Behind the Scenes
Brian began his journey in the business at a very young age—around four years old—starting with coins. While working with coins, he often encountered jewelry, diamonds, and timepieces that came into his father’s store, sparking his fascination. He worked after school and throughout summers until college, gaining hands-on experience in the industry.
During college, his friends encouraged him to take a part-time job at a pizza place, insisting he should join them. After much persuasion, he decided to check it out. However, within two minutes of being there, he realized it wasn’t for him. That same day, he went home and started posting ads in newspapers and online while also visiting yard sales on weekends. He attended estate sales, auctions, and explored antique shops and jewelry stores throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts, gradually building his reputation from the ground up.
It wasn’t easy. Many dealers didn’t take him seriously at first. His university even shut off his email for using it for business purposes. Some dealers sent him on wild goose chases, including making him wait outside a bank in a snowstorm for two hours—only to find out there was no reason for him to be there. But as a determined 21-year-old, he persisted. After graduating magna cum laude from Bryant University (which was Bryant College for most of his time there), he moved to downtown New York City, settling on Wall Street to further his career in diamonds, gemstones, and jewelry.
He attended the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to earn his Graduate Gemologist degree, among other certifications. From there, he lived and worked in Manhattan, dealing in high-end antique and estate jewelry, loose diamonds, and colored gemstones. He immersed himself in the world of antique and estate jewelry, even beginning to catalog counterfeit signatures and hallmarks of famous jewelers—a book he has been working on for quite some time. His thirst for knowledge drove him to attend every class, lecture, and training he could afford on subjects related to his interests. Before long, he transitioned from student to educator, initially lecturing school students and later speaking to colleagues and industry professionals.
Today, Brian is a published author in the field of gemology, has received numerous awards for excellence in the industry, and has pieces showcased in museums across the United States. He hopes his wife will one day join him in his passion for jewelry and gemstones, and that his enthusiasm will inspire his daughter to pursue whatever field she is most passionate about.
Our Masterpieces Speak
Volumes About our Character.
Joella Grace Jewelry has come to embody a tradition of excellence. This has truly become our duty. Our commitment extends beyond our creations, beyond our quality of service, beyond our selection, and beyond our business to our ethical, social, and environmental beliefs.
With our corporate responsibility policy, we formalize our commitments as a responsible jeweler and treasure hunter. From our core we commit ourselves to excellence in each and every factor of our existence, beyond just those of business.