Ben Bridge Jeweler has announced Bradlei Smith as the recipient of the 2024 Lonia Tate Scholarship. The scholarship, named in honor of the late Lonia Tate, a registered jeweler and the first Black president of the Seattle Chapter of Executive Women International, aims to support minority high school graduates aspiring to enter the fine jewelry industry.
Scholarship Details
Established in 2022, the Lonia Tate Scholarship honors Tate’s legacy of community building and contributions to the jewelry industry. It collaborates with the Black in Jewelry Coalition to offer recipients a Graduate Gemologist Diploma from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and provides $10,000 to cover tuition and essential supplies. Additionally, recipients are offered a three-month paid internship at Ben Bridge Jeweler in Seattle, Washington.
Recipient Background
Bradlei Smith, based in Los Angeles, was selected for her skills as a project buyer and her unique approach to jewelry design. Her experience in project buying has honed her analytical skills and attention to detail, crucial for gemstone identification and evaluation. Smith’s background in jewelry design has deepened her appreciation for gemstones, driving her to combine design creativity with the technical expertise she will gain from the GIA program.
Smith’s commitment to the community mirrors that of Lonia Tate. She intends to provide internships, mentorships, and apprenticeships to women of color in the future. “Upon completing the Graduate Gemologist Program, my vision extends beyond personal achievement to encompass a transformative journey into the world of haute jewelry design, particularly targeting women of color—an underrepresented demographic within this esteemed domain,” says Smith. “Drawing from my fluency in French, coupled with over five years as a Parisian expatriate and a background in jewelry design, I am aiming to carve a niche where our presence is currently lacking.”
Industry Support
Malyia McNaughton, chairwoman of the Black in Jewelry Coalition, expressed her support for Smith: “As a jewelry designer and gemologist, I am thrilled to congratulate Bradlei Smith on receiving the Lonia Tate Scholarship. This remarkable opportunity will empower her to earn her Graduate Gemologist Diploma from the Gemological Institute of America, an achievement that I deeply understand the value of. We are profoundly grateful to Ben Bridge Jeweler and Lisa Bridge for their generous commitment to shaping the future of the jewelry industry. Their support not only honors Lonia Tate’s legacy but also ensures that talented individuals like Bradlei can pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to our field.”
Looking Forward
Smith is committed to contributing to the jewelry field through innovation and collaboration, supported by a strong work ethic and dedication to continuous learning. Her passion for community service, mentoring, coaching, and advocating for diversity and inclusion globally underscores her belief in creating opportunities and fostering inclusive growth.
Lisa Bridge, president & CEO of Ben Bridge Jeweler, shared her enthusiasm: “Ben Bridge extends its heartfelt congratulations to Bradlei Smith on all her past accomplishments and is excited to see what the future holds for her. We are proud of our ongoing collaboration with BIJC, helping to support and create inroads into our incredible world of fine jewelry for all.”
