Jonathan Goldberg: Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur

Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Jonathan Goldberg, who launched diamond jewelry brand Kimberfire to connect in-person service with e-commerce price access for diamonds, custom engagement rings and fine jewelry…

Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
Kimberfire is a diamond jewelry brand. We are the public’s connection to wholesale prices on diamonds, custom engagement rings and fine jewelry. We believe our clients should have access to e-commerce prices and be able to receive the in-person service and designer quality experienced at high-end stores. Essentially, a better diamond for your dollar without sacrificing on the experience!

Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
In watching my friends and colleagues shop for engagement rings, I noticed that there were really only two options for high-end diamond jewelry. Most people either visit traditional retail stores or look for a better deal online. At traditional stores, they get a great experience with in-person service and advice, but with that comes traditional retail prices. On the other hand, online-only retailers offer excellent prices and selection but customers are forced to open their wallets before even seeing the product. No two diamonds are alike and a photo only shows so much. I founded Kimberfire so people could have access to prices typical of online-only retailers but without sacrificing the very important in-person experience of a traditional retail store.

What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
I am fortunate to get to work with people when they are at their happiest (or about to be) and I enjoy being able to take away some of the stress and complexity that comes with shopping for high-end diamond jewelry. I feel a true sense of purpose and fulfillment from my work as I know that Kimberfire provides a unique experience, one significantly better than other available options.

The most challenging part is time, or the lack of it! As a young company, there is a lot going on and not a lot of people to do it.

Where do you see your business going in five years?
In five years I see Kimberfire having offices in cities across the country. I truly believe that Kimberfire is the best way for someone to buy high-value diamond jewelry and I want people to have access to the experience no matter where they live.

What does success look like to you?
Success is the ability to live life on your own terms, whatever that may be, and to support the things that are important to you. Success to me is having built a stable business that allows me to work hard with a purpose, that supports the quality of life I desire and that provides a livelihood to others so that they may support what is important to them in life as well.

What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
The most memorable milestone, so far, was securing an investment-banking role after completing my MBA. I remember it fondly as it was a big accomplishment in one of the most difficult job markets the industry has ever seen. It’s most memorable to me, though, because I have grown so much personally since then and have learnt a lot about what I am looking to achieve in life.

In regards to Kimberfire, the most memorable moment was creating a stunning two carat diamond engagement ring for the first customer that found us through our website!

Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Take (calculated) risks, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. But also, don’t underestimate the benefits of working for a successful company, learning on someone else’s dime and taking the time to build a reputation and a network before venturing out on your own.

Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Giving back and supporting our community is very important to me and I personally donate to a number of charities throughout the year. During this past holiday season, Kimberfire supported the Canadian Red Cross as there continues to be so much need both within our borders and on a global scale.

What is Notable to you?
Someone who is well respected for what they do on a daily basis, no matter how big or small. If just one person’s life is better as a result of your presence and hard work, that is notable to me.