We had the good fortune of connecting with Rosa Diaz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rosa, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing about the jewelry industry that people are probably unaware of is that this industry is very closed off. Many people in this industry have been in the jewelry industry for generations. It is typical that grandparents, parents and children are involved in the family business.

Additionally, it is very much about the relationships and who you know to be able to work with certain suppliers and manufacturers. Lastly, this is an industry that has been heavily dominated by men. These factors create an environment that makes it difficult to become an established business in this industry.

In the first few months of starting Miel Oro, I was looking for suppliers and manufacturers to work with. I had to go door to door to find people that would work with me. Often times the requirements included having a reference of another supplier you work with, however, that wasn’t possible since I was a brand new business. Alternatively, you had to spend a few thousand dollars on your first purchase in order to prove you’re trustworthy.

In the end, I pushed my way through and found a few suppliers and manufacturers that were open to taking me on. Luckily it all worked out very well for me, I love the people I work with and we’ve created a great relationship.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Miel Oro is a Latina owned fine jewelry company. We provide jewelry to tell your story. and celebrate your identity and style.

My love for jewelry started at a very early age. Like many Latinas, I had my first pair of hoops at 5 and a matching ID bracelet made of 14k gold. You will always find me wearing hoops, they’re an everyday staple. Hoops are like a right of passage for Latinas, one that celebrate your identity and gives you the confidence to be present. My goal with Miel Oro is to celebrate your story and give you the confidence every step of the way. We only use quality materials such as 14k solid gold and lab-grown diamonds.

Getting to where I’m at today has been an incredibly challenging road. Being a first time entrepreneur, there is so much unknown and you’re often times alone in these decision making situations. I don’t think people truly understand how lonely an entrepreneur role can be, particularly if you’re a solopreneur like myself. All that being said, I have never felt more connected and passionate about what I do. I literally wake up early everyday because I’m so excited to get to work!

There are two major lessons I’ve learned along the way. One is to learn how to be resourceful and figure it out. I’m constantly problem solving, and you have to find answers on your own and be incredibly resourceful. Second, everything is temporary. For the good days and the bad days, everything passes and is temporary.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Since we are a DTLA based business, I’ll focus on some of my favorite places that are local.

Restaurants: Sonoratown, Damian, Bestia, Dama, Rossonblu. Walk around the Grand Central Market and eat your way through.

Bar: Make a stop at 71 Above for the view followed by Seven and Grand.

Coffee: Il Caffe is by far my favorite coffee stop!

Activities: Walk through the Flower Mart, ride the Angel’s Flight, walk around and check out the street art. Spend the afternoon at the Broad Museum and Walt Disney Concert Hall. Make sure to also check out the Last Bookstore.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Women’s Entrepreneurship Program, Cornell & BofA. This was an outstanding program I attended virtually that provided many resources, tools and education. Through this program I was able to meet with other likeminded women. Additionally, I was able to connect with Deborah Streeter, faculty member, she has been an incredible person to provide honest and strategic feedback. I feel immensely thankful to Deborah and the Women’s Entrepreneurship program.

Website: www.mieloro.com

Instagram: @mielorola

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosalinda-diaz/

Facebook: @mielorola

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoyn4Z6kDDu3LiZ9uhPX5PA

Other: Tiktok: @mielorola

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.