About Founder, Brad Bass
Lumina Gem was founded by Bradley “Brad” Bass, a graduate of East Carolina University with a concentration in metal design and also the Gemological Institute of America, (GIA) in Carlsbad, California. At GIA, he was awarded the institute’s prestigious Graduate Gemologist diploma, having long been regarded as the jewelry industry’s highest academic credential. He is also accredited by the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.
After graduating from GIA, Brad started his career in Wilmington with a local retail jewelry store, where he worked for 5 years. In 2009, he decided to go out on his own, and founded Lumina Gem, with offices at Lumina Station. His emphasis was on appraising, custom design and brokering fine gems.
In 2010, he partnered up with Jeannie Bethel-Cooley to locate Lumina Gem within Home Again. In the time since, the business has grown to be a full service jewelry store that specializes in all aspects of the jewelry business.
Brad was born and raised in Nashville, NC, a small town where many of his family members live today, and a place where he still has strong ties. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, golf, surfing, working out, volleyball and boating. His favorite gemstones are the phenomenal gemstones which include alexandrite, star ruby and sapphire, labradorite, and opal.
