Benefactor’s belief in education offers opportunity for needy students

By Larne Boyles

More jewelry choices are available to consumers these days, thanks to technological advances in the last decade. Some retailers may worry about the competition, but Anthony Hirsh isn’t one of them.

The founder and managing director of Hirsh London says anyone can have a product delivered, but the delivery at the counter is where customers can get personalized service, which goes a long way when it comes to selling beautiful jewelry.

“I believe the competitive strength of retail stores depends on a knowledgeable, professional and qualified staff that can offer a personal level of service and after-sales care,” he said. “We need an educated work force.”

Hirsh believes so strongly in training quality associates, he recently donated $100,000 to support student scholarships at GIA London. He said that furthering the gemological education of the younger generation will help stabilize the future of the industry.

“GIA promotes knowledge and encourages learning about gemology on a worldwide basis,” he said. “GIA has to be of great importance to the trade to secure the future.”

The gift represents the first major financial contribution to support prospective students who want to attend GIA London. Initially, 20 percent of the gift will establish the Anthony Hirsh Scholarship, which will be disbursed annually to provide opportunities for United Kingdom residents. The first available scholarships will be awarded for the 2006 school year.

The remaining 80 percent will go into the GIA Endowment Fund where it will be
permanently invested and a portion of the interest it generates will be used for additional GIA London scholarships over time.

“Anthony is not only a renowned retailer, he is committed to strengthening the entire jewelry industry,” said Jerry Buckley, director of Development. “His recent gift to support scholarships for deserving students is just one example of that.”

Hirsh learned his jewelry design and craftsmanship skills from the legendary London-based jeweler, Laurence Graff. The two met by chance in 1969 and instantly established a
rapport.

He was a director of Graff for the next decade, but left to establish Hirsh London in 1980. The company has two retail locations in London and specializes in custom-designed, hand-crafted jewelry – most notably engagement rings.

For more information on the Anthony Hirsh Scholarship, call GIA London at +44 (0) 207 813 4321 or e-mail: info@gialondon.co.uk