We believe excellence deserves recognition. For over 100 years, the Canadian Jewellers Association Awards have honoured the achievements of individuals and companies across all areas of Canada’s jewellery industry.
CJA: Over 100 Years of Prestige :
The Canadian Jewellers Association Awards, CJA Awards, were founded to honour the incredible achievements of individuals and companies involved in all areas of the jewellery industry across Canada.
Each award category was carefully designed to honour recipients who demonstrate excellence in:
Each award category was carefully designed to honour recipients who demonstrate excellence in:
Industry and Client Relations
Innovation and Growth
Education and Leadership
Ethics and Integrity
The 2025 CJA Award Winners were announced LIVE at the CJA Awards Dinner
Monday October 27, 2025
The Omni King Edward Hotel | Toronto, ON
Meet the 2025 CJA Award Winners
Independent Retailer of the Year Award
J.H. Young Jewellers celebrates their 125th anniversary in 2025! Established in 1900, the family-owned and operated business has been passed down through generations, bringing a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for the jewellery industry.
The newly renovated showroom at 126 Lynden Road, Brantford, integrates traditional values with modern technology and designs. J.H. Young Fine Jewellers specializes in custom designs, repairs, luxury watches, and diamond jewellery. All repairs and custom designs are completed in-house, using laser welding and 3D printing/rendering, and are led by a team of educated jewellery professionals. Our team is comprised of four GIA-certified Graduate Gemologists, two Diamond Setters, four goldsmiths, two CJA graduate jewellers, and one GIA-certified CAD/CAM designer.
Our commitment to quality and integrity is the foundation of J.H. Young Fine Jewellers. We strive to offer our clients the finest selection of jewellery and timepieces while prioritizing personalized customer service. Our dedication extends beyond our products; it encompasses the relationships we build with our customers. As we look to the future, we remain committed to upholding the traditions that have defined our legacy while embracing innovation to better serve our community.
As fourth-generation jewellers and owners of J.H. Young, David, Dianne, Paul, and Graham Young take great pride in their family business and are honoured to be nominated for Independent Retailer of the Year.
Multi-Store Retailer of the Year Award
Appelt’s Diamonds is a distinguished family-owned jewellery retailer founded in 1938 by Benjamin Appelt in Morden, Manitoba. Now spanning four independent stores across Manitoba, the company represents 87 years of continuous family leadership through four generations: founder Benjamin Appelt, his son Bert Appelt, grandson Jeff Appelt, and great-grandson Josh Appelt.
The Appelt family has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the Canadian jewellery industry beyond their retail success. Both Bert and Jeff served as dedicated members of Digem, a prominent Canadian jewellers group, showcasing their commitment to industry collaboration and professional development.
Known for their forward-thinking approach, Appelt’s Diamonds continuously reinvents their methods to stay relevant in changing markets while preserving the personal service that defines exceptional jewellery retail. The company invests heavily in staff training and development, viewing their role as concierges to their guests rather than traditional retailers.
As active CJA members, Appelt’s Diamonds upholds the highest professional standards and has built lasting relationships spanning multiple generations of Manitoba families, demonstrating the enduring values of independent Canadian jewellery retail.
Supplier of the Year Award
MDL Diamond Merchants is a premier diamond wholesaler and manufacturer, proudly serving businesses and consumers across Canada and the United States since 1979. With offices in Antwerp, Tel Aviv, and Toronto, we provide high-quality diamonds at the most competitive prices.
Our extensive inventory includes a vast selection of GIA-certified diamonds, IGI-certified diamonds, and HRD International-certified diamonds. We offer both natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds, ensuring options that meet every budget and preference. As authorized dealers of Arcticmark Canadian Diamonds, Eternity Diamonds (conflict-free diamonds) and Novus Laboratory Created Masterpieces, we guarantee ethically sourced diamonds of the highest quality. We are also Kimberley Process compliant, reinforcing our commitment to responsible sourcing.
