Today we’d like to introduce you to Jerry Zaid.
Jerry, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
That’s a question that I have been asked many times throughout the years and I gladly answer it with joy. It’s not a sad story, or a rag to riches story… it’s a story that shows unity among a well-constructed family bond. A bond that believes in value, trust and integrity; which we have incorporated into our family business. This goes back many years ago where my grandfather had the passion and appreciation for fine gems and jewelry… a grandfather who understood the hidden quality in a jewel who than my father began to fall interest in the same. I began to follow their footsteps and decided to educate myself about fine diamond jewelry and their characteristics. I come from an entrepreneur background and have always wanted to do something new or, enhance an existing product or service. It’s not the easiest route but interesting, challenging and that’s what keeps me going. I have been doing this for 16 years and we opened our first retail location immediately after completing my Bachelor degree in Finance at the University of Houston and also went on to complete my Gemological Institute of America (GIA) degree in Accredited Jewelry Appraisal and I’m also a member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisals (NAJA). Along the way, I opened an online diamond marketplace platform that allows consumers to shop for certified loose diamonds called loosediamondexchange.com and there, they would be able to receive true value on their diamond purchase.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Along the years, there has been many challenges, obstacles and change in the jewelry industry… from economical financial break downs to how consumers value and purchase jewelry. Our product is a commodity, not a necessity, and we have to always figure out a way to keep moving forward. That’s why we created an online diamond marketplace to sell certified loose diamonds directly to consumers and we have established strong relationships with many suppliers to be able to display diamonds on our platform.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Loose Diamond Exchange – what should we know?
Our company is predominately an online diamond marketplace that concentrates on GIA certified loose diamonds and fine diamond jewelry and our diamond showroom is only available by appointments only. We specialize in custom jewelry and give our clients our full attention when they discuss their custom needs with us. I’m not a behind the scene person, I’m right there working directly with our clients, answering phones, taking orders, meeting them in our showroom, etc to let them know that I value their business and I want to provide my professional knowledge and needs in assisting them in their diamond purchase. We are located in Texas but our business spreads throughout the US and we are looking to grow our business and still keep that personal touch while still dealing with online orders. What sets us apart from others is that, we have established a low overhead model to save money and we passed those savings to our clients. What makes me proud of my company is how I took my grandfather and father’s passion from buying and selling jewelry to local friends to a worldwide empire that sells jewelry to family and friends throughout the US.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
My work ethics and my attention to details. I value each diamond and custom jewelry I sell as if I’m buying it for my special loved one. If there are any imperfections prior to delivery, I will immediately notify the client and tell them the situation, if any, and make the necessary changes.
Contact Info:
- Address: Diamond Showroom
(by appointments only) - Website: www.loosediamondexchange.com
- Phone: 877.732.2387
- Email: info@loosediamondexchange.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loosediamondxchange/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loosediamondx/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/LooseDiamondX
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
