Innovative CAD Technologies in Valley Cottage, New York. "All of the MJSA staff should be congratulated for putting on a show in such a professional manner. We made many new and important contacts, and as a 'new kid on the block,' it was very important for us to be visible at your functions."
"There was considerable interest from the right people...We are very pleased with both the sales made and the interest generated from this show," said Gary Miller of Spirig Advanced Technologies Inc. in Springfield, Massachusetts, which produces micro-flame generators. "It is my thought that this show will improve each year, and we are happy to be, and need to be, a part of this."
"This show provided us with an opportunity to meet new designers and customers, especially the ones from the East Coast," added David Fox of Bella Venetian Beads in Naperville, Illinois.
Buyers were also enthusiastic about the educational program, which included hands-on Swarovski workshops by Nick Regine and Leigh Alsfeld.
Suzy Metaxas of Beads & Baubles in New York City attended all three of the Swarovski workshops - "Soldering Made Simple," "Gluing of Crystal Stones," and "Pearl Knotting." "With what I learned, I will be able to expand offerings of Swarovski jewelry pieces and produce better quality products overall," said Metaxas.
"The show was well worth attending," Metaxas said. "I had the opportunity to network with other designers, meet new vendors, and learn things that will make my business stronger and more profitable."
Next year's show will be held on September 17 & 18, 2008.
For more information about MJSA Trade Show for Jewelry Making, visit www.mjsa.org.
Photos are available upon request.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The Honorable Ronald K. Machtley, President of Bryant University, will provide the keynote address on "Doing Business in the Global Economy: Emphasis on the Far East" at Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America's (MJSA) 104th Annual Meeting. The meeting will take place on Wednesday, November 7 in the Rotunda Room at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Downtown Providence.
A former U.S. Congressman, Machtley became president of Bryant in 1996. Under Machtley's leadership, the university has become a premier resource for companies interested in global trade: It is the site of the John H. Chafee Center for International Business, which houses the World Trade Center and Export Assistance Center for the state of Rhode Island. In 2005, the U.S.-China Institute was established at Bryant to forge academic, business, and cultural partnerships with higher learning institutions, business enterprises, and governmental offices in China.
The Annual Meeting will be preceded by cocktails and hors d'oeuvres (cash bar) at 5:30 p.m.; the dinner and meeting will start at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are available for $85 each. Rooms are also available for $154 a night at the Providence Biltmore hotel. For room reservations, call 1-800-294-7709 and reference company ID MJSAI.
For more information or to R.S.V.P for this event, contact Katherine Eayrs, MJSA Special Events Manager, at 401-274-3840, ext. 3040, or e-mail katherine.eayrs@mjsa.org. Be sure to ask about sponsorship opportunities to promote your company.

Providence, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) elected several new members to the Board of Directors at its 104th Annual Meeting on Nov. 7. The event, held in the Rotunda Room at the Rhode Island Convention Center, featured a keynote address by Bryant University President Ronald K. Machtley.
Alan Bell of The Bell Group in Albuquerque, New Mexico, was re-elected as MJSA's chairman of the board. Joining Bell as leaders of the association were First Vice Chair Richard Powers of Stern Metals, Second Vice Chair Dave Meleski of Richline Group, Secretary Edward DeCristofaro of LDC Inc., and Treasurer Michael Salvadore Jr. of Salvadore Auctions & Appraisals.
Newly elected to the MJSA board of directors were Ann Arnold of Lieberfarb Inc., Albert Brown of Sovereign Bank of New England, Michael Gale of Fashion Jewelry Trade Association, Cecilia Gardner of Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Jonathan Cohen of I.B. Goodman Co., Daniel Kisch of InStore Magazine, and Timothy Ouhrabka of Providence Chain Co.
Re-elected to the MJSA board of directors were James Gervais of Crafford-LaserStar Technologies Corp., Robert Headley of Tiffany & Co., and Michael Toback of Myron Toback Inc.
Sponsors for this event were FedEx, Jewelers Mutual Insurance Co., Platinum Guild International, and TransFirst.
For more information about this event, visit www.mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has extended its deadline for the MJSA Vision Awards design competition. Professional and Student entries must now be postmarked by January 11, 2008.
Professional entries are also eligible for eight special distinction categories: Platinum Distinction, sponsored by Platinum Guild International; Palladium Distinction, sponsored by Hoover & Strong; Natural Color Diamond Distinction, sponsored by Natural Color Diamond Association; Enamel Distinction, sponsored by Rio Grande; Mokume-gane Distinction, sponsored by Reactive Metals Studio and Shining Wave Metals; Reactive Metals Distinction, sponsored by Reactive Metals Studio and Cabot Supermetals; CAD/CAM Distinction, sponsored by Roland; and Laser Distinction, sponsored by Crafford-LaserStar Technologies.
Winners will receive cash awards of up to $1,000, as well as recognition in MJSA news releases and E-newsletters, in MJSA Journal, on MJSA Online, and in leading industry publications. Winners will also be honored on April 13, 2008, at MJSA Expo New York, the largest and oldest trade show in the U.S. dedicated to the design and manufacturing of jewelry. All winning entries will be on display for thousands of buyers and exhibitors at the show, which will be held April 13-15, 2008 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.
Now in its 17th year, the MJSA Vision Awards design competition recognizes designers whose work influences the future of the jewelry industry. Entries in the Professional and Student categories are judged on creativity, originality, presentation quality, effective use of materials, and perceived manufacturing and marketing potential.
For submission guidelines and further information, or to request an entry form, contact MJSA Vision Awards at 1-800-444-6572, e-mail info@mjsa.org, or visit www.mjsa.org.

Association recommends "Best Practices" to help govern and guide manufacturers
Providence, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) and the Fashion Jewelry Trade Association (FJTA) have joined forces to support national legislation that would establish a uniform standard of 600 ppm (0.06 percent) for lead content in children's jewelry. They have also developed "best practices" procedures to help ensure manufacturers can consistently meet that standard.
The joint MJSA/FJTA task force has met with national and state legislators, as well as representatives of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), to educate them about manufacturing and compliance issues, and to encourage specific standards. In addition, the task force is working with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) to support uniform, reasonable lead standards in consumer product safety legislation.
The task force's proposals include:
- National pre-emptive legislation should be passed establishing the lead threshold for children's jewelry as 0.06 percent, the standard set by the CPSC for determining whether children's jewelry should be recalled, as well as the standard adopted by all enacted state legislation (in California, Illinois, and Minnesota).
- The definition of "children's jewelry" should be established as any jewelry intended for sale to children age 6 or younger. In the majority of state legislation passed or pending, this is a commonly accepted age threshold.
- The "acid extraction" guidelines recommended by the CPSC should be used to test children's chronic exposure to lead from any piece of jewelry, with a limit of 175 micrograms.
The task force is also recommending that adult jewelry incorporating Class 2 or Class 3 materials (i.e., materials other than gold, platinum, silver, rhodium, natural and cultured pearls, and glass) should contain no more than 6 percent lead content by Aug. 31, 2009, and it has developed a testing procedure based on that used by the CPSC for children's jewelry.
"MJSA is committed to establishing and promoting safety standards for children's jewelry that are reasonable, uniform, and practical," commented Curt Ley, interim president of MJSA and chairman of B.A. Ballou & Co. in East Providence, Rhode Island. "As individual businesses and as an association, we need to harness our power as a group and help to educate and appropriately guide officials when it comes to issues that affect all of us in the jewelry industry."
"We support the passage of national legislation that would set a uniform standard for lead content in children's jewelry," said Michael Akkaoui, who chairs the joint task force. "We can't have multiple and varying guidelines that could range from state to state."
For more information, please contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, info@mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) and MJSA Journal recently honored four products in the fourth annual MJSA Innovation Awards competition, which recognizes the most creative tools, technologies, and processes introduced during the past year. The winners, which ranged from a desktop scanner that offers high-quality scans in seconds to an ergonomically designed saw that offers precision cuts by hand - were all featured in the December 2007 issue of MJSA Journal.
The 2007 MJSA Innovation Award-winning products are:
- Blanking Die Saw by New Concepts in Santa Cruz, California. This ergonomically designed saw enables jewelers to make quick, easy, and precise cuts at the bench. "The saw frame is in alignment with the work in such a way that you can make precision cuts by hand - cuts that were attainable only with a machine tool," says MJSA Innovation Awards judge James Binnion of James Binnion Metal Arts in Bellingham, Washington.
- NextEngine's Desktop 3D Scanner by NextEngine Inc. in Santa Monica, California. This desktop system offers high-quality scans at an affordable price. The scanner uses a multi-laser array to sweep across objects at various angles, scanning 50,000 surface points per second; a file with millions of points can be quickly generated, dramatically speeding workflow. "This tool is then 'Star Trek'...I can place an object in it, scan it, e-mail it, and have that object re-made across the world tomorrow," says MJSA Innovation Awards judge Charles Lewton-Brain, goldsmith, author, and educator from Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
- Noble Investment by Ransom & Randolph in Maumee, Ohio. Unlike most other platinum and palladium investments, which contain a hazardous acid binder, the Noble investment is a water-mixed solution that is safer to use, ship, and store. Adding to the safety benefits, the investment can be easily removed in an hour or less, without the use of hydrofluoric acid. "Easy and quick devesting will mean significant time savings to casters," says MJSA Innovation Awards judge Dr. Joerg Fischer-Buehner of Indutherm GmbH and Legor Group Srl in Schwabisch, Gmund, Germany.
- 4X ZeroShrink Silicone Mold Rubber by Zero-D Products Inc. in Willoughby, Ohio. Designed for jewelry makers who want to mold carved waxes and resins, the 4X ZeroShrink cures in as fast as five minutes per quarter-inch of thickness at 250 degree Fahrenheit, without shrinkage. The rubber also features high tear strength and durability, with the ability to stand up against high clamp and injection pressures. "This product should be advantageous to many casters, as its zero-shrink characteristic will make it easier to produce accurately sized castings," says MJSA Innovation Awards judge Dr. Christopher Corti, a London-based consultant to the World Gold Council.
The winners were selected by a renowned panel of judges from around the world including: James Binnion, president of James Binnion Metal Arts LLC, Bellingham, Washington; Michael Coan, chair of the Jewelry Department at the Fashion Institute of Technology, New York City; Dr. Christopher W. Corti, consultant to the World Gold Council and principal of CoreGold, London; Linus Drogs, president of Au Enterprises, Berkley, Michigan; Dr. Joerg Fischer-Buehner, research and development at Indutherm GmbH and Legor Group Srl in Schwabisch Gmund, Germany; Charles Lewton-Brain, goldsmith, author, educator, inventor of fold-forming, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Jurgen J. Maerz, director of technical education at Platinum Guild International USA, South Coast Metro, California; Gay Penfold, manager of Jewellery Industry Innovation Centre (JIIC) University of Central England, Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom; and Teresa Shannon, director of education for MJSA.
The Innovation Awards are part of Thinking Ahead: The MJSA Innovation Initiative, an effort to celebrate and motivate innovation in all areas of the industry. As part of the Initiative, MJSA will feature a series of free innovation sessions, as well as the fourth annual Innovation Awards presentation at its Expo New York 2008 show.
The fourth annual MJSA Innovation Awards presentation will take place at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, in the Thinking Ahead Innovation Area at Expo New York.
For a full description of the winning products, see the December 2007 issue of MJSA Journal, or visit www.mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) will offer attendees the opportunity to attend an array of FREE events in the Thinking Ahead Innovation Area at its 40th annual Expo New York show, April 13-15, 2008, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. These events include the Thinking Ahead innovation sessions, the MJSA Innovation and Vision Awards presentations, and the Good Libations networking cocktail party.
All Thinking Ahead innovation sessions are funded in part by a grant from the JCK Jewelry Industry Fund. Sessions will provide information and tips on how to unlock a business's potential and ensure ideas are translated into profits. Below is a schedule:
Sunday, April 13
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
"How to Unlock Your Potential in a High Velocity Economy" by Jim Carroll, futurist, trends, and innovation expert, and author of Ready, Set, Done: How to Innovate When Faster is the New Fast.
3:45 - 5 p.m.
"The Five Faces of Genius" by Annette Moser-Wellman of FireMark Inc., and author of The Five Faces of Genius: Creative Thinking Styles to Success at Work.
Monday, April 14
11 a.m. - Noon
"Transforming Imagination: Cross-Industry Creativity" by Dave Olson of Roland ASD.
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
"Reliability Centered Maintenance: The Bottom Line" by David vanEsselstyn of CACI International.
3:45 - 4:45 p.m. "Don't Hide Your Innovation!" by Andrea Hill of Hill Management Consulting & Training.
The Thinking Ahead Innovation Area will also be the site of several special events on Sunday, April 13: the Vision Awards presentation at 12:30 p.m.; the fourth annual Innovation Awards presentation at 1 p.m.; and the Good Libations cocktail party from 5 to 6 p.m.
For more information or to register for the show and special events, visit www.mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has announced the educational program for its 40th annual Expo New York show, April 13-15, 2008, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. The program features a wide range of seminars that include design and business topics, as well as several At the Bench Live demonstrations. The program also includes the debut of "Technique Tuesday," which offers hands-on training by Swarovski and Beadalon experts.
"We're very excited about the quality of this year's educational program, especially with the high level of business and practical expertise that our presenters bring to the table," says Teresa Shannon, MJSA director of education. "Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from some of the most renowned experts in the industry - on everything from making their businesses more profitable to valuable tips, tricks, and techniques on making high-quality jewelry pieces."

