Covenant Stones, Inc.
Why did a Chaplain also become a Diamond Broker?
“My wife’s “mum’s” Grandfather (Sir Thomas Cullinan) owned the largest gem quality diamond ever found (over 3,000cts) in his Premier Diamond mine. My wife’s father, a Director in one of Anglo American’s many companies including DeBeers, introduced me to the Chairman of DeBeers who suggested I look into the business. With the family history and several months of free time waiting for our 2nd son to be born in South Africa, I enrolled in courses in Gemology at the Gem Education Centre in Johannesburg to get a feel for it. After completion of the diamond grading segment, the head Professor stated that I was his best student ever, so I believe the Holy Spirit gave me unusual insight in “perceiving the nuances” of diamonds; after all, these sparkling stones are an elegant creation in nature by God Himself!”
Providing personal service since 1994
After a stint in an import business representing a few select African, European and Israeli companies, John founded Covenant Stones, Inc. in 1994; it was initially located in his father’s (Carl D Dawson Sr.) law office complex on Adams Street in downtown Jacksonville.
The company name was chosen as a diamond is often a tangible symbol of a “covenant of marriage” ~ John’s specialty is engagement rings and he tries to use his pastoral skills to insure that the couple is actually ready to get married before he will offer to sell a ring to them.
This growing business brokers diamonds and jewelry as requested by clients on an appointment basis. The scenario works well as John’s day is otherwise filled with ministering as a Chaplain to elderly people on a regular basis as well as others at any age as needed.
Covenant Stones, Inc. does not have the overhead that jewelry stores are burdened with so our pricing is extremely competitive. In these 30+ years, our clients are quite happy and refer us to their family and friends! We strive to insure that everyone is pleased with their purchase and rely on their positive experience. We do not advertise or usually work with the general public as we desire to concentrate our time and talent to worthy clients who appreciate individual attention. This process allows us to insure that each clients jewelry is high quality and exactly what they want. Our success in growing as as company is due to our client's referrals to their families, friends or associates.
Certifications
Graduate training obtained through the Jewellery Council of South Africa Gem Education Centre in 1988
- Diplomas in Diamond Grading, Gemstone Identification, Pearl grading & Diamond, Gemstone & Jewelry Appraising
- J.C.S.A. uses Gemological Institute of America (GIA) training materials
Services
- Full service Diamond & Gemstone broker with local & international wholesale suppliers & contacts
- Custom Settings with in depth advice & experience of over 30 years
- Appraisals of all types
- Estate Brokerage & consignment
- Insured through Jewelers Mutual
Memberships & Affiliations
JBT (Jewelers Board of Trade)
IGS (International Gem Society )
GIA (Gemological Institute of America)
EGLUSA (European Gemological Laboratory – USA)
JM (Jewelers Mutual)
PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service Platinum Member)
Interested in purchasing jewelry through Covenant Stones Inc?
Send us an inquiry through the form below.