Tough Times, New Beginnings …

Many of you who have followed my shop over the years are aware of what has prompted changes with New Life Jewelry recently. While my heart has been broken, I’ve decided to live by some of my mantras; to “find joy in the journey”, “do something today my future self will thank me for”, “let all that I do be done in love”, and with these things, to bring “New Life” into my business.

The platform I used for 16 years, maintaining Star Seller status, with reviews from many of you that brought me joy on days I needed that pick-me-up, has been indefinitely suspended. I don’t take this as a personal attack. 

In my case, someone trademarked the name of a county in China, in which some pieces of mine were mined from. It is ethical and appropriate, when known, to state the origin of a gem. It is claimed that this county's name was a “brand”, and I’ve committed copyright infringement. This accusation is in error. I've not implied any brand, copied any branded items, and I have since removed the named source of the gems. To this date, my shop has not been lifted from suspension. I’m at the mercy of the accuser to drop the court order. The platform I’d used has not been helpful thus far.

This is not the worst thing that has happened over the years. I have experienced (legitimately) intellectual property theft of a copyright of mine and considered the fact that those who are less ethical could easily make a job of copyrighting or trademarking almost anything, and going after businesses, big and small, depleting them financially. 

I am a one woman show with my husband as my volunteer side-kick. I lean on my faith in God that He cares and works all things for good to those who love Him and called according to His purpose. New Life represents transformations and fresh chapters; in jewelry—and now, my business. While I could shut down and continue to feel bad, I’ve chosen to press forward; picking myself and my shop, up off the ground and do something greater!

I have no idea what this new chapter will produce, but I’ve turned that one to God; because I understand, I only have so much control over things. Here is what I am able to do:

—New Life Jewelry will be giving financially monthly to WhiteSutton.org, which is a foundation close to my heart, in which I proudly serve.

—New Life Jewelry now is .com and we can be found on Shop.app, via Shopify’s platform.

—I will put more focus on blogging—and hopefully encouraging others where I can. I’d like to provide email updates (I don’t like spam, so I’m thinking once a month sharing relevant information, promotions, etc.).

I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the prayers and encouragement poured over me and New Life Jewelry. It’s humbling, and it’s been fuel to press forward in this next chapter.