Policies & Issues

These Designers and Retailers Are Raising Money for LA Wildfire Relief

Policies & IssuesJan 24, 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.

Ophelia Eve 15 mm yellow gold and diamond hoops
These 15 mm yellow gold and diamond hoops from Ophelia Eve jewelry were one of the pieces donated for the “Jewelers Unite for SoCal Fire Relief” online auction, which will benefit the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s SoCal Fire Fund.
Editor’s note: Originally published under the headline, “Harwell Godfrey, Stephanie Gottlieb Are Raising Money for LA Wildfire Relief,” this story is being updated on a rolling basis as new initiatives to aid the victims of the Los Angeles wildfires emerge.

Los Angeles—As Southern California faces raging wildfires, retailers, designers and other jewelry companies are stepping up to lend a helping hand.

The Palisades Fire broke out the morning of Jan. 7 in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles and has continued to burn, destroying more than 23,000 acres.

It is one of several fires that have ravaged Southern California this month, killing at least 28 people.

As the tragedy continues to unfold, jewelry brands, designers, and companies, many of which are based in L.A., are stepping up to help.

Beth Yorn of Elisabeth Bell Jewelry, Kayla Rose of Roseark, and Brooke Borisoff of jewelry consultancy The Tray teamed up to gather donations of fine jewelry for an online charity auction, with 100 percent of the net proceeds going to the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s SoCal Fire Fund.

Called “Jewelers Unite for SoCal Fire Relief,” the auction will go live at 9 a.m. PST today and includes jewelry from more than 65 designers, including Brent Neale, Melissa Kaye, Established Jewelry, and Communion by Joy. 

Visit CharityBuzz to view the pieces and bid. 
 
Jewels by Grace and Mia Moross Fine Jewelry have assembled about 100 pieces of jewelry from more than 40 dealers, designers, and wholesalers that will be put up for auction, starting today.

Over the course of a week (Jan. 24-31), the pieces will be posted to @jewelsbygrace and available to bid on for a 24-hour period.

The goal is to raise $250,000 to benefit the families rebuilding in Altadena, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Foundation, and the incarcerated firefighters, who are getting paid very little to put their lives on the line. 

To see each piece and bid, visit @jewelsbygrace on Instagram.   

Luxury lab-grown diamond brand Jean Dousett is raffling off an 11-carat “Olivia” tennis necklace in platinum (valued at more than $10,000) to benefit the California Fire Foundation

Raffle tickets are available on the Jean Dousett website. They are $20 each and there is no limit to how many one person can purchase.

On Feb. 1, William Wood, a watch brand based in London, will auction off its “Fire Exit” watch in red and white (the colors of fire exit signs in the United States) to benefit the LAFD Foundation.

The auction will take place on the William Wood website.

Brand founder Jonny Garrett said, “As a watchmaker that represents firefighters and was created in honor of my late grandfather, who was a firefighter for 25 years, we have a duty to give back to our brothers and sisters in Los Angeles who are suffering from these devastating fires.

“We hope to raise a commendable sum for those in need with our beautiful, one-of-a-kind watch made from upcycled firefighter equipment.”

New York-based retailer Stone and Strand announced via Instagram that it had assembled a $10,000 fund to help customers who lost jewelry in the fire replace their Stone and Strand pieces; customers are asked to fill out this form to get a replacement.

“Our thoughts are with you, and we are here to support you during this incredibly difficult time,” Stone and Strand founder Nadine Kahane wrote.

From now through Feb. 3, Foundrae is sponsoring a giveaway to raise funds for two schools, Palisades Charter Elementary and Eliot Arts Magnet Academy.

For every $25 given, the donator’s name will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win the brand’s Los Angeles large specialty medallion, with all the money raised going to benefit the schools. The winner will be chosen on Feb. 4.

Each piece of Azlee jewelry sold for the rest of 2025 will help support the Pasadena Humane Society and the American Red Cross.

The brand normally donates to ocean-related causes but this year, founder Baylee Zwart, who lives in Pacific Palisades and whose studio and team are L.A. based, said her brand will be shifting its focus to helping to rebuild the community.

Los Angeles-based jewelry brand Jenna Blake is donating 50 percent of all January sales to support the LAFD Foundation and the Red Cross.