SUNDAY, APRIL 13
9:30 - 11 a.m.
- "The 3P's - Promotion, Pricing, and Production - a Primer" by Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs
- "So You Have a Great Product Idea, What Next?!" by Elizabeth Brehmer of Stuller Inc.
- "Loop-in-Loop Chain Production and Repair" by Ann B. Cahoon of Flying Marquis Studio
2 - 3:30 p.m.
- "Teams That Work!" by Mark Shipman of Rio Grande
- "Shopping the Aisles of History for Designs" by Gail Levine of National Association of Jewelry Appraisers, and Auction Market Resources
- "Safety Solutions DVD Premiere" by Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs

MONDAY, APRIL 14
9:30 - 11 a.m.
- "75 Business Tips in 75 Minutes" Panel: Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler's Resource Bureau; Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs; Mark Shipman of Rio Grande; and Andrea Hill of Hill Management. Moderator: Rich Youmans of MJSA
- "Tips and Trips of Buying Pearls Part 2" by Sandy Jones of PearlWorks by Sandy Jones
- "Working with Systems: Overview of Current CAD/CAM Technologies" by Victor Joyner of HD Pattern Co.
2 - 3:30 p.m.
- "How to Gain More Customers and Generate Greater Profit Margins Through Differentiation" by Timothy Malone PhD of Gemological Institute of America
- "Profiting By Design" Panel: Marlene Richey, author, designer, and business expert; Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler's Resource Bureau; Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs; and an expert from Jewelers Mutual Insurance Co.
- "The Jeweler's Bench: Smart Set-ups" by Charles Lewton-Brain of Brain Press

TUESDAY, APRIL 15
9:30 a.m. - Noon
- "Pearl Knotting" by Nick Regine and Leigh Alsfeld of Swarovski
- "Loop-in-Loop Chain Making" by Ann Cahoon of Flying Marquis Studio
- "Designing with the Newest and Innovative Findings" by Wyatt White and Fernando DaSilva of Beadalon
12:30 - 3 p.m.
- "Gluing Crystal Stones" by Nick Regine and Leigh Alsfeld of Swarovski
- "Texturing and Hand Wrought Forming Using Hammers" by Bill Fretz of Fretz Tools
- "Knotting with a Beadalon Knotter" by Wyatt White and Fernando DaSilva of Beadalon

Seminars are $50 each for MJSA members; $75 each for non-members. "Technique Tuesday" workshops are $20 each for MJSA members; $25 each for non-members. There will be an additional $10 fee for each seminar and workshop registered onsite.
The 2008 educational program at MJSA Expo New York is sponsored by Southeastern Findings; tools and equipment are sponsored by Rio Grande.
For more information or to register for the show or any of the above seminars, please visit mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) will present its educational program at the Atlanta Jewelry Pre-show Conference on Friday, February 29, 2008. Sponsored by MJSA, Stuller Inc., and The Atlanta Jewelry Show, the pre-show conference will provide participants with the opportunity to listen to theories about the industry, meet with leading industry professionals, and learn from experienced jewelers about cutting-edge technologies that are available in the market today.
Admission is $95 per person and includes lunch. Class size is extremely limited, so be sure to register in advanced by calling 1-800-241-0399. Scheduled classes include:
- 9 - 10:30 a.m.
"Casting In a Small Shop Environment" by Chris Ploof, owner of Chris Ploof Designs.
- 10:30 a.m. - Noon
"Genuine Romanoff or Rip-off? Case Studies and Techniques Part 1" by Gary Smith, owner of Smith Jewelers.
- Noon - 1 p.m.
"Insurance Coverage for the Independent Retailer and Small Business Owner - A View From the Top" by Darin Keith, president/CEO of Jeweler's Mutual Insurance Co.
- 1 - 3 p.m.
"Genuine Romanoff or Rip-off? Case Studies and Techniques Part 2" by Gary Smith, owner of Smith Jewelers.
- 3 - 4 p.m.
"Why Palladium, Why Now?" by Dawn McCurtain, director of marketing for Palladium Alliance International.
- 4 - 5 p.m.
"Practical Palladium: How to Work with the Newest White Metal" by Teresa Shannon, director of education for MJSA.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) and Jewelers Mutual have joined forces to offer MJSA members a variety of insurance solutions specifically designed for manufacturers, retailers, bench jewelers, wholesalers, and those involved in repair, custom design, and jewelry appraising.
"MJSA is pleased to join forces with an experienced insurance company that is exceptionally knowledgeable about our industry," said Curtis Ley, interim president and CEO of MJSA. "Our partnership with Jewelers Mutual will allow our members access to important and specific information on insurance, and the various coverage options to fit their unique business needs."
"We are proud to collaborate with MJSA and provide benefits to its members," said Darin Kath, President and CEO of Jewelers Mutual. "Our organizations share the common goal of providing critical services to the jewelry industry, and we look forward to serving the needs of MJSA members."
As part of this alliance, MJSA members will receive a complimentary subscription to JM University, Jewelers Mutual's virtual classroom, which provides interactive online training that educates the jewelry industry about safety, security, and insurance. The site includes important tips and information on everything from protecting merchandise to reducing travel risks.
Jewelers Mutual offers various coverage options, including:
- Jewelers Block and Jewelers Standard, which cover jewelry stock and related inventory and the jewelry that other people deliver or entrust to the jeweler;
- Manufacturing Jewelers Block, which covers a manufacturer's inventory of jewelry stock; works in process, samples, and raw materials; and property of others in the jewelry business;
- Jewelers Pak, Jewelers Standard Pak, and Manufacturing Jewelers Pak, which are convenient, cost-effective package policies for inventory, property, and liability coverage; and
- Craftsman Policy, which was created to meet the specific insurance needs of bench or repair jewelers, appraisers, and custom designers.
Jewelers Mutual is the only company specializing exclusively in jewelry insurance in the U.S. and Canada. For more than 20 years, A.M. Best, an independent rating agency recognized worldwide for its benchmark ratings when assessing insurer's financial strength, has given Jewelers Mutual an "A+ Superior" rating for its commitment to remaining the nation's leading jewelry insurance company.
For more information about this new benefit program, please contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, or e-mail info@mjsa.org. To learn more about the available insurance options, visit www.jewelersmutual.com. MJSA members can contact Jewelers Mutual at 1-800-558-6411 and ask for the Sales & Marketing department.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The 2008 MJSA Vision Award Design Competition winners were honored during MJSA Expo New York on Sunday, April 13, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. In addition to the Professional and Student Category winners, several Professional entries were honored in special Distinction Categories.
Professional Category First Place: Evelyn Huang of Evelyn H. Jewelry Inc. in Los Angeles for her "Struck by Lightning" ring, composed of two halves: one in palladium with colorless diamonds, the other in 18k with natural colored vivid to fancy deep yellow diamonds.
Professional Category Second Place: Adam Neeley of Adam Neeley Designs in Laguna Beach, California, for his "Revealing Beauty" pendant in 14k palladium white gold and 14k yellow gold, with a blue sapphire.
CAD/CAM Distinction First and Second Place: Olga Baranova of Ol.b Design in Brookline, Massachusetts. Silver cross ring with a sapphire (first place). White gold and diamond ring (second place).
Enamel Distinction First and Second Place: Tricia Lachowiec of Fall River, Massachusetts. "Decorum" brooch (first place) in copper, torch-fired enamel, sterling and fine silver, and 14k gold, with a pearl. "Punctus" brooch (second place) in copper, torch-fired enamel, oxidized sterling silver, and 14k gold, with a sapphire.
Laser Distinction First Place: James W. Currens of J.W. Currens Inc. in New York City for his "Bee-Wear" brooch in 18k yellow gold and 14k pink gold with amber, round white and yellow diamonds, rubies, tsavorite garnets, and blue sapphires.
Laser Distinction Second Place: Adam Neeley of Adam Neeley Designs in Laguna Beach, California, for his "Revealing Beauty" pendant.
Mokume-gane Distinction First Place: Lisa Krikawa of Krikawa Jewelry Designs in Tucson, Arizona, for her "Juicy Liqueur Ring" in 22k rose gold, 22k yellow gold, and 18k white gold mokumé, with an 18k rose gold liner, a 4 carat orange sapphire, graduated yellow to red pave-set sapphires, and accent blue sapphires.
Mokume-gane Distinction Second Place: Ezra Satok-Wolman of E. Satok-Wolman in Toronto, for his shakudo and 18k white gold necklace with a Tahitian pearl.
Natural Color Diamond Distinction First Place: Evelyn Huang of Evelyn H. Jewelry Inc. in Los Angeles for her "Struck by Lightning" ring.
Natural Color Diamond Distinction Second Place: Mark Schneider of Mark Schneider Design in Long Beach, California, for his platinum ring with accents of 18k pink and yellow gold with hammer-set orange-yellow natural colored diamonds.
Palladium Distinction First Place: Evelyn Huang of Evelyn H. Jewelry Inc. in Los Angeles for her "Struck by Lightning" ring.
Palladium Distinction Second Place: Lisa Krikawa of Krikawa Jewelry Designs in Tucson, Arizona, for her "High Tea Ring" in palladium with a designer-cut 19 carat tourmaline and accent diamonds.
Platinum Distinction First Place: James W. Currens of J.W. Currens Inc. in New York City for his "Black Hole" platinum ring with a rock crystal, round white diamonds, tsavorite garnets, blue sapphires, and a solid black crystal opal.
Platinum Distinction Second Place: Heidi Fudeus of Zultanite Gems LLC in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for her platinum necklace and pendant with zultanite and diamonds.
Reactive Metals Distinction First Place: Martha Keith of Charlottesville, Virginia, for her "And So It Begins" necklace made of niobium with accents in 22k yellow gold, 18k white and yellow gold, and 14k yellow gold.
Reactive Metals Distinction Second Place: Holly Hosterman of Holly Yashi in Arcata, California, for her reversible niobium pendant with a blue topaz, hessonite garnet, a Swarovski pearl, and a 12k gold-filled chain.
Student Category First Place: Yumiko Kakiuchi of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City for her "Labyrinth" bracelet made of 18k gold, silver, nickel, brass, bronze, plastics, cubic zirconium, and pearls.
Student Category Second Place: Won Ja Yeon of Kyonggi University in Korea for a "Rolling Paper" silver brooch.
Sponsors for the 2008 Distinction Categories included Roland for CAD/CAM Distinction, Rio Grande for Enamel Distinction, Crafford-LaserStar Technologies for Laser Distinction, Reactive Metals Studio and Shining Wave Metals for Mokume-gane Distinction, Natural Color Diamond Association for Natural Color Diamond Distinction, Hoover & Strong for Palladium Distinction, Platinum Guild International for Platinum Distinction, and Reactive Metals Studio and Cabot Supermetals for Reactive Metals Distinction.
Judges for 2008 - a mix of designers, industry experts, and educators - were Barbara Berk of Barbara Berk Designs; Michael Coan, jewelry department chair at the Fashion Institute of Technology; Jacquie De Almeida, managing editor of Jewellery Business magazine; Cindy Edelstein of The Jeweler's Resource Bureau; Paul Holewa, senior editor of Instore magazine; Steve Midgett, president of Extrusion Pattern Metals Corp.; Marlene Richey, author, designer, and business expert; Hedda Schupak, editor in chief of JCK magazine; and Mary Wisniewski, associate editor of National Jeweler magazine.
Digital images are available upon request.

