Gems First, LLC

Sarah Huggins CEO & Co-Owner of Gems First, was raised in rural New England with an artistic upbringing. Her work is an extension of who she is and greatly influenced by the cosmos, nature and compassion for others through design and natural elements. Her passion began as a child in her parents’ backyard, mining for quartz crystals and borrowing microscopes from the school’s science department. She received her formal training through the Gemological Institute of America, where she earned the prestigious title of Graduate Gemologist. In 2017 Sarah earned her Certified Insurance Appraiser specialization from the Jewelry Insurance Appraisal Institute. Her career began in 2005 as a Jewelry Designer & Gemologist for renowned local jeweler, Mark Knipe Goldsmiths in Concord, New Hampshire before establishing Gems First in 2017 also in Concord New Hampshire. Continuing education is very important to Sarah as the jewelry industry is ever changing. She can be found studying new and upcoming trends, treatments and struggles in the industry as a whole. Sarah currently resides in rural New Hampshire with her muse, Steven Lemieux and daughter who both provide inspiration for her designs and ambition. Steven Lemieux President & Co- Owner of Gems First, came from a family of hard working tradesmen. He started his career as the owner of a professional dry wall company in the northern part of New Hampshire. In 2012, Steven set off to Florida to follow his passion of aviation and become a Pilot. He returned to New Hampshire in 2014 and is now currently a corporate pilot and part time flight instructor. When Steven is not flying, he can be found in the deep woods of Northern Canada but not much can draw him away from the shop and helping Sarah make beautiful jewelry.