It’s extremely disheartening to see the cyclical headlines, as it doesn’t seem like America is making progress in racial equality & unity. Protests have ignited across the country in response to the latest wave of violent acts against Black Americans and we can no longer stay silent or continue with our typical content of gems and jewelry.
While we are always working to improve, learn, grow — we wanted to put together a list of Black & POC-owned jewelry businesses which we can continue to add to (would love suggestions in comments). I wanted to highlight these at this time because I know there are so many platforms that are voicing others ways to take action (like donating, educating, protesting, voting, signing petitions) which are all extremely important, but my platform’s focus is on JEWELRY so I will honor my niche and spotlight these designers.
I promise you I didn’t just post a black square on my feed on Tuesday without fully reflecting on the point of it. And it won’t and does not end here. This isn’t a one day thing. I have taken action — for me, that meant to educate myself (which will be ongoing), I’ve donated, and now, as a brand, Gem Gossip has hired a couple content contributors, one of which will showcase, in a monthly feature, Black & POC jewelers. To help me with this, Asia of @irockGEMS will be helping, so I can’t wait to introduce you all to her. In the meantime, here is the list she has helped put together, along with a few readers’ contributions. Hope to continue to add to this.
Jeffery Rider November 22, 2020 at 12:24 am:
I have been a fan of opal for decades and the formation of boulder opal is a thing of beauty!! No stone is ever the same and the colors are mystifying to the eye. These types of opal are amazing to admire, and each stone has a unique character that in most cases are mesmerizing to the eye of the beholder. Most opals are a marvel to experience. Especially if you take the time to ponder how these stones are naturally created. If time could talk, there would be stories that defy time and would last millions of years in the making. I enjoy pondering the stories playing-out behind the creation of each stone I own. They are truly a wonder of the world. Mother nature is quite the artist. Of course credit goes to the many artists that shape and polish these extraordinary opals, and the minerals that accompany them. Just got to admire the universe that has made this beautiful artwork possible.
goldelite January 26, 2021 at 12:52 pm:
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