The Edge Awards Scholarships to 2 Young Jewelry Professionals
The recipients are Hannah Bing of Ford, Gittings & Kane Jewelers in Rome, Georgia, and Dan Linihan of Worthmore Jewelers in Atlanta, Georgia.
The two were recognized at SEUS’ 50th annual banquet, held in conjunction with the Fall Atlanta Jewelry Show.
The $1,500 scholarships support students and early-career professionals who are pursuing careers in the jewelry industry, including gemology, bench work and design, and retail store operations.
Many independent jewelry stores are family businesses, said The Edge, which often means passing the store along to a child or longtime employee.
The skills the new owners will need are gained through certification programs and apprenticeships, which can be costly.
“One of the most important questions facing independent jewelers today is, who will carry these businesses forward when the current generation is ready to step back?” The Edge CEO Josh Brenner said.
“For a young person entering the industry, the cost of a gemology certification, bench program, or other professional training can be a real barrier. These scholarships are a practical way for us to invest in the next generation of talent and help ensure independent jewelry businesses continue to thrive.”