SCHAUMBURG, IL July 25-28, 2025
The Right Fit
I’M ON MY WAY HOME after several days in Las Vegas at JCK, and I always return with a sense of renewed energy, fresh ideas, and excitement for the future of our industry. JCK continues to be one of the most influential events in our industry, and RJO is proud to attend and use the experience as a valuable opportunity to grow, connect, and evolve as an organization.
In the weeks leading up to the event, the RJO team is already hard at work. One of our top priorities is making sure our retailers are prepared to maximize their time at JCK. We share a list of RJO vendor partners exhibiting at the show and encourage retailers to “shop RJO-first,” keeping their dollars—and their dividends—within the group. This early connection helps reinforce the value of our vendor partnerships and sets the stage for purposeful buying.
Once we’re on the show floor, the RJO Merchandise Review Committee (MRC) is busy meeting with prospective vendors. These booth visits allow us to evaluate potential new partners, ensuring they align with RJO’s commitment to service, quality, and support for the independent jeweler. We’re not just looking for good products— we’re looking for great fits for our community.
RJO Board News
ANNUAL RJO BOARD OF DIRECTORS VOTING
JCK also gives us a great opportunity to visit with our current vendor partners. We stop by booths to reconnect, say hello, and thank them for their continued support of RJO. These moments of face-to-face connection are part of what makes our vendor relationships so strong—built on trust, communication, and shared goals.
Beyond vendor meetings, JCK provides a valuable opportunity for our team to network with a broad range of industry professionals. We’re listening, learning, and keeping our finger on the pulse of the industry. These insights help us ensure RJO remains the most forward-thinking and relevant buying group we can be.
JCK is a powerful platform—and our involvement in it is intentional. It’s about helping our retailers and vendors thrive. And it’s about continuing to strengthen RJO from every angle.
We can’t wait to see you next month in Schaumburg, where we’ll bring this energy, insight, and connection home.
Sarah Streb RJO CEO
Congratulations to Sarah Stegeman on her re-election to the RJO Board of Directors and to Liz Chamberland on her election to the Board. The experience, perspective, and energy they bring to RJO’s leadership are significant.
Voting for the third opening resulted in a tie between Joe Schiavone and Andy Cline. Both candidates agreed to a runoff election, providing a meaningful way for members to have their say in this important decision. At the conclusion of the runoff, Andy Cline was elected to the Board.
This year, approximately 13 percent of RJO membership voted, with 153 members casting ballots. While turnout was lower than hoped, we want to emphasize every vote mattered—and the voices of those who participated were heard and valued.
S E R V I C E S
Centralized Billing
Patronage Dividend
RJO Website (rjomembers.com)
Buying Shows (Summer/Winter)
In the Loupe – RJO’s newsletter
RJO Exclusive on Facebook
Educational Seminars (at the Buying Shows)
Member-to-Member
Incentive Program (Recruitment Program)
Organized Buying Trips to Antwerp and IdarOberstein
RJO Directory
Travel Vouchers at Shows (offered at varying times)
Free Hotel Room Incentive (at the Buying Shows)
RJO Informational Email Blasts
Purchase Vouchers (at the Buying Shows)
RJO Membership Certificate
RJO Next Gen and RJO Succession Experiences
JewelConnect, RJOmeet.me, and RJOCustomHatch
Scholarship Opportunities (from the RJO Foundation)
From RJO’s Facebook Page
THE MEMBERS-ONLY RJO EXCLUSIVE PAGE ON FACEBOOK hosts a variety of interesting discussions every day. Here is an edited exchange from earlier this month:
Post: Retailers, do you offer a full-trade policy when clients upgrade their diamond eternity band? Do you offer full credit toward a new item, or a partial trade? I have a client wanting to trade in the eternity band she bought from me years ago. How do you handle trades toward a new piece if it’s an eternity band?
Response One: I consider each case individually. If it’s a major upgrade, I might offer full trade-in value. You could also consider having the original ring remade and selling it as new. Be sure to build some margin into the price of the new ring. If the upgrade isn’t significant, you could charge a restocking fee. Let the customer know you can’t resell the current piece as-is and it will need to be remade. Set the restocking fee at 15% to 20%, or whatever amount makes sense for your time and costs. That’s my take.
Response Two: This is why working with a vendor that specializes in eternity bands is so helpful. Find one that offers a trade-in and upgrade program specifically for eternity bands.
Response Three: Depending on the trade value and what she’s planning to buy, if you’re making a 30% to 40% clean profit, you could offer a full-trade or perhaps 75% of the original amount paid.
Response Four: I agree. As long as you’re making money at the end of the day, that’s what matters.
Response Five: It depends on what they’re giving back to us. I sold a gorgeous oval eternity band a couple of years ago, and the client came in today to pick up a new ring. We cleaned her eternity band and discovered several of the ovals were chipped. That’s always a risk, especially with eternity bands.
