The Jewelry Loupe Project is a jewelry business development program for emerging designers program administered by the Women's Jewelry Association.

For the second year we are pleased to announce that the program will be open to WJA members nationwide thanks to support from De Beers. With their partnership, WJA's Jewelry Loupe Project will be able to offer more opportunities to our designer members,  including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and those from diverse backgrounds.

Our goal is to break down some of the many industry barriers and support emerging jewelry designers by providing thoughtful mentorship and opportunities for growth and exposure.

​WJA offers emerging designers access to well-established designers, business owners, and seasoned industry professionals to explore design, launch their first line, and develop marketing strategies and business acumen. 

This free, 6-month module-based program will begin in early April and culminate with a critique in the fall. Each mentee will be matched with a mentor who is a seasoned jewelry professional, for one-on-one mentorship. The program offers workshops and special sessions, including:

Concept & Design
Sourcing & Materials
Marketing & Branding
Packaging 
Pricing
Wholesale & Retail Partnerships
E-Commerce
Sales, Showrooms, & Tradeshows

In tandem with the workshops and special sessions, the program provides highly focused monthly one-on-one meetings with a mentor via Zoom. The meetings will provide feedback on design & production, help you navigate the world of marketing & business, and suggest actionable next steps toward your individual goals. Anna Samsonova of Samsonova Consulting, a small business consultant focusing on brand development and upscaling will serve as the program facilitator adding her expertise in addition to the mentors and experts. 

Additionally, De Beers is offering all mentees access to its highly regarded Diamonds Foundation online training course for one year (a $250 value).

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit responses to essay questions and upload 1-3 images of their jewelry.

Admission is not guaranteed. All applications will be reviewed by WJA and Jewelry Loupe Mentors. ​Announcement of the 2023 cohort will be made by the end of March.

Eligibility Criteria

- Submit a completed application
- 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/or events associated with the program
- Be a current member of WJA or join upon acceptance into the program
- BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and applicants from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply