Become a Canadian Accredited Jewellery Appraiser
Earning our official accreditation is a badge of trust in the industry. Find out what it can do for you and your business.
What does it mean to be a CAJA?
A Canadian Accredited Jewellery Appraiser is a distinction issued by the Canada Jewellers Association. It’s a seal of approval. A standard of excellence. When retailers and customers see it, they recognize it as a sign of quality and trust those that bear it.Â
Support to do your best work
Discounts on essential tools, access to job boards, our organization’s reputation — just a few of the benefits that come with our certification. Learn more about everything that comes with being a CAJA.
CAJA membership requirements
Membership in CAJA is open to anyone who:
- Is actively engaged in appraising jewellery and watches in Canada
- Demonstrates knowledge and competency in gemstone identification, gemstone grading, jewellery and/or watch valuation or is currently undergoing instruction in one of these fields
- Fulfills the requirements for the appropriate membership level (Apprentice-CAJA or CAJA)
- Upholds the CAJA Code of Ethics & Standards
Excellence
Ethics
Experience
Certifications for every career level
Whether you’re an industry veteran or still studying the craft, we offer certifications that meet your skill level.
Apprentice-CAJA
Intended for individuals interested in entering the appraisal field or who are actively working towards becoming a fully designated CAJA.
Annual Membership Dues: $249.00 CAD + TAX
Apprentice-CAJAs are required to:
- Fulfill the requirements to become a fully designated CAJA within five years (notice is required if an extension is necessary)
- Adhere to the CAJA Code of Ethics & Standards
- Adhere by the current CJA Jewellery Appraisal Guidelines
- Not use a CAJA seal on appraisal documents
- Use the designation: John Smith, Apprentice-Canadian Accredited Jewellery Appraiser or John Smith, Apprentice-CAJA
CAJA
Intended for individuals who are actively working in the appraisal field and who possess all the laboratory and educational requirements of a CAJA outlined HERE.Â
One-time non-refundable application fee: $50.00 + TAX CAD
Annual Membership Dues: $449.00 CAD + TAX + Optional add-ons CAJAs are required to:
- Maintain the highest standards of professionalism in their appraisal practice
- Adhere to the CAJA Code of Ethics & Standards
- Adhere by the current CJA Jewellery Appraisal Guidelines
- Adhere to the current CJAÂ Jewellery Appraisal Guidelines
- Use the designation: John Smith, Apprentice-Canadian Accredited Jewellery Appraiser or John Smith, Apprentice-CAJA
Fully designated Canadian Accredited Jewellery Appraisers (CAJAs) are entitled to use the CAJA seal on their appraisal document. Available in both physical and digital formats.
CAJA for members of the trade
Our promise:
Adhere to the CJA Jewellery Appraisal Guidelines
Establish minimum requirements for CAJAs to comply with
Provide access to member benefits that help save time and money including discounts on continuing education
Create opportunities for fellow CAJAs to connect and collaborate
Highlight the CAJA designation to increase public awareness and recognition
The CJA Jewellery Appraisal Guidelines are adhered to.
Being a CAJA Provides You:
Access to a community of like-minded appraisers dedicated to professional practices
A feature on the CJA website in the dedicated CAJA directory
Potential clients will be referred to CAJAs in their area when contacting the CJA office
Membership benefits
Apprentice-CAJAs:
- All CJA Member Benefits
- Preferred rates at events and educational programs
- Complimentary posts on the CJA Job Board
- Authorized use of the CJA member logo
- Optional member package, including window decal
CAJAs:
- Includes all Apprentice-CAJA benefits, plus the following additional privileges:
- Customizable profile in the dedicated CAJA Directory on the CJA website
- Use of the CAJA seal
- Preferred advertising rates on the CJA website
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Application FAQ’s
What information is required to apply?
It varies depending on if you’re applying as an apprentice or a CAJA. We recommend you look at the application first so you know what information you need to gather.
How do I apply?
Follow the links below to the application pages. If you have questions or require assistance uploading the required information into the application form, please contact the office at info@canadianjewellers.com
Apply online to become an Apprentice-CAJA
Apply online to become a CAJA
How long does the application process take?
Apprentice-CAJA:
We typically process applications within one week from the submission date.
CAJA:
We typically process applications within one month from the submission date. If we need additional information from you, the processing time may vary.
What if I haven’t fulfilled all the requirements?
Apprentice-CAJA:
If you have not fulfilled all the requirements, you may be assigned to a different membership class until the requirements are fulfilled.
CAJA applicants:
You will be given 30 days to fulfill any missing requirements. If you are not able to fulfill the requirements after this time, you will be assigned to the Apprentice-CAJA membership level until the requirements are met.
How will I know if my CAJA application is approved?
Applicants will receive an email notifying them that the application has been approved. CAJAs should expect to receive their digital seal via email within 2-3 days of the application being approved.
Do CAJAs need to recertify and how often?
Apprentice-CAJA:
You will have a limit of five years to fulfill the requirements to become an CAJA (notice is required if an extension is necessary).
CAJAs
You must complete the recertification process every five years. This includes proof of completing a total 100 hours of continuing education, an up-to-date eye exam, and complying with any updated education or equipment requirements.
How do I get the CAJA seal?
The CAJA seal is awarded ONLY to CAJAs once ALL qualifying requirements are met. A digital seal valid for one year will be issued upon payment of annual membership dues. Should a CAJA opt in and select to pay an additional fee of $200.00 + TAX to receive a physical seal valid for one year, it will be ordered and shipped shortly after receipt of payment. Should a CAJA not renew their membership, the physical seal must be surrendered to the CJA office. For more information and to acquire a prepaid return shipping label, contact the CJA office at info@canadianjewellers.com.
