In light of the ongoing challenges with COVID-19 in the United States, the traditional weekend of jewelry events scheduled for January 2021 is being rethought.
The industry usually views 24 Karat Weekend as its kickoff for the new year. But it’s looking like just about all of the regularly scheduled events will likely move to different formats or, possibly, different dates.
The Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) and the Jewelers’ Security Alliance (JSA) are both scrapping their annual in-person luncheons, opting for online events.
The JVC’s virtual luncheon will take place on Jan. 8 and will include the regular presentation of its Stanley Schechter Award.
“We’re excited to offer an event that will allow attendees to join together for an afternoon of celebration and networking,” said president and CEO Tiffany Stevens in a statement.
JSA president John Kennedy says his group will not hold a standard in-person luncheon in January, but it will hold a virtual event around its traditional time. The date and time have not yet been determined, he says.
A note from Jeffrey Fischer, chairman of the 24 Karat Club of New York City, told members that “no concrete decisions” have been provided regarding its 2021 banquet.
“If any kind of physical 24 Karat Club event is going to be held in January, its size and scope will be greatly curtailed,” the note continued. “It will not entail the mass influx of guests traveling to New York for our customary festivities.
“Members do not need to be concerned about long-range planning for guests, travel, lodging, entertainment, etc., as in past years. Other industry organizations, anxious to know our plans for the 24 Karat weekend, around which they traditionally schedule their plans, should take this into account.”
Jewelers of America has not yet made any announcements about its 2021 Gem Awards.
Top: A past 24 Karat Club of New York City dinner (photo courtesy of the 24 Karat Club)
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