Pamela Love is donating 15 percent of all online and in-store sales this month to relief efforts as well, with the designer writing on Instagram, “The energy and spirit of Los Angeles is unbreakable, but it needs our help.” 

Muse and its “Have a Heart” initiative have partnered with Ten Thousand Things on two mini split-heart charms—one pink opal, the other ruby—with 100 percent of proceeds going to the LAFD Foundation.

Renna Jewels will be donating 30 percent of its sales this month to the LAFD Foundation as well.

The brand’s founder, Renna Brown-Taher, explained on Instagram that as a Pacific Palisades resident who lost her home in the blaze, she understands the fire department, which battles wildfires every year, is short on resources. 

Others donating to the LAFD Foundation include designer Jade Ruzzo, who pledged sales of her small cymbal pendant to the fire department for a week, and Dallas retailer Ylang 23, which is donating sales of Retrouvai’s 14-karat yellow gold “A New Dawn A New Day” ring.

Ylang 23 announced via Instagram that it also will be donating 23 percent of online sales of select L.A. designers’ pieces to the LAFD Foundation. 

Rembrandt Charms announced that for the rest of January, it will be donating 100 percent of the proceeds from the sale of three California-themed charms to the Jewelers Relief Fund and the RJO Disaster Relief Fund.

Jewelers of America and the Diamond Council of America reopened the Jewelers Relief Fund, which originally was established in the wake of Hurricane Harvey in 2017, last week to aid jewelry businesses impacted by the wildfires.

Jacquie Aiche I Love LA tote bag
Designer Jacquie Aiche created this “I Love LA” tote bag specifically to support wildfire relief efforts in her hometown.


Jacquie Aiche created the “Tribe Together” tote bag, which it is selling on its website for $50, with all proceeds going to the California Fire Foundation.

The Los Angeles-based brand also introduced the gold and diamond pavé “Phoenix Rising” shaker necklace, which it describes as a symbol of strength and resilience. All proceeds from the sale of the $5,200 necklace will go to World Central Kitchen.

Another L.A.-based brand, Emily P. Wheeler, is donating 100 percent of the proceeds from the sale of its amethyst and purple enamel heart-shaped stud earrings to the California Community Foundation.   

Wheeler chose these earrings because purple is one of the colors of the city’s basketball team, the L.A. Lakers.

For the next three months, jewelry brand Roen will donate 5 percent of proceeds from sales of pieces in its “Laguna” collection to the GoFundMe-organized Wildfire Relief Fund and the Pasadena Humane Society.

In addition, designer Ray Griffiths will be donating 20 percent of all online sales to World Central Kitchen, which is distributing free hot meals to families and first responders at multiple locations in Southern California. 

L.A. resident Kirsty Stone, the designer behind Retrouvai, auctioned off her signature “Magna” bracelet in 14-karat yellow gold with 1.8 carats of white diamonds to benefit the LAFD Foundation. The bracelet retails for $11,550 and sold for $9,650, with 100 percent of the purchase price going to the foundation.

Similarly, California-based jewelry brand Harwell Godfrey raised more than $10,000 through an Instagram auction to support firefighters in the area.

Designer Lauren Harwell Godfrey, a California native, shared a post to Instagram offering a limited-edition pavé diamond heart pendant with a retail value of $11,500 as part of her “Charity Heart” series, in which proceeds from a jewelry piece go to different charities.

The bidding began at $7,500, with the closing bid totaling $11,000. All proceeds will go to the LAFD Emergency Fund.

In a follow-up post, Harwell Godfrey said the limited-edition hearts will be made available to order from now through Jan. 16 for $11,000, with all proceeds going to the LAFD.

Los Angeles-based jewelry brand Sydney Evan is raising funds for the LAFD Foundation, donating 100 percent of the proceeds from its “Eye Heart LA” charm and “California” charm while Los Angeles native Irene Neuwirth is pledging a portion of sales from her store on Melrose Place and online to the LAFD Foundation and the Red Cross.


Sydney Evan Eye Heart LA and California charm necklaces
Sydney Evan is donating 100 percent of the proceeds from its “Eye Heart LA” charm necklace ($925) and “California” charm necklace ($1,245) to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.


