Independents

Chicago Jewelers’ Association Celebrates 145 Years

IndependentsNov 25, 2019

Chicago Jewelers’ Association Celebrates 145 Years

The theme of the black-tie gala to fete the occasion in January is the lasting power of both the organization and jewelry’s place in special moments.

Chicago—The Chicago Jewelers’ Association is ringing in its 145th year with a black-tie gala this January.

The event is titled “Rising to the Challenge Today … Tomorrow … Forever,” a nod to the organization’s plan to “be around for a long time to come.”

“The Chicagoland area is an important link bridging the east with the west in the jewelry industry,” said CJA President Rodger Kadet in a press release announcing the event.

“We have a strong pulse on what the average American is looking for in the jewelry they wear.”

The CJA, one of the oldest jewelers’ associations in the U.S., noted that while the industry continues to evolve, jewelry still plays an important role in celebrating life’s milestones.

The gala will showcase the organization’s historical milestones through a series of lit displays.

Guests will also hear from several recipients of the Tom Foody Scholarship Program, named after a late member of the organization; the fund has raised a quarter of a million dollars in scholarship funds for Chicago high school students looking to continue their education.

Cocktail music will be provided by Peter Lerner’s Jazz Trio followed by dinner and dancing music by The Gentlemen of Leisure. Attendees can also enter for a chance to win a diamond.

The gala will be held on Saturday, Jan. 18 at the Hotel Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile.

For more information, contact CJA president Rodger Kadet by phone at 312-609-0500 or by email at rodger@rodgerkadetltd.com.

Lenore Fedowis the senior editor, news at National Jeweler, covering the retail beat and the business side of jewelry.

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