Armenians In The Diamond District
A moment in time, documented to visually tell the story of the tradition and legacy of the impact Armenians have had on the jewelry industry.
Overview
In collaboration with Michael Givelekian, three Armenian-owned businesses in New York’s Diamond District participated in my photography exhibit for Dance4Armenia’s Armenian Art House in April of 2025. Royal Jewel Setting Co., Pico Jewelers and Metro Gold all graciously allowed access to their businesses. The exhibit was very well received, and some who visited the gallery expressed interest in also participating in the project.
A new project to be considered for commission by the Armenian Jeweler’s Association, with proceeds benefitting the charity of its choosing, would focus on expanding participation from as many or all Armenian-owned businesses on 47th St willing. Photography would take place in their business, with select photography taking place in a temporary studio nearby. As was the case with the initial exhibit, all work will be shot on medium format film in black and white. The resulting work would be used to create a book and fine art prints, showcasing the legacy of Armenian’s In The Diamond District.
Purpose
While the project began with a focus on the working hands of Armenian craftsmen in the Diamond District, it is now evolving to encompass the people, spaces, textures, and enduring spirit of this community. The goal is to create a powerful cultural artifact — both artistic and archival — that reflects the pride, resilience, and generational excellence of Armenian jewelers in New York City. These businesses are also beginning to experience a transition from one generation passing to the next, leading the way for the future of the industry.
The book.
The finished product from the project would be a book, available for purchase. The book would be hardcover, something that would adorn both coffee tables and bookshelves in homes, hotels and other businesses. This would serve as the physical item that would be sold to cover all costs, and all proceeds going to a charity of the Armenian Jewelers Associations’ choosing.
The book would be a professionally designed and printed book with the energy of a photozine, the richness of a fine art piece, and the permanence of a historical record.
*this is a rendering, final design to be determined
Financial Analysis
A community event hosted by Dance4Armenia, a non-profit focused on uniting Armenians. Celebrating life, community and resilience, the group would assist with organizing a gallery opening and book release party, connecting with charities and driving awareness for sales of art. The ticketed event would also include the purchase of a book.
FEATURED ARTISTS
ADAM TORCOMIAN
Adam is an accomplished multi-disciplinary artists.
Dylan Joe Turpanjian
Take a minute to write an introduction that is short, sweet, and to the point. If you sell something, use this space to describe it in detail and tell us why we should make a purchase. Tap into your creativity. You’ve got this.