Original Poster: I understand—it can definitely be risky, especially if there are chipped stones. This client is trying to trade in a 1 carat total weight, princess-cut, prong-set eternity band.
Response Six: Yikes! That’s not a shape I have many clients for. I’d have a hard time offering much. I’ve got melee bottles full of princess cuts we’ve accumulated, and they seem to multiply.
Focusing on Community Service & Impact
Apply Today for The Mike Pribyl Endowment Scholarship
THE MIKE PRIBYL ENDOWMENT SCHOLARSHIP was established to honor the legacy of former RJO Foundation President Mike Pribyl and his unwavering commitment to serving others. This scholarship recognizes RJO members and vendors who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to community service and making a meaningful impact in their communities.
Recipients of this scholarship will be awarded funds that may be used for one of two purposes:
A Community Service Project: Funds can be used to support a specific community service initiative and/or a project designed and led by the recipient. This may include purchasing supplies, funding outreach efforts, or implementing programs that create a positive change in the community.
Continuing Education:
Scholarship funds can also be applied toward tuition, books, or other educational expenses at an accredited college, university, or vocational/trade school. This award seeks to empower members who embody the spirit of service and leadership, ensuring their passion for helping others continues to grow, whether through direct action or further education. To apply for the Mike Pribyl Endowment Scholarship, please complete the application by June 23, 2025. As noted on this application, please be sure to send at least one letter of recommendation to Connie Miller by the deadline.
RJO Foundation Fun and Games (and Support) in
Game Night
Enjoy many favorite family games in giant sizes, including Connect Four, Jenga, Checkers, and Bags—all in a casual, social setting for everyone to enjoy at next month’s Summer Buying Show. In support of the RJO Foundation, entry is $50 per ticket and includes one drink ticket, appetizers, and— most importantly—all the bragging rights that come with a little friendly competition. It’s a win-win for everyone! Not yet registered? Retailers can add tickets when completing their registration form.
Already registered? Contact the RJO Office. Both retailers and vendors can add tickets to their registration by contacting Jodi Flaherty (vendors) or Kristi Nelson (retailers).
This event is sponsored by: Aarush Diam LLC and Jewel360.
Schaumburg
Shimmer and Shine in a Show Shirt
Sport your official Show shirt on Sunday while on the Show floor. Colors available are: berry, purple, black, and coral, in sizes Small to 4XL. For best size and color selection, order now. Show shirts are sponsored by: Diamond Expressions, Inc., TracTech Systems, Inc., Don Conkey and Sons Inc., Vimco Diamond Corp., and Light & Star USA (dba Spark Jewels).
Raise Your Spirits Raffle
Savor the anticipation and the chance to win coveted bottles crafted and prized around the world. Tickets are $20 each or 7 for $100 and are available at the RJO registration desk and during Foundation Game Night. Proceeds benefit the RJO Foundation Mike Pribyl Endowment Scholarship, and spirits are generously donated by the family of Mike Pribyl.
RJO retailer Mike Doland will once again be raffling an original coveted diamond artwork. Tickets are $20 or 7 for $100 and are available at the RJO registration desk and during Game Night.
100+ Club/Diamond Club
Interested in becoming a member? Visit the Foundation Booth at the Show or contact Connie Miller to join today.
Diamond Art Raffle
Sign Up for RJO’s Management Development Program (MDP)
RJO IS LAUNCHING a program designed to boost management skills and foster leadership growth within RJO stores. RJO’s Management Development Program (MDP) will launch this September. It is an immersive boot camp (September 22-25, 2025) sponsored by Jewelers Mutual and presented by Optimum Retail Solutions (ORS).
MDP was created in partnership with ORS and is guided by a steering committee of RJO retailers whose focus is to address the real needs of retail members. The program will be divided into three phases, starting with Phase One, which focuses on core management principles like effective communication, team development, performance and conflict management, problem-solving, planning, and financial oversight. The later phases will build on these skills, introducing more advanced leadership strategies.
Only 60 spots are available, and registration is now open.
Once the spots are filled, a waitlist will be created. The cost for Phase One is $1,495, plus travel and lodging, which includes prework instruction, on-site training, course materials, quarterly follow-ups, and food and beverages during the event. The Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook Chicago will serve as the event venue.
Click here for the MDP Registration Form.
For any questions about RJO’s Management Development Program, contact Sarah Streb or Sabrina Smead.
RJO Rock Tour Ready to Rumble This October
YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS IN ANTWERP, Belgium, where you’ll gain VIP access to premier vendors in the Diamond District, including Fischler Diamonds, Star Solitaire, IGC Jewelry, Shivani Gems, Horizon Diamonds, and S. Vinodkumar. Shop with ease by
sending your wish list in advance, giving you extra time to explore the city and network with peers over elegant dinners and receptions each evening. Plus, deepen your custom design and AI knowledge with an exclusive session from RJO custom design Rock Tour Partner, Star Gems.
