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How Kerri Lavine’s Presence Shaped Manhattan’s Diamond District for Over 40 Years April 04, 2024 (0 comments)
New York, NY--In Manhattan, amidst the glitter of the Diamond District, Kerri Lavine shines not just with the luster of the gems she handles but with the resilience and tenacity she has shown over her 43-year tenure in the jewelry industry.
[Screenrab via @kerrilavine/Instagram]
Known affectionately as "The Godmother" of the district, Lavine co-owns Diamanti NYC on the bustling strip of 47th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. This area, rich in history and buzzing with over 2,600 businesses, shows the enduring legacy of jewelers and their craft.
Per a report published in ABC, Lavine's journey in the jewelry world has been marked by her steadfast dedication to upholding the district's storied traditions while navigating the challenges of a sector traditionally dominated by men. Her approach to business is simple yet profound: "The only thing that matters is your reputation. You have one chance to give a first impression. If you lose that opportunity, it ruins you forever," she shared with ABC News.
The Diamond District has seen significant evolution since its establishment in the 1940s, a history that includes its origins as a haven for European Jewish refugees setting up their trade. Despite modern advancements such as enhanced lighting, sophisticated security, and the advent of online retail, Lavine emphasizes the importance of traditional business values. For instance, deals sealed with a handshake and the word "mazal," meaning luck, reflect a deep-rooted ethos of trust and personal connection.
The report notes that Lavine's narrative also includes harrowing moments, like dodging bullets during a district shootout in the 1980s, which underscore the intense, sometimes perilous nature of the diamond trade. Yet, her passion for the industry is unwavering.
"They'll take me out in a wooden box on 47th Street because I don't look at it going to work as a job," she added in the report.
Amidst the sparkle and hustle, the emergence of women jewelers like Julia Azeroual, a colleague specializing in watches, marks a significant shift in the district's demographics. Azeroual, too, celebrates the challenge and empowerment of carving out a name in a male-dominated sphere. Their success is measured by sales and the respect and recognition they garner among peers.
Per the report, Lavine and Azeroual's influence extends beyond the district's confines through social media, where they connect with a global audience, sharing their expertise and personal stories. This digital presence has brought them closer to younger generations, who view Lavine as a guiding figure or "OG" of the jewelry world.
As pioneers in their field, Lavine and Azeroual contribute to the Diamond District's history and pave the way for future generations of women in the jewelry industry.
Learn more in this report on ABC.