Today we’d like to introduce you to Bonnie Cheung Sarkissian.
Hi Bonnie Cheung, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My father was a watchmaker, and from a young age, I helped him during school breaks, which sparked my passion for diamonds and jewelry. After completing a graduate gemology degree at 21, I noticed a significant lack of proper education about engagement rings among clients. This inspired me to start By Bonnie Jewelry, focusing on fine craftsmanship and personalized customer education through online videos.
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, I pivoted to digital platforms, creating educational content to maintain a connection with clients who couldn’t visit in person. This approach allowed me to build a loyal audience through authentic engagement and consistent content. My dedication to fine craftsmanship and my belief in doing good for others, rooted in the principle of karma, have been key factors in the growth and success of By Bonnie Jewelry.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has definitely not been smooth. One of the biggest challenges was starting By Bonnie Jewelry just six months before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. The sudden shift in consumer behavior and the overall economic uncertainty made it incredibly difficult to establish a presence in the market. During a time when diamond rings were hardly a priority for most people, I had to quickly pivot to digital platforms to keep my business alive. This involved creating online educational videos and engaging with potential clients virtually, a significant departure from the in-person experiences I had initially planned to offer.
Another major struggle was overcoming the cultural expectations placed on me as a woman in a traditional Chinese family. Pursuing a career and starting my own business was against the norm, and I faced a lot of skepticism and doubt from those around me. Additionally, the challenge of educating clients about the importance of fine craftsmanship in ring settings was another hurdle. Many clients would invest significant time and money in finding the perfect diamond only to have it set in a mass-produced setting that didn’t showcase its true brilliance. Addressing these challenges required a combination of resilience, creativity, and a strong commitment to my principles.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At By Bonnie Jewelry, we specialize in creating high-quality fine diamond jewelry with a focus on natural and lab diamonds. We’re known for our meticulous craftsmanship and personalized client experience. I’m especially proud of how we educate our clients through online content, videos and consultations, helping them make informed decisions. What sets us apart is our attention to both the diamond and the ring setting, ensuring each piece is truly special. Plus, we believe in giving back and doing good, which shapes everything we do!
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Absolutely! My advice for those just starting out is to stay true to your passion and be prepared to pivot when needed. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new approaches, especially when things don’t go as planned. Consistency is key – make it a habit to engage with your audience and put out content regularly, even when it feels challenging.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bybonniejewelry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bybonniejewelry/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bybonniejewelry/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonniesarkissian/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/bybonniejewelry
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/by-bonnie-jewelry-burlingame-3
Image Credits
By Bonnie Jewelry