Jewellers Association of Australia bids farewell to Jo Tory

The Jewellers Association of Australia (JAA) has announced the departure of Jo Tory, a dedicated member of the JAA Board since February 2017, as well as the appointment of a new director, Mary Storch.

Jo Tory, president from January 2019 to November 2021, has decided to step down from her position due to growing personal and business commitments. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a JAA board director and president. It has been a time of learning and sharing, of friendships and thoughtful process,” she says.

The JAA Board extended its appreciation to Jo Tory for her remarkable contributions. JAA president Joshua Sharp, says, “On behalf of the JAA, I would like to acknowledge the outstanding contribution made to the Association by Jo and thank her for her leadership and commitment to the JAA over the last six years as a board director and president. Jo has been an integral part of the JAA, particularly through the pandemic. We wish Jo all the best for the future.”

Stepping into the role is Mary Storch, a jewellery industry veteran with over 40 years of experience. Mary’s journey in the industry began with stories of her grandmother finding a gold nugget in Bendigo, sparking her interest in precious metals, gems, and jewellery manufacturing. Despite facing challenges as a female jeweller in the late 1970s, Mary pursued her goals, studying silversmithing at high school and jewellery manufacturing with Ernst Pfenninger.

Her experience in the industry expanded over the years, including diamond grading and sales, culminating in her role as managing director of Storch & Co. Mary’s influence extended to education as she guest lectured for the Gemmological Association of Australia and was invited to judge the De Beers National Jewelry Design Competition. In 2002, she left the jewellery trade temporarily to focus on personal family commitments. However, she never lost interest in the industry and remained connected with various industry associates.

JAA president Joshua Sharp, welcomed Mary Storch to the board, “Myself and my fellow directors are pleased to welcome Mary to the JAA Board. Mary’s knowledge and enthusiasm for the jewellery industry are significant, and her willingness to give back to the jewellery industry through her position on the JAA Board is commendable. The directors and [I] warmly welcome Mary. I look forward to working with her,” he says.

Additional information about the current JAA board directors can be found on the JAA website.

Source: https://jewelleryworld.net.au/

Jewellery World - 25 October, 2023