Next, the Rock Tour heads to Florence, Italy, where you can soak in the rich history, art, and culture. You can now sign up for the exclusive RJO optional one-day trip to Arezzo, the “City of Gold,” with Oro International. Here, you’ll witness Italian artisans mastering their craft in goldsmith production and enjoy a delightful local lunch. Please note: Only those participating in the full itinerary will be eligible to travel with RJO to Italy.
The RJO Rock Tour is an exclusive journey designed to elevate your buying expertise, expand your industry connections, and immerse you in the world of fine jewelry and gemstones‚ —all while enjoying incredible travel experiences. This tour is more than just a buying trip; it’s an opportunity to refine your skills, discover unique sourcing options, and build lasting relationships, all while experiencing two of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.
How Do I Learn More About the Rock Tour?
You can always visit the RJO website, where you can sign up for Rock Tour 2025. But even better is meeting in person at this summer’s Buying Show. On Saturday, July 26, at 8:30 in the morning, there will be a “Rock Tour Connects” seminar.
Vendor Profile
Gesswein: Four Generations of Leadership & Growth
THE LIFE CYCLE OF MANY SUCCESSFUL multigenerational businesses typically follows a slow upward growth curve that eventually levels off into a consistent plateau over the course of decades. Someone forgot to tell that to Gesswein—a provider of high-quality precision metalworking tools, equipment, training, and service for more than 100 years.
“We are a fourth-generation family business serving jewelers since 1914,” says marketing manager Lauren Gesswein. “Paul H. Gesswein founded our company in lower Manhattan to provide local jewelers with the highest quality tools on the market. With that same spirit, we continue to help jewelers worldwide—from independent artisans to large-scale manufacturers and retailers. Our goal is to empower our customers to achieve better results through state-of-the-art tools, technical expertise, and personalized support.”
From a small shop in Manhattan, Gesswein has grown steadily and expanded both in size and geography. In the 1920s, the company published its first catalog. In the 1950s, it introduced Gesswein finishing stones to the international market. The 1960s saw a move to a larger New York headquarters on Park Avenue. A decade later, the company opened a finishing stone manufacturing plant in Connecticut, founded Gesswein Canada, and relocated its headquarters to Bridgeport, CT. In the 1980s, it established Gesswein Siam in Thailand. In the 21st century, Gesswein created Gesswein Trading in Mumbai, India, and further expanded its Bridgeport headquarters.
Throughout all these years, the company has remained in the hands of the founding family. Today, Greg Gesswein serves as president and CEO, and Roger Gesswein is vice president. This continuity has helped secure the company’s respected position in the jewelry industry.
“We offer a diverse selection of over 15,000 tools, equipment, and supplies for jewelry manufacturers and retailers,” says Lauren. “Key product lines include bench tools and consumables, along with advanced equipment such as laser welding, engraving, casting, electropolishing, and more. We also provide inperson technical and application training for our advanced equipment.”
Gesswein has a long history of supporting RJO ventures and is a sponsor of The Bench Jeweler Experience at RJO’s upcoming Summer Buying Show.
“Our goal as an RJO vendor is to be an active and engaged part of the organization,” says Lauren. “We’re committed to supporting sponsorships that focus on education and bench skills development— because we believe in offering more than just tools. Education is powerful, and we want to play a role in training and supporting the next generation of bench jewelers. Our products and services are now more tailored to the retail jeweler than ever before. With our deep focus on tools and technology, we feel wellpositioned to bring meaningful value back to the RJO community.”
She adds that Gesswein’s international presence in Canada, India, and Thailand offers a valuable perspective on the global jewelry industry. This broader view helps the company better understand emerging trends and share that insight with RJO customers, enabling them to “stay dynamic and ahead of the curve.”
“We love learning about the unique businesses that make up the RJO community,” Lauren continues. “We’ve had many interesting conversations already and enjoy figuring out how we can help solve problems and expand retailers’ workshops to drive business growth.”
Gesswein is located at 201 Hancock Avenue in Bridgeport, CT. Phone: (475) 445-5975
Website: www.gesswein.com
Can Artificial Intelligence Replace Your Online Provider?
By Andy Boundy MyStore.Jewelry
IT SEEMS EVERY INDUSTRY EVENTUALLY faces challenges due to new technology. This has been true since the Industrial Revolution in the mid-to-late 1700s and continues to impact every business, everywhere.
Certainly, the retail jewelry industry has seen significant challenges from e-commerce, the rise of mega-retailers selling online, and even web-based custom design and repair systems competing for local customers. Now, with the recent rise of artificial intelligence (AI), it’s web developers and online providers who face new threats from systems that claim they can replace the services we provide.
So, how good is AI? How much of a threat is it to me—the provider—and how useful is it to you—the retailer? To explore this, I looked at a few different options. First—and perhaps most interesting to me— is the chat AI route. Can a service like ChatGPT create a website? The answer is yes: this kind of system can design a basic website and provide the code. But it’s often a design struggle. The result is typically very generic, static, and limited in features. Also, receiving some design and code does not equal a fully functioning website. There’s much more involved.
