Nina Raizel Hartman

Jeweler, Designer, Storyteller

I’ve been a professional jeweler for over a decade now; sawing, soldering, stone setting, and restoring jewelry. I started my first business, Nina Raizel Jewelry, as soon as I graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2014, and in 2024, I relaunched it as Seattle Jewelry Design & Repair. I wanted to focus more intentionally on what I love most, bringing well-loved pieces back to life.

Over time, I’ve become known for my detailed, precise work and for being able to complete complex repairs. I do everything from resizing rings and restoring heirlooms to building custom pieces from scratch, and I try to bring both technical skill and a lot of care into each project.

I didn’t know what I was doing when I started my first business right out of school. I thought I would be an overnight success making and selling art jewelry, but I didn’t have the skills, knowledge, equipment, or support to make it work. I started working full-time for other jewelers while pursuing my own dreams in the background.

In 2023, I left my last full-time job and decided to focus 100% of my time and energy on my own business. I had most of the pieces I needed - the studio, the tools, the jewelry skills, the networks, and enough customers to break even each month.

Working with Illuminating Human Kindness (IHK) has honestly been a game-changer for my business. Their mentorship has boosted my confidence, helping me grow in a way that feels structured and genuinely supported. I started working with IHK in 2024 in the “Adulting With Confidence” program, and my business has grown significantly over the last 2 years. I am on track to double my annual business revenue since 2024. The monthly one-on-one sessions provided tailored advice, accountability, and practical strategies that directly impacted my growth, making the mentorship feel personalized and effective. The support I received from IHK mentorship programs kept me motivated and reminded me that I wasn't alone in my journey.

Because of that consistent support and clarity, my business has reached a major milestone: I’m now hiring my first full-time employee, a step I’m not sure I would have confidently navigated without their mentorship. This achievement shows real growth, and I’m so excited for the future of my business!

This program really balances practical business and life guidance with genuine human support. I’d encourage anyone looking to grow their business or find their life direction to explore Illuminating Human Kindness, as it truly lives up to its name.