The program is said to help members stand out from the crowd while also increasing consumer confidence and professionalism within the industry.
“As the leading body for the jewellery industry, it is important for the Jewellers Association of Australia [JAA] to provide the best for both its member and jewellery consumers,” JAA executive director Amanda Hunter stated.
“Membership of the JAA signifies a business’ position as an ethical professional. JAA accreditation will validate an individual’s qualifications and experience.”
The program is based on a points system, with applicants required to undertake professional development courses or attend events in order to demonstrate their qualifications and experience. Those involved must achieve 10 points each year to maintain accreditation.
Seven types of accreditation are available across four categories: jewellery consultant or jewellery specialist under the retail category; manufacturing jeweller or master jeweller under the manufacturing category; supplier representative under the supply or wholesale category; and retail outlet or trade supplier under the business category.
Members that have successfully completed the program will be able to display accreditation through a range of material, including a certificate, counter card and window decal. Businesses will also be easily identifiable on the JAA website through the retail and supplier directories.
The introduction of an accreditation scheme has been on the JAA agenda for a number of years. As previously reported by Jeweller, the idea was first mooted at the Small Business Forum in 2010.
JAA treasurer Colin Pocklington said the board then formally recognised the need to develop a program during a strategic planning day in November 2012. The association subsequently made a call for industry feedback on a proposed program, with Pocklington explaining that a final structure for the scheme was developed in late 2014.
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