With our global diamond market connections, we supply a wide range of wholesale diamonds, from classic round brilliant cut diamonds to unique fancy shape diamonds perfect for engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. In addition, we carry ready-to-ship diamond jewelry, including diamond rings, diamond earrings, tennis bracelets, and tennis necklaces in various sizes and styles.
Emerging Business of the Year Award
Thomas J. Sandrin, MBA, is the Founder of Northern Watch Services Inc. with over 16 years of experience in the luxury watch and jewellery industry, including his tenure as Brand Manager for Hamilton at Swatch Group.
Through Northern Watch Services, he works with 30+ leading brands and their authorized dealers, delivering 360° marketing solutions across e-commerce, social media, design content, in-store activations, pop-up shops and consumer & media experiences.
He is an active member of the Canadian Jewellers Association, the France–Canada Chamber of Commerce and Chartered Managers Canada and recently joined the Union de la Bijouterie Horlogerie de France, strengthening ties between Canadian and French industry leaders.
Thomas contributes to market studies for foreign trade agencies and offers consulting services helping international brands grow in Canada. He also speaks at industry events, universities and public talks where he shares insights on the Canadian market and his entrepreneurship journey, inspiring the next generation.
During his MBA studies and following international market research, he launched WatchDNA.com – Where Time Connects Us All, a global platform dedicated to educating, entertaining and connecting the watch community. Constantly expanding to include more brands and updated information, WatchDNA is building a community of watch lovers and aims to establish itself as the trusted directory for All Things Watches.
Thomas is also proud to support 1% for the Planet, B1G1 and Movember, reinforcing his commitment to making a positive impact.
Erol Paylan Impact Award
Sarah Dougall is a Toronto jewellery entrepreneur, designer, and community builder best known as the founder and owner of Made You Look Jewellery, a long-standing artisan studio-gallery in Parkdale.
Sarah Dougall was born in New Zealand and moved to Canada as an infant. After high school, she discovered the Jewellery Arts program at George Brown College in Toronto and immediately knew she had found her calling in jewellery design. She completed the program in 1999, acquiring both technical skills and an awareness of how difficult it was for graduates to launch professional jewellery careers.
In 2001, Sarah opened Made You Look Jewellery with a bold vision: to create a collaborative environment where independent jewellers could both design and sell their work directly to the public. The doors opened with 12 jewellers each renting a bench, and has evolved into a studio-gallery representing over 100 local designers, including 20 self-employed jewellers who create their pieces onsite.
The studio became a Toronto landmark, offering one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces and emphasizing craftsmanship and local artistry. Dougall’s approach was to provide a “stepping stone” between college and professional life, eliminating barriers to entry for emerging artists.
Dougall describes her mission as creating a “high-vibration workspace” built on kindness, authenticity, and collaboration. She encourages new jewellers to enter the craft with both creative courage and business awareness. Her philosophy centers on the belief that handmade jewellery “feels better on the body” and carries the maker’s intention and energy.
Under Dougall’s leadership, Made You Look has become one of Canada’s most respected artisan hubs — part boutique, part open studio — blending retail and creative community engagement. The business has been thriving for close to 25 years, a milestone Dougall regards as an amazing achievement. There was “no map for this” she says – just blind faith and a strong belief in what we can accomplish through collaboration rather than competition.
Sarah Dougall served as President of the Metal Arts Guild of Canada (MAGC) from 2006 to 2010, a pivotal period in the organization’s growth and community engagement.
During her tenure, she led initiatives that strengthened Canada’s national metal arts network, supporting both emerging and established jewellers, metalsmiths, and educators. Her presidency emphasized education, collaboration, and professional development within the craft community. She oversaw the coordination of lectures, national exhibitions, and public events across Canada, fostering creative exchange and elevating the profile of Canadian metal artistry.
Sarah Dougall has also been a long-standing community leader in the Parkdale Village neighbourhood, serving for many years on the Parkdale Village Business Improvement Association (BIA) in Toronto, including as Chair and Vice Chair.
