Mark Jacobson first settled in the Atlanta area in 1976, starting an advertising agency whose clients included a local jewelry store. He soon became the store’s in-house marketing head, eventually rising to become its sales manager.  After parting ways with the jewelry store, Jacobson developed the concept for a fine jewelry business of his own. In 1982, he and his brother, Wayne, opened the doors to Cumberland Diamond Exchange.  Grand Opening Article  The two brothers worked side-by-side for two years, until their business growth demanded adding staff into the mix. Finding someone with the knowledge they needed, who also valued people and relationships, was no easy task… until they met Rhonda Akins. Rhonda had the business knowledge of a seasoned veteran, ample HR experience, and the same desire to connect with people. In the fall of 1984, she joined the CDE team in what would become one of the most foundational decisions for the store.