Diamond-Studded Painting Highlights RJO Foundation Fundraising Auction

A diamond-studded painting featuring more than 10 carats of natural diamonds was among the highlights of a fundraising auction organized by the Retail Jewelers Organization (RJO) Foundation during the group’s recent buying show in Phoenix, Arizona.

Titled “Constellations Over the Sedona,” the artwork was created by retailer and artist Mike Doland, founder of Doland Jewelers in Iowa. The painting depicts a desert landscape beneath a night sky, with natural diamonds embedded to represent constellations. Under ultraviolet light, the diamonds illuminate the sky, creating a glowing celestial effect.

The artwork formed part of a silent art auction hosted by the RJO Foundation as part of its fundraising activities during the buying event. Doland created eight one-of-a-kind paintings specifically for the auction.

In total, the auction raised nearly $15,000, with proceeds supporting the foundation’s initiatives focused on education, scholarships and professional development within the jewellery industry.

The RJO Foundation works to advance the retail jewellery sector by providing resources such as grants, scholarships and training opportunities for independent jewellery retailers, vendors and their employees.

The fundraising initiative also highlights how creativity within the jewellery community—spanning art, gemstones and design—can support industry development while engaging retailers and buyers at trade events.