In her role with the Parkdale BIA, Sarah has been instrumental in promoting local economic development, supporting small businesses, and revitalizing Queen Street West as a diverse and creative corridor. She has been actively involved since the early 2010s, helping to grow Parkdale’s profile as one of Toronto’s most vibrant art and retail communities.
Her advocacy and volunteerism have contributed significantly to Parkdale’s ongoing revitalization, ensuring the neighbourhood remains inclusive, artist-friendly, and economically sustainable. Through both the BIA and her personal business efforts, Sarah has strengthened Parkdale’s reputation as a model of grassroots leadership and arts-driven urban renewal.
Under her leadership, the BIA focused on encouraging collaboration among business owners and fostering connection between community, commerce, and creativity — values that reflect the same spirit embodied by her studio, Made You Look Jewellery.
What kickstarted this bravery and ambition? The birth of her Son, Simon Dougall, who was only 4 months old when Made You Look’s door first opened.
Erol Paylan Impact Award
Sarah Dougall is a Toronto jewellery entrepreneur, designer, and community builder best known as the founder and owner of Made You Look Jewellery, a long-standing artisan studio-gallery in Parkdale.
Sarah Dougall was born in New Zealand and moved to Canada as an infant. After high school, she discovered the Jewellery Arts program at George Brown College in Toronto and immediately knew she had found her calling in jewellery design. She completed the program in 1999, acquiring both technical skills and an awareness of how difficult it was for graduates to launch professional jewellery careers.
In 2001, Sarah opened Made You Look Jewellery with a bold vision: to create a collaborative environment where independent jewellers could both design and sell their work directly to the public. The doors opened with 12 jewellers each renting a bench, and has evolved into a studio-gallery representing over 100 local designers, including 20 self-employed jewellers who create their pieces onsite.
The studio became a Toronto landmark, offering one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces and emphasizing craftsmanship and local artistry. Dougall’s approach was to provide a “stepping stone” between college and professional life, eliminating barriers to entry for emerging artists.
Dougall describes her mission as creating a “high-vibration workspace” built on kindness, authenticity, and collaboration. She encourages new jewellers to enter the craft with both creative courage and business awareness. Her philosophy centers on the belief that handmade jewellery “feels better on the body” and carries the maker’s intention and energy.
Under Dougall’s leadership, Made You Look has become one of Canada’s most respected artisan hubs — part boutique, part open studio — blending retail and creative community engagement. The business has been thriving for close to 25 years, a milestone Dougall regards as an amazing achievement. There was “no map for this” she says – just blind faith and a strong belief in what we can accomplish through collaboration rather than competition.
Sarah Dougall served as President of the Metal Arts Guild of Canada (MAGC) from 2006 to 2010, a pivotal period in the organization’s growth and community engagement.
During her tenure, she led initiatives that strengthened Canada’s national metal arts network, supporting both emerging and established jewellers, metalsmiths, and educators. Her presidency emphasized education, collaboration, and professional development within the craft community. She oversaw the coordination of lectures, national exhibitions, and public events across Canada, fostering creative exchange and elevating the profile of Canadian metal artistry.
Sarah Dougall has also been a long-standing community leader in the Parkdale Village neighbourhood, serving for many years on the Parkdale Village Business Improvement Association (BIA) in Toronto, including as Chair and Vice Chair.
In her role with the Parkdale BIA, Sarah has been instrumental in promoting local economic development, supporting small businesses, and revitalizing Queen Street West as a diverse and creative corridor. She has been actively involved since the early 2010s, helping to grow Parkdale’s profile as one of Toronto’s most vibrant art and retail communities.
Her advocacy and volunteerism have contributed significantly to Parkdale’s ongoing revitalization, ensuring the neighbourhood remains inclusive, artist-friendly, and economically sustainable. Through both the BIA and her personal business efforts, Sarah has strengthened Parkdale’s reputation as a model of grassroots leadership and arts-driven urban renewal.
