(NEW YORK) – The Jewelers Relief Fund, a GoFundMe account designed to collect donations for independent jewelers whose stores sustained physical damage during recent acts of looting across the country, has distributed raised funds to affected jewelers. The Jewelers Relief Fund was organized by Diamond Council of America (DCA) – a nationally accredited school that offers jewelers the opportunity to earn professional certifications in diamonds, colored gemstones, and fine jewelry sales through distance education and Jewelers of America (JA) – a national trade association for businesses serving the fine jewelry marketplace.
The jewelry industry rallied together to show support for fellow jewelers in need. The Jewelers Relief Fund raised over $27,000 through private donations from individuals and companies, surpassing the projected goal. 100% of the funds raised were directly distributed to ten independent jewelry stores who sustained physical damage to their store.
“The jewelry industry, both individuals and companies alike, has come together to support fellow jewelers in need. Our industry continues to show resilience during these trying times,” says JA President & CEO David J. Bonaparte.
“Independent jewelry businesses have been impacted significantly during these challenging times,” said Maggie Kassebaum, SVP and GM Luxury Markets, Payment Solutions, Synchrony. “Synchrony is honored to partner with Jewelers of America and Diamond Council of America to ensure that these small business owners receive the help they need to recover and grow.”
Funds were raised through the generous support of industry partners and individuals including Synchrony, Forevermark US, BIG Buyers Intelligence Group, National Jeweler, Reed Jewelry Group and RJO. For a full listing of supporters, view the GoFundMe page here.
