jewelry information

What are your qualifications and experience in the jewelry industry? I may be able to help.

Dave

I have spent the last 2+ years working in the merchandising (product development) department for one of the largest wholesale jewelry companies in the industry. I have spent my time working in color (semiprecious, pearl and opaque).

We research trends, create trend stories, sketch new models, work with vendors overseas, ensure aesthetics and components are met by model and sample, finalize pricing with vendors and merchandise the product line for the shows each season.

Before I worked in jewelry, I had my own business which was a wholesale line of clothing. I have a college degree in International Business and Communications. I currently live in New York City.

I would be interested in working in retail or possibly in the buying department of a store.

Any information or contacts you could offer would be greatly appreciated.

Hello Shawn,

There are lots of jewerly stores here and particularly on St. Thomas; many are family owned. In any case the larger "name" stores that come to mind are Diamonds International, Cardows, Passman Gallery, Little Switzerland & Cartier... I don't know where their head offices are, something you will need to look into some more.

Good Luck.

--Islander

Hi Shawn,

It looks like you have some very interesting experience. You will not have any trouble finding a job here.

Most of the market is bread and butter jewelry. (basic rings, bracelets etc) involving diamonds, tanzanite, emerald, etc. There is a bit of a push to designer names lately. Major diamonds in the 2-5 ct range are being sold daily.

There are basically two types of stores....corporate or family business. Corporate names such as diamonds Intl, Colombian Emeralds Intl, H. Stern, Tiffinay etc usually have their main offices in New York or Florida. They should be able to interview stateside if you want the security of a job in hand when you move

The rest like Omni, Ballerina, Pierre's, Gem Casa, Beverly's, etc. are all based in the islands and are run by families, often for several generations. The prospects of employment really are dependant on timing. Right at this time the prospects are very slim. Many stores are laying off staff or sending them to stores in Alaska for the summer. Most of the owners are heading to shows or on vacation.

September, October and November are good times to get serious about landing a job. Season is about to begin and it's going to get real hectic real fast. Most stores need good help desperately at that time. With your background, you should have no problem getting a good job.

Pay is variable, dependant on position and ability. Your best chance will be in sales. If you are good and on commission you can make some fairly serious money. Management positions may be available in the corporate stores, but unlikely in the family run stores. Buyer positions in the corporate stores will keep you based in NY or FL, defeating your purpose.

Like most other advice on here, the best thing is to get down to the island and see it for yourself. You will want to talk to the people who work in any store that you are considering applying to. There can be great differences in how employees are treated. You'll want to find a company that fits your style and comfort level and that can only be researched in person.

Over all, it's an exciting market and you will gain a level of experience that is virtually unavailable anywhere else. If you need any help or have any other questions about the jewelry industry here, feel free to e-mail me.

Dave

Hi Dave,

I really appreciate your taking the time to help me figure out my options and understand the business better. This information will allow me to feel more comfortable as I make some important choices. It sounds like your are/ were in this field yourself. I will keep your information in case I have more questions in the future. I am not moving until October, but I am taking this time to plot and plan.

I wish I could be of some assistance to you in some way!
Thanks again,
Shawn