I believe if a business owner were particularly techsavvy, had access to hosting and DNS, was familiar with a CMS like WordPress, and—oh—had a bunch of time to pull it all together, this approach could get them 75 percent or more of the way. Happily, for providers like me, I doubt many RJO jewelers would choose this route. Most I’ve met don’t fall into that demographic—especially given the time, technical know-how, and hassle required.
What about online website builders? These have been around for years. AI does enhance them, but
the core offering remains the same. I think they can work for small startups, with limited budgets and the time to manage things themselves. Despite the promises of simplicity, there is a learning curve. These platforms also rarely stick to the advertised price; unnecessary features and “add-ons” often become necessities, not luxuries. Again, given the demands on a retailer’s time, I don’t see a major threat here.
AI-generated content, however, does have some merit. Adding regular blog content improves user experience, boosts SEO, and keeps your website fresh, and AI performs reasonably well at creating content. It can also help generate ideas and some simple graphics. But be cautious about trusting the process entirely. I recently worked with a client using AI-generated content, and not only was some of it irrelevant, but some was factually incorrect. It all had to be pulled. So, while AI can take you part of the way, human oversight is still critical before publishing under your name.
There are several website providers in RJO, each with a unique approach. All have experience in the jewelry industry, create sites tailored to jewelers’ needs, and have been vetted by the group. In this way, we can draw a parallel to retail: the value added by a provider matters.
Can AI services replace your web designer? Yes. Can a shopper buy jewelry and related services online? Also, yes.
There are always buying options. But in the end, it comes down to the provider’s service, expertise, and experience—balanced against the buyer’s time, interest, hassle tolerance, and budget.
Every buying decision ultimately comes down to a seller’s trust and service in a world where nearly everything can be purchased online from a nameless computer somewhere.
The Power of Clarity: Clear Thinking Strengthens Businesses
Bhavin Mehta NUNU
How Clarity Transforms Ideas into Impact
Every business starts with a spark—an idea, a vision, a dream. But as a company grows, so do the distractions. Goals pile up. Meetings stretch longer. To-do lists never end. Somewhere along the way, things start to feel cloudy. Decisions take longer. Teams become misaligned. Energy dips. That’s when many leaders ask the wrong question: “What more should I do?” But sometimes, growth isn’t about doing more— it’s about seeing more clearly.
Welcome to the clarity zone: the true accelerator of business growth.
In more than 25 years of leading and transforming businesses, I’ve witnessed one truth again and again: the most successful companies aren’t always the loudest or the busiest; they’re the clearest. Clarity helps leaders cut through noise, eliminate clutter, and take confident action. It builds trust, creates focus, and drives results.
Here’s why clarity matters more than ever in today’s fast-moving business world:
Clarity in Vision: Know What You Truly Want
Many businesses chase growth without defining what it actually means. More revenue? More clients? A bigger team? Unless the destination is clear, the journey will always feel confusing. A clear vision is simple, specific, and shared by everyone on the team. It becomes the North Star that guides all decisions. It helps you say “yes” to what matters—and “no” to what doesn’t.
Clarity in Communication: Say What You Mean
Confusion is expensive. Misunderstood instructions, unclear expectations, and vague feedback waste time and energy. When leaders speak with clarity, teams perform better. Clear communication isn’t about using big words or corporate jargon. It’s about being honest, direct, and human. It means saying what needs to be said—even when it’s uncomfortable.
The best leaders simplify. They listen more. They explain goals clearly. They ensure everyone understands their role and how it connects to the larger mission. That’s how alignment is built.
Clarity in Strategy: Focus on What Moves the Needle
A scattered strategy leads to scattered results. Many businesses try to do too much at once— launching new initiatives without finishing the old. The result? Burnout and slow progress.
Strategic clarity means focusing on a few key priorities that deliver the greatest impact. It’s about finding your edge—what sets you apart— and doubling down on it.
My approach to strategic clarity is simple: Ask yourself: What are we good at? What does the market truly need? Where do these two meet?
The answers often lead to a sharp, effective game plan that produces real results.
Clarity in Leadership: Be the Calm in the Storm
Leaders who stay grounded, focused, and transparent during challenges earn lasting trust and
respect. Leadership clarity shows up in decisions, in behavior, and in consistency. It’s the ability to cut through the chaos and say, “This is the path we’ll take.”
Having coached leaders across industries, my advice is this: Be still before you act. Reflect before you react.
When a leader is clear within, their actions inspire confidence in others.
Final Thoughts: Clear Mind. Clear Message. Clear Results
Clarity isn’t a luxury—it’s a business essential. It reduces friction. It improves speed. It shapes culture.
When your business has clarity:
• Your team knows what to do.
• Your customers know what to expect.
• You, as a leader, move with power and purpose.
