New York, NY: May 6, 2021 – In a remarkable move reinforcing its core mission of fostering positive change and demonstrating the inherent good within the natural diamond industry, Diamonds Do Good® has proudly announced the launch of an inspiring global design initiative. This unique and expansive project extends a compelling invitation to talented designers from every corner of the world, challenging them to conceptualize and craft a distinctive signature bracelet. This singular piece of jewelry is envisioned to be a powerful, tangible symbol that encapsulates the very essence, values, and aspirational vision of the Diamonds Do Good organization, reflecting its deep commitment to societal betterment and ethical practices.
Diamonds Do Good Unveils Global Design Challenge: Crafting a Symbol of Growth, Unity, and Equality
The past year has undeniably presented the global community with unprecedented trials and transformations, profoundly emphasizing the critical need for collective strength, mutual understanding, and equitable principles. Acknowledging this pivotal global landscape, Rebecca Foerster, the distinguished President of Diamonds Do Good, articulated the profound relevance and timeliness of this groundbreaking initiative. “We unequivocally believe that the imperative for unity and equality has never been more critical than it is in our current global climate,” Foerster stated with conviction. “Each of us, individually and collectively, has navigated and evolved in our own distinct and often challenging ways through the multifaceted difficulties of this past year. This shared experience reinforces the undeniable need for symbols that not only unite us but also inspire enduring hope for a more just, harmonious, and prosperous future.” This deeply resonant sentiment forms the foundational ethos of the design challenge, inviting creative minds to translate these universal aspirations and lessons learned into a wearable masterpiece that speaks volumes without uttering a single word.
Inspired by a Guiding Light: The Enduring Legacy of Nelson Mandela
The foundational inspiration for the very inception of Diamonds Do Good, and by natural extension, this ambitious and symbolically charged design initiative, emanates directly from the venerable and transformative legacy of Nelson Mandela. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., a distinguished co-founder of Diamonds Do Good and a widely revered civil rights advocate, meticulously articulated this profound and deeply rooted connection. “Diamonds Do Good was originally conceived, profoundly inspired, and steadfastly guided by the honorable Nelson Mandela, whose luminous legacy continues to shine brightly as an unwavering beacon of hope, a source of profound healing, and a testament to reconciliation for humanity across the globe,” Dr. Chavis Jr. remarked, underscoring the spiritual lineage of the organization. He further elucidated the organization’s fervent aspiration for the forthcoming creative endeavor: “It is our deep-seated desire and earnest hope that this next-generation signature bracelet will transcend its material form to become a potent and universally recognized symbol of all our collective hopes, our shared dreams for a better world, and our unwavering commitment to fostering a more just, equitable, and compassionate global society.” This profound homage to Mandela’s extraordinary life, his tireless struggle for justice, and his enduring philosophy of peace imbues the entire initiative with significant moral gravity and historical resonance, positioning the bracelet as far more than a mere adornment; it is destined to be an emblem of enduring values that resonate with people from all walks of life.
Championing Diversity and Inclusivity in Creative Expression
In perfect harmony with the profound aspirations articulated by Dr. Chavis Jr., and aligning seamlessly with the transformative principles that defined Nelson Mandela’s lifelong fight for justice and equality, Diamonds Do Good is making a concerted and emphatic effort to actively encourage Black, Indigenous, and Multicultural designers to participate wholeheartedly and contribute their unique perspectives to this landmark initiative. This intentional and proactive outreach critically underscores the organization’s deep-seated commitment to fostering genuine diversity, ensuring authentic inclusivity, and embracing a broad spectrum of creative voices within the vital design process. By championing and integrating a rich array of cultural perspectives and varied lived experiences, Diamonds Do Good aims to co-create a symbol that truly resonates with, and authentically represents, a global audience, thereby reflecting the immense tapestry of human experience and the inherent richness of our multicultural world. This inclusive approach is not merely a token gesture; rather, it is a core philosophical tenet, born from the firm belief that true representation and a multiplicity of viewpoints will yield a design that is exceptionally robust, profoundly meaningful, and universally understood, capable of inspiring people across all boundaries.
Diamonds Do Good: A Legacy of Impact Since 2006
Established in 2006, Diamonds Do Good was founded with a clear and compelling objective: to comprehensively disseminate the often-untold narrative of the tangible and profoundly positive impact generated by the responsible natural diamond industry, particularly within the vital communities of Southern Africa. Initially focused on illuminating the transformative benefits in regions rich with diamond resources, such as Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa, the organization’s scope and influence have since broadened significantly. Today, its mission has evolved to actively foster and create profound, measurable change across diamond communities situated around the globe, from Canada to India. Concurrent with its impactful philanthropic and development work, Diamonds Do Good remains steadfastly dedicated to meticulously collecting, verifying, and powerfully narrating these compelling stories of transformation, upliftment, and empowerment. These narratives highlight how the responsible sourcing, careful processing, and ethical sale of natural diamonds contribute directly and substantially to critical areas such as education, healthcare infrastructure, sustainable economic development, and robust economic empowerment, fundamentally improving the quality of life for countless individuals, families, and entire regions in these vital communities. The transparency and accountability central to this mission ensure that the sparkle of a diamond reflects true value and genuine good.
