Jonathon Stopper, Sarasota, FL
While studying geology, I served a two-year apprenticeship with Motif Manufacturing of Detroit, Michigan, and a one-year apprenticeship under Robert A. Bullard (MFA Cranbrook).
My professional experience includes three years as chief designer for the Charles Kent Reaver Diamond Company of Southfield, Michigan.
I opened Simply Jonathon’s Inc. in 1985.
In 1987 I was invited to compete for “New Designer Of The Year” held at the annual Summer Jewelers of America show By Mort Abelson the Director of Jewelers of America. Voted 1st runner up.
In 1987, I was one of three American designers commissioned by the New York office of H. Stearns to create a collection of fine jewelry showcasing the gemstone sculptures of Bernd Munsteiner for their exhibition of his gemstone sculptures.