Black in Jewelry Coalition

We asked our members to share their favorite pieces from Black-owned jewelry brands, and the results are here—introducing our Holiday Shop Black-Owned Gift Guide!

For BIJC member Veronika Payne, perseverance has been at the heart of her journey into the jewelry industry. As the founder of Ora Ana, a New York-based demi-fine jewelry brand, Veronika has overcome countless challenges to create a business that blends classic elegance with bold, personal design. Growing up in Bed-Stuy Brooklyn, Veronika was surrounded by creativity and resilience, shaping her vision for Ora Ana. But breaking into the jewelry world wasn’t easy. From navigating racism and chauvinism in the Diamond District to facing quality control issues with overseas manufacturers, Veronika refused to settle for less than what her customers deserve. Through persistence, adaptability, and grit, she built Ora Ana into a brand trusted for its exceptional craftsmanship and sustainable practices. Veronika is proud of what she’s achieved, including a feature in Oprah’s Favorite Things 2024 and the connections she’s built with clients, particularly Black and Brown women. Now, she’s expanding Ora Ana with exciting new projects, like an all-black collection and custom fine jewelry designs, all rooted in her mission to create meaningful, high-quality pieces. As a BIJC member, Veronika reflects on the importance of community, saying, “Joining BIJC reassures me that there’s a place for me in this industry. Community is vital to achieving any goal. Through BIJC, I’ve found inspiration, support, and opportunities to grow, and I hope to pass along the insights I’ve gained to others following this path.”

Calling all retail jewelry entrepreneurs! Jewelers of America and Black in Jewelry Coalition (BJIC) are now accepting applications for our second cohort of the Emerging Jewelers Accelerator Program (EJAP)—a series of interactive workshops designed to equip new jewelry business owners with the tools and insights needed to build and sustain a successful business. One lucky participant will receive a $10,000 grant, while the remaining four will each be awarded $4,000! If you’ve opened your jewelry store in the last 2-5 years, apply now before the extended deadline of December 11.

✨ Celebrating Excellence at the 2024 Rock the Jewels Awards! ✨ On November 21, 2024, we hosted a night to remember at Elsie Rooftop in NYC, honoring incredible individuals and organizations making waves in the jewelry industry. Proceeds from this vibrant fundraising event will support BIJC’s mission of fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion—along with funding programs like the Future Jewelers Academy, which introduces high school students to careers in jewelry design and bench jewelry. 🏆 2024 Rock the Jewels Award Winners: • Behind the Shine Award: Anna Samsonova, Founder of Samsonova Consulting, for her behind-the-scenes dedication to advancing BIJC’s mission. • Rising Star Award: Gwen Beloti, Founder of Gwen Beloti, for her innovative, size-inclusive designs that empower women. • Shining Together Award: Ben Bridge Jeweler, for their commitment to DEI efforts through initiatives like the Lonia Tate Scholarship. • Rock the Jewels Award: Eddie Plein, a trailblazing pioneer in custom grills, who redefined how jewelry intersects with hip-hop culture and art. Through events like Rock the Jewels, BIJC is breaking barriers and building pathways for the next generation of talent. 💎 Let’s create a brighter, more inclusive future for the jewelry industry together. Support BIJC and initiatives like the Future Jewelers Academy by donating today! #RockTheJewels #ShiningTogether #FutureJewelers #JewelryIndustry 

Celebrating Tiffany Bryan – Behind the Shine Nominee! ✨ We are thrilled to recognize Tiffany Bryan, Sr. Manager of Studio Operations and Facilities at Catbird, as a nominee for the Behind the Shine Award at Rock the Jewels! 🌟 Tiffany has been a steadfast supporter of BIJC, contributing her expertise, time, and passion to help us achieve our mission of creating a more inclusive and equitable jewelry industry. Her commitment to supporting BIJC’s initiatives and ensuring their success exemplifies what it means to shine behind the scenes. Join us in celebrating Tiffany and all of this year’s inspiring nominees at Rock the Jewels tomorrow at Elsie Rooftop in NYC from 6-10pm! Get tickets here: https://lnkd.in/g9eCSSBc Your support helps BIJC continue its vital work in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for the jewelry industry. 💎✨ #RockTheJewels #BehindTheShine #JewelryIndustry #BIJC #ShiningTogether

