Mission, Vision & History

Our Mission

The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) supports and advances women working across all areas of the jewelry and watch industry. Through networking, mentorship, and education, we empower our members to lead with confidence, advance their careers, and build meaningful connections. WJA is a dynamic and welcoming community, championing women’s success and helping shape a more inclusive, forward-thinking industry.

Our Vision

WJA is entering an exciting new chapter of growth and impact. Building on our 40-year legacy, we’re expanding our reach, enhancing our programs, and deepening our commitment to creating an industry where women thrive at every level.

Our Founding

WJA was founded in the early 1980s, at a time when women in the jewelry industry had limited access to mentorship, professional networks, or formal support systems.

Boston-based jewelry sales representative Toni Lyn Judd, alongside Cindy Geller, imagined something different: a community where women could learn from one another, share opportunities, and grow together. That vision led to the formation of the New England Women in Jewelry group—the seed that would become WJA.

Later that year, at the JA New York Show, Judd and Geller shared the idea with New York–based industry leaders, including Tina Segal and Linda Orlick (Goldstein). The response was immediate and enthusiastic. In 1983, a group of prominent industry women formally established the Women’s Jewelry Association, the first women’s organization in the fine jewelry and watch industries.

Our Story

From its earliest days, WJA was built on a simple belief: when women support one another, entire industries change.

With bylaws ratified and nonprofit status established, WJA launched in New York City and quickly grew beyond its local roots. The New England Women in Jewelry group became WJA’s first regional chapter, setting the foundation for a national network of communities.

Over time, WJA expanded its programs to include:

Educational panels and industry programming
Mentorship and leadership development
Scholarships and grants supporting education and career growth
National recognition through the Awards for Excellence

As the organization evolved, WJA also welcomed men as associate members—recognizing the importance of allyship in advancing women across the industry.

What began as a small gathering of women with a shared need became a powerful professional community spanning North America.

WJA Today

Today, WJA represents every facet of the jewelry and watch industries, with more than 1,500 members across over 15 communities in North America.

Our members include:

Students and emerging professionals
Designers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers
Entrepreneurs, executives, and industry leaders

Through local, national, and virtual programming, WJA provides:

Networking and community-building
Education and professional development
Mentorship, scholarships, and grants
Leadership opportunities and national recognition

WJA continues to honor its founders’ vision—creating access, opportunity, and connection for women at every stage of their careers.

A Leadership Legacy

WJA’s impact is powered by dedicated volunteer leaders who have guided the organization forward for nearly four decades.

We honor the presidents who have shaped WJA’s growth and direction:

Gabrielle Grazi (2024 - present)
Susan Chandler (2022–2024)
Jacqueline Cassaway (2020–2021)
Jenny Luker (2018–2019)
Brandee Dallow (2016–2017)
Andrea Hansen (2014–2015)
Tryna Kochanek (2012–2013)
Kendra Bridelle (2010–2011)
Yancy Weinrich (2008–2009)
Ann Arnold (2006–2007)
Anna Martin (2002–2005)
Phyllis Bergman (1998–2001)
Rachel Rosin (1996–1997)
Helene Fortunoff (1992–1995)
Tina Segal (1990–1991)
Linda Goldstein (1986–1989)
Gerry Gewirtz (1984–1985)

Their leadership—and the commitment of countless volunteers—has built the strong, unified community WJA is today.

Become a Member