Black in Jewelry Coalition

Pamela Adewoyin James, founder of Lola Ade, is a Nigerian-American jewelry designer and BIJC member. Her journey started in Lagos, inspired by the vibrant colors, textures, and local artisans she grew up around. In 2010, she began handcrafting jewelry, and by 2016, launched her first collection featuring models representing Black beauty, filling a gap in the industry with timeless, heritage-inspired pieces. Lola Ade specializes in minimalistic fashion and fine jewelry, using recycled metals and conflict-free gemstones. This year, she launched an engagement ring collection with 14 designs, each named after the word "heart" in African languages. As a lawyer and self-taught jewelry designer, BIJC connected Pamela with a supportive community of Black jewelry professionals she hadn’t previously connected with in the industry, a network that has been invaluable in her journey. Pamela’s proudest moments include being featured in Cosmo, Vogue, and Oprah's Favorite Things without PR support. Now, she’s navigating the fine jewelry space, proving that small Black-owned businesses can break into competitive industries. If you're interested in becoming a BIJC member, learn more here: https://lnkd.in/g5zWDUi

Are you a jewelry designer looking to take the next step and get your pieces into retail stores? Join us Thursday, Oct. 10th at 7:30 pm ET for our next BIJC Webinar Series, Getting Into Retail, where industry experts Jennifer Gandia, Ronny Seliktar, and Thomas Davis will guide you through the key steps to successfully partner with retailers. We'll cover essential topics such as preparing your brand for retail, identifying the right retail partners, negotiating agreements, scaling production, and supporting retail sales. Whether you're just starting out or ready to expand, this webinar will provide actionable strategies to help you grow your business through retail channels. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gHFQPvfk Speakers: Jennifer Gandia, co-owner of Greenwich St. Jewelers, is a visionary leader who has transformed her family business into a top destination for designer fine jewelry. With a background in marketing and public relations, she has infused innovation and creativity into the brand. In 2021, Gandia launched her own jewelry line, Astra, followed by her Bouquet collection in 2023. Known for her commitment to responsible sourcing and industry equity, Gandia's leadership has earned Greenwich St. Jewelers several accolades, including the 2023 Gem Award for Retail Excellence. Ronny Seliktar, President and partner at Select Jewelry, Inc., is a seasoned veteran in the jewelry industry with over 30 years of experience. He has developed global jewelry brands for major department stores, jewelry chains, television networks, and e-commerce platforms. As an active member of the Responsible Jewelry Council and the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Seliktar operates a global supply chain based on ethical sourcing and transparency, and he is committed to fair labor and protecting human rights. Ronny serves on the Black In Jewelry Coalition (BIJC) advisory board, advocating for diverse representation within the jewelry industry. Thomas Davis is the Director of Business Development at Select Jewelry, Inc., with experience in corporate management, retail, manufacturing, merchandising, and sales. He also serves on the Board of Directors for BIJC, promoting diversity and inclusivity within the jewelry industry.

BIJC is proud to partner with Baldwin High School and the Natural Diamond Council to launch the Future Jewelers Academy, starting this school year. This innovative program will teach students jewelry design, bench work, and retail skills while integrating STEAM education. By the end of the year, students will complete 8-10 projects, building a foundation for careers in the jewelry industry. Annie Doresca, MPA, BIJC Treasure and past BIJC president shares, “This program opens doors to creative careers, empowering students to see the value in craftsmanship.” Learn more: https://lnkd.in/exWr5zb3

Ronny Seliktar, a member of BIJC’s Board of Advisors and CEO of Simone I. Smith Jewelry, brings over 30 years of industry expertise. In a recent feature, Ronny shared key insights for leading a successful brand, emphasizing creativity, innovation, and collaboration. His leadership within BIJC reflects his commitment to driving change in the jewelry industry. Read the entire article here: https://lnkd.in/guFfEppx

Did you miss out on last years Rock the Jewels event in New York City during NYC Jewelry Week? Don’t miss out this time—tickets are going quick for this year’s event, and it’s going to be even bigger and better. Secure your spot and join us for an unforgettable night celebrating the best in the jewelry industry. Get your tickets now before they’re gone: https://lnkd.in/dqu2gED4

Bradlei Smith is the winner of the 2024 Lonia Tate Scholarship put on by Ben Bridge Jeweler and supported by BIJC. “Jewelry can be a generational business. But for someone like me, a first-generation jeweler, and for people of color who have a passion for it, you need mentorship. You need someone who will hold the door open for those who want to come in and demystify the business. You need someone to tell them that it’s feasible,” says Bradlei. After transitioning from the fashion industry, Bradlei pursued her passion for jewelry, immersing herself in learning and craftsmanship across three continents. Her journey reflects resilience and determination, and we are excited to see where her passions take her. Read more about her inspiring story: https://lnkd.in/g5YprYbM

Rock the Jewels is almost here! Secure your tickets NOW before they sell out. Your purchase not only grants you access to an unforgettable evening but also supports BIJC’s crucial initiatives, including high school jewelry education programs. Be a part of making a difference and celebrating the future of jewelry! Join us on November 21, 2024, from 6 to 10 PM EDT at NYC’s stunning Elsie Rooftop, as we celebrate four years of impactful achievements in partnership during NYC Jewelry Week. Don’t miss out on a fabulous night of industry awards, brilliant jewelry exhibits showcasing Black designers, and valuable networking opportunities. Reserve your ticket now: https://lnkd.in/g9eCSSBc #RockTheJewels #BIJC #NYCJW

It's time to recognize the incredible talent and contributions in the jewelry industry! Nominate your picks for the 2024 Rock the Jewels Awards—it only takes less than 5 minutes. Submit your nominations and help us celebrate the trailblazers, innovators, and leaders who are making a difference. Your voice matters, vote now: https://lnkd.in/gDGvUvF9 Voting ends Sept. 9th! 

BIJC is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of talent in the gem and jewelry industry through the Future Jewelers Academy. This program provides High School students with hands-on experience, industry knowledge, and exposure to industry professionals to expand their experience and knowledge of jewelry. We’re thrilled to announce the return of the Academy for the 2024-2025 school year at Brooklyn STEAM Center, thanks in part to the incredible contributions of Professor Frank Fraley, whose expertise and passion have been instrumental, and the support from Jewelers Mutual Group. Stay tuned for more updates on how to get involved! Congratulations to the students who completed the first Future Jewelers Academy! 

Introducing BIJC member Vanessa B. Miller, a Jamaican-born, NYC-based artisan behind Black Queer Magic NY. Vanessa combines a passion for social justice, jewelry fabrication, and community engagement. As a licensed psychotherapist and self-taught metalsmith, Vanessa designs fine and semi-fine jewelry. When not holding therapy sessions, they create gender-expansive handmade jewelry, teach under-supported communities, and lead DEI initiatives in the jewelry sector. Vanessa is a 2024 One For The Future honoree, a 2024-2025 UBS x Luminary fellow, and featured in Women in Jewelry Who Rock. Their work is rooted in a personal journey, from finding stability after aging out of foster care to becoming a leader in the jewelry industry. Through BQMNY, Vanessa uplifts marginalized communities by creating pieces that inspire and empower, while also giving back to Black LGBTQ organizations. Reflecting on their journey, Vanessa says, "I invite all of us, including aspiring Black professionals looking to enter the gem and jewelry industry, to reflect on the abundance that surrounds us in our lives; to affirm for ourselves that we are enough, we have enough, and we do enough. There is love and support for all that we are and there is enough to go around." If you're interested in becoming a member of BIJC like Vanessa, learn more here: https://lnkd.in/g5zWDUi