✨ Celebrating Patricia Carruth (Trish) – Behind the Shine Nominee! ✨ We’re honored to spotlight Trish Carruth, Founder & Lead Designer of Your Personal Jeweler, as a nominee for the Behind the Shine Award at Rock the Jewels 2024! 🌟 Trish has been a loyal member of BIJC since its inception and has played an instrumental role in driving our mission forward. As the leader of our Events Committee, Trish’s vision, dedication, and hard work have been pivotal in creating unforgettable experiences that bring our community together and highlight the brilliance of diversity in the jewelry industry. Beyond her invaluable contributions to BIJC, Trish is the creative force behind Your Personal Jeweler, a brand that specializes in crafting meaningful, custom jewelry pieces. Known for her personalized approach, Trish helps couples celebrate their love stories with engagement rings and wedding bands designed to last a lifetime. Her passion for creating timeless pieces mirrors her commitment to uplifting others and making a lasting impact. Join us in honoring Trish and all of this year’s incredible nominees at Rock the Jewels on November 21st at Elsie Rooftop, NYC! Get your tickets now: https://lnkd.in/g9eCSSBc Your support helps BIJC continue its vital work in creating a more inclusive and equitable jewelry industry. 💎✨

✨ Honoring Anna Samsonova – Behind the Shine Nominee! ✨ We’re thrilled to celebrate Anna, a dedicated leader and advocate, as a nominee for the Behind the Shine Award at Rock the Jewels! As a valued BIJC Board of Advisor, Anna’s contributions to our Events and Education Committees have been transformative. Her expertise, dedication, and behind-the-scenes efforts have helped bring impactful programs and initiatives to life, fostering growth and opportunity within the jewelry industry. Beyond BIJC, Anna is the founder of Samsonova Consulting, where she empowers independent jewelers and brands with tailored strategies, tools, and solutions to help their businesses thrive. Her work continues to elevate the industry, proving that success comes from passion, purpose, and a commitment to excellence. Anna exemplifies what it means to shine behind the scenes, and we are so proud to recognize her contributions. 💎✨ Join us in honoring Anna and other incredible nominees at Rock the Jewels on November 21st at Elsie Rooftop, NYC! Get your tickets now! Your support helps BIJC continue its vital work in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for the jewelry industry. https://lnkd.in/g9eCSSBc

✨ Celebrating Rising Star Nominee: Ola Erogbogbo of Deinté Fine Jewelry ✨ Ola Erogbogbo, founder and designer of @deintefinejewelry, is a nominee for the Rising Star Award at Rock the Jewels 2024! Deinté Fine Jewelry is all about crafting timeless elegance with a modern twist, offering luxury jewelry pieces that are as unique as the individuals who wear them. Inspired by Ola’s dedication to exceptional craftsmanship and a love for fine details, Deinté creates jewelry that tells a story of sophistication, culture, and personal style. Ola’s work reflects a commitment to quality and artistry, making her a true rising star in the industry. Join us in celebrating Ola and our incredible nominees at Rock the Jewels on November 21st at Elsie Rooftop, NYC. Get your tickets: https://lnkd.in/g9eCSSBc Your attendance supports BIJC’s mission to inspire and empower the next generation of jewelers through impactful programs. 💎✨

✨ Celebrating Rising Star Nominee: Symoné Currie of Metal x Wire ✨ We’re excited to spotlight Symoné Currie, founder and designer of Metal x Wire, as a nominee for the Rising Star Award at Rock the Jewels next week! Symoné’s journey with @metalxwire is rooted in the beauty of architectural forms, inspired by both nature and structure. Her fine jewelry pieces are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, embodying strength, elegance, and a unique blend of modern aesthetics with timeless appeal. Symoné’s commitment to sustainable practices and her dedication to creating meaningful, artful jewelry makes her an inspiring rising star in the industry. Join us in celebrating Symoné and all our incredible nominees at Rock the Jewels on November 21st at Elsie Rooftop, NYC. Get your tickets: https://lnkd.in/g9eCSSBc Your attendance helps support BIJC’s mission, including programs that nurture and empower the next generation of jewelers. 💎✨

✨ Celebrating Rising Star Nominee: Gwen Beloti✨ We are thrilled to highlight Gwen Beloti, founder and designer of Gwen Beloti Jewelry, as a nominee for the Rising Star Award at Rock the Jewels 2024! 🌟 Gwen’s passion for fashion and accessories led her to create a brand that empowers women to feel beautiful every day with stylish, size-inclusive, and luxurious gold jewelry. Inspired by her own journey, Gwen has built a collection that celebrates all shapes, sizes, and personal styles, bringing elegance and accessibility to her designs. Her dedication to uplifting others through her craft is why she’s a true rising star in the industry. Join us in cheering for Gwen and other talented nominees at Rock the Jewels on November 21st at Elsie Rooftop, NYC. Your attendance supports BIJC’s initiatives, including programs that create pathways for the next generation of jewelers. 💎✨ Get your tickets now: https://lnkd.in/g9eCSSBc