Events & AwardsJul 18, 2024
MJSA Education Foundation Announces 3 Scholarship WinnersMajorsJul 24, 2024
Ben Bridge Announces 2024 Lonia Tate Scholarship Winner
Los Angeles-based Bradlei Smith was selected for this year’s award.
The winner of this year’s Lonia Tate scholarship, Bradlei Smith will receive the opportunity to earn her Graduate Gemologist diploma from GIA and, following graduation, an internship at Ben Bridge Jeweler in Seattle.
Seattle, Wash.— Seattle-based watch and jewelry retailer Ben Bridge Jeweler has announced Bradlei Smith as the recipient of its 2024 Lonia Tate Scholarship.
Smith will receive $10,000 toward earning a Graduate Gemologist diploma from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The funds can be used for tuition and necessary school supplies and equipment.
She is also offered a 3-month paid internship with Ben Bridge Jeweler in Seattle, Washington, following her graduation from GIA.
Now based in Los Angeles, California, Smith’s background includes working with Senegalese artisans in the jewelry making process, as well as experience as an industrial buyer.
Ben Bridge said Smith has shown devotion to her craft and her future as an innovator in the industry through passionately pursuing the development of her skills.
The store said she was selected because of her incredible skill as a project buyer, during which Smith honed her analytical skills and attention to detail, helping with gemstone identification and evaluation.
The retailer also cited her unique approach to jewelry design, where she blends creativity with technical expertise.
Related stories will be right here …
Smith will receive $10,000 toward earning a Graduate Gemologist diploma from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The funds can be used for tuition and necessary school supplies and equipment.
She is also offered a 3-month paid internship with Ben Bridge Jeweler in Seattle, Washington, following her graduation from GIA.
Now based in Los Angeles, California, Smith’s background includes working with Senegalese artisans in the jewelry making process, as well as experience as an industrial buyer.
Ben Bridge said Smith has shown devotion to her craft and her future as an innovator in the industry through passionately pursuing the development of her skills.
The store said she was selected because of her incredible skill as a project buyer, during which Smith honed her analytical skills and attention to detail, helping with gemstone identification and evaluation.
The retailer also cited her unique approach to jewelry design, where she blends creativity with technical expertise.
The scholarship was created in 2022 in partnership with the Black in Jewelry Coalition to support minority high school graduates who aspire to work in the fine jewelry industry.
It was named to honor the memory of jeweler Lonia Tate, a long-term associate at Ben Bridge Jeweler and the first Black president of Executive Women International’s Seattle chapter.
Tate was committed to supporting community building and the jewelry industry, the store said, and Smith shares in those values.
While she plans to use the scholarship toward fulfilling a lifelong passion for gemstones and jewelry, Smith also aspires to provide internship, mentorship, and apprenticeship opportunities to women of color in the future.
“Upon completing the Graduate Gemologist program, my vision extends beyond personal achievement to encompass a transformative journey into the world of haute jewelry design, particularly targeting women of color—an underrepresented demographic within this esteemed domain,” Smith said.
“Drawing from my fluency in French, coupled with over five years as a Parisian expatriate and a background in jewelry design, I am aiming to carve a niche where our presence is currently lacking.”
Ben Bridge said Smith’s passion for community service emphasizes her belief in using valuable experiences to further create opportunities and foster inclusive growth.
Malyia McNaughton, chairwoman of the Black in Jewelry Coalition, said, “as a jewelry designer and gemologist, I am thrilled to congratulate Bradlei Smith on receiving the Lonia Tate Scholarship. This remarkable opportunity will empower her to earn her Graduate Gemologist diploma from the Gemological Institute of America, an achievement that I deeply understand the value of.”
“We are profoundly grateful to Ben Bridge Jeweler and [its CEO] Lisa Bridge for their generous commitment to shaping the future of the jewelry industry. Their support not only honors Lonia Tate's legacy, but also ensures that talented individuals like Bradlei can pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to our field.”
Smith is also looking to contribute to the industry through innovation and collaboration, which Ben Bridge said is supported by her strong work ethic and dedication to continuous learning.
“Ben Bridge extends its heartfelt congratulations to Bradlei Smith on all her past accomplishments and are excited to see what the future holds for her,” said Lisa Bridge, president and CEO of Ben Bridge Jeweler.
“We are proud of our on-going collaboration with BIJC, helping to support and create inroads into our incredible world of fine jewelry for all."
More on Majors
The Latest
ColumnistsJan 22, 2025
On Data: How Did Independent Jewelers Fare in 2024? Sherry Smith shares data on the year gone by, including the breakdown between natural and lab-grown diamond sales.
Policies & IssuesJan 22, 2025
Jewelers Mutual Steps Up Aid for LA Jewelry BusinessesThe company also is matching donations made to Jewelers of America and the Diamond Council of America’s Jewelers Relief Fund.