You don’t need more noise. You need more clarity.
Businesses should seek to unlock clarity, to help founders and teams strip away the clutter and focus on what truly drives growth. In the end, it’s not just about the plan or the process—it’s the clarity behind it that makes all the difference.
Protect Your Jewelry Business When the Power Goes Out
THERE ARE MANY REASONS your jewelry business could lose power that don’t involve criminal activity. High winds from a storm, a traffic accident, a planned outage, or even a critter chewing on power lines can all trigger an outage— and any of these can disrupt your business operations.
While power outages are common, they are usually unexpected and can be costly—especially if you don’t have business insurance.
Here are a few steps you can take before, during, and after a power outage to help protect your jewelry business.
Before an Outage
• Create a business continuity plan that includes power outages as a potential disruption. Share the plan with your employees and update it annually.
• Invest in backup power such as a generator or battery. A typical alarm system has a battery backup that lasts approximately 6–8 hours, depending on the number of devices. For businesses in coastal or highoutage areas, we recommend a backup power source that can last at least 72 hours.
• Back up and encrypt your data to an external hard drive or the
cloud monthly. Keep copies of records at an off-site location.
• Confirm your burglar alarm system has operational line security to protect your business if the power is lost or intentionally cut.
• Update your call list so alarm system notifications during outages reach employees who are available—even during vacations, weekends, and holidays
• Safeguard your business with a comprehensive insurance policy that covers business personal property, the building, nonjewelry inventory, business income, and other liabilityrelated risks, including fire and crime.
During an Outage
• Lock your doors and move as much inventory as possible into a locked safe or vault.
• Avoid leaving items in plain sight. Simply covering showcases can signal valuables are hidden, potentially attracting attention.
• Report the outage to your utility provider. If you sense any immediate danger to yourself, customers, or employees, call 911.
• Consider hiring supplemental security while your alarm system is down. For help selecting a provider, contact our Asset Protection team.
• Arrange for Malca-Amit to transport inventory to a secure storage facility or move your stock to a nearby bank safe, if it’s safe to do so. Jewelers Mutual policyholders may be eligible for coverage of Malca-Amit fees.
• Turn off and unplug business equipment and small appliances. If left on, they could be damaged by a power surge when electricity is restored.
After an Outage
• Test the power by turning on a light before restoring all equipment and appliances. Wait at least 15 minutes to ensure the power is stable before fully powering up.
• Turn off and safely store your generator.
• Assess your losses (if any) and follow proper procedures to file a claim with your insurance company.
Year-Round
• Make sure your business has the right insurance coverage. Don’t assume having a policy means you’re protected from every threat. Ask yourself:
- Are my inventory figures up to date?
- Is my building and business personal property accurately valued?
- Could I be liable for damage to neighboring property?
- Will I be covered for lost income if my business must temporarily close?
Want to learn more about how to keep your jewelry store safe 24/7? Read Jewelers Mutual’s comprehensive Jeweler Security Guide.
Jeweler Profile
S&E
Jewelers:
Affordable Luxury in Buffalo, NY
JUST OFF THE EASTERN coast of Lake Erie, half a mile from the Buffalo, NY, airport, lies S&E Jewelers and Riverside Men’s Shop. The co-owners of both businesses—which operate side by side under one large roof— are James and Natalie Neumann. Neither is the “S” or “E” from the jewelry store’s name.
“The name S&E reflects the initials of the original partners,” says Natalie. “Because of the store’s long-standing community presence, we chose to continue using the name. Jim has lifelong experience in the jewelry industry as a diamond specialist and designer, and I have degrees in men’s fashion and finance. I handle all the business operations and marketing for both of our companies.”
These iconic retail businesses are well-known in the western New York area, which encompasses an area of more than 35 miles. The couple shares a vision to continue the legacies of fine jewelry and fine men’s clothing. S&E Jewelers has been “making memories in fine jewelry” for 77 years—since 1948. Riverside Men’s Shop has been “suiting up the men of Buffalo” for 107 years—since 1918.
“Now more than ever, our customers are being led by their hearts to create heirloom pieces and make lifelong commitments,” says James. “Together, our stores revolve around the commitment and celebration of marriage. Our jewelry store offers custom design, a full showroom of stock for every occasion, and engagement rings, wedding bands, and attendant gifts. Our men’s store allows groomsmen to own their suits for the price of renting. We suit up the groom and the entire wedding party. With a goldsmith on-site and a full tailor shop, we are a one-stop experience.”
S&E Jewelers carries a large selection of loose, graded, and certified diamonds from which customers can hand-select the diamond of their choice. The store offers hundreds of designer settings and diamond mountings to choose from, as well as the opportunity to custom design their own. Natalie says providing customers with “affordable luxury” is what sets S&E apart. She’s proud to offer designs from around the world—featuring both the newest trends and timeless, traditional styles—all at affordable prices.