PROVIDENCE, RI - CAD/CAM and laser technologies have a firm foothold in the jewelry industry, particularly among custom designers and retail manufacturers, according to the recently published MJSA Technology Survey.
Conducted by Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America with the assistance of the Crescendo Consulting Group in Portland, Maine, the survey queried users about how CAD/CAM and lasers are impacting the way jewelry is made today. The results, along with commentary and insights by CAD/CAM consultant David Olson and laser expert Bob Staley, appear in the May issue of MJSA Journal, the leading source for technical information in the jewelry trade.
The survey, conducted among MJSA members and MJSA Journal readers, showed that 42 percent use some form of in-house CAD/CAM, and 32 percent of respondents report using laser welders in their operations. Also among the findings:
- The penetration of CAD/CAM into the jewelry industry, according to Olson, is almost identical to its penetration into industries such as aerospace and automotive, where it is now the standard for design.
- The most popular use for CAD, according to survey respondents, is to create custom designs for customers, and more than half use it as a sales tool - a sign that manufacturing retailers are using the new technology more and more to differentiate themselves.
- Although 32 percent of respondents have already invested in lasers, 34 percent said they planned to do so within the next several years. Among those companies who did have lasers, the investments typically paid for themselves in two years or less.
"We hope that the MJSA Technology Survey will answer some of the questions that jewelry makers have about CAD/CAM and lasers, as well as help them make informed decisions about the applications of these technologies in their operations," said Tina Wojtkielo Snyder, editor in chief of MJSA Journal.
For more information or to obtain a copy of this issue, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, or e-mail info@mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The deadline for submissions for the 2008 MJSA Education Foundation scholarships is May 14. Students can now electronically submit their scholarship applications and work samples through the "Call for Entries" online service, www.callforentry.org.
Undergraduate and graduate students who intend to pursue a career in the jewelry industry are awarded thousands of dollars from the MJSA Education Foundation each year. Students that are currently enrolled or have been accepted to a jewelry-related program at accredited colleges and universities, as well as proprietary trade schools and gemological programs, are eligible to apply. (Students must be U.S. citizens.)
The MJSA Education Foundation scholarships are made possible through the generosity of many individual donors as well as endowment funds, including the Karl Augenstein Memorial Fund, the George R. Frankovich Scholarship Fund, the Michael Marcogliese Scholarship Fund, the Andrew & Frances Salvadore Scholarship Fund, and the Walter Oppenheim Fund.
The Foundation awards scholarships annually and distributes them in partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation. Since 1979, the MJSA Education Foundation has granted more than $100,000 to students nationwide.
For more information or to apply, contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA's director of education, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, e-mail teresa.shannon@mjsa.org, or visit mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - For bench jewelers, a well-laid-out work area is crucial to their efficiency, productivity, and even health and happiness. That's why MJSA Press, a division of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America, has published The Jeweler's Bench Book, the second volume in the "Orchid in Print: Maximum Bench Work" series produced in collaboration with The Ganoksin Project.
Written by Charles Lewton-Brain, a renowned metalsmith and author who heads the jewellery/metals program at the Alberta College of Art & Design in Canada, the book offers expert advice on how to choose and modify a bench to meet specific needs. With plentiful full-color illustrations, it covers everything from the basics of bench design to ingenious tips for tool storage and arrangement. It also includes real-life "tours" showing how renowned jewelers have set up their own bench areas for maximum efficiency in such tasks as stone setting, wax carving, and general repair and fabrication.
"Orchid in Print" is named after the Ganoksin e-mail forum that involves thousands of jewelry makers daily. The first book in the series, Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft by Karen Christians, focuses on how jewelers can best choose the right flex-shaft systems and accessories for their needs. The prime sponsor of both books is Rio Grande in Albuquerque, New Mexico, one of the world's largest suppliers to the jewelry industry.
Copies of The Jeweler's Bench Book are available for $34.95 through MJSA, Ganoksin, and leading industry distributors, as well as Amazon.com. For more information about the book, including available member discounts, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038, or visit mjsa.org. For more information about The Ganoksin Project, the leading online information resource for jewelers worldwide, go to ganoksin.com.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) will once again provide its "At the Bench Live" series of demonstrations at the 2008 JCK Las Vegas show from May 30 to June 2. All seminars are free and will take place in the ET&S Pavilion at the Sands Expo & Convention Center.
Seminars will feature hands-on, interactive bench demonstrations conducted by some of the industry's most renowned experts, including Steve Adler, Charles Lewton-Brain, Chris Ploof, and Arthur Anton Skuratowicz. Below is a full schedule:
FRIDAY, MAY 30
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
"The Latest on Palladium: Working with the Newest White Metal," a panel discussion by Daniel Ballard of PM West, Teresa Frye of TechForm Advanced Casting Technology, Linus Drogs of Au Enterprises, Lisa Krikawa of Krikawa Designs, and Stewart Grice of Hoover & Strong. Moderator: Dawn McCurtain of Palladium Alliance International.
2 - 3:30 p.m.
"Hardness in Precious Metals," a panel discussion by Teresa Frye of TechForm Advanced Casting, Stewart Grice of Hoover & Strong, Jurgen J. Maerz of Platinum Guild International, Linus Drogs of Au Enterprise, and Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs.
SATURDAY, MAY 31
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
"The Jeweler's Bench: Smart Set-ups" by Charles Lewton-Brain of Brain Press
2 - 3:30 p.m.
"CAD Versus Manufacturing Realities" by Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of The Jewelry Training Center
SUNDAY, JUNE 1
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
"The Hazards of Glass-filled Rubies" by Arthur Anton Skuratowicz of The Jewelry Training Center
2 - 3:30 p.m.
"Integrating Technology into the Small Shop" by Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs
MONDAY, JUNE 2
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
"Making Mokume-gane at the Bench" by Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs
2 - 3:30 p.m.
"CAD Rendering for Advertising and Promotion" by Steve Adler of Automated 3D Modeling Inc.
Seminars are sponsored by OttoFrei and Stuller Inc.
For more information, contact Teresa Shannon, MJSA's director of education, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3103, e-mail teresa.shannon@mjsa.org, or visit mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Andrea Hill is known throughout the jewelry industry for her ability to turn complex principles of business development, branding, and marketing into clear, practical strategies for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Now, Hill will share her insights in "Success Strategies," her new featured column in MJSA Journal.
Hill makes her debut in the June 2008 issue, where she focuses on "Knowledge Management," which, as Hill puts it, "is a practice that is used to facilitate better analysis of problems, make more effective decisions, continue innovation, and learn from mistakes. When deployed effectively, KM can help you compete by leveraging your creativity in addition to your cash."
"Especially in this economic climate, our readers have been depending on the Journal to give them not just a manufacturing edge, but also a business edge," said the Journal's editor in chief, Tina Snyder. "Andrea will provide them with just the sort of business tools they need to compete. This is a very exciting partnership."
Hill is the Principal of Hill Management Consulting & Training (HMC) in Chicago, which focuses on improving the performance of small and mid-sized corporations. Prior to HMC, Hill was CEO of The Bell Group, an industry supplier in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She also served as president of a children's clothing manufacturer, president of a direct marketing services firm, and director of merchandising for a major national catalog operation. In each of her roles, she has designed branding and marketing strategies that translated into dramatic increases in brand recognition.
For more information or to obtain a copy of this issue, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, or e-mail info@mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has announced new dates for its flagship show, MJSA Expo New York, which will be held March 8-10, 2009, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. Show hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday and Monday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
MJSA Expo New York is the largest and oldest trade show in the United States dedicated to the design and manufacturing of jewelry, with the latest supplies, machinery, components, services, and finished products all under one roof. The show features more than 400 booths, thousands of national and international buyers, and a full roster of educational seminars and training.
The show also features two annual presentations: the MJSA Vision Awards, which recognizes designers whose work will have a profound influence on the future of jewelry design, and the MJSA Innovation Awards, which recognizes the most creative tools, technologies, and processes introduced during the past year.
For more information about MJSA Expo New York, visit mjsa.org. For information on exhibiting at the show, contact Bruce Coltin, MJSA sales and marketing director, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3023, or e-mail bruce.coltin@mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The Jeweler's Bench Book, lauded by jewelers for its ingenious ideas and examples for enhancing a bench area's efficiency, utility, and comfort, has become the latest MJSA Press publication to be honored by the Society of National Association Publications with its prestigious Excel Award.
Written by Charles Lewton-Brain, a renowned metalsmith and author who heads the jewelry/metals program at the Alberta College of Art & Design in Canada, the book is the second volume in the "Orchid in Print: Maximum Bench Work" series produced by MJSA Press in collaboration with The Ganoksin Project. ("Orchid in Print" is named after the Ganoksin e-mail forum that thousands of jewelry makers turn to daily.)
With numerous full-color illustrations, The Jeweler's Bench Book covers everything from the basics of bench design to tips for tool storage and arrangement. It includes shop "tours" showing how renowned jewelers have set up their bench areas for maximum efficiency in such tasks as stone setting, wax carving, and general repair and fabrication.
The Excel Awards are an annual competition that recognizes exemplary work in association publications. More than 1,200 magazines, newsletters, scholarly journals, books, electronic publications, and websites are judged for editorial quality, design, general excellence, and more.
Copies of The Jeweler's Bench Book are available for $34.95 through MJSA, Ganoksin, and leading industry distributors, as well as Amazon.com. For more information about the book, including member discounts, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038, or visit mjsa.org. For more information about The Ganoksin Project, the leading online information resource for jewelers worldwide, go to ganoksin.com.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Of all the questions that prospective professional jewelry designers ask, the most important may be this: "Can I make a living at it?" The answer will be found in Marlene Richey's Profiting by Design: A Jewelry Maker's Guide to Business Success, the forthcoming publication from MJSA Press, a division of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America.
Richey, a 30-year veteran of the jewelry business, has written a basic, easy-to-read guidebook that anyone who contemplates starting a design shop will find useful. Drawing on her experience as a gallery owner and manager of the award-winning William Richey Designs, input from business experts, and real-life lessons from esteemed designers such as Barbara Heinrich, Chris Correia, and Michael Bondanza, she points the way through crucial aspects of the jewelry design business that often overwhelm newcomers: From the personal qualities a small-business entrepreneur needs (Can you multi-task? Can you live with uncertainty?) to pricing, marketing, and sales strategies, as well as steps to ensure that buyers pay what they owe.
As Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler's Resource Bureau writes in her foreword, "If you have the desire, and this book in your hand, you will find a way to make your business turn out just as you designed it to be."
The Prime Sponsor of Profiting by Design is David H. Fell & Company Inc., a precious metal refiner and manufacturer of quality mill products.
Copies of Profiting By Design will be available in late August for $34.95 through MJSA and leading industry distributors, as well as Amazon.com. For more information about the book, including available member discounts, or other instructional titles from MJSA Press, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038, or visit mjsa.org.