Events & AwardsJan 22, 2025
JA Seeking Nominations for Its Next ‘20 Under 40’ ClassNow in its fourth year, the program is expanding to include a list of “20 Under 40” for jewelry suppliers.
Brought to you by
3 New Year’s Resolutions for Jewelry Lovers The new year feels like a clean slate, inspiring reflection, hope, and the motivation to become better versions of ourselves.
SurveysJan 22, 2025
Holiday Sales Hit Record High, Says NRFCore retail sales during the 2024 holiday season surpassed the National Retail Federation’s forecast.
Weekly QuizJan 16, 2025
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
CollectionsJan 22, 2025
Foundrae’s New Collection Channels the Power of NowThe “Reach for Life” collection uses feather and arrow motifs to invite growth and inner curiosity.
ColumnistsJan 21, 2025
Peter Smith: Sales Training’s Dirty Little SecretPeter Smith pulls back the curtain on the often misinterpreted, and sometimes maligned, world of sales training.
Brought to you by
A Diamond Is Forever Celebrates "Forever Present" Holiday CampaignA Diamond is Forever hosted a holiday celebration in honor of their new marketing campaign, ‘Forever Present.’
TrendsJan 21, 2025
Amanda’s Style File: Decadent Mocha MoussePantone’s 2025 Color of the Year takes the form of jewelry through gemstones and enamel that look just as delicious as mocha mousse.
Policies & IssuesJan 21, 2025
These Designers and Retailers Are Raising Money for LA Wildfire Relief From raffles to auctions to donations, the industry is working to aid charities in Los Angeles amid the raging wildfires.
SourcingJan 21, 2025
Diamonds Do Good Adds 2 Board MembersJulia Hackman Chafé and Monica Elias have joined the organization’s board of directors.
FinancialsJan 17, 2025
Richemont’s Jewelry Sales Rise 14% in Holiday QuarterThe company, which owns Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels, had a record Q3, with sales topping $6 billion.
CollectionsJan 17, 2025
Piece of the Week: Picchiotti’s Transformable ‘Classic Blue and Green’ NecklaceThe necklace features a sapphire drop weighing more than 9 carats that detaches to transform into a ring.
IndependentsJan 16, 2025
Lux Bond & Green to Open Sixth LocationThe 127-year-old jeweler is planning to open a new store in Mystic, Connecticut.
WatchesJan 16, 2025
Timex Launches Collection of National Park WatchesThe watches’ dials feature artwork celebrating the vibrant energy and unique landscapes of six of America’s national parks.
AuctionsJan 16, 2025
Elizabeth Taylor’s Diamond Line Bracelet Going up for Auction Offered by U.K. auction house Woolley & Wallis, the yellow diamond bracelet was a gift from Taylor’s good friend Michael Jackson.
Events & AwardsJan 16, 2025
JCK Las Vegas 2025 Open for RegistrationThe jewelry trade show returns to The Venetian Expo and The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas from June 6 to 9.
EditorsJan 15, 2025
The Jewelry I’d Bid On in Christie’s Iris Apfel AuctionAssociate Editor Natalie Francisco highlights her favorite fashion jewelry pieces from the upcoming “Unapologetically Iris” auction.
Policies & IssuesJan 15, 2025
JVC Debuts Guide to Americans with Disabilities Act ComplianceThe online guide is available for free and written with the jewelry industry in mind.
Events & AwardsJan 15, 2025
Jose Hess Design Awards Open for SubmissionsThe awards honor the late Jose Hess, a founding member of AJDC and an award-winning jewelry designer.
GradingJan 14, 2025
GIA CEO, President Susan Jacques to Retire at the End of 2025The grading lab said the search for her successor is underway.
ColumnistsJan 14, 2025
Jules Kim: Building Bridges Between Creators and IndustryIn this special op-ed, designer Jules Kim calls on big brands to collaborate with independent creators instead of copying their designs.
GradingJan 14, 2025
Former SSEF Director Henry A. Hänni DiesA pioneering figure in gemology, he is remembered for his spirit of generosity, curiosity, and joy.
FinancialsJan 14, 2025
Signet Jewelers Lowers Q4 Guidance After Holiday Sales Fall ShortThe peak selling days leading up to Christmas did not meet the jewelry retailer’s expectations.
MajorsJan 14, 2025
Edouard Schneider Joins Messika as Chief Brand OfficerSchneider brings over 20 years of luxury and fashion industry experience to his role as a key member of the brand’s global leadership team.
SourcingJan 13, 2025
Zambia Reinstates 15% Export Duty on Precious Gemstones, Shocking GemfieldsGemfields said the Zambian government revoked the 2019 suspension of the tax with no warning.
TechnologyJan 13, 2025
Ultrahuman Unveils Luxury Smart RingWith versions in 18-karat gold and platinum, the wearables company is blending health technology and fine jewelry.
