(PRESS RELEASE) Columbia Gem House launches its second annual fundraising auction with nonprofit partner NEST to raise funds in support of up-and-coming BIPOC jewelry makers. Auction pieces are now available to bid on with one hundred percent of proceeds donated to NEST’s Jewelers United Program.
Each jewelry design was inspired by the fictional story shared with designers as part of the MJSA Responsibly Sourced Design Challenge, then brought to life using a variety of responsibly sourced gemstones donated by Columbia Gem House. Participating designers were challenged with creating a piece inspired by the story and inclusive of the seven donated stones. Donated gem varieties include Oregon Sunstone, Montana Sapphire, Australian Sapphire and Brazilian Fire Citrine.
Participating designers who donated their work to the Jewelers United Fundraising Auction include:
- Nashira Arnó | designer/owner of Nashira Arnó Studio based in New York City, and a previous Jewelers United award recipient
- Kaelin Cordis | owner of Kaelin Design based in Rogers, Arkansas
- Lauren Davidson | owner of Ellie Air Jewellery based in Dorset, United Kingdom
- Cady Carlson Dill | owner of Cady Carlson Designs based in Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Jamie Hollier | owner of Balefire Goods based in Arvada, Colorado
- Kimi Kaplowitz | owner of Theeth Jewelry based in Portland, Oregon
- David Thorp | owner of Mercurius Jewelry with wife Alisa Thorp based in Oakland, California
- Sandrine Valentine | owner if Sandrine B. Jewelry based in New York City
Bidding Now Open Through November 8th, 2022
The donated jewelry pieces are now available to bid on here through November 8th at 11:59PM. Bidders may place one time bids, set automatic bidding or may also ‘buy out’ the piece at its full retail value to secure the purchase. Winning bidders will receive a book celebrating the designers and stories behind each piece. One hundred percent of each sale will be donated to NEST in support of its Jewelers United Program.
