Canadian Jewelry Groups Combine

RAPAPORT… The Canadian Jewellers Association (CJA) has merged with Jewellers Vigilance Canada (JVC), aiming to create a stronger trade body, the groups said last week. The CJA appointed Brian C. Land (pictured), a past president of JVC who has extensive senior-management experience in Canadian retail, as its general manager.

“We are very excited about our opportunities to make the voice of the jewelry and watch industry stronger than ever before,” Land said. In his new role, Land will assist in developing an updated strategic plan and will also lead CJA’s 100th anniversary celebration events in 2018.

The merger was effective June 29, ending JVC’s 30-year run in which it served as an independent group advancing the ethical practices in Canada’s jewelry trade.

“By joining with the CJA we can ensure that those JVC initiatives will continue for another 30 years and more under the CJA,” said Jay Cameron, past chairman of JVC.

Following the merger, the CJA elected Umesh Shah, founder of RJB Diamonds, and Stephen Cole, president of Spicer Cole Fine Jewellers as co-chairmen of the board. Another 12 industry members rounded out the board of directors, including members who had previously served on the JVC and CJA boards.