The Jewelry Symposium (TJS) returned for its 2025 edition from May 17–20, bringing together more than 100 professionals for a three-day programme focused on advancing jewelry manufacturing technologies, addressing labor shortages, and exploring key issues such as traceability and sustainability.
Focus on Workforce Challenges
The event opened with a roundtable discussion among 48 industry professionals concerning the ongoing shortage of skilled labor in the fine jewelry sector. The session served as a platform for addressing a concern widely acknowledged across the trade, particularly as experienced craftspeople retire and fewer new entrants take their place.
“We are encouraged by the positive responses to the symposium this year,” states Linus Drogs, TJS Board Chairman. “The historic roundtable discussion on the issues we face attracting and retaining skilled workers in our industry was a lively jumpstart to the event. Given the uncertain economic times and the geopolitical turmoil, TJS this year felt like an assembly of solidarity, where we could discuss the difficult issues and learn from the lively exchange of ideas and information. This type of discourse is not really happening anywhere else, making an event like TJS all the more important for our industry.”
Technological and Material Innovation
TJS included 20 international speakers who presented 21 papers on topics such as applications of artificial intelligence, new platinum alloys, and updates in responsible sourcing practices. The sessions addressed ongoing efforts to apply automation and material innovation within jewelry manufacturing processes.
Emphasis on Sustainability and Traceability
Sessions also addressed the growing emphasis on sustainability, with a focus on gemstone traceability and responsible sourcing. These topics are becoming central to both consumer expectations and regulatory frameworks, particularly in key markets where environmental and ethical standards are under increasing scrutiny.
Networking and Mentorship
Alongside technical content, TJS incorporated structured networking sessions designed to foster dialogue among peers and facilitate mentorship between established professionals and emerging talent. Scholarship recipients and students were among the attendees, underscoring the event’s ongoing commitment to education and professional development within the trade.
Scholarship recipient Lucas Shoffner, apprentice at Studio D Jewelers, said: “The Jewelry Symposium has been an immensely valuable experience for me, providing an opportunity to network, foster relationships, and connect with industry leaders who are dedicated to supporting young professionals like me. I have had the privilege of engaging in discussions on a wide range of topics and gaining insights into diverse viewpoints within the jewelry industry. I strongly recommend that young jewelry professionals consider attending TJS.”
Longtime TJS attendee and presenter Chris Ploof, founder of Chris Ploof Designs, commented, “The Jewelry Symposium gets better every year. This year was a great mix of papers. There was knowledge shared that appeals to everyone in the jewelry industry. This really is the place to come to level up your game, if you want to make better jewelry.”
Presenter Katie Aboul-Hosn, Product Development Engineer at Ransom & Randolph, agrees with Ploof and Shoffner. “The things that TJS is accomplishing are outstanding. It can be very scary to newly enter such a large event where everyone knows each other. I felt fully welcomed with open arms. This speaks to the culture that the event organizers have helped to instill. I am so thankful for my experience here over these last few days! I had so much fun, and I look forward to coming back again.”
Presenter Marisol Jimenez Gonzalez, Managing Director at Legor Mexico commented, “It was an honor to share our Legor knowledge, connect with brilliant minds, and contribute to such a valuable platform for education and innovation in jewelry manufacturing. This event is truly a gem for anyone in the industry who values technical excellence, community, and staying ahead in our craft.”
