A pivotal moment in the history of the Armenian Jewelers Association USA – East Coast (AJA East Coast) has been reached with the election of Ani Khachian as its President-Elect for the 2026–2027 term. This significant appointment makes her the inaugural woman to hold this esteemed position since the association's establishment in 1999, reflecting a progressive shift within the organization and the broader global jewelry sector towards greater female representation in leadership roles.

Khachian's selection is a testament to her extensive background and dedication to the jewelry industry. As an acclaimed jewelry designer and a GIA-certified professional, she brings a wealth of experience, including formal gemological training, entrepreneurial acumen, and a steadfast commitment to ethical practices, mentorship, and continuous professional growth. Her leadership is anticipated to propel AJA East Coast forward, cultivating new avenues for current and aspiring jewelry professionals.

The AJA East Coast, which commemorates its 25th anniversary this year, was founded on September 22, 1999, at New York’s venerable Diamond Dealers Club. Its core mission is to unite Armenian jewelry experts through networking, educational initiatives, mentorship programs, philanthropic endeavors, and strategic alliances. The organization encompasses a diverse membership, including manufacturers, designers, retailers, wholesalers, gemstone specialists, and service providers, all united by a shared goal of upholding professional excellence and celebrating the rich heritage of Armenian jewelry artistry.

Expressing her profound gratitude, Khachian stated, “It is an immense privilege to be the first female President-Elect of AJA East Coast. For over two and a half decades, our association has championed Armenian artistry, entrepreneurial spirit, and professional distinction. I am deeply thankful for the trust placed in me by our members and eagerly anticipate collaborating with our Board to enhance member participation, expand learning opportunities, nurture emerging talents, and further elevate Armenian excellence within the international jewelry community.”

Ardem Aslanian, the outgoing President and newly appointed Treasurer of AJA East Coast, extended his congratulations on the leadership transition. Aslanian remarked, “It has been an honor to serve as President of AJA East Coast and to collaborate with so many devoted members throughout my tenure. I congratulate Ani on her election and am confident that AJA East Coast will flourish under her guidance.”

Khachian is the visionary behind Ani Fine Jewelry, a women-owned enterprise specializing in custom and heirloom jewelry. As a third-generation jewelry professional, she has been an active leader within AJA East Coast since 2016 and currently contributes to the Board of Directors of the Jewelry Design Professionals Network (JDPN).

Her accolades include the Women’s Jewelry Association Cindy Edelstein Jewelry Design Scholarship, alongside her Accredited Jewelry Professional (AJP), Graduate Diamonds, and Graduate Pearls credentials from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Demonstrating her ongoing pursuit of technical mastery and lifelong learning, she plans to enroll in GIA’s Jewelry Design & Technology program, aiming to further refine her skills in jewelry design, engineering, manufacturing, CAD/CAM technologies, and production innovation.

Throughout her distinguished career, Khachian has consistently emphasized that jewelry transcends mere ornamentation; it embodies enduring craftsmanship, cultural identity, personal narratives, and human connections. In her capacity as President-Elect, she is dedicated to broadening educational access, guiding budding professionals, reinforcing ethical business standards, championing responsible sourcing, and fostering greater cooperation across the global jewelry community.

The newly formed Board of Directors will concentrate its efforts on enhancing educational initiatives, deepening member engagement, mentoring new professionals, advocating for Armenian jewelry craftsmanship, forging stronger strategic alliances, and cultivating meaningful relationships among jewelry professionals across the United States, Armenia, and the worldwide Armenian Diaspora.

Ani Khachian's historic election signals a new era for AJA East Coast, promising a future characterized by innovation, expanded opportunities, and a reinforced commitment to the rich heritage and global advancement of Armenian jewelry professionals.