Providence, RI - After several months of intensive self-examination, MJSA is preparing for publication of the results of its strategic review - the framework for how the association will meet the new challenges of the 21st century - and has begun its search for a new president/CEO.
Led by interim president Curt Ley, the strategic review task force comprised industry leaders from all segments of the jewelry industry - the manufacturing and retail sectors, as well as suppliers and trade associations. The process involved a "soul searching," as Ley once put it, to determine how MJSA could continue to best promote and advance jewelry design and manufacturing in an era of global competition, industry consolidation, and the growth of manufacturing retailers, among other challenges.
"Any association that has been active for more than a century, as MJSA has, cannot remain vital without periodically going through intense self-examination," Ley explained. "As the realities of an industry change, the association must change with it."
The review's results also formed the basis for the criteria that will be used in the presidential search process. Applicants are now being sought; the position description is available upon request.
All interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to MJSA COO James McCarty at MJSA, 45 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904, or e-mail James.McCarty@mjsa.org.
The MJSA Strategic Review will be available for download on the MJSA Web site, www.mjsa.org, in September.

Proceeds to develop jewelry industry education programs and scholarships
PROVIDENCE, RI - More than 135 golfers teed off at the ninth annual MJSA Education Foundation Golf Tournament on June 30 to help raise more than $9,700 for the development of jewelry education programs and scholarships.
The tournament took place at Ledgemont Country Club in Seekonk, Massachusetts, one of the region's finest private clubs. In addition to supporting a great cause, some participants displayed outstanding efforts on the course, especially the following contest winners:
- Low Gross Team: LDC Inc. - Ed DeCristofaro, Jerry Traficante, Matt Mainelli, and Kenny LaFouchi.
1st Place Low Net Team: HSBC Bank - Ed Gately, Art Gately, Ted Turnbull, and Norm Manchester.
- 2nd Place Low Net Team: National Chain Group - Steve Cipolla, Alan Kaufman, David Maile, and Ray Bert.
- 3rd Place Low Net Team: Labyrinth Business Solutions - Bill Kopelcheck, Randy Scott, Dave Radcliffe, and Bob Faquea.
- 4th Place Low Net Team: Lee's Manufacturing Co. Inc. - Vito Torrisi, Larry Feeney, Jim Atamian, and Ed Flynn.
- Longest Drive (Men): Ted Turnbull of HSBC Bank.
- Longest Drive (Women): Robin Malo of National Chain Group.
- Closest to the Pin (Men): Matt Giarusso of Swarovski.
- Closest to the Pin (Women): Debbie Tatangelo of National Chain Group.
Major tournament sponsors included Aurafin LLC, Computer Associates Inc., FedEx, HSBC Bank, Johnson Matthey, Labyrinth Business Solutions, Rio Grande, and Swarovski.
For more information about the tournament, visit mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - The MJSA Education Foundation, a non-profit educational branch of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), has awarded $7,000 in scholarships to six talented student designers. The following students, including two previous winners, each received a 2008 MJSA Education Foundation scholarship:
Clara Cho ($2,500) of Providence, who is pursuing a B.F.A. in jewelry and metalsmithing at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence.
Lucia A. Perluck ($1,500) of Philadelphia, who is pursuing a B.F.A. in metals and jewelry at Temple University's Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia. This is Perluck's third consecutive foundation scholarship.
Cheryl E. Acosta ($750) of Providence, who is pursuing an M.F.A. in metals and jewelry at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence. This is Acosta's second foundation scholarship.
Jacqueline M. Bartush ($750) of Paris, Texas, who is pursuing an associate's degree in jewelry technology at Paris Junior College's Texas Institute of Jewelry Technology in Paris, Texas.
Katie Poterala ($750) of Greenville, South Carolina, who is pursuing a B.F.A. in jewelry and metals at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Davina R. Romansky ($750) of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, who is pursuing a B.F.A. in metals and jewelry design at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, New York.
The MJSA Education Foundation scholarships awards scholarships annually and distributes them in partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation to students enrolled in jewelry-related programs at colleges, universities, or proprietary technical schools in the United States. Since 1979, it has awarded more than $100,000 in grants.
These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of many individual donors, as well as endowment funds, including the Karl Augenstein Memorial Fund, the George R. Frankovich Scholarship Fund, the Michael Marcogliese Scholarship Fund, the Andrew & Frances Salvadore Scholarship Fund, and the Walter M. Oppenheim Fund.
Educational programs are also made possible through the support and generosity of the MJSA Education Foundation golf tournament participants.
For more information about the MJSA Education Foundation, visit mjsa.org.
Digital images are available upon request.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Jewelry makers and designers of all types and sizes will have the opportunity to benefit from the resources and information provided at the third annual MJSA Trade Show for Jewelry Making (TSJM). The show will be held Sept. 17-18, 2008 at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence, and will feature a unique mix of vendors offering a wide range of tools, components, supplies, and services. The show will also feature FREE educational seminars conducted by some of the jewelry industry's top presenters.
"Since we launched this show in 2006, the jewelry maker market has been growing faster than ever. Jewelry makers and designers who've attended TSJM have called to tell us how the event has benefited or even saved their businesses," said Bruce Coltin, sales & marketing director for MJSA. "Companies who are ready to take their businesses to the next level need to place the TSJM 2008 show on their must-attend list...they'll come away with supplies, resources, and knowledge they just won't find at any other jewelry industry event."
2008 vendors include such diverse companies as A to Z Bohemian Glass, Art & Soul Metal Clay, Cleverwerx, Downeast Trading, The Enamelist Society, Forrestal International, Fretz Tools, Geib Refining, Gemological Institute of America, Innovative CAD Technologies, Jewelers Mutual Insurance, Legor USA, Miniflam, Mode International, Multi Creations, Parawire, ProGold USA, Progress Machine & Tool, Sierra Madre Mining, Signature Engraving, Spirig, Stone USA, Zarlene Imports, and many more.
Seminars will offer business and technical training on topics such as promoting, pricing, and producing your work, making loop-in-loop chains, designing with beads, and casting glass. Seminar instructors include Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs, Ann Cahoon of Marquis Flying Studio, Nick Regine of Swarovski, and Linus Drogs of Au Enterprises.
Advance registration for the show is FREE. On-site registration is $10 for non-MJSA members and free for MJSA members. Register in advance online at mjsa.org. For more information, call 401-274-3840, toll free 800-444-6572, e-mail info@mjsa.org, or visit mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - In addition to providing access to a wide variety of vendors, the third annual MJSA Trade Show for Jewelry Making (TSJM) is offering free educational seminars for artisans, designers, and jewelry makers of all types and sizes. Scheduled to take place Sept. 17 and 18 at the Rhode Island Convention Center in downtown Providence, TSJM will feature seminars conducted by some of the jewelry industry's most renowned professionals offering their expertise on topics such as soldering, glass casting, photographing your own jewelry, metal refining techniques, and promoting, pricing, producing, and avoiding pitfalls when selling your work. A schedule appears below:
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., "Designing with Beads" by Nick Regine of Swarovski
12:45 to 2:15 p.m., "The 4 P's: Promotion, Pricing, Production, and Pitfalls - a Primer" by Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs
2:30 to 4 p.m., "Loop-in-Loop Chain Making" by Ann Cahoon of Flying Marquis Studio
4:15 to 5:45 p.m., "Lost-wax Glass Casting" by Linus Drogs of Au Enterprises Inc.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 18
11 to 11:45 a.m., "Photographing Jewelry with Minimal Equipment" by Karen Philippi of Philippi Photographi
12 to 12:45 p.m., "Precious Metal Refining Techniques and Methods You Can Profit From Now!" by Bruce Busby of David H. Fell & Co. Inc.
1 to 2:30 p.m., "Soldering Fundamentals" by Karen Christians of Cleverwerx and author of Making the Most of Your Flex-shaft
Advance registration for the show is free. On-site registration is $10 for non-MJSA members and free for MJSA members. Register in advance online at mjsa.org.
For more information about the show, call 401-274-3840, toll free 800-444-6572, e-mail info@mjsa.org, or visit mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Tina Wojtkielo Snyder, MJSA Journal's editor in chief, was recently honored by the Jewelry Information Center (JIC) as its 2008 "Trade Press Editor of the Year." The presentation was held on July 29 at JIC's annual Trade Press Luncheon in New York City in honor of jewelry and watch press editors.
"Tina has been a tremendous supporter of Jewelry Information Center and its mission to help educate those in the jewelry industry and beyond," said JIC chairman David Bouffard.
Under Tina's editorship, MJSA Journal has won numerous awards, including the 2005 Award of Distinction in the Magazine/Association category of the Communicator Awards and the 2005 Award of Publication Excellence in the Magazines & Journals category of the APEX Awards. Tina was recently awarded a 2008 APEX Award for Publication Excellence in the Technical Writing category for her June 2008 article "Modern Heirlooms."
For more information about MJSA Journal and its technical articles call 1-800-444-6572, or visit mjsa.org.

PROVIDENCE, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) is now accepting entries for its 18th annual Vision Awards design competition. Each year, the competition recognizes the talent and innovation of designers whose work will have a profound influence on the future of jewelry design.
In addition to the overall Professional and Student Awards, all eligible professional entries may qualify for Distinction Awards, which include Enamel Distinction, sponsored by Rio Grande, Laser Distinction, sponsored by Crafford-LaserStar Technologies Corp., Mokume-gane Distinction, co-sponsored by Shining Wave Metals and Reactive Metals Studio, Palladium Distinction, sponsored by Hoover & Strong, and Platinum Distinction, sponsored by Platinum Guild International.
The 2009 competition will also feature "The Reactive Metals Challenge," which will honor professional designs that incorporate the use of reactive metals. The first 10 entrants will have their $50 competition entry fees waived, courtesy of Reactive Metals Studio, if their design submissions meet the challenge's criteria. The winner will receive a $500 cash prize.
Other award winners will receive up to $1,000 and will be honored on March 8, 2009, at the annual MJSA Expo New York show. In addition, winners will receive recognition in MJSA Journal, as well as other trade publications, and on MJSA Online.
Entries must be postmarked by JAN. 15, 2009. For submission guidelines and further information, or to request an entry form, contact MJSA Vision Awards at 1-800-444-6572, e-mail info@mjsa.org, or visit mjsa.org.

Providence, RI - Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) welcomed a new chairman and elected several new members to the Board of Directors at its 105th annual meeting on Dec. 8, 2008.
Richard Powers of Stern-Leach Co. moved up from first vice chairman to chairman, replacing Alan Bell of The Bell Group. Joining Powers in new leadership positions were First Vice Chair David Meleski of Richline Group and Second Vice Chair Edward DeCristofaro of LDC Inc. Michael Toback of Myron Toback Inc. entered the officer ranks as secretary. Michael Salvadore Jr. of Salvadore Auctions & Appraisals Inc. remains treasurer.
Newly elected directors were Stuart Cathey of Stuart Cathey Jewelry, Timothy Dinneny of Bank of Nova Scotia, and David Pillow of Zale Corp. Re-elected to the board were Stuart Lee of Sterling Jewelers Inc. and Paul Nordt of J.C. Nordt Co. Inc.
For a complete list of MJSA's officers and board of directors, visit mjsa.org.

