My name is Amber Carman, and I am facilitating this fundraiser for a friend, and local small business owner, Jean Lam, of Gold Rush Jewelers.

Gold Rush Jewelers is located in historic, downtown Weaverville, California. While Jean’s father initially opened the business in 1975, Jean has owned and operated it herself for over 40 years. She is a true artisan and craftswoman and her beautiful handcrafted jewelry line named “Turtle Sisters Designs” in honor of her late daughter is designed from locally sourced materials. Gold Rush Jewelers is the center for her jewelry production line. Earlier this January, an uninsured driver accidentally veered her vehicle into the historic structure bearing awning posts outside Gold Rush Jewelers, and the neighboring business. The extent of the damage to this century old building will not be fully understood until repairs begin. This has forced Jean to close the storefront temporarily out of safety concerns. The estimated cost of repairs is not yet known. Since it’s a registered historic building there will be additional costs and considerations, all of which falls solely on Jean’s shoulders. This will deplete her savings and inhibit her ability to retire. She does not have adequate insurance coverage due to the historic nature of her building. Gold Rush Jewelers is a primary source of income for Jean so the burden of these repairs, and the forced closure of the store, has dramatically effected her life.

Jean is at the heart of our community. Throughout her 42 years as a business owner, she has not only sponsored and supported countless local fundraisers and events, but has spearheaded them in various leadership capacities. For the past 25 years, Jean has served as a dedicated board member and officer of the Weaverville Chamber of Commerce (member for 41years). It’s time to pay it forward and let Jean know how much her presence in our community means to us.

Please consider donating to this fundraiser to make the necessary repairs to reopen Gold Rush Jewelers, and to help support Jean while her store is closed. Thank you from all of us that know and love Jean, and Gold Rush Jewelers. If you would like to donate in person rather than online, please drop off cash or a check to Shear Delight at 605 Main Street in Weaverville.