Under her leadership, the BIA focused on encouraging collaboration among business owners and fostering connection between community, commerce, and creativity — values that reflect the same spirit embodied by her studio, Made You Look Jewellery.
What kickstarted this bravery and ambition? The birth of her Son, Simon Dougall, who was only 4 months old when Made You Look’s door first opened.
Proudly Presenting These Distinct Awards:
Erol Paylan Impact Award
Presented to an individual or company that has made significant contributions towards the jewellery and watch industry during their career.
Independent Retailer of the Year Award
Presented to a CJA Retailer member for their professional standards and contributions to the Canadian jewellery and watch industry.
Multi-Store Retailer of the Year Award
Presented to a CJA Retailer member with more than one physical location for their professional standards and contributions to the Canadian jewellery and watch industry.
Supplier of the Year Award
Presented to a CJA Supplier member for their professional standards and contributions to the Canadian jewellery and watch industry as a wholesaler or manufacturer.
Emerging Business of the Year Award
Presented to a CJA member in their first five years of business for their professional standards and contributions to the Canadian jewellery and watch industry.
Proudly Presenting These Distinct Awards
Independent Retailer of the Year Award
Presented to a CJA Retailer member for their professional standards and contributions to the Canadian jewellery and watch industry.
Multi-Store Retailer of the Year Award
Presented to a CJA Retailer member with more than one physical location for their professional standards and contributions to the Canadian jewellery and watch industry.
Supplier of the Year Award
Presented to a CJA Supplier member for their professional standards and contributions to the Canadian jewellery and watch industry as a wholesaler or manufacturer.
Emerging Business of the Year Award
Presented to a CJA member in their first seven years of business for their professional standards and contributions to the Canadian jewellery and watch industry.
Erol Paylan Impact Award
Presented to an individual or company that has made significant contributions towards the jewellery and watch industry during their career.
Previous CJA Award Winners
Erol Paylan Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients
Sarah Dougall, Made You Look Jewellery, 2025
Greg & Jeff Buzbuzian/Knar Jewellery, 2024
Adom Knadjian, 2023
Duncan Parker, 2022
John Minister/Corona Jewellery Co., 2019
Tanya Parrish, 2018
John Lamont, 2017
Sonja Sanders, 2016
Phyllis Richard, 2015
Jewelers Mutual/Darwin Copeman, 2014
Alex Barcados, 2013
Retailer of the Year Award Recipients
J.H. Young Jewellers, 2025
Dana’s Goldsmithing Inc., 2024
Mitton’s Jewellers, 2023
Multi-Store Retailer of the Year Award Recipients
Appelt’s Diamonds, 2025
Supplier of the Year Award Recipients
MDL Diamond Merchants, 2025
Tecimer Jewellery Ltd, 2024
Courtney Gold Company, 2023
Chairman's Award Recipients
Carmen Rivet, 2022
John Vaccaro, 2019
Alex Barcados, 2018
Ernest Epp, 2017
Adom Knadjian, 2016
Pierre Akkelian, 2015
Paul Mara, 2014
Kevin Kaye, 2013
Garo Baler, 2012
Judy Richards, 2011
Dan Panos, 2010
William Stoner, 2009
Peter Myerson, 2008
Harold Weinstein, 2007
President's Award Recipients
Roy Katsuyama, 2006
Abby Evenchick, 2005
Toni Cavelti, 2004
Marvin Gerstein, 2003
Jonathan Birks, 2002
John Nash, 2001
Bruce Smellie, 2000
Bing Levinter, 1999
Industry Community Award
Citizen Watch Canada Ltd., 2024
Canadian Volunteer of the Year Award Recipients
Outlier Solutions Inc. & Alex Barcados, 2024
Justin Opert, 2023
Why Participate in the CJA Awards?
Complimentary Entry
The CJA Awards is accessible to all members with no charge to submit a nomination, or for becoming a Finalist or Winner.