Providence, RI - "With leadership comes responsibility," says MJSA interim CEO Curtis Ley, who announced the title of a special MJSA Expo New York 2009 keynote panel discussion: How Bad Is Bad and What Good Might Come From It? "It does little good to paint a rosy picture of the current state of the jewelry industry when so many companies are struggling for their very existence. It's MJSA's responsibility to examine the landscape and report on it with ruthless honesty. Only through frank discussion can practical solutions be found that will help floundering companies survive and competitive companies excel."
The keynote panelists are successful industry executives with a broad spectrum of perspectives: Rich Powers, president and CEO of Cookson Precious Metals; Dave Meleski, president of the Richline Group; Doug McDowell, president of Memoire; Michael Bondanza of Michael Bondanza Inc.; Tim Dinneny, managing director of ScotiaMocatta Metals; and Maeve Gillies, co-founder and owner of MaeVona.
Does the nature of this discussion guarantee it will be gloomy? Not according to Ley: "The people on this panel are optimists. They have to be to successfully run organizations under the conditions presented by this economic environment. I have no inside information on whether this discussion will end on a negative or positive note, but I would bet that most, if not all, of them will see some light at the end of the tunnel and will help the rest of us see it, too."
The panel discussion How Bad Is Bad and What Good Might Come From It? will take place on Monday, March 9, in the presentation area on the Expo New York show floor and will be free to all attendees. MJSA Expo New York 2009 will take place March 8-10 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.
For more information or to register for the show, visit mjsa.org.

Providence, RI - David W. Cochran, a longtime industry veteran whose experience ranges from owning his own jewelry manufacturing operation to managing the brands of premier Fortune 500 companies, has been named president/CEO of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA).
The appointment follows a year-long search that ran concurrently with the development of MJSA's Strategic Plan, which the association recently released.
"During his 30-plus years in the jewelry industry, David has a proven track record of developing and implementing strategic initiatives, and of ensuring his companies reach their potential," said Curt Ley, MJSA's interim president/CEO, who chaired both the search committee and the strategic review task force. "He'll provide the leadership the association needs to realize its strategic vision and to help our members overcome the global challenges they face."
Most recently, Cochran served as president/CEO and director of The Robbins Co. in Attleboro, Massachusetts, an ISO-certified supplier of recognition and incentive awards for corporations such as Coca-Cola, IBM, and Proctor & Gamble. Under his leadership, the company restructured its operations and, based on client input, invested in web-based retail technology and re-merchandised its product offerings, leading to an overall improvement in gross income. In 2007, Cochran coordinated a successful merger between Robbins and The Tharpe Co. to create one of the nation’s largest employee recognition and awards companies.
For the majority of his career (1976 to 1996), Cochran served as president/CEO and owner of R.F. Simmons Co., an Attleboro-based jewelry manufacturer. Recruited in 1976 by Simmons' then owner, Amtel Inc., Cochran came on board after the company had suffered several years of poor management and financial turmoil. He quickly strengthened the company's product development, created niche marketing plans, and implemented cost-saving strategies. Cochran purchased the company in 1978, and his initiatives ultimately led to a tripling of the company's revenues as it secured national accounts ranging from Zales and Helzberg Diamonds to Amway, and also developed a healthy private-label business.
In addition, Cochran served as president/CEO of Town & Country Fine Jewelry Group, where he was hired by the board and bondholders to guide the company smoothly through a reorganization and orderly sale of assets, and as a director of Monrovia, California-based Barry's Jewelers (Samuel's Jewelers), where he performed the same duties and returned the company to profitability.
Cochran began his career in the jewelry industry as senior product manager with the Speidel division of Textron Inc. in Providence, where he was charged with strengthening the marketing and business model of the company's Speidel watchbrand and jewelry divisions. Prior to this, he served in senior management and marketing capacities with General Foods Corp., Warner Lambert Co., and American Optical Canada.

Providence, RI - MJSA Expo New York is rising to the challenge of a down economy. To help jewelry manufacturers and designers cope with today’s difficult times - and also prepare themselves for future prosperity - the flagship trade show of Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America will offer a program of timely seminars on surviving the nation’s economic downturn, capitalizing on jewelry trends, complying with the new lead-content law, and other issues that could make or break a company.
"MJSA’s fundamental mission is to provide services that help jewelry manufacturers and designers compete and prosper," says association president David C. Cochran. "Their needs can change from year to year, and we have to respond. This year we tailored Expo seminars for the recession—and also to serve the industry’s many new, smaller companies as well as our traditional membership."
The free presentations, scheduled for the show’s March 8-10 run at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, will deliver expert, direction-changing insights for jewelry manufacturers and retailers alike. With falling revenues a concern everywhere in 2009, sales and marketing are especially well covered. Attendees can learn "What Retailers Want from Manufacturers" from the perspective of QVC, Zales, Tiffany, and Lux Bond & Green executives. If they’re hunting for a profitable target market, leading analyst Ken Gassman will point the way at "Marketing to Gen Y: The New Generation of Jewelry Buyers." He will draw upon his in-depth research into the large and unusually jewelry-friendly young-adult generation. For design direction, there’s "Runway to Reality: Capitalizing on Fashion and Jewelry Trends." For advice on getting a design business off the ground, including thorny issues such as dealing with slow payers, there’s consultant Marlene Richey’s "Profiting By Design: A Jewelry Maker’s Guide to Business Success."
MJSA Expo New York also will offer expert guidance on two particularly important financial topics. With many jewelry buyers struggling, more and more companies need to know "The Basics of Memo Transaction: The Do’s and Don’ts of Trading on Memo," which Cecilia Gardner of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee and Dione Kenyon of the Jewelers Board of Trade will provide. And with the credit crunch drying up access to operating funds, more and more companies need to know the ins and outs of "Financing Precious Metals and Diamonds."
Other experts will tackle a regulatory issue whose potentially widespread effects may catch many jewelry makers unaware and unprepared: the new law restricting lead content in children’s jewelry.
Finally, Expo New York will not neglect the biggest topic of all. Six industry leaders - Rich Powers, president/CEO of Cookson Precious Metals; Dave Meleski, president of the Richline Group; Tim Dinneny, managing director of ScotiaMocatta Metals; leading designers Michael Bondanza and Maeve Gillies; and moderator Doug McDowell of Memoir - will offer their insights into the economy at "How Bad Is Bad and What Good Might Come from It?"
The stellar seminar lineup is a fitting complement to MJSA Expo New York’s traditional role as one of the industry’s leading buying and selling venues. Hundreds of companies will exhibit before thousands of qualified buyers seeking the tools, services, and materials they need to operate profitably.
For information about attending or exhibiting at Expo, or for press credentials, call 1-800-444-6572, or visit mjsa.org.

In a tough economy, savvy jewelry companies shore up their bottom lines by analyzing operations and eliminating inefficiencies. A similarly critical approach to buying goods and services can provide major savings as well -- especially with the MJSA Buyer’s Resource Vol. 1 to guide them.

Inventions vastly improve mass finishing, mokume production, and CAD renderings
Providence, RI - Three technological innovations benefiting jewelry manufacturers - from a major improvement on a centuries-old Japanese technique to significant advancements in 21st century technology - will be showcased when the annual MJSA "Thinking Ahead" Award recipients are honored March 8 at MJSA Expo New York.
The winning products - eXtrusion Patterned Metal (XPM), the Dual-Action Electro-Finishing System, and the V-Ray rendering application for the Matrix CAD program - all offer multiple benefits, from speed and cost savings to new material and design options.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the creators of XPM, Steve Midgett and partner Jim Binnion, revolutionized the production of mokume-gane, in which different metals are combined and manipulated to create wood-like patterns. Employing hot extrusion and a proprietary technique for packing metals together, their XPM method solves multiple shortcomings of traditional mokume: They can combine an almost limitless variety of metals, such as stainless steel, titanium, and zirconium. They can create and replicate specific patterns. And they can produce mokume in volume: 107-cubic-inch bars, compared with the half cubic inch or less typically created the traditional way.
The Dual-Action Electro-Finishing System, invented by Marc Sarsanedas Gimpera of Supramol.lecular Systems S.L. in Spain, mass-finishes silver jewelry in one hour instead of the usual six, and does so with less metal loss and without the rounded-out effect of other systems. Using electrolytic erosion and mechanical interaction, it leaves flat surfaces smooth and silky, edges intact and sharp, and stones shiny and lustrous.
Likewise, Gemvision’s V-Ray for Matrix delivers both faster and higher quality results. It produces photorealistic renderings that are difficult to distinguish from photographs, and does so in minutes rather than the hours required by other rendering engines, greatly improving its usefulness as a sales tool.
The MJSA "Thinking Ahead" Innovation Awards are given annually to products that are making the greatest differences in the way jewelry is being designed and made. They are selected by an international panel of independent judges.
MJSA Expo New York will run March 8-10 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. In addition to the award-winning products, it will feature the latest in tools, materials, components, and services for the jewelry industry, as well as timely, expert seminars to help companies survive today’s hard times and prosper later. For information about attending or exhibiting, call 1-800-444-6572 or visit mjsa.org.

Providence, RI - The 2009 MJSA Vision Award jewelry design competition winners were honored during MJSA Expo New York on Tuesday, March 10, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. In addition to the Professional and Student category winners, several Professional entries were honored in special Distinction categories, as well as the competition’s new featured design challenge for the use of reactive metals.

- First Place Professional Category: James W. Currens of J.W. Currens Inc. in New York City for his "Treatise" mokume-gane brooch/pendant in sterling silver, 18k and 22k gold with white and natural color diamonds, and an 18 mm Tahitian baroque black pearl. This piece also won first place in Mokume-gane Distinction.

- Second Place Professional Category: Pamela Froman of Pamela Froman Fine Jewelry in Los Angeles for her "Sentimental Crush" locket in 18k yellow gold with 18k white gold inlay, a stylized "F" on the back, and a bit of scrollwork on the top.

- First Place Laser Distinction: Jackie Goetz of the Jewelers Workshop in Madison, Wisconsin, for her titanium hinged bracelet with an opal set in 14k yellow gold. Goetz also won the Reactive Metals Challenge for this piece.

- Second Place Laser Distinction: Adam Neeley of Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry Inc. in Laguna Beach, California, for his "Labyrinth" pendant in 18k yellow and white gold with an 18.07 carat green tourmaline and diamonds.

- First Place Enamel Distinction: Arto Vandian of New York City for his plique-a-jour enamel earrings in 18k gold with diamonds.

- Second Place Enamel Distinction: Michael Ayzman of J.W. Currens Inc. in New York City for his "Deep Blue" pendant with guilloche enamel in 18k gold and fine silver, set with diamonds, moonstones, and a sapphire.

- First Place Platinum Distinction: Phillip Dismuke of Jewelsmith in Durham, North Carolina, for his platinum ring with micro channel-set diamonds and a 12.6 mm South Sea pearl.

- Second Place Platinum Distinction: Stuart Coffee of Stu-Art Jewelry Designs Ltd. in New York City for his "Curved V" platinum ring with diamonds.

- First Place Palladium Distinction: Noam Hakak of Noam Carver Fine Jewelry in Montreal for his palladium, gold, and bronze ring with a lodolite quartz and brilliant-cut diamonds.

- Second Place Palladium Distinction: Noam Hakak of Noam Carver Fine Jewelry in Montreal for his palladium ring with a lodolite quartz and brilliant-cut diamonds.