S&E Jewelers marked its first year as an RJO member just this month.
“One of our vendors suggested we look into RJO,” says Natalie. “When we did, we were impressed with their focus on independent jewelers and how invested they were in our success. We decided RJO would be financially beneficial for our company, with the added discounts and yearend rebate checks. Our first Buying Show was awesome. We had meetings with current vendors and met new ones. Also, the RJO staff was incredibly welcoming.”
The couple is now looking forward to joining other RJO members on this October’s Rock Tour.
“We’ve heard many great things about how this trip can help enhance our business,” says James. “We appreciate that everything—including group gatherings—was planned out for us, aside from air travel. We’re eager to experience Antwerp and visit the Florence gold factory. Gaining more knowledge and experience can only strengthen our customer relationships.”
S&E Jewelers is located at 6470 Transit Road in Depew, NY
Phone: (716) 832-1595
Website: www.sandejewelers.com
THE DATE FOR
July 25-28 • Schaumburg, IL
Winter 2026 • Phoenix, AZ
August 2026 • Lexington, KY
February 2027 • Grapevine, TX
July 2027 • Kansas City, MO
Winter 2028 • TBA
July 2028 • Schaumburg, IL
Come for the shimmer; stay for the shine.
Join us in Schaumburg, IL, the host city for RJO’s Summer Buying Show at the end of July. The sparkle of beloved colleagues, tried-and-true seminars, cheery receptions, and Show floor dazzle will blend with a number of surprises that are shiny and new.
Member Registration Deadline: June 26
Schaumburg Convention Center
1551 N. Thoreau Dr. Schaumburg, IL
Our host hotel is the Renaissance/Schaumburg Convention Center
RJO will cover up to three nights stay for qualifying stores at the base rate.* Additional room block locations:
•Courtyard Chicago
Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall
•Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Schaumburg Woodfield
•Residence Inn Chicago
Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall
•Springhill Suites Chicago
Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall
To ensure the safety of all our members and vendors, we will be requiring a photo ID and business card at registration check-in. These items will need to be presented to receive your badge for access on the Show floor and ANY sponsored events held at the host hotel.
RJO Vendors are sponsoring one (1) $10.00 “concession stand coupon” per store, to be used Sunday on the Show floor. This is a courtesy from your RJO Vendor Partners.
To and from the Renaissance/Schaumburg Convention Center and all hotel properties listed.
Purchase vouchers will be in effect during the Show, and applicable to all of your purchases from our vendors. Your specific voucher percentage—up to an additional 3 percent off each purchase—will be based on your store’s 2024 purchase total. This information will be available at the Show registration desk, or you can call us.
2024 Purchase Total Additional Discount on All Show Purchases
$1,000,000 or greater: 3%
$750,000 - $999,999.99: 2.75%
$500,000 - $749,999.99: 2.5%
$200,000 - $499,999.99: 2%
$150,000 - $199,999.99: 1.5%
$100,000 - $149,999.99: 1%
Important: All vouchers must be completed by you and submitted to the RJO registration desk prior to the end of the Buying Show. Show voucher terms are six months.
Show & Event Schedule
Friday, July 25
Bench Jeweler Experience**
1 – 5:30 p.m.
(Registration required)
Vendor Affiliate Meetings 2 – 6 p.m.
(See Registration Packet for times and details)
• Alamea: Multi-Faceted RJO Source for Merchandise That Moves!
• M. Geller: Improving Natural Diamond Memo & Ordering Results in the LabGrown World
• Imperial Pearl: Pearls 2025: A New Point of View
• Teva Diamonds: Natural Earth-Mined HPHT Diamonds: Innovating the Diamond Industry
• Gems One: Navigating Challenges: Maximizing Holiday Sales in a Shifting Economy
• IDD: Close More Sales with the IDDeal Card: Turn Shoppers into Buyers
• Octillion Media: Cashing in on the Changes in Audience Targeting and Media—Behaviors to Maximize Return on Ad Spend
• National Rarities: Growing Your Business Through Events
• EDGE: Unlocking the Power of the Edge: New Features & Updates You Need to Know
• Jewelers Mutual: Shine with Your Customers: Solve Business Problems with Jewelers Mutual!
• TR Jewelry Concepts: Built in the USA
Early Registration 5 – 8 p.m.
New Member Reception*** 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. (Invitation Only)
Next-Gen Meet & Greet 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
RJO Kick-Off Reception & Tower Displays 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Saturday, July 26
Educational Seminars
Continental Breakfast
7:30 – 9 a.m.
(Seminar Attendees Only)
Seminar/Retail Member Show Registration
7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Rock Tour Connects Seminar
8:30 a.m. – 9:20 p.m.
Educational Seminars
8:30 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.
General Membership Meeting Luncheon**
12:30 – 2 p.m.
Member Show Registration
1 – 7 p.m.
Buying Floor Grand Opening
2 – 7 p.m.
Buying Floor Welcome Reception
5:30 – 7 p.m.
