The Arkansas Jewelers Association dates back to before 1940.  Floyd Denman of Stuttgart served as the first president of the association.

List of AJA Presidents

Our Mission Statement

The Arkansas Jewelers Association is a nonprofit association promoting professionalism and high ethical standards of business practice in the jewelry trade.  Our mission is to provide educational programs and services to improve the knowledge and skills of our members who share common interests and goals. AJA is governed by the membership of our state association.

AJA By-Laws

AJA Code of Ethics

• Annual Convention  - Our annual convention is open to the retail members of the association as well as to the Arkansas Travelers (manufacturers representatives). The convention includes educational and motivational seminars targeting both sales and bench- related subjects. The Presidents Dinner and Dance is the highlight of the convention. Awards are presented to winners of the Design Competitions, Arkansas Jeweler of the Year and Arkansas Traveler of the Year. 

• C.A.R.A.T. Award Design Competition (Creative Achievement Recognizing Arkansas Talent) - C.A.R.A.T. awards for jewelry design are given in four categories. Three prizes are given by independent judges based upon overall design, marketability, practicality/wearability and craftsmanship. The fourth honor, the Convention Choice Award, is determined by a vote of convention attendees. This winner advances to the JA Affiliate Design Competition in New York. Click here to download the CARAT Award Application Form.  2010 C.A.R.A.T. Entry Form

• Craftsmanship Award Competition - 2010 Craftsmanship Entry Form

• AJA Design Competition - 2010 AJA Design Entry Form

• Educational Seminars - Educational seminars are offered at the annual convention and throughout the year. Seminar subjects include gemological, motivational, marketing and bench-related subjects. 

•  Network and Socialize - Membership in the association gives you the opportunity to meet, socialize and share ideas with your fellow Arkansas jewelers, people who have a common set of industry values.

AJA Scholarship Opportunity

Membership Packet