- First Place Mokume-gane Distinction: James W. Currens of J.W. Currens Inc. in New York City for his "Treatise" mokume-gane brooch/pendant in sterling silver, 18k and 22k gold with white and natural color diamonds, and an 18 mm Tahitian baroque black pearl.

- Second Place Mokume-gane Distinction: Ezra Satok-Wolman of E. Satok-Wolman Fine Contemporary Jewelry in Caledon, Ontario, Canada, for his forged mokume-gane "Orbit" ring in 950 palladium and 22k gold with a Paraiba tourmaline and a natural red diamond.

- Reactive Metals Challenge: Jackie Goetz of the Jewelers Workshop in Madison, Wisconsin, for her titanium hinged bracelet with an opal set in 14k yellow gold.

- First Place Student Category: Ah Leum Chun of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City for her "Interchangeable Rings" with interchangeable tops that can be switched to personalize a look.

- Second Place Student Category: Hyangmi Kim of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City for her "Raindrops" neckpiece in aluminum, wire, steel, nickel brass, and nickel.

Sponsors for the 2009 Distinction categories are LaserStar Technologies Corp. for Laser Distinction, Rio Grande for Enamel Distinction, Platinum Guild International for Platinum Distinction, Hoover & Strong for Palladium Distinction, and Reactive Metals Studio and Shining Wave Metals for Mokume-gane Distinction. The Reactive Metals Challenge was issued by Reactive Metals Studio.

Judges for 2009, comprising a mix of designers, industry authorities, fashion editors, and educators, included Marlene Richey, designer, business expert, and author of Profiting by Design; Cindy Edelstein, president of The Jeweler’s Resource Bureau; Jacquie De Almeida, managing editor for Jewellery Business Magazine; Michael Coan, jewelry department chair at the Fashion Institute of Technology; Catherine Dayrit, fashion editor for National Jeweler magazine; and Carrie Soucy, fashion editor for JCK Magazine.
Digital images are available upon request.

NEW YORK -- MJSA Expo New York emerged as a bright spot in the otherwise gloomy economic landscape March 8-10. More than 3,100 buyers crowded the aisles, and vendor comments indicated that many companies did remarkably good business at the Jacob K. Javits Center.

"This year’s show was excellent for actual sales and sales leads," said Gary Miller, senior technical advisor at Spirig, the Swiss maker of the Microflame Soldering System. "Sales have improved for our product at this event for the last three years in a row. ... The other exhibitors we talked to were also happy with their results, which is surprising considering the general business climate." 

Darrell Warren, vice president of tools at Stuller, said Expo was "a good show, surprisingly so," for his company this year, with customers making major expenditures as well as smaller ones. "It was a mix ... [from] tools for repair work [to] equipment for upgrading a shop: filtration systems, laser welders, big-ticket leasing." 

A stellar seminar lineup tailored to the recession and industry trends no doubt contributed to the strong attendance. Sessions on the economy ("How Bad Is Bad and What Good Might Come of It?"), the new lead content law ("Get the Lead Out: How The New Federal Law Will Affect Your Precious Metal Jewelry Business"), capitalizing on fashion trends, marketing to Generation Y, selling to retailers, and running a profitable design business all drew crowds, as well as compliments from attendees.

"I attended several seminars and found them very informative," said Melissa Loizides of Fairfield, Connecticut. "’Get the Lead Out,’ the retail summit, and ’Marketing to Gen Y’ were fantastic, and it was great to learn from the open discussions that followed, too."

New vendors, such as bead suppliers John Bead and Margola Corp., were a highlight for other attendees. "I was glad the stone and bead dealers were there because I can compare price and merchandise," said Laurie Cariseo of LAC Designs. "I connected with a new bead vendor at the show and am just thrilled. They are new to the business, eager to help, and want photos of my creations using their merchandise so they can promote both." 

William Heher, CEO of Rare Earth Mining Co., was impressed with the overall quality of the show. "MJSA has a strong product [in Expo New York]," he said. "I can see it in the preparation and thoroughness."

Some trade association benefits save members money. Others help them sell. Others help them market their companies.

Member to Member, the latest MJSA benefit, will help members do all three.

Called M2M for short, the new program is a network in which MJSA companies can offer discounts or other savings to other MJSA companies. The association will serve as a clearinghouse where members can look for deals on the goods and services they need. Sellers will have a low-cost opportunity to connect with the largest, most diverse membership-only buying group in the industry: 1,800 retailers, jewelry designers, manufacturers, and related companies.

Early interest suggests Member to Member may become one of the most valued benefits MJSA has ever created. In just the last two weeks 14 companies have agreed to give discounts of 5 to 10 percent or other special savings. Early participants include Acme Safe Company, Arch Crown Inc.,  JewelerWebsites.com, Golden Link, National Jewelers Supplies, Rayana Designs, Krohn Industries, Village Silversmith/Sierra Madre Mining, Advanced Chemical Inc., Wise Choice Software, SkyRay XRF, and Signature Engraving.

The products and services they’ll offer range from website design and CAD/CAM services to palladium stock and plating supplies.

For more information, please contact Corrie Silvia at 1-800-444-6572, Ext. 3041, write to info@mjsa.org, or visit the MJSA booth at InStore (No. 2233) April 19-21.

Three "Custom Design Insights" seminars will highlight MJSA’s At the Bench Live program at JCK Las Vegas.

MJSA will present six seminars over the course of three days (May 31 to June 2), and each of those days will feature a session focusing on custom design and bench work. On May 30, Mark Maxwell will show how to design in CAD with a personal, handcrafted touch by applying classic goldsmithing techniques to milled wax models. Maxwell, a JA-certified master bench jeweler and owner of Mark Maxwell Designer/Goldsmith (www.mmgoldsmith.com), also will teach a hands-on, step-by-step seminar on May 31 where he will show participants how to create accurate hand renderings that can help boost their custom design business.

Kate Wolf will wrap up the "Insights" series with a June 1 session on using wax techniques to create perfectly matching shadow bands. Wolf, a master of the art of wax carving, hosts workshops at Wolf Designs (www.katewolfdesigns.com) and owns Wolf Tools.

Rounding out the At the Bench Live program will be Chris Ploof, owner of Chris Ploof Studio (www.chrisploof.com), and Brad Simon, an award-winning designer (www.bwsimon.com) and JA-certified master bench jeweler. Ploof will help participants gain a competitive edge by showing them how to quickly, efficiently, and creatively create custom rings (May 30). Simon will demonstrate a unique method for high quality, speedy pav� setting (May 31) and methods for setting princess cuts without fear of chipping (June 1).

The sponsors of MJSA At the Bench Live are FedEx and Stuller Inc., which supplied the bench and tools.

Based on the monthly At the Bench pictorial column in MJSA Journal, At the Bench Live seminars feature interactive demonstrations by the industry’s top jewelry makers. They are held at select locations nationwide every year.

For more information, please contact Gerry Davies, MJSA director of communications, at 1-800-444-6572, Ext. 3051 or write to gerry.davies@mjsa.org.

Mitch Horowitz, a sales executive whose abilities and experience are highly regarded throughout the jewelry industry, has joined Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America as its vice president of sales.

He comes to MJSA after 26 years at top jewelry trade journals, including five years as ad director at JCK Magazine and seven years as associate publisher at National Jeweler. He will put that experience to work expanding MJSA sales in all areas: membership, MJSA Journal subscriptions and advertising, ads in new digital media, and trade shows.

"Mitch brings to the job everything we were looking for," says MJSA president and CEO David W. Cochran. "He’s energetic, he’s forward-looking, he knows the industry, and he has many personal connections. He also has a long track record of success. Mitch is going to be a huge asset for us."

The key to building MJSA is responding effectively to members’ needs in a turbulent marketplace, Horowitz says. "I have a lot of energy and I want MJSA to reflect that, because we will need to get even more creative in these challenging times," he says. "All of us at MJSA will have to pull in the right direction so members never doubt why they are part of the association."

Horowitz believes MJSA will increase sales by updating, expanding, and improving existing services such as trade shows, education, member discounts, and advertising opportunities. "We will grow membership by offering the best possible services and solutions--services that will help an MJSA member not just survive but succeed," he says. "We all know how challenging the world is today. MJSA must be a resource the industry can lean on for solutions to everyday issues."

As an example, he cites the Internet. "The digital world is a new frontier, and we want to maximize its benefits for members," he said. "I want to make sure that advertisers take advantage of all the digital media tools we have as an association. They offer opportunities that cannot be found on a printed page."

At the same time, traditional trade shows are a big part of his vision. "This is a press the flesh business, so face to face selling will remain important," Horowitz says. "A key area of growth will be MJSA Expo New York and shows we might be able to do in other markets."

Much depends on the association’s ability to create connections with members and between members, Horowitz emphasizes. "Any accomplishments I have had are based on building relationships and connecting people with one another," he says. For his part, he plans to travel extensively from his office in Dallas to make those connections.

"I believe the work is done in the field, so I plan to be visible," he says. Horowitz can be reached via e-mail or at 1-972-896-7653.

For more information, contact Gerry Davies, MJSA director of communications, via e-mail or at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3051.

Photo is available upon request.

The latest title from MJSA Press, Profiting by Design: A Jewelry Maker’s Guide to Business Success by Marlene Richey, has won top honors in the Excel Award sponsored by the Society of National Association Publications (SNAP).

The book, which received the Gold Award in the Non-Technical Book category, is one of 181 winners selected from nearly 1,000 entries. It is the fifth EXCEL honor for an MJSA Press book in the last seven years. The awards recognize the best and most innovative association publications.

Profiting by Design is an easy-to-read guidebook for anyone who contemplates starting a design shop. Richey drew on her experience as a gallery owner and manager of the award-winning William Richey Designs, as well as on input from business experts and esteemed designers such as Barbara Heinrich, Chris Correia, and Michael Bondanza. The Prime Sponsor of Profiting by Design is David H. Fell & Company Inc., a precious metal refiner and manufacturer of quality mill products.

SNAP is a non-profit professional society serving the needs of association publishers and communications professionals. MJSA and other award winners will be honored at the 29th EXCEL Awards Gala on June 4, 2009. Winning entries are displayed at the gala and are featured in the July/August issue of SNAP’s magazine, Association Publishing.
Profiting by Design is available through MJSA and leading industry distributors, as well as Amazon.com.

For more information about the book, contact MJSA at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3038, or visit the MJSA Press section on mjsa.org. For more information on the Association Media and Publishing Conference and the EXCEL Awards, visit www.snaponline.org.

In a change that promises a host of benefits for vendors and attendees, MJSA Expo New York will move to the Hilton New York hotel in Midtown for its 2010 run, scheduled for March 14-16.

The Hilton, at West 53rd Street and Avenue of the Americas (Sixth Avenue), provides convenient access, either onsite or nearby, to everything visitors from the jewelry industry may want or need, from restaurants, hotel rooms, and entertainment to a quick trip the Diamond District on 47th Street just blocks away. Radio City Music Hall, the Rockefeller Center, and the Museum of Modern Art are across the street, and Broadway, Lincoln Center, and Fifth Avenue shopping are within walking distance.

"Next year’s Expo will be incredibly convenient for everyone," says David W. Cochran, president and CEO of MJSA. In moving to the Hilton, he adds, MJSA is returning to the scene of successful past shows, and he credits the idea to association members.

The nation’s oldest and largest trade show devoted to jewelry manufacturing and design, Expo New York was last held in a hotel in 1994, and several members suggested MJSA consider revisiting the setting, Cochran says. "They wanted to stay in New York and to maintain the March dates, and they wanted to minimize hassles, such as needing shuttle buses to get to the show site.”