Next-Gen Excursion*
7 – 9:45 p.m. / 11:15 p.m.
Sunday, July 27
Gather for Moments of Reflection: A NonDenominational Event
7:30 – 8 a.m.
Member & Vendor Joint Breakfast** and Awards Ceremony
7:30 – 9:30 a.m.
RJO Brain Gain Breakouts
8:15 – 9:30 a.m.
Buying Floor Opens
9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
RJO Gem Quest Kids Camp*
9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Buying Floor Happy Hour
5 – 6 p.m.
RJO Foundation Bags Tournament & Game Night Reception**
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
* Prepaid at event registration ** Pre-registered event, ticket required *** Attendance invitation only
Monday, July 28
Sharing the Best of Your Show Experience & Continental Breakfast
8 – 9:30 a.m.
Buying Floor Opens
9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Farewell Event
2 – 3 p.m.
What’s New?
MORE BENCH JEWELER CONTENT! The Bench Jeweler Experience now extends throughout the entire weekend! In addition to Friday’s indepth sessions, RJO is incorporating bench-related seminars into the education schedule and live bench demos on the Show floor on Saturday and Sunday. This expanded experience offers even more opportunities to learn, engage, and elevate your skills. Register your bench jewelers today!
Pre-registered event. Cost for the Bench Jeweler Experience is $150 per attendee. Limited spaces available. Register early to secure your spot!
RJO GEM QUEST KIDS CAMP
Euphoria, 2nd Floor
9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
$75 per camper; maximum 30 campers. Open to the first 30 registered participants. Join us for an exciting RJO Gem Quest Kids Camp Adventure on Sunday during the RJO Summer Buying Show! Designed for ages 5–12, this fun-filled event introduces young explorers to the dazzling world of gemstones and jewelry through hands-on activities and an interactive tour of the Buying Show floor.
Note: There will be a one-hour break from 12:00–1:00 p.m. when you will need to pick up your camper.
Badge Type Selection
OWNERS WILL NEED TO SELECT the type of badge for each of their attendees during the online registration process.
BUYER BADGE: Only individuals with this badge are allowed to place orders / buy at RJO Buying Shows.
ATTENDEE BADGE: Retail members identified as “Attendee” must be employed by the member store on a regular basis. These individuals will not have buying privileges on the Show floor.
Educational Seminars Schedule
Old Finds
Last month, Harvard Law School discovered a copy of the Magna Carta they purchased for $27.50 in 1946 was actually a rare original. This news got us wondering: what aged items might RJO members have in their stores? So, we asked. Several stores responded, and you can check out their vintage finds over the next few pages.
Amy & Co. Fine Jewelry
Amy Shepard Grinnell, IA
The Jewelry Repair's Handbook, a mirrored calendar, and a Chicago company’s ring sizer. I just purchased the store in January, and I've been going through things and found these. They are displayed at our store for people to pick up and check out.
Bacon Jewelers, Inc.
Eddie Bacon Boone, IA
Waterford crystal chandeliers, bought in 1970 by my grandparents Ed and Helen Bacon, hung above the engagement cases at our store downtown. When we moved, we thought it only made sense to find a place to use them in our new location. We moved in May of 2019. It was one of the first things my grandma noticed during her only trip to the new store.
Gerster Jewelers
Gerster Jewelers
Farmington, MN
Our founder, E. M. Gerster, was a visionary and the only optometrist and jeweler in our small town of Farmington. He opened the business in 1920, combining two professions into one family business. Although our optometry practice ended with him, the vision of a family jewelry store has continued into our fourth generation, celebrating 105 years this past April.
Setterberg Jewelers
Kymberlee Setterberg Sun City, AZ
This is a vintage diamond scale on display at the store. My father-in-law believes it dates back to the 1960s. It’s really cool, and customers love to look at it! Plus—it still works and is calibrated!
Nyman Jewelers
Sue Parker Escanaba, MI
One of the oldest things in our store is our safe and vault. It is original to the building (circa 1917). In the photo is my dad, Eric Nyman, who is 93 and still comes to the store every day!
Necker’s Jewelers
Dave and D.J. Necker
Davenport and DeWitt, IA
While our natural diamonds are the oldest items in the store, we have a diverse collection of treasures from many other eras. Interestingly, one of the pieces that captures the most attention isn’t quite the oldest—it’s our vintage cash wrap from 1904. Its charm and character never fail to spark curiosity and conversation, allowing us to mingle with our clients and chat about our company’s 130-plus-year history.
Patina Jewelry + Design
Jackie Juhasz and Cheyenne Goode Tecumseh, MI
Our building has been home to a jewelry store for over 100 years. Here are some receipts we came across while rummaging through our basement. We were so smitten with the history of these documents that we framed them, and they are currently hanging in our store.
Herteen & Stocker Jewelers
Terry Dickens Iowa City, IA
The oldest would have to be Willa. He’s 96½ years old. We have many of the original watchmaking tools he used when he started at the store over seventy-five years ago.
