Jewelry maker plans expansion in southern Ind.

Jewelry maker plans to expand operations in southern Indiana, adding 80 jobs in New Albany

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (AP) -- A jewelry maker says it expects to create 80 jobs by the end of 2013 by expanding its operations in southern Indiana.

Ronaldo Designer Jewelry Inc., announced the plans for its operation in New Albany during a news conference Thursday. Ronaldo is a family-owned producer and distributor of handcrafted wire jewelry.

The Indiana Economic Development Corp. says Ronaldo now employs more than 30 people in Laconia and New Albany.

The company has invested nearly $520,000 to purchase and equip its 4,400-square-foot facility in New Albany, across the Ohio River from Louisville, Ky. The plant that opened in January houses 90 percent of Ronaldo's production.

The state is providing Ronaldo more than $250,000 in incentives. New Albany officials will consider additional incentives.