The Hilton provides all of that and more. “The rooms will be in the same building as the show floor, and the Midtown location will make it much easier for buyers to get to the show,” Cochran says. “And even though the Hilton offers many more advantages than our last site, the Javits Center, we negotiated a deal that will keep the price of a booth the same as last year’s."

In addition, the Hilton is setting aside a block of rooms at a locked-in discount. Expo guests will pay less than $200 a night. (Rooms will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.)

Cochran expects a high return rate among companies that exhibited last year. Expo New York 2009 did well despite the poor economy, especially in comparison to other shows, "and the Hilton is so much more conducive to both doing business and enjoying the city," he says. "You can take a customer out to dinner or for a drink, or just find a place to relax during the show, without even leaving the building. And later you can catch a Broadway show by walking a few blocks."

The exhibition space will be on three floors connected by an escalator. Vendors should receive renewal notices soon to secure their booths.

MJSA Expo New York 2010 will once again feature the latest in machinery, supplies, components, services, and finished products for manufacturers and retailers. For more information, call 1-800-444-6572 or send an email MJSA.

The five women were a varied group. Some had already won national design competitions, or been singled out as “emerging artists.” Some had seen their work published in art books or displayed in juried exhibitions. And one, after “32 years of raising children,” had decided to pursue a long-standing passion.

Yet all now share one achievement: they’ve received scholarships of $1,000 to $1,500 apiece from the MJSA Education Foundation Scholarship Group.

Anastasia Azure (above left) of Oakland, California, received a $1,500 scholarship. A 2005 BFA graduate of the California College of Arts and Crafts, Azure combines jewelry arts and textiles into her work, creating woven pieces of graceful symmetry. A two-time Niche Award winner who has also been named a “Searchlight” emerging artist by the American Crafts Council, Azure plans to do graduate work at the Rhode Island School of Design. “They are the only school that teaches both CAD/CAM for jewelry making and computerized loom weaving,” she says

Lynette N. Andreasen of Mesa, Arizona, also received a $1,500 scholarship. She graduated magna cum laude with her BFA from Arizona State University in 2006, and plans to finish her MFA studies at the university in 2010.  Her dedication to her craft is matched by her dedication to community—she was creative arts supervisor for the Boys and Girls Club in Guadalupe, Arizona, and assistant for the local Boy Scout metalworking merit badge workshop.

Lucia Perluck of Philadelphia is no stranger to the MJSA scholarship process: Her $1,500 award this year was her fourth consecutive Foundation scholarship. A senior at the Tyler School of Art at Temple University in Philadelphia, she is pursuing a BFA in metals, jewelry, and CAD/CAM.

Davina Rae Romansky of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, is another multi-scholarship winner: She won a $1,200 scholarship this year, her third in a row. Recipient of a Louis Comfort Tiffany Foundation award for emerging artists and craftspeople, she is senior in the metals/jewelry design program at Rochester Institute of Technology. Upon graduation she plans to continue her studies at the New Approach School for Jewelers in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Marcy Mann, a student at Minneapolis Community and Technical College in Minneapolis, won a $1,000 scholarship. For 32 years, she says, she raised her children while also designing jewelry for a custom jeweler—“I have always loved and wonder how jewelry is made.” Recently, after she lost her job because of budget cuts, and with her youngest daughter graduating from high school, she decided that “now is the time for my education.’

The same could be said for all of the winners, thanks in part to their scholarships. The Foundation awards scholarships annually and distributes them in partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation.

Association welcomes tracking label requirements, continues to lobby for permanent exemption of children’s precious metal and gem-set jewelry

The Consumer Product Safety Commission, charged with enforcing the requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), unanimously approved a Statement of Policy on tracking label requirements in late July, providing needed clarification for manufacturers and suppliers of children’s jewelry that must abide by the act’s rules on lead content.

Among the clarifications was a statement that when items are too small to be marked, the required tracking information can be included on the packaging for the product instead.

“This is welcome news for MJSA members and all manufacturers and suppliers,” said David W. Cochran, president and chief executive officer of Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America. “Many small jewelry items lack the surface space for permanent labeling with the information required by the law.”

The CPSIA, passed in 2008, established a wide range of rules and regulations governing various safety issues affecting children’s consumer products, including jewelry. The tracking requirements of the law were included so that the source of products needing to be recalled could be located quickly and efficiently.

The new tracking labels policy was especially good news for small-volume manufacturers and crafters of children’s products: They learned that they don’t need to create a labeling system using lot, batch or run numbers, as long as they keep adequate records.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) also acknowledged suppliers’ need for more time to comply with the tracking labels requirement, which is set to go into effect on Aug. 14, 2009. The Commission said it would recognize manufacturers’ and importers’ good faith efforts toward compliance.

MJSA is still working hard in Washington to ensure that children’s jewelry made solely from precious metals and gems is permanently exempted from the requirements of the CPSIA. (Currently, such jewelry is temporarily exempted.) MJSA has educated government officials about the issues surrounding lead contamination in precious metal jewelry, pointing out that even in small amounts, lead can cause cracking and make karat gold jewelry unworkable. MJSA is also pressing the chair and ranking member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the U.S. House of Representatives to request that this exemption be made permanent by the CPSC. The committee plans hearings in the coming weeks about ongoing CPSIA compliance problems.

Since the law’s passage, MJSA has kept its members and the industry updated about the act’s requirements and CPSC clarifications, including the recent ruling that crystal and glass beads, including rhinestones and cubic zirconia, will fall under the requirements of the CPSIA. (By a recent 2-1 vote, the board of the Commission denied a petition submitted by MJSA and other associations, including the Fashion Jewelry Trade Association, requesting that these products be exempted from the law’s mandates.) MJSA is also reminding members that on Aug. 14, the lead limit in children’s jewelry drops from the current 600 parts per million (ppm), or 0.06 percent, to 300 ppm (0.03 percent). For paint or a similar surface coating on children’s jewelry, the standard goes from 600 ppm to 90 ppm on the same date.

To help its members comply with the law, MJSA has developed quality assurance programs that offer CPSC-accredited lab testing and consulting services at special rates. (The CPSIA mandates that jewelry designers and manufacturers must certify through third-party tests that their children’s jewelry meets the required standards, although children’s precious metal jewelry is temporarily exempted.)

The association has also published a guide to lead compliance, titled Lowering Lead, which contains step-by-step instructions on the compliance process, and includes information from the latest rulings.

MJSA and the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) have announced that MJSA’s EXPO West will be returning to the AGTA GemFair™ Tucson, which will run Feb. 2-7, 2010.

The EXPO West Pavilion will be housed in the Ballroom on the Galleria level, along with the Spectrum of Design Pavilion.  Exhibitors will feature manufacturing equipment, tools, supplies, contract services and the latest in new technologies.  MJSA’s At the Bench Live will feature ongoing bench demonstrations for attendees, showing the latest techniques for bench jewelers.

“Many of our GemFair attendees are manufacturing jewelers,” said Douglas K. Hucker, CEO of AGTA.  “So, it is important to ensure that they have products and services available at the show and live demonstrations to help them work more efficiently.”

“We are delighted to have EXPO West return to the AGTA GemFair Tucson,” said David Cochran, President and CEO of MJSA. “It’s an important venue for our members in that region, and we look forward to further developing it and expanding the rich blend of tools, technology and information available for manufacturing jewelers there.”

The AGTA is an Association of natural colored gemstone and cultured pearl industry professionals, dedicated to promoting the natural colored gemstone trade.

In a ruling welcomed by MJSA, the commissioners of the Consumer Product Safety Commission voted to exempt precious metals (karat gold, sterling, and platinum group metals) and gemstones from the testing and certification requirements for children’s products covered by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). MJSA had been lobbying in Washington for the precious metals and gems exclusion since the CPSIA was first promulgated. The vote took place Aug. 19, and the exemption became effective Aug. 26, the day it was published in the Federal Register.

The commissioners also voted to exempt the following materials sometimes used in jewelry manufacturing: titanium, most kinds of stainless steel, pearls, coral, amber, wood, natural and man-made fibers, bone, seashell, feathers, fur and leather.

The exemptions were granted, provided that the named materials haven’t been treated or changed in ways that would result in the addition of lead. They also do not apply to the non-steel or non-precious metal components of a product, such as solder or base metals in electroplate, clad, or fill applications:

For a complete list of exempted materials, see "Materials Exempted from CPSIA Lead Requirements" below.

“The jewelry industry has won an important victory over unnecessary regulation today,” says David Cochran, MJSA president and chief executive officer. “MJSA argued successfully that testing precious metal jewelry and gems does not make sense.” The association, which worked in partnership with the Fashion Jewelry Trade Association, proved that such products either are lead free or contain lead in such small amounts as to be below CPSIA lead safety requirements. "Today, the CPSC has agreed with us,” says Cochran.

Base Metals Makers and Sellers Must Still Comply
Though jewelry made from precious metals is now exempt from the new lead standards, manufacturers, suppliers and retailers of children’s jewelry containing base metals, must still follow the law. “It is still vitally important for those making and selling base metal jewelry to become familiar with the requirements of the CPSIA, since these products remain subject to the Act’s third party testing, certification and labeling requirements,” says Cochran.

Base metal manufacturers and suppliers can access a step-by-step guide to CPSIA compliance, entitled, Lowering Lead, at www.mjsa.org.

Retailers who sell base metal children’s jewelry can learn more about their obligations under the CPSIA by accessing the CPSC guide titled Guidance on the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) for Small Businesses, Resellers, Crafters and Charities. It is available at http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/smbus/cpsiasbguide.html.

The CPSIA, signed into law in 2008, sets federal standards for children’s products containing lead, including jewelry – along with safety regulations governing a wide array of other children’s products. On Aug. 14, 2009, the limit on how much lead can be contained in children’s jewelry dropped from 600 parts per million (ppm), or 0.06 percent, to 300 ppm. For paint or a similar surface coating on children’s jewelry, the lead standard went from 600 ppm to 90 ppm on the same date.

MATERIALS EXEMPTED FROM CPSIA LEAD REQUIREMENTS

The following materials do not exceed the lead content limits under section 101(a) of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, provided that these materials have neither been treated nor adulterated with the addition of materials that could result in the introduction of lead into the product or material. The list is derived from the Consumer Product Safety Commission staff’s final rule entitled: Children’s Products Containing Lead; Determinations Regarding Lead Content Limits on Certain Materials or Products; Final Rule, which can be accessed in its entirety at www.mjsa.org.

(1) Precious gemstones: diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald

(2) Semiprecious gemstones and other minerals, provided that the mineral or material is not based on lead or lead compounds and is not associated in nature with any mineral based on lead or lead compounds (excluding any mineral that is based on lead or lead compounds including, but not limited to, the following: aragonite, bayldonite, boleite, cerussite, crocoite, galena, linarite, mimetite, phosgenite, vanadinite, and wulfenite).

(3) Natural or cultured pearls.

(4) Wood.

(5) Paper and similar materials made from wood or other cellulosic fiber, including, but not limited to, paperboard, linerboard and medium.

(6) Printing inks that use the CMYK process (excluding spot colors, other inks that are not used in CMYK process, inks that do not become part of the substrate under 16 CFR part 1303, and inks used in after-treatment applications, including screen prints, transfers, decals, or other prints).

(7) Textiles (excluding after-treatment applications, including screen prints, transfers, decals, or other prints) consisting of:
(a) Natural fibers (dyed or undyed) including, but not limited to, cotton, kapok, flax, linen, jute, ramie, hemp, kenaf, bamboo, coir, sisal, silk, wool (sheep),
alpaca, llama, goat (mohair, cashmere), rabbit (angora), camel, horse, yak, vicuna, qiviut, guanaco;
(b) Manufactured fibers (dyed or undyed) including, but not limited to, rayon, azlon, lyocell, acetate, triacetate, rubber, polyester, olefin, nylon, acrylic,
modacrylic, aramid, spandex.

