Today we’d like to introduce you to Jane Yuan-Smith
Hi Jane, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been passionate about the circular economy, especially when it comes to luxury goods. The idea of extending the life of timeless pieces—giving them a second, third, or even fourth chapter—has always resonated with me. I loved the thrill of finding great deals, reselling pieces I no longer needed, and embracing a more thoughtful way of shopping. Buying secondhand isn’t just about affordability—it’s a conscious choice that supports sustainability.
But when it came to fine jewelry, I noticed a major gap. Unlike handbags, shoes, and clothing, jewelry resale options were scattered, unorganized, and lacked a dedicated space where special pieces were truly appreciated and could be reloved again and again.
That realization sparked an idea: what if fine jewelry had its own dedicated marketplace? I saw the need for a platform designed specifically for the fine jewelry community—a curated ecosystem where buyers and sellers could connect with confidence. We wanted to make it easier for buyers to discover and shop for preloved jewelry while also providing sellers with a better alternative to part with their cherished gems. Whether they were downsizing, making room for something new, or simply no longer wearing a piece, there should be a trusted, seamless way for them to sell.
By making fine jewelry resale more accessible, we’re not just offering a sustainable alternative to buying new—we’re ensuring these treasures find new homes, remain part of someone’s collection, and continue to be worn and loved. In doing so, we’re shaping a more circular future for fine jewelry.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I believe the journey is the jewel. Sometimes, the road is smooth, and other times, it’s full of unexpected bumps and challenges. But every obstacle is an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve.
When I first started concepting the idea for ReGEM in 2023 (formally REFIND), I had to take on roles I never imagined. Suddenly, I wasn’t just building a resale platform—I was stepping into the role of a CTO, leading the development of a tech-enabled peer-to-peer marketplace. There was a steep learning curve as I worked with web developers and engineers to create a fully customized platform designed specifically for fine jewelry.
At the same time, I had to immerse myself in the world of jewelry. I needed to understand not just the market, but the craftsmanship, materials, metals, and stones that make each piece unique. To deepen my knowledge, I earned my GIA certificate, and I was lucky to have incredible industry experts with decades of experience guide me along the way. It was a crash course, but I truly enjoyed it—learning about jewelry is fun, and I picked it up quickly.
Once the platform was in place, the next challenge was building inventory. We needed sellers who were ready to part with their cherished gems and trust us to find them new homes. I feel incredibly fortunate to have such a supportive community, including friends in the jewelry industry who believed in what I was building. Their trust and willingness to sell through ReGEM played a huge role in getting us off the ground.
The journey has been anything but predictable, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Every challenge has pushed me to grow, and I’m grateful for the lessons along the way.
We’ve been impressed with ReGEM, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
ReGEM is a resale ecosystem exclusively for fine jewelry. We offer a trusted, seamless experience for buying and selling preloved pieces—helping each gem find a new home where it will be cherished for years to come. What sets us apart is our commitment to curation and trust. Unlike other mass resale marketplaces where jewelry is just another category, we’ve built a platform dedicated specifically for the fine jewelry enthusiasts. Every piece listed undergoes a thorough review process to ensure quality, style, and authenticity.
One of the things I’m most proud of is how ReGEM supports both buyers and sellers. For buyers, we offer a thoughtfully curated selection of stylish, preloved jewelry—from vintage and contemporary treasures, to sought-after designer gems —making fine jewelry more accessible and sustainable. For sellers, we provide a seamless, trusted way to part with their cherished jewels, whether they’re making room for something new or passing them along to be loved again.
Beyond being a marketplace, ReGEM is a community. We bring together jewelry lovers, collectors, and those who appreciate the beauty and quality of fine jewelry. Our ecosystem nurtures authentic connections, mutual trust, and collaborative value between buyers and sellers. We believe in reloving, not just reselling, and we’re on a mission to create a more circular, conscious future for fine jewelry.
At the heart of ReGEM is the belief that jewelry isn’t just an accessory—it tells a story. Our goal is to give these special gems new chapters while making the buying and selling experience as seamless, enjoyable, and trustworthy as possible.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Building ReGEM from the ground up required me to step into unfamiliar roles, whether it was learning the technical side of developing a peer-to-peer marketplace or deepening my expertise in fine jewelry. There were moments of uncertainty, but I realized that resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are what truly drive success.
I’ve also learned the power of community and trust—especially in an industry where sentimental value and authenticity are so important. Creating a platform that people feel confident buying and selling on isn’t just about technology or logistics; it’s about fostering genuine relationships and ensuring every piece finds a new home where it will be cherished.
I love what I do and feel incredibly grateful to be surrounded by people who share my passion for jewelry. Meeting new buyers and sellers, acting as a matchmaker, and connecting someone with the perfect gem from a seller who shares their style and aesthetic is both fun and rewarding. I feel so lucky to work with beautiful jewelry, and meet amazing people — I truly enjoy every step of this exciting journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.regem.co
- Instagram: @regem_world
Image Credits
ReGEM & Belathée Photography
