Rustin Yasavolian shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Rustin, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I think a lot of people are struggling with feeling/finding self worth and constant comparison. We live in a society where we are constantly being bombarded by superficial lives on social media. We compare ourselves to these shiny profiles when in reality we don’t know the truth of whats going on behind the scenes. Young men feel the pressure to have to make a bunch of money. Young women feel the pressure of having to look a certain way. We are constantly comparing ourselves to others without knowing the backstory.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Rustin, an Atlanta native and proud Georgia State alum. I currently run Masina Diamonds, a family-owned jewelry store that has specialized in custom fine jewelry, engagement rings, and luxury watches since 1984.
A few things about our story stand out. First, we’ve been in the same location for the past 40 years a rare achievement for any family business.
Another defining feature is our emphasis on custom-designed pieces. There’s nothing like watching our consultants and clients collaborate to create truly one-of-a-kind jewelry. Whether it’s crafting a unique engagement ring or reimagining a family heirloom, the process is inspiring. Clients often start out a bit shy, but once the brainstorming begins, they surprise themselves with just how creative they can be. Anyone can design jewelry, it simply takes the right guidance.
In daily life, it’s easy to fall into routine and forget to express creativity. What’s remarkable about this work is that it allows us to create something new every single day transforming an idea into a tangible piece you can hold, see, and appreciate.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I’m 2nd generation Iranian-American. My parents migrated here not too long after the Iranian revolution. Growing up I would spend my summer vacations in Iran. At the time all I wanted to do is stay here to hang out with my friends, but looking back now, I wouldn’t have traded those summers for the world.
Growing up my mother always emphasized the importance of charity and giving back to the less fortunate. But one thing I didn’t realize is the emotional impact of donating to an organization vs actually being the one to hand out the donations. One summer in Iran, my mother took me to hand out food to the less fortunate. I couldn’t have been older than 7. We went jumped in the back of my uncle truck and drove down to a few villages south of the city. At first I was too shy to get out of the car. But, before we left my mother forced me to get out and hand out some food. I grabbed a package and slowly walked over to a hand to a father who was patiently waiting and smiling. What shook me is the kids that were standing behind him we no older than me or my sister. At that point I realized the importance of helping others. It opened my eyes to the reality of how many people live around the world. It’s a reality many people don’t get a chance to experience and for that I am forever grateful.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Live your youth, and learn from your mistakes. I think your 20’s are for making mistakes but more importantly learning from those mistakes. To me, life is about growth and there is no growth without mistakes and failures. When you’re young, you have very little responsibilities and a lot of time. Do the odd jobs, try new business ventures, chase passions, date different types of people, travel, be by yourself, and try new hobbies. Some of these things might be looked at as “mistakes” or “failures” but the lessons learned will carry through your lifetime.
These things will help you become a well rounded person. It makes you someone that can connect with anyone and someone who has experienced many different lives in one lifetime.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
Karma. I 100% believe that if you are good to the universe, the universe will be good to you. I live by this ideology and I feel as if I have been blessed with countless things.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I inherently give my best at everything I try to do. I’m not sure if its a healthy but I am extremely competitive mostly with myself. I like to see how hard I can push myself and how far I can get. If I truly want to do something I will try and do it to the best of my ability. My biggest pet peeve is wasting my time. Time is the only thing we can not make more of or get back. If I do something half heartedly I feel as if I am doing just that, wasting my time. I’ve amazed myself a few times doing things I didn’t think I was capable of, so I try push the people to do the same. I love to see the people around me accomplish things they didn’t think they could do.
I am not saying that giving your best will always give you the exact result you are looking for but you will definitely be farther and more accomplished than when you started. When you realize this, it silences the negative self talk.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://masinadiamonds.com/
- Instagram: @masinadiamonds.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/masina-diamonds
