The Gemological Institute of America has announced that celebrity jeweler and watchmaker Jacob Arabo of Jacob & Co. will be a featured guest speaker during the opening session of the Institute’s 16th annual Jewelry Career Fair on Friday, July 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

Arabo, who came to the United States from Russia when he was 16, began his jewelry career by enrolling in a jewelry design course. Soon after, Arabo started designing pieces in New York’s Diamond District for a number of jewelry labels and private clients. In 1986 Arabo opened his own business and began designing products under his brand, Jacob & Co. In the 1900’s, Arabo’s creations gained popularity with many music industry icons—as well the recording industry’s rising stars—and Arabo’s fame as a celebrity designer has continued to grow.

Career Fair participants also will have an opportunity to receive insights and tips from many noted jewelry industry leaders and experts. During several speaker sessions and workshops, such as “Marketing Yourself for Success,” attendees will learn about the latest employment trends, what employers are looking for, and how to maximize skills and training.

Career Fair also provides employers with an opportunity for recruiting, which takes place from 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Held twice a year, Career Fair was founded by GIA and The Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California. The VNU Jewelry Group is the prime sponsor for the New York Career Fair in July. The JCK Publishing Group and the 24 Karat Club of Southern California are prime sponsors for the Career Fair in Carlsbad, Calif., Sept. 29.

Employers interested in recruiting at either event can contact GIA’s Career Services office at (800) 421-7250, ext. 4195. Job seekers can call GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair hotline at (800) 421-7250, ext. 4100.