The Many Faces of Education

Relationships are at the core of our industry. Throughout my career, I have found that some of the most valuable lessons come from conversations, encounters, and the willingness to keep asking questions. 

A friend recently told me that earning a gemology qualification is important, but traveling to mines, attending trade shows, and spending time with people who have devoted their careers to gemstones is what truly deepens your understanding. I think that applies across our industry. Formal education provides essential foundations, but there is no substitute for experience and learning from others in situ.  

That spirit runs throughout our August issue. We explore mentorship programs, professional associations, educational opportunities, and the places and initiatives that can help you build knowledge, relationships and a career. 

This magazine’s cover story has more of a guidebook feel than usual – intentionally so. We hope you will keep it nearby and return to it when considering your next professional move, weighing which organizations to join, or seeking ways to continue learning. 

My friend and colleague Avi Krawitz once said that you enter this industry by chance, but stay by choice. I hope this issue helps you make the most of that choice – by joining a program, finding a mentor, sharing your own experience, or perhaps even starting an initiative of your own. 

Editor’s Pick 

I have always been drawn to jewelry with a sense of playfulness and romance, and Yvonne Léon’s creations offer both in abundance. Her animal and marine-inspired pieces have long appealed to me, but it was the concept behind her new Vase brooch/pendant that completely won me over. 

Part of the Parisian designer’s L’Amour collection, the jewel invites its owner to build a miniature bouquet. First comes the vase pendant itself in Berlingot or crystal finish, then the choice of a central flower: a diamond and yellow-sapphire daisy in white or yellow gold, or a tsavorite and diamond clover. Diamond pear drops, pearls, and more diamond or tsavorite clovers make up the accent flowers you can add to the sides. 

The result is whimsical and beautiful, but also deeply personal. I love the idea of a jewel you can build over time, adding flowers to mark birthdays, anniversaries, achievements, or other significant moments. The bouquet becomes an evolving talisman, and eventually an heirloom to pass on. 

Images: Vase brooch/pendant with flowers, available in 9- or 18-karat gold. (Yvonne Léon) 

Main image: Rapaport Magazine Editor Sonia Esther Soltani. (Ben Kelmer)