(8) Other plant-derived and animal-derived materials including, but not limited to, animal glue, bee’s wax, seeds, nut shells, flowers, bone, sea shell, coral, amber, feathers, fur, leather.

The following metals and alloys do not exceed the lead content limits under section 101(a) of the CPSIA, provided that no lead or lead-containing metal is intentionally added but does not include the non-steel or non-precious metal components of a product, such as solder or base metals in electroplate, clad, or fill applications:

(1) Surgical steel and other stainless steel within the designations of Unified Numbering System, UNS S13800 - S66286, not including the stainless steel designated as 303Pb (UNS S30360).

(2) Precious metals: gold (at least 10 karat); sterling silver (at least 925/1000); platinum; palladium; rhodium; osmium; iridium; ruthenium.

(3) Titanium.

Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America has scheduled a series of At the Bench Live demonstrations for its MJSA Expo West Pavilion, which will run Feb. 2-7 at AGTA GemFair Tucson. Conducted by some of the industry’s most renowned designers and jewelers, the interactive sessions will cover a range of solutions for bench challenges, from using CAD/CAM to set fancy-cut gems to repurposing gem-set heirlooms.

The sessions will take place outside the Ballroom on the Galleria. For more information about Expo West, click here. For more information about AGTA GemFair Tucson, click here.

The At the Bench Live sessions at Expo West will include:

Tuesday, Feb. 2
A Top-Notch Way to Micro-Pavé
Presenter: Lisa Krikawa
Award-winning jewelry designer Lisa Krikawa will demonstrate a pavé setting technique that, through the use of unique gravers, can set tiny diamonds and soft gemstones securely and accurately. Suitable for work on any scale, this technique can smooth production and help you to reduce quality control issues with your pavé bench operations.

Wednesday, Feb. 3
Craft and Creativity: Improvisation at the Bench
Presenter: Alishan Halebian
A master goldsmith renowned for bold and often provocative designs, Alishan will demonstrate how he improvises at the bench to create designs that best showcase specific gems.

Thursday, Feb. 4
Setting Fancy-Cut Gems 1: A Traditional Approach
Presenter: Lee Krombholz
Fancy-cut gemstones, with the subtle cut variations, present setters with numerous challenges. In this session, custom designer Lee Krombholz demonstrates traditional wax-working techniques to create cast settings that are appealing, secure, and lasting.

Friday, Feb. 5
Setting Fancy-Cut Gems 2: A CAD/CAM Approach
Presenter: Lee Krombholz
Lee Krombholz has won numerous awards for his computer-aided designs. Here, he shows how he uses CAD technology to create a wax model, then applies traditional bench techniques to ensure that model becomes a finished piece that safely and securely holds a fancy-cut gem.

Saturday, Feb. 6
Working on Heirloom Jewelry: Recycle, Repurpose, Rejuvenate
Presenter: Gary Dawson
More and more customers are asking jewelers to re-work the heirlooms they’ve inherited—jewelry that often has endured years of abuse, faulty repairs, and overall neglect. Goldsmith/designer Gary Dawson shows how to identify the hidden challenges in such pieces, safety remove the gemstones, and either recycle or repurpose them to create modern jewels.

Sunday, Feb. 7
Creating Unique Settings for Unusual Stones
Presenter: Gary Dawson
Jewelers often must fabricate their own settings to accommodate unusually shaped gemstones. Gary Dawson shows how to make the wire or sheet metal they need for a specific job, and how to fabricate a secure and attractive setting.

Illinois has amended its Lead Poisoning Prevention Act to include a warning label requirement—which it says is not preempted by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). Effective Jan. 1, 2010, the Illinois law requires that certain products for children age 12 and under (including jewelry) with a lead content that falls below the CPSIA’s current 300 parts per million (ppm) limit but is more than 40 ppm, must have a label with the following language: "WARNING: CONTAINS LEAD. MAY BE HARMFUL IF EATEN OR CHEWED. MAY GENERATE DUST CONTAINING LEAD."

How can the state pass new lead regulations, when the CPSIA was intended to preempt most state lead laws? The Illinois attorney general and legislature don’t think their amendment conflicts with the CPSIA, because that law doesn’t include warning labels (CPSIA only requires a tracking label). Illinois officials also want to warn residents of items containing lead that fall below CPSIA’s limits.

Manufacturers and importers that do not conform to the warning label requirement “risk being sued in Illinois for failure to disclose lead in children’s products,” says attorney John W. Moss. Based in the Washington, D.C., office of the law firm Winston & Strawn, Moss wrote an analysis of the Illinois amendment published by Law 360, an online legal information publication.

Moss says courts could conclude that failure to comply constitutes deceptive advertising under state laws. He adds that manufacturers complying with the new law could also sue competitors that don’t comply, “based on an unfair competition theory that lead-containing goods are being passed off as lead-free goods.”

Though the Consumer Product Safety Commission could still step in to argue that Illinois’s new law should be preempted by the CPSIA, Moss thinks that, ultimately, the issue will be resolved in court. Unfortunately, a recent trend in court decisions is for judges to rule against various federal preemptions of state product safety laws, in an attempt to preserve the traditional power of the states to regulate product safety, he says.

Given the CPSC’s recent exemption of precious metals and gems from the CPSIA’s testing and certification requirements (see August 2009 Up to Date), will this mean those materials will once again be subject to lead regulations? According to MJSA Lead Quality Assurance Program consultant J. Tyler Teague of JETT Research in Johnson City, Tennessee, once lead levels rise over 30 ppm, the lead begins to wreak havoc in precious metal jewelry, causing cracking. Thus, precious metal jewelry suppliers will likely find that their products contain less than the Illinois limit of 40 ppm. However, a supplier’s customers may still demand testing and certification to prove that such jewelry doesn’t require a label—in which case, manufacturers of precious metal and gem-set jewelry will be forced to make investments that, to many minds, aren’t warranted.

MJSA will monitor the Illinois law, give voice to the industry’s concerns, and provide updates if other states “copycat” this new warning label requirement. For a full text of the new Illinois Public Act 095-1019, click here: http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/fulltext.asp?Name=095-1019&GA=095.

To help its member companies best promote their products and services through trade media, MJSA has introduced a new benefit, the PR & Pix Program. The program provides an array of cost-effective services, including the preparation of a compelling press release; arrangements for photography, if needed; distribution of the release to the trade press; and follow-up with editors to ensure the release has been received.

“MJSA members with a new product or service need a strong, to-the-point press release and crisp, attractive photography, to ensure their news stays top of mind with today’s busy trade press editors,” says David Cochran, MJSA president and CEO. “The association’s new service not only delivers both, but it takes the extra step of ensuring the editors receive and are made aware of the submissions."

The press releases will be written by Peggy Jo Donahue, the former editor in chief of both JCK and Professional Jeweler magazines, who now provides media services to the jewelry industry and is MJSA’s director of public affairs. Photography is by Daniel Van Rossen, a well-known jewelry and gemstone photographer who shoots MJSA Journal’s striking covers. Van Rossen is fully insured and follows strict security procedures.

MJSA is making available these experts’ services at discounted prices–as low as $80 for a press release and $160 for six product photos.

E-mail info@mjsa.org or call 1-800-444-6572 for more information.

Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has alerted its members to take precautionary steps to ensure any base metal jewelry imported into the U.S. market is not made with cadmium. The alert came following an Associated Press (AP) investigation of U.S. retail outlets, in which 12 of 103 pieces of mainly Chinese-made children’s costume jewelry were found to contain dangerous amounts of the toxic metal—a finding that has spurred the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and state and federal legislators to vow regulatory action.

UPDATE: On Jan. 13, U.S. Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) introduced H.R. 4428, "The Children’s Toxic Metals Act," "to prohibit the manufacture, sale, or distribution in commerce of children’s jewelry containing cadmium, barium, or antimony, and for other purposes." (Click here for a copy of the bill.) Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) also announced that he would introduce a companion bill in the Senate, according to his office. (Click here for more information.)

Also on Jan. 13, CPSC Chairman Inez Tanenbaum wrote a "Guide for Parents: The Dangers of Heavy Metals in Children’s Jewelry" at the CPSC blog "On Safety." In it she said: "I have a message for parents, grandparents and caregivers: Do not allow young children to be given or to play with cheap metal jewelry, especially when they are unsupervised. We have proof that lead in children’s jewelry is dangerous and was pervasive in the marketplace. To prevent young children from possibly being exposed to lead, cadmium or any other hazardous heavy metal, take the jewelry away."

In its alert, MJSA noted that cadmium, when used, is mostly found in non-precious, white-metal alloys for cast costume jewelry, and in some solders. It also said that most solder and lead-free alloys now used in U.S. manufacturing had no cadmium added; if they had any cadmium at all, there would only be trace amounts.

To help jewelry designers, manufacturers, and retailers capitalize on consumer trends and thrive in 2010, MJSA Expo New York will present a series of seminars featuring the industry’s most esteemed leaders, analysts. All of the sessions will take place on the show floor during Expo New York’s three-day run (March 14-16 at the Hilton New York) and will be free of charge.

Sunday: Not Just Surviving, but Winning. If you want to walk away from Expo with a notebook full of applicable business and marketing strategies, don’t miss this day. "Surviving the Great Recession: Proven Ways to Deal with Challenging Times" (11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) and "What You Can Do Now: Winning Strategies for a Changed World" (2:30 to 4 pm.) will each be moderated by one of the industry’s leading consultants: Ben Janowski, president of The Janos Group Ltd. and Andrea Hill of Hill Management Consulting. Janowski has spent more than 20 years working with such prominent organizations as Golay-Buchel, Frederick Goldman, and De Beers. Hill is the former CEO of The Bell Group/Rio Grande, where she integrated strategic planning and designed organization and control systems to align the company. Janowski and Hill will lead a cross-section of industry executives, from major suppliers to designers to banks and financiers.

Monday: Focus on the Future. If you still don’t know the benefits of "tweeting" and "friending" on social media sites, or you want to tap into the trends of customized design and virtual inventory, you’ll want to attend the Monday sessions. "From Old Media to Social Media: Promoting Product in the 21^st Century" (11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) will feature Peggy Jo Donahue, MJSA’s director of public affairs; Carrie Soucy, a veteran journalist and current owner of Miamore Communications; and experienced marketers Ann Arnold of Lieberfarb, Veronica Wei Sopher of Ben Bridge Jeweler, and Michael Schechter of Honora. Later, from 2:30 to 4 p.m., hear from some of the industry’s leading CAD suppliers and custom jewelers-including Doug Kern of Gemvision and noted designers Lee Krombholz, Jim Tuttle, and Lisa Krikawa-as they take you into the world of "Future Stock: Putting the ’Custom’ in Customer."

Tuesday: Profiting by Design. To put it bluntly: If you want to meet world-class designers, you need to be here. Presented in partnership with the American Jewelry Design Council, the presentation features a partial "who’s who" of the jewelry design world: Consultant Marlene Richey (author of the MJSA Press book Profiting by Design), Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, and AJDC members Jose Hess (moderator), Michael Bondanza, Barbara Heinrich, William Schraft, and Diana Vincent. (Yes, it’s name dropping, but they’re good names.)

MJSA’s At the Bench Live: The association’s signature hands-on demonstrations return to Expo with sessions by JCK Rising Star Chris Ploof ("Working with Alternative Metals," Sunday) and the award-winning Krombholz ("Creating Custom Finishes," Monday). Both sessions start at 1 p.m.

For a full schedule, click here, or call 1-800-444-MJSA (6572).