George the Jeweler’s Ring Benefitting Down Syndrome Individuals Comes From a Personal Place

Celebrity jeweler George Khalife, who goes by the name George the Jeweler professionally, has given to several charities in the past, including leading cancer nonprofits. But his latest charitable initiative was inspired by a beloved friend: Khalife’s partner’s younger sister, Allison, has down syndrome and “She’s an angel and so much fun to be around,” he says.

The personal connection inspired the Detroit-based jeweler to partner with the National Down Syndrome Society to auction a specially made ring: an 18k white gold band covered in diamond and yellow sapphires set into chevron-like arrows, the symbol of down syndrome awareness.

The ring went up for auction on philanthropy platform Charity Buzz on March 21 and will be sent to the highest bidder after March 31, its final day of auction. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to the National Down Syndrome Society in continued support of the organization’s areas of programming and resources for the Down Syndrome community. At press time the ring’s bids were up to $1,550.

The jeweler and designer also created a second ring—a less blingy but no less lovely design called the Allison Ring (see it below) that’s now part of his permanent collection. A portion of proceeds from the sale of the ring benefit the National Down Syndrome Society.

“I feel like down syndrome is still something that people don’t understand a lot about,” Khalife adds. “And it’s easy to judge, but these people are so intelligent and have so much to offer. It’s funny, Allison can meet you one time, and you can tell her your name and your parents’ names, and she will forever remember them. She has taught me so much about down syndrome and understanding the condition. She’s so intelligent, and it is a joy to raise money and awareness for this cause.” —Emili Vesilind

To bid on the one-of-a-kind ring benefitting the National Down Syndrome Society, click here.

Top photo: Jeweler and designer George Khalife, a.k.a. George the Jeweler (all photos courtesy of George the Jeweler)

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