Hans Stern

[2] He immigrated from Germany to Brazil at the outbreak of World War II, a couple of years prior to the Holocaust, at the age of 17.

[1] Stern started his career in the gemstone industry when he began working at the Rio de Janeiro-based company, Cristab, which exports precious stones and minerals from Brazil.

[1] Stern traveled to Minas Gerais state as part of his job, where he came to know the local miners.

[1] He became fascinated by the vibrant gems of Brazil and decided to promote them internationally, targeting foreign travelers.

[1] Stern was also the first to create a worldwide warranty certificate, and to offer tours of his workshops to present the creative and production process with integrity and transparency.

[1] From the jewelry and watch fair, he was able to establish a growing network of contacts and partnerships throughout Europe, the United States and the Middle East adding another 150 points of sale to the network, through retail partnerships with department stores and specialty retailers.