(PRESS RELEASE) CEDARBURG, WI — As the jewelry industry faces an ongoing shortage of skilled bench jewelers and goldsmiths, the LOVE HAS MANY FACETS Jewelry Design Competition and Fundraiser (FACETS) is emerging as an innovative, community-driven effort to inspire the next generation of makers.
Co-founded by Patty Gallun Hansen, Graduate Gemologist and second-generation jeweler, and Jack Henke, CEO of Henke and Associates, the FACETS initiative connects retail jewelers with local high-school art departments. Students design and carve wax models, while jewelers serve as the local hosts, offering students a unique opportunity to explore the creative and technical foundations of the jewelry trade.
After students complete their models, a panel selects several finalists, and the broader community is invited to cast their votes for the winning design. The winning piece is then professionally manufactured and made available for purchase. A percentage of the profits from each sale is donated back to the participating high-school art department, strengthening and expanding school jewelry programs for future students.
This year, Rio Grande, one of the industry’s most respected suppliers, has chosen to support the mission of FACETS. Their manufacturing sponsorship reinforces the value of early exposure to jewelry-making skills and the role of jewelers as community connectors.
“FACETS gives young people a glimpse into career possibilities they might never have considered,” said Mark Nelson, Education Coordinator at Rio Grande. “Programs like this help strengthen ties between jewelers, educators, and the community while sparking interest in the craft.”
Joshua Baca, Senior Business Customization Specialist at Rio Grande, also expressed enthusiasm for the program’s impact. “Jewelers do so much more than create beautiful pieces—they often become trusted guides in their communities,” Baca said. “FACETS provides a meaningful way for jewelers to inspire students, encourage creativity, and help young people discover their own potential.”
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The initiative has also earned strong praise from Terry Chandler, President/CEO of the Diamond Council of America and one of the jewelry industry’s most influential education leaders. As he approaches retirement, Chandler continues to champion programs that strengthen the profession.
“FACETS shines a spotlight on the craft of goldsmithing at a time when the industry urgently needs new talent,” Chandler said. “By giving students a real-world introduction to jewelry design and creation, this program helps ignite the passion that can lead to a lifelong career.”
FACETS has already demonstrated success in its founding community, where four cycles of student designs have progressed from classroom concepts to professionally crafted sterling silver pieces. Funds raised have helped support and expand high-school jewelry programs by providing tools, equipment, and resources that might not otherwise be available.
Licensed jewelers are provided with suggested practices, timelines, and educational materials they may use at their discretion to support their local program. While the heart of FACETS is philanthropic, jewelers often appreciate the meaningful connections it helps them build within their communities. With Rio Grande’s support this year, the program is now preparing to expand into additional markets across the United States, one school and one jeweler at a time.
For information about becoming a licensed FACETS jeweler, please contact:
Patty Gallun Hansen – 414-378-5449
Jack Henke – 414-588-9497