Editor's note: Willa is a past RJO Board member and RJO vice president. He became involved with RJO in its second year and recalls the first RJO Buying Show was in a basement in Newton, IA.
Julee’s Jewelry
Julee Johnson
St. Peter and Mankato, MN
This was brought into the store for appraisal.
It is a gold and diamond-studded fobturned-locket honoring Peter P. Swensen (1844–1920), a Swedish immigrant, Union Civil War veteran, and Sheriff of Hennepin County, MN. Originally a Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) commemorative piece, it was either custom-made or customized to be personalized. I haven’t found another like it yet.
Robinette Jewelers
Mark Robinette Seneca Falls, NY
The first item is a 1945 accounting book. We still use this same book today. It's out of print, so we have to have a local print shop print up 12 years of booklets at a time. The middle photo is my father’s (George Robinette) hammer and file handle he used since day one of the store opening on July 10, 1944. Dad was a Certified Master Watchmaker.
The steel snow shovel is the one Robinette Jeweler has used for at least 70 years.
MILESTONES
Merril A. Moses passed away on May 25, 2025, at the age of 98. He was the founder of Moses Jewelers in Seven Fields, PA. The store has been an RJO member for 30 years.
Harold Tuschhoff, of Harold's Jewelry Store in Jackson, MO, died on Friday, April 18, 2025, at the age of 91. Harold and his late wife, Kay, opened the jewelry store in uptown Jackson in 1961.
Our thoughts go out to the Moses and Tuschhoff families.
RJO Remembers
In Loving Memory of Mike Buley
IT IS WITH HEAVY HEARTS we share the passing of our dear friend and longtime RJO vendor partner, Mike Buley. Mike was the brilliant mind behind Jewelry Ads That Work, a company whose name only begins to scratch the surface of the impact he made on our industry and our organization. Mike brought more than marketing expertise to RJO—he brought heart, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to helping independent jewelers succeed. He was a true innovator, always eager to share his knowledge and support others in reaching their full potential. His warmth, intelligence, and sharp wit made every conversation memorable.
Beyond his role as a vendor, Mike gave selflessly of his time and talents as a member of the RJO
Mike was an incredibly brilliant man. He taught me so much about advertising and marketing. He will be greatly missed.
— Katherine Dahlkemper Yezzi Dahlkemper’s Jewelry Connection
Foundation Board of Directors from 2020 to 2023. His contributions to the Foundation helped shape its future and uplift countless members through education and opportunity.
RJO will deeply miss Mike—not only for his professional contributions, but for the genuine person he was. His legacy lives on through the businesses he helped grow, the people he encouraged, and the warmth he brought to our organization.
We have included some tributes from RJO retailers and vendors below. Please take a moment to read through them and join us in honoring the life and legacy of someone who gave so much to our community. We are keeping his beloved family in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
Mike was one of a kind. I always enjoyed working with him, receiving the Starbucks gift cards, and visiting at the Shows. He will be missed.
— Kate Long Herteen & Stocker
He was such a gentleman. I remember spending quite a bit of time with him at one of the Shows—a true class act. May he rest in peace.
— Serge Fischler Fischler Diamonds
June 26, 2025: Last day to register for Summer Buying Show
Blase DeNatale Jewelers
Blase DeNatale Forked River, NJ
Referred by Andrew Rickard RDI Diamonds, Rochester, NY
Central Jewelry Company
John Falotico Tifton, GA
D-Lux Jewelers
Carlos Enrique Rodriguez Tampa, FL
Referred by Andrew Schmidt Clarksville Jewelers, Clarksville, TN
I.M. Jewelers
Israel Marin Homestead, FL
Referred by Kameron Melamed Royal Chain, Inc., New York, NY
Jewelry Design Center (Third Location)
Denver Toone Kennewick, WA
Michele & Company Fine Jewelers (Second Location)
Michele Rohn Commerce City, CO
Rox Jewelers
Rakhi Narwani Decatur, GA
Referred by Elliott Namdar Bassali Jewelry, Great Neck, NY
These jewelers will receive a $1,000 finder’s fee for their referral, payable after a new member has been in good standing for at least six months.
Olive Pasta Salad
Lisa Pribyl, Cahill-Pribyl Jewelry & Gifts, Keokuk, IA
16 oz wagon wheel pasta
(or any pasta you like)
1 cup Italian dressing
1½ cups mayonnaise
¼ tsp oregano
½ tsp lemon pepper
½ tsp basil
1 tbsp parsley
1 can black olives
1 jar green olives
1 jar sun-dried tomatoes Splash, balsamic vinegar
Boil the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and place it in a large bowl. While the pasta is still warm, add the remaining ingredients. Warm pasta absorbs flavor better. Toss to combine, then refrigerate. Makes a large bowl. My family loves this one—I make it whenever the kids are coming home!