Empowering Black Africans
through the jewelry industry
A vision for progress
By Jeffery Bolling
Jeffery Bolling, District Manager of Signet Jewelers, started out in the jewelry industry in 1986, after serving the the U.S. Army in 1986. With a career that spans retail sales, jewelry design and owning a store – Jeffery B Jewelers in Denver, Colorado, in November 2023 he was honored by the Black in Jewelry Coalition with the BIJC Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional contributions to the industry over 30 years. In December 2023 he was named as one of the three new members of the BIJC Board of Directors.
NOVEMBER 1, 2024
For more than three decades, I have had the privilege of building a successful career in the jewelry industry. But for me, this journey has never been solely about business—it’s always been about purpose and impact. Throughout my career, I have developed a deep connection to Africa, a continent that has provided the world with its most precious resources. While African diamonds have enriched the global market, too often, the people of Africa have not fully benefited from this wealth. That’s why my mission has been focused on creating meaningful opportunities for Black Africans in the jewelry industry.
At the heart of this mission is my work with the Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC), an organization I am proud to be a part of. As the first Black jewelry organization in the United States, BIJC is more than just a coalition — it’s a movement dedicated to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in an industry that has historically been difficult for minorities to access. Through BIJC, I’ve committed myself to advancing opportunities for minorities while building stronger connections between Africa’s diamond resources and the global jewelry market.
Over the past few years, I have had the privilege of meeting and learning from inspiring individuals such as Kealeboga Pule, Molefi Letsiki and Conrad Van Der Ross, Operations Manager at the State Diamond Trader in South Africa. These relationships have opened my eyes to the immense potential for advancing Black Africans within the jewelry industry. Their insights have solidified my belief that, with the right support and resources, Africa’s future in diamonds and jewelry is bright.
One of my greatest passions through BIJC has been mentoring young Black jewelry designers and entrepreneurs, helping them navigate an industry that can be challenging to break into. Mentorship is essential in cultivating the next generation of designers, artisans, and business leaders, especially for those historically underrepresented. As a mentor for BIJC and as the first male mentor for the Women in Jewelry Association’s Loup Project, I have had the privilege of guiding emerging talent through the complexities of the jewelry industry — from design to marketing to international trade.
Beyond mentorship, my mission extends to connecting African jewelry designers and manufacturers to the U.S. market. I’ve traveled to South Africa and mentored designers in Botswana and Zambia, working with Black African diamond cutters, manufacturers, and artisans. By introducing their incredible talents and products to the U.S. market, we create sustainable opportunities for African artisans to thrive and receive fair compensation for their work.
The BIJC’s Board of Directors for 2024. Jeffery Bolling, one of three newly appointed members, is standing on the far right.
My career has not been without challenges. As one of the few African Americans in the jewelry industry, I’ve often found myself in spaces where I was the only Black fine jewelry sales representative — whether working for companies like Simon G. and Zorab Creations or navigating trade shows like JCK Las Vegas. These challenges, though difficult, have only strengthened my resolve to create more opportunities for Black professionals in the jewelry world.
The diamond industry’s history in Africa is complex. For centuries, diamonds have been extracted from African soil, generating immense wealth for the global market while leaving little for the people of Africa. Organizations like Diamond Doing Good have made significant strides in addressing these issues, but there is still much work to be done.
I believe that the messenger is often as important as the message, and through my work with BIJC, I am committed to being a messenger for change. My goal is to ensure that African diamond cutters, manufacturers, and artisans have the tools, training, and market access they need while being heard and valued in the global conversation. I envision a future where Africa’s resources benefit its people and where the beauty of diamonds is matched by the dignity and fair compensation of those who craft them.
Today, BIJC is breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive jewelry industry. We are focused on fostering entry points for people of color to grow within the jewelry space, building a diverse workforce that reflects the world we live in. Our goal is not only to bring more Black talent into the industry but also to ensure they have the support and opportunities they need to succeed at every level—from artisans to executives.
As the first recipient of the BIJC Lifetime Achievement Award, I am deeply honored to be part of this movement. This recognition reflects my commitment to fostering diversity and creating lasting opportunities for Black professionals in the jewelry industry. One of BIJC’s most transformative initiatives is the launch of The Future Jewelers Academy at the Brooklyn STEAM Center, a program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need for careers in jewelry and gemology. Developed in partnership with Professor Frank Fraley and sponsored by Jewelers Mutual Group, the program focuses on design, gem-setting, materials, and laser repair, while offering real-world insights from industry experts. It’s a pivotal step in preparing the next generation of jewelers.
Witnessing the dedication and enthusiasm of these students reaffirms the importance of investing in the future of our industry. By offering education and mentorship, we’re not just opening doors—we’re building sustainable pathways for Black professionals to excel in every aspect of the jewelry business.