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News Release: 9/24/2025

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Experience the Brilliance: Mountz Jewelers Gem Event Supports Gem Legacy’s Mission to Empower Artisanal Mining Communities in East Africa

Camp Hill, PA, September 24, 2025 – Prepare to “Experience the Brilliance” at the upcoming Gem Event, a three-day celebration of rare, holistically sourced gemstones, taking place at Mountz Jewelers Carlisle, Camp Hill, and Colonial Park/Harrisburg locations. This event is more than a celebration of rare and vibrant gemstones — it’s a powerful opportunity to support Gem Legacy, a nonprofit changing lives in East Africa’s artisanal gem mining communities.
 
Gem Legacy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating lasting impact in East African mining regions by supporting:

  • Vocational training in gem cutting and gemology
  • Entrepreneurship through miner toolkits and small business education
  • Educational scholarships for students in mining communities
  • Community development, including food programs, schools, and children’s homes
At the heart of Gem Legacy’s work is a commitment to sustainability, dignity, and generational change — ensuring that every gem sold supports the people and places where it began.
 
Unique Event with a Global Impact
Gem Event Schedule:
  • Camp Hill: Wednesday, October 8 | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Carlisle: Thursday, October 9 | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Colonial Park/Harrisburg: Friday, October 10 | 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
 Attendees will experience:
  • A curated collection of hundreds of rare, holistically sourced gemstones
  • Direct stories from the source — featuring Rachel Dery Merisheki, daughter of renowned gem cutter and Gem Legacy co-founder Roger Dery, and her husband Bjorn, a second-generation Tanzanite miner from Tanzania
  • The opportunity to customize your favorite gemstone into a one-of-a-kind piece with Mountz’s design team
Every gemstone purchase includes:
  • A Gem Passport, sharing the story of your gem’s origin
  • A handmade gift from Maasai women artists in Tanzania
  • A direct donation to Gem Legacy, helping fund vital programs in East African mining communities
Why Gem Legacy Matters
Artisanal gem mining supports millions of families across East Africa — but often without access to proper tools, education, or health resources. Gem Legacy meets these needs with practical, on-the-ground programs that empower local people to thrive. A few ways your support helps:
  • $125 funds a complete miner toolkit, increasing safety and productivity
  • Scholarships send students to secondary school and university
  • Vocational schools train future gem cutters, ensuring more value stays local
  • 100% of profits from Gem Legacy’s fundraising efforts are reinvested into these programs, maximizing the impact of every dollar donated
“We are proud to host an event that not only celebrates the beauty and craftsmanship of rare gems, but also supports the vital mission of Gem Legacy,” said Tonia Ulsh, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Owner at Mountz Jewelers. “This is more than a jewelry showcase—it’s an opportunity to honor the people, stories, and communities behind each gemstone, and to make a meaningful difference in their lives.”
 
Make a Difference — and an Appointment
To ensure a personalized experience, attendees are encouraged to schedule an appointment during the event. You’ll explore breathtaking gems, hear powerful stories, and become part of a mission that turns beauty into tangible change.
 
Enter to Win a Rhodolite Garnet
As a thank-you for attending, guests will be entered for a chance to win a Rhodolite Garnet valued at $755. No purchase is necessary; one entry per person. See store for details.
 
About Gem Legacy
Gem Legacy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to supporting East African artisanal mining communities through education, entrepreneurship, vocational training, and community development. 100% of donations support initiatives on the ground — including miner toolkits, gemology training, student scholarships, and more.
Learn more at www.gemlegacy.org
 
About Mountz Jewelers
Founded on a passion for exceptional craftsmanship and customer care, Mountz Jewelers has been Central Pennsylvania’s premier family-owned jewelry store for over 45 years. With locations in Carlisle, Camp Hill and Colonial Park/Harrisburg, Mountz offers an extensive selection of fine jewelry, engagement rings, luxury timepieces, and custom designs. Known for its commitment to quality, integrity, and community, Mountz Jewelers is proud to bring world-class jewelry and unforgettable experiences to generations of customers. For more information, visit MountzJewelers.com.
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If you would like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Tonia Ulsh, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Owner at Mountz Jewelers please call Megan Matzner at 717.763.9127 or e-mail Megan at megan@mountzjewelers.com.

News Release: 9/24/2025

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