Integrating Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing: The Responsible Jewellery Council Standard
A fundamental cornerstone of this pioneering design challenge, and indeed of Diamonds Do Good’s overarching operational philosophy, is an unwavering, non-negotiable commitment to sustainability and the highest ethical practices. Participants in this unique initiative are explicitly tasked with working exclusively with materials sourced sustainably and, crucially, collaborating with companies that have attained certification from the prestigious Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). The RJC stands as a globally recognized, leading standards organization for the entire jewelry and watch industry, dedicated to rigorously promoting and upholding responsible ethical, human rights, social, and environmental practices throughout the value chain. This stringent requirement ensures that every single aspect of the proposed bracelet design, from its initial conceptualization to the final selection of its materials and manufacturing processes, aligns impeccably with the highest international standards of responsible sourcing, environmental stewardship, and social accountability. Designers are thus challenged not only to be aesthetically innovative and creatively brilliant but also to be deeply conscious of the provenance, ecological footprint, and social impact of their chosen materials, reinforcing the powerful message that true beauty, genuine luxury, and uncompromising ethics can, and indeed must, coexist harmoniously.
Furthermore, beyond the foundational requirements for sustainability and ethical sourcing, designers are specifically encouraged to ingeniously incorporate their profound personal interpretation of three pivotal and interconnected themes – ‘Growth, Unity, and Equality’ – directly into the intricate details, the underlying symbolism, and the overall narrative of their bracelet design. These themes are far more than mere buzzwords; they represent the core foundational pillars upon which Diamonds Do Good operates, upon which it was built, and through which it aspires to impact the world in a meaningful and lasting way. A design that masterfully intertwines these complex and interconnected concepts will stand as a powerful visual metaphor for the organization’s deepest values, its ongoing mission, and its hopeful vision for the future. The selected signature bracelet will therefore not merely be a beautiful adornment but a wearable emblem of progress, cohesion, and fairness that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, embodying the hopeful, inclusive future envisioned by the organization and its esteemed partners. It will be a testament to the idea that jewelry can carry significant, life-affirming messages.
The Pillars of Progress: Unpacking Growth, Unity, and Equality in Detail
The three central themes driving this initiative – Growth, Unity, and Equality – are much more than abstract concepts; they are the bedrock principles dynamically guiding the Diamonds Do Good mission and serving as the inspirational core of this signature bracelet initiative. Each theme represents a crucial, multifaceted aspect of positive social change and sustainable global development, particularly within the context of the responsible natural diamond industry and its far-reaching impact on communities worldwide.
Growth: Fostering Sustainable Development and Expanding Opportunity
The profound theme of ‘Growth’ encompasses a multitude of dimensions, ranging from robust economic prosperity and significant educational advancement to deeply personal development and the flourishing of entire communities. For Diamonds Do Good, it fundamentally signifies the tangible, measurable socio-economic benefits that the responsible natural diamond industry consistently brings to producing countries and their local communities. This includes the creation of stable, well-paying employment opportunities, the establishment of resilient infrastructure development, and substantial, ongoing investment in essential local services such as state-of-the-art schools, modern hospitals, and critical clean water initiatives. Growth also speaks to the continuous evolution, innovation, and unwavering improvement within the diamond industry itself, embracing cutting-edge sustainable practices and continually enhancing stringent ethical standards across the entire supply chain. A design reflecting ‘Growth’ might symbolize upward momentum, burgeoning potential, blossoming prosperity, or the intricate, vital interconnectedness of progress and widespread prosperity for individuals, families, and entire regions, illustrating a dynamic and ever-improving landscape.
Unity: Bridging Divides and Building Stronger, Cohesive Communities
‘Unity’ stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of collaboration, mutual understanding, and collective, purposeful action. In a world frequently marked by deep divisions and fragmentation, the call for unity is more urgent and resonant than ever before. This theme powerfully reflects the spirit of cooperation and shared purpose within diverse diamond communities, effectively bringing together people from vastly different backgrounds to work collaboratively towards shared, beneficial goals. It also eloquently highlights the global interconnectedness of the entire jewelry industry, emphasizing how universally adopted responsible practices benefit stakeholders across the entire value chain, from the dedicated miners at the source to the discerning consumers who ultimately cherish these beautiful creations. A bracelet embodying ‘Unity’ could eloquently feature elements that interlock seamlessly, intertwine gracefully, or form a cohesive, harmonious whole, symbolizing the immense strength found in solidarity, the beauty of diversity, and the profound harmony achieved when disparate elements come together for a common, noble purpose. It speaks directly to the profound idea that our collective strength, wisdom, and compassion are far greater than any individual effort or isolated endeavor.
