(PRESS RELEASE) CARLSBAD, CA — Multi-talented performer, record producer and philanthropist Beyoncé is teaming up with longtime friend and world-renowned jewelry designer Lorraine Schwartz to award two members of the Black community the opportunity to earn the most esteemed credentials in the industry. The global entertainer will personally select two recipients from qualified applicants for The Beyoncé Knowles-Carter x Lorraine Schwartz GIA Scholarship. The two scholarships award full tuition and paid expenses for the Gemological Institute of America’s Graduate Gemologist program through distance education. Applications for the scholarship will be accepted from March 1 at 9 a.m. PST to March 16 at 11:59 p.m. PST. For more information and to apply, visit GIA.edu.
“It is an honor to have this scholarship in my name, but the best part is teaming up with my friend Lorraine Schwartz to give two people an opportunity to learn,” said Beyoncé. “We both believe that learning is constant. This is a chance to learn from the best, create generational wealth and turn a love of gems into a career.”
Through a shared love of jewelry, Beyoncé and Lorraine’s friendship led to the formation of The Beyoncé Knowles-Carter x Lorraine Schwartz GIA Scholarship. Lorraine gifted Beyoncé one of the scholarships for her last birthday and GIA matched the funds for a second scholarship. It is truly the gift that keeps on giving – awarding two talented people the opportunity to transform their gem and jewelry aspirations into a reality.
“This scholarship is a homage to Beyoncé for the inspiration she’s given me throughout my career,” said Schwartz. “It’s about the love formed from relationships and knowing that at the end of the day, we are all the same. Now I have the opportunity to bring that inspiration full circle and show the community the endless possibilities that are in this industry, especially for Black professionals.”
GIA’s Graduate Gemologist program combines the beauty of gemstones with the science and technical skills needed for students to gain comprehensive knowledge of diamonds and colored stones. Throughout the program, students learn practical skills to evaluate diamonds using the 4Cs (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight), the International Diamond Grading System, and the Colored Stone Grading System.
“What makes a career in the jewelry industry so special is that it is the culmination of art, science and business fused together in a passionate industry that is grounded in community,” said Susan Jacques, GIA president and CEO. “A Graduate Gemologist diploma provides students the skills they need to succeed in this industry and opens doors for networking opportunities to expand their relationships critical for success.”
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Family Legacy, New Chapter: How Wilkerson Turns 89 Years of History Into Future Success
After 89 years of serving the Albany community, Harold Finkle Your Jeweler faced a pivotal decision. For third-generation owner Justin Finkle, the demanding hours of running a small business were taking precious time away from his young family. "After 23 years, I decided this was the time for me," Finkle explains. But closing a business with nearly nine decades of inventory and customer relationships isn't something easily managed alone.
Wilkerson's comprehensive approach transformed this challenging transition into a remarkable success story. Their strategic planning handled everything from advertising and social media to inventory management and staffing — elements that would overwhelm most jewelers attempting to navigate a closing sale independently.
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