This year’s honorees include a Midwest retailer and two multi-store independents, one in New York and the other in New England.
Unique Designs Inks License Agreement with Lois Hill
The fine jewelry manufacturer and wholesaler will ramp up the brand’s distribution in stores in North America and online.

New York—Fine jewelry manufacturer and wholesaler Unique Designs has signed a license agreement with contemporary fine jewelry brand Lois Hill, effective March 15.
Under the deal, Unique Designs (d/b/a Kiran Jewels) will expand Lois Hill jewelry distribution, positioning the brand’s collections to be sold throughout North America in department stores, retail jewelry stores and online.
After years of research, travel and perfecting her jewelry-making techniques, Lois Hill established her eponymous brand in 1997.
Her team now includes hundreds of artisans, sales staff and other professionals.
Lois Hill jewelry is currently sold in major retailers and select independents in the U.S., as well as in the brand’s Seattle store.
The designer’s core business has been her sterling silver line, which ranges in reatil price from $75 to $1,500. She is expanding into diamond and sterling silver as well as 18-karat gold and sterling silver with and without gemstones, with prices ranging from $295 to $5,000.
She is also launching two-tone 18-karat gold and sterling silver jewelry with and without diamonds, priced at retail between $750 and $5,000.
Unique Designs CEO Tejas Shah said the Lois Hill brand’s global appeal offers the opportunity to scale the company’s business through the development of fashion-forward jewelry styles.
“With her innovative, contemporary designs and worldly spirit, Lois Hill is a perfect addition to our strong portfolio of fine jewelry brands. As a brand that resonates with consumers globally, we see significant opportunities for growth and look forward to leveraging our expertise to maximize its potential.”
Lois Hill said in a press release: “We are delighted to be working with Unique Designs and Tejas Shah, who are among the most progressive and innovative leaders in the fine jewelry industry. We have always had beautiful, handmade product and a great story. UDI’s strong position and solid relationships in the industry will give the Lois Hill Brand an incredible opportunity for multi-channel growth.”
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