This new Baldwin High School jewelry program is a real gem

Baldwin High School is getting set to groom the jewelers of the future in a unique new program starting this school year.

The Natural Diamond Council is collaborating with Black in Jewelry Coalition to launch a jewelry education program for any interested students at the high school.

In the program, students will learn about the jewelry industry, including design, bench work and retail, and will earn credits that can be applied to various college programs within the New York State school system.

The program’s curriculum will include the implementation of STEAM subjects, such as science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics, relating to the gem and jewelry industry. Additionally, upon completion of the program, they will have the opportunity to pursue a full-time career in the jewelry industry.

The program will start on Sept. 9, with students expected to complete eight to 10 jewelry projects by the end of the school year in June.

“The Natural Diamond Council is proud to be partnering with Black in Jewelry Coalition in 2024,” Kristina Buckley Kayel, the council’s managing director, said in a news release. “Following the success of the past three years of our Emerging Designers Diamond Initiative (EDDI) program in partnership with Lorraine Schwartz — in which 18 Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) designers received unparalleled mentorship, press, vendor access, and retail presence — we remain committed to the growth and advancement of the jewelry industry, with a firm belief in creating opportunities for diverse students aspiring to enter this field.”

The EDDI program provided Black, Indigenous and people of color jewelry designers with unique opportunities by eliminating barriers and offering access to industry education and resources, the program’s officials said in a news release.

The mission of the council, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting natural diamonds globally, is to engage consumers through marketing by highlighting stories of natural diamonds and the industry behind them.

The collaboration with the coalition will look to advance and include Black professionals in the gem, jewelry and watch sectors to address systemic racism and enhance diversity, officials said. The coalition is the first international non-profit that was established after the summer of 2020.

“The BIJC education committee is excited about collaborating with the Natural Diamond Council and Baldwin High School at Shubert,” Adrianne Sanogo, the coalition’s education committee member, said in a statement to the Herald. “Together, we are introducing a jewelry-making program that integrates STEAM education principles. This innovative program, designed for high school students, is focused on preparing future bench jewelers while tackling the industry’s shortage.”

The high school’s Shubert School is an innovative educational program that provides comprehensive and practical education. 

The jewelry program’s curriculum will begin with an introduction to the history and types of jewelry, including metalwork, beading and wire wrapping. Students will then learn basic techniques, such as cutting, riveting, polishing and beading.

Design principles will cover color theory, design elements like shape and texture, and sketching 3D concepts. Advanced techniques will include stone setting, metal casting and chain making.

The program also includes jewelry business and marketing, focusing on pricing, branding and career options. Cultural and historical perspectives will explore jewelry from different cultures and historical periods, complemented by guest speakers and field trips.

Students will also develop a portfolio of their original designs and hone their presentation skills.

In addition, the portfolio development component involves creating a file of original jewelry designs and developing presentation skills to showcase their work.

Serving on the board for the coalition is Annie Doresca, who also serves as a trustee for the Baldwin Board of Education.

“I am incredibly proud to see the introduction of the jewelry education program at our high school,” Doresca told the Herald. “This program represents a unique opportunity for our students to explore the artistry and business of jewelry-making. It’s important for our students to have access to diverse careers pathways, and this program not only opens doors to creative and entrepreneurial possibilities but also empowers them to see the value in craftsmanship.”