Southern Jewelry News

When Steve Copening of West Palm Beach and Tom Sota of Pompano Beach established their custom jewelry house, Premier Resources, they dreamed of a company that would allow them to combine their years of jewelry experience with a wish to support worthy causes. Today, Premier Resources has launched a new line of rings honoring paratroopers.  A portion of the proceeds will be contributed to the 82nd Airborne Association, to benefit wounded soldiers.

Copening, a decorated veteran of the 82nd Airborne Division, and Sota, a veteran of the Navy, developed this special project as a means to “give back” to the U.S. military. Both men attribute their success in business to opportunities created by the military’s support for their education.

In developing their first in a series of jewelry that recognizes the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces, they began with rings portraying the U.S. Army Parachute badge.  “We hear the sad reports every day of men and women who are injured in Iraq and Afghanistan, so Tom and I knew right away what our first project ought to be.  As a paratrooper during my years in the Army, I was very fortunate not to be wounded.  So many aren’t as lucky as I was.  I want to ‘pay it forward’ by doing something that can benefit those who come home injured,” says Copening.

The series of rings are embellished with a likeness of the U.S. Army Parachute badge.  Awarding three versions of the parachute badge, for the Basic Parachutist, the Senior Parachutist, and the Master Parachutist are a time-honored tradition in the Army, originating in World War II.  Stars representing participation in combat jumps can also be affixed to the badge and are available on the series of rings.

“We think these beautiful rings are a tremendous way for people to demonstrate their pride in serving our country, and at the same time, offer some support for wounded warriors through the 82nd Airborne Division Association,” comments Copening.

The 82nd Airborne Association, a not-for profit organization, sponsors social and recreational opportunities for wounded warriors and their families. “Our 97 veteran chapters and 7 active military chapters located at Fort Bragg are an ideal way for us to reach out to these soldiers to offer them support as they cope with difficult circumstances,” comments Santiago Tijerina, Jr., Executive Director of the Association.  “We are grateful to Steve and Tom and Premier Resources for their commitment to this important work.”

The 82nd Airborne Association is comprised of people who have served in the 82nd Airborne Division; or are currently serving on active duty on jump status; or have ever served in any of the uniformed services on either jump or glider status and was honorably discharged, including troopers from Special Forces, Airborne Rangers, Marine Corps Recon, Navy SEALS, and Air Force Special Tactics personnel.

Premier Resources is a custom jewelry manufacturer, specializing in bridal jewelry and custom-made, unique pieces. Both its principals, Steve Copening and Tom Sota, hold professional certifications with the Gemological Institute of America.  Premier Resources is also a member in good standing with the Jewelers Board of Trade.  For more information, contact Steve Copening at 954-977-7067 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .