24 October 2023

The Jewellers Association of Australia (JAA) Board farewells JAA Director Jo Tory and is pleased to announce the appointment of a new director, Mary Storch, to the Board, effective from 24 October.

Jo Tory’s resignation comes after joining the JAA Board in February 2017 and moving into the President position from January 2019 to November 2021. Jo’s decision to step down from her director position comes due to increasing 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.” Said Jo Tory.

“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 6 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.” says JAA President, Joshua Sharp.

Joining the Board is Mary Storch, who entered the jewellery industry some 40+ years ago. Stories of her grandmother finding a gold nugget in Bendigo sparked Mary’s interest in precious metals, gems and jewellery manufacture. She studied silversmithing at high school, though sadly was unable to gain an apprenticeship in the late 1970s as the trade wasn’t quite ready for the influx of female jewellers. Nonetheless, Mary pursued her goals and studied jewellery manufacturing with Ernst Pfenninger, whilst also attending university. Her experience with diamonds started in early 1980s with grading and sales and she went on to be managing director of Storch & Co. Mary has also guest lectured for the GAA and was on several occasions invited to judge the De Beers national jewellery design competition. In 2002, Mary left the jewellery trade due to personal family commitments but has always held a long interest in the industry and remains in contact with various industry associates.

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

Current JAA Board Directors include:

Joshua Sharp (President), Ian Sharp Jewellery
Ronnie Bauer (Vice President), Klepners
Cameron Marks (Treasurer), Percy Marks
Dr Meredith Doig OAM FAICD, Professional Company Director and Governance Consultant
Daniel Anania, Anania Jewellers
Mary Storch, Retiree

The current Board and their profiles can be view here.