Why remembrance, learning, and action matter in Canada’s jewellery community
Carrying Heritage Forward
For more than 145 years, Canadian Jeweller Magazine has chronicled the stories, challenges, and triumphs of Canada’s jewellery industry. This long-standing tradition gives us a unique perspective: heritage is not just about what we create, but what we choose to honour.
On September 30, Canadians observed the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. While that date has passed, the responsibility it represents continues. The truths of residential schools and the resilience of Indigenous survivors cannot be confined to a single day. They are part of Canada’s heritage—and therefore part of ours as an industry and community.
Why Truth and Reconciliation Belong in Our Industry’s Story
Jewellery, at its heart, is about storytelling and legacy. Every gemstone, every crafted piece, carries meaning across generations. In the same way, Canada carries the weight of its history, including painful truths about residential schools.
The jewellery trade is not separate from this story. Our industry depends on relationships, culture, and traditions—values that resonate deeply with Indigenous communities. To reflect honestly on reconciliation is to recognise that our success exists within a broader Canadian fabric, one where justice and equity must be shared.
Beyond September 30: Keeping the Conversation Alive
The orange shirt, inspired by survivor Phyllis Webstad’s story, has become a symbol of resilience and remembrance. In our industry, where colour and symbolism are core to design, it serves as a reminder that every child matters—and that reconciliation must continue beyond September.
Even now in November, we can ask ourselves:
- How do we keep reconciliation on our agenda, not just once a year?
- What can the jewellery industry do to contribute to a more inclusive future?
- How can our heritage as a Canadian trade support truth and justice?
Reconciliation in Practice for Jewellers
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action provide a roadmap for all industries. For jewellers, manufacturers, and retailers, this can translate into tangible commitments:
- Support Indigenous artisans by featuring, stocking, and promoting their creations.
- Amplify Indigenous voices in trade shows, editorial coverage, and collaborations.
- Build respectful partnerships that provide long-term opportunities rather than token gestures.
- Educate teams and clients on the significance of September 30 and the ongoing journey of reconciliation.
Just as we celebrate Canadian design heritage, we can celebrate and honour Indigenous artistry and traditions, which enrich the cultural mosaic of Canadian jewellery.
Heritage and Responsibility
As Canada’s oldest jewellery publication, Canadian Jeweller Magazine has always been a reflection of the times—documenting not only the evolution of craft and commerce, but also the values that guide our community. Today, reconciliation is not optional; it is a shared responsibility.
Honouring Truth and Reconciliation means acknowledging the past while committing to a different future—one where Indigenous voices are heard, respected, and included in the stories we tell about Canadian jewellery.
Closing Reflection
September 30 may be behind us, but reconciliation cannot be left behind with it. The jewellery industry, with its deep ties to heritage, artistry, and meaning, has a unique role to play in keeping reflection alive.
Every gem we set and every piece we pass on carries a story. Let us ensure that, as an industry, we are also carrying forward the story of truth, healing, and respect.
In doing so, we honour not only our own legacy as jewellers but also the resilience and contributions of Indigenous communities across Canada. Because heritage is not just what we inherit—it is what we choose to build together.