Equality: Ensuring Fairness, Justice, and Inclusivity for All
The unwavering pursuit of ‘Equality’ is absolutely fundamental to achieving genuine social justice and upholding universal human dignity. For Diamonds Do Good, this translates into a relentless advocacy for fair labor practices, ensuring equal opportunities for both men and women, and the proactive empowerment of historically marginalized groups within diamond-producing regions and far beyond their borders. It directly challenges systemic inequalities and strives to ensure that the extensive benefits generated by the responsible natural diamond industry are distributed equitably, providing clear avenues for advancement, education, and economic upliftment for all individuals, regardless of their background, gender, or ethnicity. This theme resonates particularly strongly with the indelible legacy of Nelson Mandela, whose entire life was a tireless, courageous struggle against apartheid and for universal human equality and dignity. A design representing ‘Equality’ might elegantly use balanced forms, symmetrical patterns, or powerful symbols of justice, fairness, and equilibrium, conveying an unequivocal message of equal value, equal respect, and equal opportunity for every single person, reflecting a profound, unwavering commitment to building a world where everyone has a rightful chance to not just survive, but to truly thrive and reach their fullest potential.
An Esteemed Panel of Industry Leaders to Guide the Review Process
To guarantee a rigorous, impartial, and meticulously fair evaluation process for such a significant undertaking, the crucial task of selecting the final signature bracelet design has been entrusted to an exceptionally distinguished and influential panel of reviewers. This esteemed group comprises influential leaders, visionary innovators, and seasoned experts from across various critical facets of the jewelry industry and beyond, collectively bringing an unparalleled wealth of experience, discerning taste, deep strategic insight, and a profound understanding of market dynamics to the selection process. Their collective and diverse expertise guarantees that the chosen design will not only be aesthetically compelling, innovative, and commercially viable but also deeply resonant with the foundational organizational ethos, effectively communicating its values, and possessing significant market relevance. The impressive integrity, profound knowledge, and high stature of this panel unequivocally underscore the immense significance, profound aspirations, and exacting standards of this truly global design initiative, ensuring a choice that will inspire and endure.
- Kecia Caffie: SVP, General Manager, Piercing Pagoda – Bringing extensive, invaluable retail and brand management expertise, with a keen understanding of consumer engagement and market trends.
- Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr: President, National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) – As a respected co-founder of Diamonds Do Good and a prominent civil rights advocate, he offers a deep, nuanced understanding of social impact, historical context, and compelling community narratives.
- Kim Crawford: VP Divisional Manager, Jewelry & Watches, Macy’s – Providing invaluable, frontline insights into dynamic market trends, evolving consumer preferences, and the strategic landscape of the luxury retail sector.
- Ayzia James: Branding, Digital Marketing Manager, Hamilton Jewelers – Contributing modern, forward-thinking perspectives on brand identity, innovative digital engagement strategies, and crucial market positioning in the contemporary era.
- Eddie Levian: CEO, Le Vian – A visionary and influential leader from a renowned, historic jewelry house, widely celebrated for pioneering innovation, trendsetting designs, and exquisite craftsmanship.
- Daniele Miele: Gem Gossip/Influencer – A prominent, authoritative voice and influential presence within the global jewelry community, offering a vital pulse on contemporary aesthetics, emerging trends, and popular appeal.
- Lola Oladunjoye: Designer, Lola Fenhirst – An acclaimed and highly respected designer bringing exceptional creative vision, refined artistic sensibility, and a deep understanding of unique, handcrafted jewelry.
- Stellene Vollandes: Editor-in-Chief, Town & Country – Offering a high-fashion, luxury lifestyle perspective, an impeccable eye for enduring elegance, and a sophisticated approach to storytelling within the luxury sphere.
Key Dates and the Road Ahead: A Celebration of Nelson Mandela’s Enduring Legacy
The exciting journey towards the unveiling of this iconic, symbolically rich bracelet is meticulously marked by several significant dates, each carefully chosen to honor its profound inspiration and historical context. Submissions for this prestigious global design challenge are due by **June 28**, providing talented designers worldwide with ample opportunity to craft and refine their visionary interpretations, ensuring every detail is perfect. Following this crucial deadline, a rigorous and meticulous review process will commence, involving careful consideration by the esteemed panel.
