Gem + Jewel CEO/Founder Shelia Bayes is living proof that if you’re passionate about what you do, you don’t need a big budget to become a smashing success.

Over two decades ago, Bayes opened her own jewelry store with little more than a dream and a drive to succeed. Now, after 25 years of helping her customers create unforgettable memories, Bayes is bringing her incredibly high standards and dedication to top-notch customer service from the brick and mortar world to the online space with the creation of Gem + Jewel – the ultimate e-commerce jewelry destination.

No stranger to industry accolades, Sheila Bayes has been named to Harper’s Bazaar list of Top 100 Jewelers and has won the Readers’ Choice Award for Best Jeweler in Lexington, Kentucky for 12 years running.