We’re looking forward to introducing you to Joe Abitol. Check out our conversation below.
Joe, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
One thing that’s often misunderstood about my business is the idea that lab grown diamonds are somehow “fake” or lower in quality. In reality, they are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds, just created in a more modern and sustainable way. Many people are surprised to learn they have the same brilliance, durability, and grading standards as natural diamonds. My goal is to show that choosing lab grown jewelry doesn’t mean compromising on beauty or value. It means embracing innovation without losing tradition.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Joe, and I started Karaters with my sister. We’ve basically grown up in the jewelry world. Our family’s been in the business for over 25 years, so we know it inside and out. But we wanted to shake things up a bit and create something new that the industry really needed.
We’re based in LA’s Jewelry District, with a showroom down in Miami, and we work with customers all across the US and Canada. What we’re really passionate about is lab grown diamond jewelry. Think gorgeous tennis bracelets, necklaces, engagement rings, you name it. We’re all about that perfect combo of incredible craftsmanship, modern style, and doing right by the planet.
Honestly, our whole thing is making beautiful, high-quality jewelry something people can actually afford. You shouldn’t have to choose between amazing quality and your budget, you know? We want everyone to experience that sparkle without breaking the bank.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My dad taught me everything I know about work. Growing up in our family’s jewelry business, I got to see his dedication, integrity, and incredible attention to detail up close. He always showed me that real success isn’t just about closing deals. It’s about building genuine trust with people, delivering amazing quality, and making customers feel like they’re part of the family.
His work ethic and love for the craft really inspired me. We wanted to honor that tradition but also put our own spin on things with Karaters. We’re carrying forward everything he taught us while bringing some fresh energy and new ideas to the business.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self, “Trust the process and believe in your vision.” Look, things are going to get tough, and honestly, a lot of stuff won’t go the way you think it will. But here’s the thing about those setbacks and curveballs life throws at you. They’re going to teach you things you never could have learned otherwise.
Stay patient with yourself, keep that curiosity alive, and never stop putting in the work. I know it might not always feel like it’s leading somewhere, but trust me, the path you’re walking is going to take you to something really meaningful and rewarding. Just stick with it.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
The people I turn to most for ideas, besides what’s rattling around in my own head, are definitely my dad and my sister. My dad has been in the jewelry game for decades, so he’s taught me everything about what real quality looks like, how to nail the craftsmanship, and most importantly, how to build relationships with customers that actually last.
My sister is amazing at bringing that fresh perspective on design and what’s trending. She has this talent for creating pieces that feel classic but also totally current. Between the two of them, they keep Karaters rooted in all the good stuff from our tradition while making sure we’re always pushing forward and trying new things. It’s the perfect balance, honestly.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I honestly believe this is what I was meant to do. I actually had the option to become a doctor and everyone was pushing me toward medical school, but growing up around the jewelry world, my heart just kept pulling me in that direction instead.
Being part of a jewelry family definitely played a role, but when Hanna and I made the call to start Karaters, that was pure passion talking. There’s just something incredible about creating these beautiful, meaningful pieces and getting to share them with people.
For me, this goes way beyond just having a job or building a career. It genuinely feels like my calling. Like this is exactly where I belong, you know?
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karaters.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karaterslabgrown
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/karatersinc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086344733737
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@karaters
Image Credits
Joe Abitol