A highly anticipated and celebratory milestone will be the momentous announcement of the top three finalists on **July 18**. This specific date holds particular and profound significance as it commemorates the 103rd anniversary of the birth of the revered humanitarian, iconic freedom fighter, and global statesman, Nelson Mandela. Celebrating this pivotal moment on his birthday serves as a powerful and poignant reminder of the enduring principles of humanity, justice, unwavering courage, and profound reconciliation that he championed tirelessly throughout his extraordinary life – principles that lie at the very heart of the Diamonds Do Good mission and resonate deeply with its values. Each of the chosen finalists will then be granted the distinct and invaluable opportunity to present their groundbreaking designs directly to the full panel of esteemed reviewers. This presentation will necessitate a comprehensive and articulate explanation of their creative process, the conceptual framework behind their design, and, critically, how their unique design powerfully articulates, embodies, and visualizes the overarching, interconnected themes of ‘Growth, Unity, and Equality.’ This crucial phase allows for a deeper appreciation of the intellectual thought, artistic intention, and emotional resonance embedded within each potential signature piece, ensuring the final selection is both beautiful and meaningful.
The Bracelet’s Transformative Impact: Philanthropy and Global Reach
The ultimate winning design will transcend its role as a mere piece of exquisite jewelry; it is destined to become a powerful instrument for both direct philanthropy and widespread awareness. Once meticulously selected, the final design will be prominently and proudly featured on the official Diamonds Do Good website, serving as a focal point for generating invaluable donations. All proceeds generated from the sales and associated fundraising efforts of this initiative will directly and substantially benefit the **Flaviana Matata Foundation**, a highly respected and impactful organization unequivocally dedicated to empowering girls and young women in Tanzania through transformative initiatives in education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship. This meaningful partnership brilliantly exemplifies the direct, positive impact of the responsible natural diamond industry, effectively turning beautiful, crafted creations into tangible, life-changing support for vital community programs and fostering generational change.
Beyond its profound philanthropic endeavor, the signature bracelet is strategically poised for significant visibility, broad appeal, and widespread distribution across key luxury markets. It holds the remarkable potential to be prominently featured at **Jared The Galleria of Jewelry**, recognized as one of the leading and most trusted names in fine jewelry retail across the United States, thereby reaching a vast consumer base. Furthermore, active discussions are underway for the bracelet to be showcased in an array of esteemed luxury independent jewelry stores and premier department stores nationwide, ensuring its presence in the most discerning retail environments. This extensive and carefully curated reach will ensure that the vital message of Growth, Unity, and Equality, so eloquently embodied by the bracelet, resonates deeply with a broad and diverse consumer base, significantly amplifying the positive stories behind natural diamonds and highlighting the impactful, transformative work of Diamonds Do Good. This widespread exposure not only celebrates the winning designer’s exceptional talent and creative vision but also fundamentally underscores the broader mission of responsible luxury, ethical sourcing, and profound social responsibility within the dynamic global jewelry market, proving that luxury can indeed be a force for good.
Join the Movement: Crafting a Future of Purpose and Enduring Beauty
This global design initiative spearheaded by Diamonds Do Good represents much more than a mere competition; it is a profound and urgent call to action for the entire creative community to actively contribute to a powerful movement dedicated to fostering genuine, lasting positive change. By inviting designers to imbue a piece of exquisite jewelry with deep symbolic meaning, the organization is unequivocally reaffirming the immense power of art, design, and exceptional craftsmanship to communicate vital messages of hope, global solidarity, and universal justice. The resulting signature bracelet will stand as a luminous, enduring emblem of the shared commitment to sustainable growth, the imperative of fostering greater unity, and the enduring, relentless pursuit of true equality across the globe, inspiring countless individuals.
Diamonds Do Good continues its unwavering dedication to showcasing the inherent good that genuinely emanates from the responsible natural diamond industry, fostering resilient and sustainable communities, and championing the highest ethical practices throughout the entire value chain. This initiative is a shining example of how luxury and aesthetic appeal can be leveraged for genuine, measurable social impact, powerfully demonstrating that every single natural diamond tells a story not only of geological wonder, timeless beauty, and rarity but also of human endeavor, community upliftment, and profound social responsibility. We wholeheartedly encourage all eligible designers, with their unique visions and talents, to seize this extraordinary opportunity to leave an indelible and meaningful mark on both the dynamic world of jewelry design and, more importantly, on the lives of those directly touched and empowered by the invaluable work of the Flaviana Matata Foundation. Let us collaborate to together craft a future where beauty, profound purpose, and positive, transformative change are inextricably and beautifully linked.