A new addition to the “Heirloom” collection, this one-of-a-kind piece features 32 custom-cut gemstones.
James Avery to Close Fredericksburg Workshop
The Texas-based jeweler will lay off 82 employees.
Kerrville, Texas—James Avery Artisan Jewelry will shutter its workshop in Fredericksburg, Texas, laying off 82 employees.
In a letter to the Texas Workforce Commission, the company said the closure was “due to unforeseen business circumstances” and is expected to be permanent.
The foundry operation within the facility and its associates will not be affected, the letter states.
There are no plans to close the jeweler’s manufacturing facilities in Kerrville, Comfort, and Hondo, Texas, a company spokesperson confirmed to National Jeweler.
Some Fredericksburg employees may be transferred to available positions at its Kerrville Craftsman Center, depending upon skill level, performance and other criteria.
The company said it will work with employees who are not given a transfer, offering a pay and benefits package, including four to eight weeks of pay and up to two weeks of accrued sick and paid personal time as well as health insurance for six months.
The jeweler began closing its stores and most of its manufacturing facilities in March in response to the coronavirus pandemic, followed by furloughs and salary cuts in April.
As for its furloughed workers, a company spokesperson said the jeweler will “call associates back on a limited basis as we reopen corporate offices, stores and manufacturing in the coming weeks.”
Most locations have been open as of April 24, offering contactless curbside pickup only.
The company said it hopes to reopen locations for in-store shopping soon, while following state recommended health protocols and Centers for Disease Control guidelines.
The family-owned jeweler operates 90 stores across four states with its jewelry available in more than 220 Dillard’s stores as well as in airport stores, select Army and Air Force Exchange Service locations, and on its website.
The Latest
Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.
From now through mid-May, GIA will be offering the reports at a 50 percent discount.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
De Beers’ rough diamond sales were down 18 percent year-over-year in its latest round of sales.
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show
The Patek Philippe expert will serve as personal curator for the brand-focused company.
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
The 553-square-foot shop is aboard the Carnival Jubilee cruise ship.
NDC filed a complaint against Skydiamond for use of phrases like “diamonds made entirely from the sky.”
John Carter received the AGS’s highest honor Tuesday afternoon at Conclave in Austin, Texas.
LVMH said the company performed well despite an uncertain geopolitical and economic environment.
It’s ultra-feminine and filled with gold, pearls, and soft pastels.
Emily Highet Morgan and Emily Bennett have joined the agency’s team.
Its updated book for mountings is also now available.
She has been with the organization since 2010, most recently serving as its chief officer of PR and industry relations.
Joyce’s Jewelry sued the bank after cybercriminals drained its accounts of nearly $1.6 million through a series of wire transfers.
He is remembered by loved ones for his loyalty, integrity, and kindness.
Hosted by Freeman’s | Hindman, the sale will take place May 7-8.
The auction house said all 24 timepieces offered in its underground sale of rare and avant-garde watches quickly found buyers.
From lab-grown diamonds and AI to the inevitable Taylor Swift mention, here are some of Conclave’s most intriguing educational offerings.
From cybersecurity liability to trade show coverage, insurance experts share tips on how to build the right policy.
The charm is a modern rendition of the evil eye amulet that has been worn for thousands of years.
Ahead of its trade show next month, TJS awarded free registration and accommodations to one jewelry professional and three students.
By the end of this year, SRK’s diamond manufacturing complexes will achieve net zero emissions, one of an impressive array of achievements.
Members can still sell lab-grown stones, it said, but only natural gems are allowed on the show floor.
He is remembered for his charisma, passion, integrity, kindness, and wit.