2023 WJA Jewelry Loupe Project

The Jewelry Loupe Project is a jewelry business development program for emerging designers administered by the Women's Jewelry Association. The program is open to WJA members nationwide with support from De Beers. The goal is to break down industry barriers and support emerging jewelry designers by providing thoughtful mentorship and opportunities for growth and exposure.

This free, 6-month module-based program begins in early April and culminates with a critique in the fall. Each mentee is matched with a mentor who is a seasoned jewelry professional for one-on-one mentorship via Zoom. The program offers workshops and special sessions covering: Concept & Design, Sourcing & Materials, Marketing & Branding, Packaging, Pricing, Wholesale & Retail Partnerships, E-Commerce, and Sales, Showrooms, & Tradeshows. Anna Samsonova of Samsonova Consulting will serve as the program facilitator. De Beers is offering all mentees access to its Diamonds Foundation online training course for one year (a $250 value).

Applicants must submit responses to essay questions and upload 1-3 images of their jewelry. Eligibility requirements: be an emerging jewelry designer in their first 5 years of business; reside in the United States or Mexico and be able to participate in all virtual workshops and events; be a current WJA member or join upon acceptance; admission is not guaranteed. BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and applicants from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Announcement of the 2023 cohort will be made by the end of March.