Recognition for your Achievements
Being the Winner and even a Finalist of the CJA Awards includes being nationally recognized for contributions made to the Canadian jewellery and watch industry.
Media Exposure
The CJA Awards receive significant media coverage providing opportunities for Finalists and Winners to be highlighted in industry publications, websites and on social media.
Unlock New Opportunities
With exposure across Canada and internationally, the CJA Awards provides a unique opportunity to develop new connections.
Gain Consumer Trust
As the sign of trust since 1918, industry members and consumers alike look to the CJA for businesses they can trust. Displaying your achievement as a CJA Award Winner or Finalist in-store, on-line and on social media gives customers confidence in your business.
Differentiate Your Brand
The CJA Awards provides a unique platform to highlight your business amongst the best of the best, and assists in attracting new clients and maintaining existing clients.
How It Works?
Nominations
Nominations will be collected by completing an online Nomination Form.
Stay tuned for the 2026 Nomination deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Nomination Criteria:
- Active CJA Board Members are not eligible to be nominated.
- Active CJA Board Members can submit nominations.
- Only eligible nominees will be considered.
- Self nominations not accepted.
- A minimum of three nominees is required per category for the award to be presented.
Finalist Selection
Eligible Nominees will be requested to complete the Nominee Information Form.
Stay tuned for the 2026 Nominee Information Form submission deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Nominees will answer ten questions and the answers will be graded by the Judges to select the Top 3 Finalists in each category and the Winner.
Finalists will be announced in advance of the CJA Awards Dinner and Winners will be announced live at the CJA Awards Dinner.
Judges
Nominations will be reviewed by the CJA Awards Judges (Judges). Previous Winners, CJA Past Presidents, CJA Alumni from all areas of the Canadian jewellery and watch industry will be invited by the CJA Office to serve as a Judge. Active CJA Board members will not be allowed to serve as a Judge. Each category will be judged by a minimum of two Judges. Judges will not be able to submit nominations or be nominated themselves.
How It Works?

Nominations will be collected by completing an online Nomination Form.
Nominations open on April 8, 2026 and will be collected until May 31, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Nomination Criteria:
- Nominees must be Active CJA members based in Canada to be considered.
- Active CJA Board members are not eligible to be nominated.
- Active CJA Awards Committee members are not eligible to be nominated.
- A minimum of three nominees is required per category for the award to be presented.
- Previous nominees and finalists can be renominated each year.
- Previous winners are eligible to be nominated again after ten (10) years.
- Only eligible nominees will be considered.

Eligible Nominees will be requested to complete the Nominee Information Form.
Nominee Information Forms will be sent in June. The submission deadline will be Friday June 26, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Nominees will answer ten questions and the answers will be graded by the Judges to select the Top 3 Finalists in each category and the Winner.
Finalists will be announced in advance of the CJA Awards Dinner and Winners will be announced live at the CJA Awards Dinner.

Nominations will be reviewed by the CJA Awards Judges (Judges). Previous Winners, CJA Past Presidents, CJA Alumni from all areas of the Canadian jewellery and watch industry will be invited by the CJA Office to serve as a Judge. Active CJA Board members will not be allowed to serve as a Judge. Each category will be judged by a minimum of two Judges. Judges will not be able to submit nominations or be nominated themselves.
Confidentiality and Inquiries
Conflicts and Confidentiality
Nominations will be received directly by the CJA Office. Should any conflicts arise, they will be addressed immediately by the CJA Office.
To ensure the integrity of the CJA Awards, all information submitted as a part of the CJA Awards process will be kept confidential and used solely for the purposes of the CJA Awards.
Comments or Questions
The CJA Awards Committee is dedicated to continuously improving the CJA Awards program to ensure it is transparent and relevant. If you have questions about the CJA Awards process or have suggestions on how to improve the program, please contact the CJA Office at 1-416-368-7616 or via email to info@canadianjewellers.com.