Ep 85_Aleah Arundale on Being Real, Building Community & Protecting Jewelers

In this episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, we sit down with Aleah Arundale, diamond wholesaler, educator, and the dynamic founder of Jewelers Helping Jewelers (JHJ). Known for her bold personality, electric blue hair, and unwavering commitment to helping others, Aleah opens up about the evolution of JHJ and how the group's spin-off, the JHJ Crime Network, has become a vital tool in protecting independent jewelers across the country.

Aleah shares how her journey started with a deep love for the industry and a desire to connect more authentically with other jewelers. What began as a few Facebook posts quickly grew into a thriving online community where jewelers share everything, from pricing advice and inventory questions to real-time alerts about suspicious buyers and criminal activity. She talks candidly about the heartbreaking stories that motivated her to take action, and the messages she's received from store owners who were able to stop scams or avoid theft thanks to her group's tips.

But Aleah's passion doesn't stop at jewelry. She talks about running a donation center out of her home for families in need, transforming her yard into a whimsical fairy garden for local kids, and organizing global jewelry vacations, from Tahiti to Italy, and soon, Mexico. These adventures bring together industry professionals not just to network, but to truly bond, share knowledge, and spark new ideas in beautiful destinations.

We also explore how jewelers can diversify their businesses through high-value asset lending, what Aleah calls "executive loans." She believes that pawnbroking, when done right, offers a dignified and profitable way to serve customers in need, while also adding a stable revenue stream to any retail operation.

Aleah encourages every jeweler to lean into what makes them different, whether that's through style, a unique hobby, or simply being real with customers. In a world full of sameness, standing out isn't a liability; it's your greatest strength.

This episode is packed with actionable tips, heartfelt stories, and powerful reminders about the profound impact one person can have on an entire industry. Tune in to hear Aleah Arundale's story and walk away with new inspiration for building a jewelry business that's bold, authentic, and community-driven.

 

Brought to you by:

Southern Jewelry News: https://southernjewelrynews.com/

Jewelry Store Marketers: https://jewelrystoremarketers.com/

Learn more about the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast https://southernjewelrynews.com/podcast

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