Kendra Scott and James Avery, both iconic Texas brands, are among the jewelers donating a portion of sales to help the Hill Country recover from catastrophic floods.
AUSTIN, Texas —
As the Texas Hill Country struggles to recover from devastating 4th of July floods that left immense damage, four jewelry companies are stepping in to help. From raising money to making custom collections, the jewelers are helping with each sparkling necklace and bracelet.
Houston Diamond Girl designs a custom collection
Lindsey Leigh Holt, also known as Houston Diamond Girl, had raised $165,000 toward flood recovery efforts as of July 9.
With over a decade of experience as a jewelry designer, Holt created the Hill Country Relief Collection, which includes a green mini cross necklace, an emerald bracelet, and an “add-a-pearl” bracelet. The color green was chosen in honor of an 8-year-old flood victim’s favorite color and the signature green palette of Camp Mystic.
The collection raised $15,000 in just 30 minutes and surpassed $100,000 in sales overnight.
Holt vowed that 100% of the proceeds from the collection will be donated to flood relief and recovery efforts by vetted organizations.
Despite the unexpected success, Holt said her primary goal is to bring comfort and unity to those grieving.
“Our hearts are with the people of Kerr County and the hundreds of campers that spend their summer along the Guadalupe River,” Holt posted on her website.
James Avery sells out of Texas charm
James Avery Jewelry has pledged $1 million to support flood relief efforts in the Texas Hill Country following recent severe storms.
The Kerrville-based company announced it will donate 100% of proceeds from its “Deep in the Heart of Texas” charm through Aug. 4. The funds will go toward food, shelter, mental health care and other essential services for affected communities.
“This charm has always celebrated the pride and resilience of our state, and now, it carries a deeper meaning,” the company said in a statement.
Available in sterling silver and 14K gold, the charm sold out quickly after the campaign launched. In a July 8 update, the company said it is accepting backorders and will honor its donation commitment for all purchases made before the deadline.
James Avery reopened its Hill Country facilities and resumed production of the charm on July 8. Due to high demand, shipping delays of six weeks or more are expected.
“To all those affected, we send our love, strength and heartfelt prayers,” the company said. “And to the first responders and neighbors who have stepped in with open hands and open hearts, we offer our deepest gratitude.”
Kendra Scott Foundation makes a generous donation
The Kendra Scott Foundation has pledged support to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund to assist families and communities recovering from recent flooding in Central Texas.
In a Facebook post, the Austin-based company expressed solidarity with those affected.
“Texas is our home, and we stand with our neighbors during this difficult time,” according to the brands post. “We are devastated by the recent flooding in Kerrville and throughout Central Texas, and the heartbreaking and unimaginable loss experienced by so many.”
In addition to a direct donation, the foundation announced it will donate 100% of proceeds from sales of its Everlyne bracelet to help meet the urgent needs of flood victims, their families, and the broader Central Texas community.
“As the community begins to rebuild, we remain committed to standing beside them in the days and weeks to come,” the company said.
North Carolina jewelry store raises funds for flood victims
Across the country, far from a Texas Hill Country, a local entrepreneur had a small idea that led to astounding results. A Charlotte jewelry store owner has raised $100,000 in just days to support victims of recent flooding in Texas, WCNC reported.
Erin McDermott, owner of Erin McDermott Jewelry, launched a campaign offering $25 necklaces, with 100% of proceeds going directly to those affected by the disaster. Orders quickly poured in from around the world, far exceeding her initial expectations.
“It was something small that we could do, and it totally took on a life of its own,” McDermott told WCNC, our sister station in Charlotte.
The necklaces were designed as meaningful gifts that also support relief efforts. One customer, Jarrell Seagraves, told WCNC the campaign gave people a way to help when they didn’t know how.
Due to overwhelming demand, McDermott has paused new orders to fulfill existing ones. The effort highlights how small businesses can inspire widespread charitable giving during times of crisis.