Diamond Empowerment Fund's Blog
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In Southern Florida I Found Southern Africa
- Posted on 04.09.09
I found myself in South Florida last week and had the opportunity to drop in on J.R. Dunn Jewelers in Lighthouse Point. Having sold 816 of the Simmons Jewelry Co.’s Green Bracelets over the past two years, J.R. Dunn (http://www.jrdunn.com) has been an important independent retailer supporting the Diamond Empowerment Fund’s mission. It was a treat to be able to thank them in person, and to see the great things they are doing.
Sean Dunn and his father, Jim Dunn, showed me around their elegant store, and then I had the opportunity to sit down with them and discuss their new venture, Precious Earth Fine Jewelry (www.preciousearthjewelry.com). This new collection is made with diamonds from Namibia that are cut and polished locally, and they are dedicated to transparency and consciousness in all of their business practices. Diamonds are vital to the Namibian economy and Precious Earth and Team Namibia are working together to advocate and empower the local population through beneficiation.
Robert walked me through the studio, where everything from casting intricate pendants of the Baobab Tree, to hand finishing pieces depicting the elephant tusk in silver, to the leopard collection and rhino pendant designed to raise awareness for these endangered species was happening. Every design decision has a symbolic relationship to the well being of Africa. For example in Africa, the Baobab Tree is traditionally known as a food plant that represents strength as it will grow well in any terrain and provides food security.
Casting molds for the Baobab Tree
The artistry and ethics of Precious Earth came through loud and clear, and Sean and his team are clearly dedicated leading in the growing cadre of ethical jewelers who are inspired by Africa. D.E.F. is excited to have their support, and in fact they are holding an event at J.R. Dunn’s Ft. Lauderdale store on March 27th with Success Magazine, raising awareness and funds for D.E.F.(Click here for the E-Vite) We are excited to see what’s next for this interesting effort for Africa!
-Ellen
Related causes: Environment, Human Rights
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