Association of Fine Jewellers

About this Association

Association of Fine Jewellers is the sole body representing independent retail jewellers in Ireland. The aim of the association is to promote high professional standards through ongoing education and training programs, to provide an effective interface with Government agencies, regulatory authorities and parallel industries, on behalf of its approximately 130 members.

The Association's Beginnings

The Association can trace its origin back to 1966 when a group of the best trained and most experienced retail jewellers on the island of Ireland came together to form what was then to be known as The National Retail Watchmakers and Jewellers, and a few years later to become the Retail Jewellers of Ireland (RJI). Many of the members were graduates of Irish Swiss Horological Institute or the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland Goldsmiths training course. Both courses ultimately to be recognised internationally as being amongst the best of their kind. The RJI progressed & developed through the intervening years, bringing advise and support on a collective and individual basis to its members.

1990's - RJI Registered Valuers Scheme

In the early 1990s, endeavouring to improve the professional standing of the membership, the association introduced jewellery valuation workshops provided by leading UK valuers, resulting in the establishment of the RJI registered valuers scheme.

2010's - Jewellery Training Course

In the early 2010s the association embraced the need to develop a foundation training course for newcomers to the jewellery industry, the course became known as STEP1 (Staff Training & Education Program 1). Candidates having achieved the required marks by examination receive their certificates at a graduation ceremony hosted by the Irish Assay Office at Dublin castle. Candidates who graduate with distinction are presented with the Assay Office Medal by the Assay master or the Master Warden of the Company of Goldsmiths of Dublin.

In addition to STEP1 the association provides day or weekend courses to meet the needs of the members on topics like Introduction to Diamonds, Diamond ID Technology, Coloured Stones, Basic Watch Repairs, Basic Jewellery Repairs, Repair Handling etc.

The RJI became the Association of Fine Jewellers in 2017. The rebranding seen as better reflecting its mission and services on offer to the members, and a necessary step in bringing the association in line with the needs of the modern era of digital marketing. To this end, the association in alliance with Retail Excellence Ireland also provide training courses & support on topics concerning website development, media marketing and other related subjects.

The Association's members endeavour to:

• Set the standard for Professionalism & Knowledge within the Irish Jewellery Industry.
• Be recognised as a group of best-in-class providers of diamonds, wedding rings and precious jewellery.
• Offer a trustworthy repair & after sales service that can only be delivered by experienced watchmakers, diamond setters & goldsmiths
• Distinguish themselves from others with professional personnel who have excellent product knowledge and customer service.

To find out more about the Association of Fine Jewellers in Ireland, please use the contact links at the top of this page.