New York  jeweler Stephanie Gottlieb also gathered donations to send to the West Coast, donating proceeds from sales of the “I Am” bracelet ($390) to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

“Our hearts are heavy as we witness the devastating impact of the California wildfires,” Gottlieb said in an Instagram post. “Together, we can help provide vital aid to those in urgent need.”

While many are offering aid, more are in need of it.

Darya Khonsary and Arielle Chiara Khonsary, the couple behind Darius Jewels, started a GoFundMe page after losing their home in their fire.

Darya and Arielle, as well as Darya’s mom and their cats, are safe, but the home and everything in it is gone, which has taken both a financial and emotional toll on the couple.

“We felt rooted here, our hearts more connected than ever,” Darya wrote.

Arielle grew up in the house, and it was the house where they fell in love.

“Everything is gone, all burned up by the fire. Little notes we wrote to each other as teenagers, every precious gift we ever gave each other, the gold from Iran that my great-grandmother left for me, my mother's wedding jewelry, irreplaceable [mementos] from our travels, art and books collected over years,” wrote Darya.

“Our entire archive of incredible and irreplaceable vintage, antiques, collectors’ pieces we had built together for almost two decades.” 

The couple set a goal of $100,000 to use for temporary housing. 


Lenore Fedowis the senior editor, news at National Jeweler, covering the retail beat and the business side of jewelry.
Michelle Graffis the editor-in-chief at National Jeweler, directing the publication’s coverage both online and in print.

The Latest

Cashier handing Rocksbox bag to customer
MajorsJun 26, 2025
Why Rocksbox Is Opening Stores As Signet Jewelers Downsizes

Rocksbox President Allison Vigil shared the retailer’s expansion plans, and her thoughts on opening stores in malls.

Penny Ruston
IndependentsJun 26, 2025
Penny Ruston Dies at 80

The creator of the WJA Chicago chapter is remembered as a champion for women in the jewelry industry and a loving grandmother.

Stock image of woman shopping
SurveysJun 26, 2025
After Recovering in May, Consumer Confidence Dips in June

The decline was consistent across age groups and almost all income groups, with tariffs and inflation still top of mind.

an instructor and a student in a bench jewelry classroom
Brought to you by
Investing in the Next Generation of Bench Jewelers

The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship from Jewelers of America returns for a second year.

Sorellina Playlist: Electric Dreams Campaign
CollectionsJun 26, 2025
Jam Out With Sorellina’s Jimi Hendrix-Inspired Jewels

The “Playlist: Electric Dreams” collection brings lyrics from the musician’s song, “Little Wing,” to life through fine jewelry.

Weekly QuizJun 26, 2025
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Take the Quiz
The Jewelry Symposium event
Events & AwardsJun 26, 2025
The Jewelry Symposium Is Looking for Speakers for 2026 Event

The event is set for May 16-19 in Detroit, Michigan.

Exterior of Marissa Collections’ new store in Nantucket, Massachusetts
IndependentsJun 25, 2025
Marissa Collections Opens in Nantucket as Legal Fight Continues

The Vault’s Katherine Jetter is accusing the retailer of using info she shared for a potential partnership to move into Nantucket.

Jewelers of America logo with meetup, State of the Majors, giveaway and massages
Brought to you by
Jewelers of America is Headed to Las Vegas for JCK 2025

The countdown is on for the JCK Las Vegas Show and JA is pulling out all the stops.

Counterfeit Cartier “Juste Un Clou” bracelet
CrimeJun 25, 2025
Customs Nabs Another Big Shipment of Fake Cartier, Van Cleef Jewelry

Agents seized 2,193 pieces, a mix of counterfeit Cartier “Love” and “Juste Un Clou” bracelets, and Van Cleef & Arpels’ “Alhambra” design.

Karine Choudhrie Big Splash Circus Starfish and Lantern Fish
CollectionsJun 25, 2025
Splash into Karina Choudhrie’s Collection of Underwater Circus Performers

The designer brought her children’s book, “The Big Splash Circus,” to life through a collection of playful fine jewelry characters.

