Shine Bright Like a Diamond - Inside UNC Charlotte

Shine Bright

Like a Diamond

Alumni-owned Ballantyne Jewelers is celebrating moments — one sparkle at a time.

Story by Suzanne Leger

Photos by Ryan Honeyman and Ballantyne Jewelers

There’s an undeniable charm in stepping into Ballantyne Jewelers. For nearly 50 years, this family-owned business has been a fixture in Charlotte, offering exquisite jewelry and a shopping experience that transcends the ordinary. What makes it even more remarkable is that it’s owned and operated by two UNC Charlotte alumni, who have transformed their family legacy into a premier destination for fine jewelry.

Whether you’re searching for an engagement ring, a stunning necklace or a special piece to treat yourself, Ballantyne Jewelers delivers unmatched expertise and a welcoming atmosphere that’s sure to make your visit memorable.

Brothers Simon ’15, left, and Yuhan Tekin ’12 proudly own and operate Ballantyne Jewelers.

From Istanbul to Charlotte:

A Sparkling Legacy

Man in a navy blue suit standing behind a jewelry display case.

Yuhan Tekin '12 (above) carries on the family's legacy

of exquisite jewelry-making.

“When people hear the name Ballantyne Jewelers, they instantly know what it represents.”

Ballantyne Jewelers’ story began decades ago in Istanbul, Turkey, where the Tekin family honed their craft creating jewelry for other stores. After a brief stop in California, they found their forever home in Charlotte — a city that perfectly matched their vision for both business and family. Today, Ballantyne Jewelers is led by two proud UNC Charlotte alumni: Yuhan Tekin ’12 and Simon Tekin ’15, along with their family. Together, they’ve built the premier destination for fine jewelry.

“We’ve literally grown with our area, with our community, with Charlotte,” said Yuhan Tekin. “When people hear the name Ballantyne Jewelers, they instantly know what it represents.”

But this family business is more than just a place to shop for jewelry. It’s a hub of community impact.

“When you support a family business, about 75% of the tax dollars stay in the community,” he explained. That local commitment drives everything they do, from supporting ALS and cancer research to partnering with NASCAR driver Kyle Busch and wife Samantha for Bundle of Joy, providing monetary grants for in-need couples struggling with infertility.

The Tekin family isn’t just crafting jewelry — they’re helping make Charlotte shine, one sparkle at a time.

Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Engagement Ring

Shopping for an engagement ring doesn’t have to be overwhelming — at Ballantyne Jewelers, it’s a joyful journey. With one of the largest collections of engagement rings and loose diamonds in the area, they simplify the process to help you find or create a ring as unique as your love story.

Design the Ring:

Once you’ve nailed the style, it’s time to select the diamond (or gemstone) and the perfect setting. This is where the magic truly happens, bringing your vision to life.

Define the Style:

Not sure where to start? The team helps you explore options—classic, vintage, modern or entirely custom. And if you’re uncertain about your partner’s preferences, they’ll guide you every step of the way (though a little inside info never hurts!).

Match Your Budget:

Whether your budget is $2,000 or $200,000, the team ensures you get the ring you want without overspending.

“We’re not just in the jewelry business.

We’re in the relationship business.”

Where Every Moment Sparkles

Here, it’s never just about the jewelry. It’s about the people behind it.

“If you come in here, buy an engagement ring, and we never see you again, then we didn’t do our job,” said Yuhan. “We’re not just in the jewelry business. We’re in the relationship business.”

This people-centered approach ensures that clients return not only for engagement rings but also for wedding bands, anniversary gifts, and every milestone worth celebrating. By focusing on trust, loyalty and creating a welcoming atmosphere, Ballantyne Jewelers has become more than a jeweler. It’s a part of life’s most meaningful moments.

Two people linking their pinky fingers, one wearing a sparkling ring.

Two people holding champagne flutes in a celebratory toast.

Close-up of a person's hand with a diamond ring resting on the back of someone wearing a green shirt, set against a blurred outdoor background.

Close-up of hands showing an engagement ring with a large oval diamond.

Close-up of a woman’s hand with an engagement ring as a couple kisses in the background.

Woman hugging a man, showing hands with a diamond ring on his shoulder.

A Special Kind of Sparkle

Gold heart-shaped pendant with green and clear stones on a gold chain, with the text

Ballantyne Jewelers' For The Love of Charlotte

necklace, designed for UNC Charlotte.

Ballantyne Jewelers is renowned for creating unforgettable, one-of-a-kind pieces, and their For the Love of Charlotte heart necklace is a shining example.

Designed specifically for UNC Charlotte’s For the Love of Charlotte campaign, this custom piece celebrates the university’s spirit and commitment to the city while adding a timeless elegance to any jewelry collection. It’s more than a necklace — it’s a symbol of pride and connection, crafted to honor the love and impact of UNC Charlotte.

The necklace features a heart-shaped design in 14k gold, accented with 0.15 carats of diamonds and 0.14 carats of emeralds in signature Niner green. Its adjustable chain allows you to wear it at either 16” or 18”, making it as versatile as it is stunning.

Adding to its charm, Amy Cortes ’17 from the hit reality show "Love Is Blind" recently modeled this standout piece. Known for being the only Charlotte cast member to say “I do,” Cortes looks radiant wearing the necklace. If it’s good enough for her big moments, it’s perfect for celebrating yours.

Whether you’re a proud Niner or simply drawn to its unique beauty, the For the Love of Charlotte necklace is a piece you’ll treasure forever. To purchase the necklace, visit or contact the Ballantyne Jewelers.

Woman with long dark hair wearing a green top and jewelry, smiling indoors.

Amy Cortes '17 models the For the Love of Charlotte necklace.

Woman smiling inside a jewelry store with

The Future Looks Bright

Ballantyne Jewelers continues to grow, with no plans of slowing down. Whether you’re celebrating a major milestone or simply indulging in something special, this is the place to make every moment shine.

Next time you’re in Charlotte, step inside and explore their stunning collection. Try on the For the Love of Charlotte necklace, admire the craftsmanship, and feel the pride that comes with supporting a local, family-owned business. You might just walk away with a new favorite piece — and a lasting connection to the people who make it all possible.