Let OWL Be Your Bank. Providing Capital to the Diamond and Jewelry Trade since 2011.
About Us
After four decades in the jewelry industry, Kalman Klein and Kathy Hillelson began Owl in 2011 to meet the needs of jewelers, diamond dealers and manufacturers looking for an alternative source for fast capital unlike traditional lending.
We are proudly exclusive. We started our business servicing only members of the diamond and jewelry industry. In the wake of the financial crisis, many diamond companies became, and remain, repeat customers, using their “stale” inventory to take advantage of new business opportunities.
Via word of mouth, other individuals and business owners came to know us. Most of our clients today employ our services to generate new business.
Because we are engaged in the wholesale diamond trade, we also provide services ordinary lenders do not. We know the diamond market intimately and can deliver the maximum capital-to-asset value ratios.
Whether you’re an individual with a funding challenge, or a business owner in need of working capital, we can structure an asset-backed capital agreement to suit all your short or long-term liquidity needs.
Owl offers a fast transaction, flexible terms, complete confidentiality and an option for you to repurchase your assets. We welcome your inquiries and look forward to becoming your financial partner.
- Kathy Hillelson
- Kalman Klein
Kathy Hillelson, CEO and Partner, has been instrumental in the growth and success of Owl Financial Group.
Kathy Hillelson literally grew up in the diamond industry. Kathy is a second-generation diamantaire who skillfully blends her expertise in diamonds with a keen understanding and background in finance. She earned her Diamond Gemologist Diploma from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), which laid the foundation for her successful career.
In addition to her role at OWL Financial Group, Kathy continues to play a pivotal role in her family's business, Blue River Gems Inc., where she manages the global buying and selling of fine diamonds and jewelry. Her dual expertise in both finance and gemstones allows her to provide valuable insights and leadership in these intertwined sectors.
Under Kathy’s leadership, OWL Financial Group has achieved significant growth, expanding its reach into international markets and delivering asset-based financial solutions tailored to the needs of the diamond trade. Her visionary approach has been instrumental in the company's success and its ability to meet the evolving demands of the industry.
Kathy is an active member of several prominent industry organizations, including the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA), the World Diamond Council (WDC), and the Jeweler’s Vigilance Committee (JVC), where she contributes to advancing industry standards and practices.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Kathy is an avid traveler who enjoys discovering new cultures and cuisines. She lives in New Jersey with her family and is deeply committed to supporting charitable causes, particularly those that benefit children.
Kalman Klein, President and Managing Member, has been manufacturing and working with fine diamonds on a global scale for nearly four decades.
Kalman began his career in 1972 as a diamond cutter, buying and selling rough diamonds in Russia. In 1976 he moved to New York City and continued his work with diamonds by repairing and improving stones for upgrades. By 1977 he owned and operated a 10-person diamond factory that cut and distributed diamonds internationally.
The present Blue River Gems, Inc. was founded in 1978. As president of that company for over 30 years, Kalman continues his role as a seasoned expert in buying and selling fine diamonds across the globe.
In 1991 Kalman became the president of Baraka of North America, a luxury men's Italian jewelry company. Kalman was the sole distributor of the brand across the United States, Canada, Russia, South America, and the Caribbean. Kalman currently resides in Livingston, NJ with his wife. He enjoys spending time with his family, including his two granddaughters and grandson, and playing tennis and golf.