Jewelers of America
Events & AwardsJun 25, 2025
JA Announces Impact Initiative Fund Recipients

The trade association has chosen the recipients of the funding initiative it formed to foster the growth and sustainability of the industry.

John Dyer Montana Sun Sapphire
SourcingJun 25, 2025
2025 AGTA Spectrum Awards Open for Entries

The organization has also announced this year’s slate of judges.

Khepri Jewels Luna collection fancy color fringe multi-shape drop diamond earrings
EditorsJun 24, 2025
The Best New Jewelry from Couture 2025, Part 2

Associate Editor Natalie Francisco shares 20 additional pieces that stood out to her at the Couture show.

Lori Tucker
IndependentsJun 24, 2025
Colorado Bench Jeweler Celebrates 50 Years With Local Retailer

Lori Tucker started at Williams Jewelers when she was 18 years old.

“Marvel | Citizen Zenshin” watch for the new The Fantastic Four movie
WatchesJun 24, 2025
Citizen’s New ‘Fantastic Four’ Watch Is Literally Super

The “Marvel | Citizen Zenshin” watch is crafted in Super Titanium and has subtle nods to all four “Fantastic Four” superheroes on the dial.

XO Tacori diamond ring
MajorsJun 24, 2025
Tacori, QVC to Launch Exclusive Lab-Grown Diamond Jewelry Collection

The “XO Tacori” collection was designed to blend luxury and accessible pricing.

Pritesh Patel
GradingJun 23, 2025
GIA Names New President and CEO

Pritesh Patel, the lab’s chief operating officer, will take over as president and CEO of GIA.

Graphic for Las Vegas recap episode of “My Next Question”
Recorded WebinarsJun 23, 2025
Watch: Top Trends at Couture, JCK Las Vegas 2025

National Jeweler and Jewelers of America discuss the standout jewelry trends and biggest news to emerge from the shows this year.

Luanda Accord
SourcingJun 23, 2025
Diamond Producers, Organizations to Kick in Money to Promote Natural Diamonds

Signatories to the “Luanda Accord” committed to allocating 1 percent of annual diamond revenue to the Natural Diamond Council.

Penny Preville, Maggie Hess, Stella Song, and Benjamin King
Events & AwardsJun 23, 2025
Jose Hess Design Awards Celebrate 6 Jewelry Designers

The winning designs captured the “Radiance” theme.

24th Gem Awards Show Logo
Events & AwardsJun 23, 2025
Gem Awards Now Accepting Nominations for 2026

Nominations in the categories of Jewelry Design, Media Excellence, and Retail Innovation will be accepted through July 30.

Single Stone Bryn Ring and Grace Lee Marquise Demi Demi Ring
TrendsJun 20, 2025
Dua Lipa Stays On-Trend With Chunky Engagement Ring

The singer’s ring ticks off many bridal trends, with a thick band, half-bezel setting, and solitaire diamond.

Yvonne Léon Python Gold Bracelet
TrendsJun 20, 2025
Piece of the Week: Yvonne Léon’s ‘Python Gold’ Bracelet

The bracelet references vintage high jewelry and snake symbolism as a playful piece where a python’s head becomes a working belt buckle.

Stock image of handcuffs
CrimeJun 18, 2025
7 Men Indicted in $100M Brinks Jewelry Heist

The heist happened in Lebec, California, in 2022 when a Brinks truck was transporting goods from one show in California to another.

Marie-Thérèse Pink diamond and Blue Belle sapphire necklace
AuctionsJun 18, 2025
Historic ‘Marie-Thérèse Pink’ Diamond Fetches $14M at Christie’s

The 10-carat fancy purple-pink diamond with potential links to Marie Antoinette headlined the white-glove jewelry auction this week. 

Caryl Capeci Starboard Cruises
EditorsJun 18, 2025
Q&A: Caryl Capeci Dives Into Cruise Jewelry Shopping

The Starboard Cruises SVP discusses who is shopping for jewelry on ships, how much they’re spending, and why brands should get on board.

Gresham grasshopper ring
AuctionsJun 18, 2025
16th-Century ‘Gresham Grasshopper’ Ring Sells for $56K

The historic signet ring exceeded its estimate at Noonans Mayfair’s jewelry auction this week.

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy