The Russell Simmons’ created Diamond Empowerment Fund is launching its first on-line fundraising event, called, “Diamonds Give,” with an exclusive charity auction of diamond jewelry and unique celebrity experiences.

The Diamonds Give charity auction will be hosted on eBay Giving Works, the dedicated program for charity listings on eBay, beginning Dec. 6 till Dec. 16. It will feature approximately 15 lots of donated fine diamond pieces, including an extraordinary diamond encrusted Ohm Watch from the Simmons Jewelry Co. made from red Monkstone and 6.5 cts. of pave diamonds, designed and worn by D.E.F. chairman Russell Simmons.
 
Bidders will have the opportunity to win a professional photo shoot in New York or Los Angeles with a celebrity who is an advocate for D.E.F.’s mission of giving back to Africa through education programs in countries where diamonds are a natural resource. The recipient will also receive the Simmons Jewelry Co.’s Green Bracelet, with the bracelet box autographed by the celebrity. The recipient will receive a copy of the photo, and the photos will be published in one of the major weekly celebrity magazines, as well as on the D.E.F. Web site.
 
Celebrities participating include Russell Simmons, LL Cool J, Rev Run & Justine Simmons, Petra Nemcova, Brett Ratner, Naomi Campbell, Cedric The Entertainer, Cynthia Nixon, Holly Robinson Peete, and Derek Jeter (who will donate a New York Yankees’ memorabilia package).

Jewelers participating include Simmons Jewelry Co., Lorraine Schwartz (donating diamond hoop earrings), Jack Vartanian, Jeri Cohen Fine Jewelry (donating a diamond butterfly necklace and amethyst and diamond earrings), William Goldberg Company (donating a pave diamond ring), Michelle Farmer Fine Jewelry (donating a citrine and diamond ring set in 18K gold and featured in Harper’s Bazaar magazine), Leo Schacter (donating a diamond pendant), Calhoun Jewelers (donating an estate piece), Fortunoff,  Macy’s, Kwiat, Security Jewelers, and Steinmetz (donating a replica of the Monaco Grand Prix Racing Trophy).

The Diamond Empowerment Fund has engaged Auction Cause to produce the auction for eBay. Auction Cause is a premier auction management agency specializing in high profile cause marketing events for brands, nonprofits, and celebrities.
 

For further information, go to www.diamondempowerment.org.

JCK