by Marietta Daily Journal (MDJ) staff 09.25.15 - 12:00 am
Longtime Smyrna Mayor Max Bacon honored the Cumberland Diamond Exchange (CDE) with a proclamation in recognition of being named 2015 Small Business of the Year for Cobb County.
The certificate was presented to Mark Jacobson, Rhonda Jacobson and Prentice Johnson by Melleny Pritchett, Ward 1/Smyrna Mayor Pro Tem.
CDE opened in 1982 as a loose diamond and engagement ring specialist, in a rented showroom with two employees. With each new lease — all within the same shopping center, the storefront, staff and inventory grew.
The company purchased its current building in 1999. This location went under a renovation in 2014 and expanded to
more than 4,800 square feet. With construction completed, the enhanced architecture and showroom offers an improved guest experience, with an open foyer for special events.
“We are honored and humbled, with great gratitude, to be selected for business excellence as the Cobb County Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year,” said Mark Jacobson, founder and owner of Cumberland Diamond Exchange.
“This year’s winner believes it’s their responsibility to create a better community through partnerships with nonprofits,” said John Loud, 2014 Small Business of the Year winner who announced CDE as this year’s winner.
“Just like we advise young people to live below your means: as a business, you need to also live below your means,” Rhonda Jacobson said. “I want our legacy to be the community jeweler that gave back. If you’re blessed, then you should bless others.”
Cumberland Diamond Exchange’s involvement in the community and partnerships with non profits are key differentiators. Their “Cufflinks + Charms 4 Charity" makes custom-designed jewelry for resale and recognition with proceeds benefitting the corresponding charity. More than $70,000 was donated in 2014.
Mark is also involved in the City of Smyrna Visionary, is an Initiative Focus Group participant, a member of the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Advisory Board, a Chairman’s Club member and unofficial gift sponsor.
Rhonda is involved in the WellStar Foundation Board of Trustees, co-chair for WellStar Foundation — Women in Philanthropy, a member of the YWCA NWGA —Tribute to Women of Achievement Board, a member of the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Advisory Board and is a Chairman’s Club member.