About Olmaz Jewelers

Fine Jewelry in Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Our Story

The vision for Olmaz Jewelers was born in Lansing, Michigan, where longtime friends Elie Abou-Rjeileh and Jack Daoud first began discussing their shared dream of entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the fine jewelry industry, both sought not only to establish a business of their own but also to relocate their families and build something lasting together. After an extensive search for the ideal location, they were drawn to North Carolina’s Triangle region—and Chapel Hill in particular—captivated by its beauty, diversity, and vibrant community. Confident it was the right fit for their vision of an independent, family-owned jewelry store, they chose to plant roots there.

Today, Olmaz Jewelers proudly calls Chapel Hill home.

Conveniently situated in the Eastgate Shopping Center, just minutes from I-40, the store serves clients from across Chapel Hill, Durham, and Raleigh with accessibility and ease.

Jack Daoud & Elie Abou-Rjeileh, Owners

Our Team

Elie Abou-Rjeileh

Owner

Elie Abou-Rjeileh was raised in the scenic mountains of Lebanon and relocated to the United States at the age of seventeen to pursue his undergraduate studies at Michigan State University. During his time at MSU, he gained firsthand experience in the jewelry industry while working at a family-owned store in Lansing, Michigan—an opportunity that ignited a lasting passion for fine jewelry. With more than 20 years of experience in jewelry store management and a Graduate Diamond Certification from the Gemological Institute of America, Elie leveraged his expertise and entrepreneurial drive to establish Olmaz Jewelers of Chapel Hill in North Carolina, in partnership with best friend and business associate Jack Daoud.

Jack Daoud

Owner

Jack Daoud is a co-owner of Olmaz Jewelers and has enjoyed a twenty-year career in the luxury jewelry business that started in Lansing, Michigan. After graduating from Michigan State University, Jack started his career at a family-owned jewelry store. He soon discovered his interest in fine jewelry and Swiss timepieces and found a passion for building relationships and trust with his clients. His time at several family-owned and operated jewelry stores consisted of both management and sales, which lead to a solid knowledge and understanding of designer jewelry brands. In his free time, Jack loves spending time with his family, traveling, and is a big sports fan.

Ian Jachym

Bench Jeweler

A Raleigh, North Carolina native, Ian brings over a decade of experience as a skilled bench jeweler. He refined his craftsmanship at the renowned New Approach School for Jewelers in Tennessee, where he also cultivated a passion for travel and the outdoors. In the workshop, Ian combines precision and innovation, utilizing advanced tools such as a Leica microscope and Sisma laser welder to deliver exceptional results. Outside of work, he enjoys both watching and playing soccer. In addition to his technical expertise, Ian is recognized for his unwavering dedication to Olmaz Jewelers and his consistent support of colleagues, reflecting both professionalism and a strong team spirit.

Rebecca Carson Schner

Jewelry Consultant

With over 35 years of experience in the jewelry industry, Rebecca brings a distinctive blend of expertise to Olmaz as a jeweler, designer, business owner, and importer. Her comprehensive knowledge and hands-on background allow her to serve as an invaluable liaison between the showroom and the workshop, ensuring a seamless experience for clients. Driven by a passion for gemstones and pearls, Rebecca has earned certifications in both from the Gemological Institute of America, further enhancing her ability to curate and create exceptional pieces. Outside of the studio, Rebecca enjoys traveling with her partner to discover live music, savoring food and wine from around the world, and relaxing at home with her three beloved dogs.

Jonnely Vides

Jewelry Consultant

Jonnely developed a passion for jewelry at a young age, inspired by watching her mother work in the fine jewelry plazas of Los Angeles. Now based in North Carolina, she is proud to call Chapel Hill home and is a proud alumna of the University of North Carolina. With over a decade of experience in the jewelry industry, Jonnely brings both expertise and a personal touch to every client interaction. In her free time, she enjoys designing her own fashion pieces and frequently participates in local arts markets and festivals. What she loves most about her work is helping people find the perfect piece to celebrate life’s special moments y siempre le da gusto ayudar a los clientes que hablan español.  

Leah Hutto

Jewelry Consultant

Leah is originally from England and brings a diverse background in the arts and jewelry industries. She has worked in art galleries in Asheville North Carolina, and has gained valuable experience in the jewelry world both locally and on the West Coast. Passionate about loose gemstones and custom design, Leah enjoys creating unique, meaningful pieces for clients. Outside of her work at Olmaz, she can often be found cooking, watching classic films, or exploring the natural beauty of Western North Carolina and the Appalachian Mountains.