Jeweler Maksud “Trax” Agadjani Is Looking Beyond the Diamond Business

Nestled in the heart of the bustling Diamond District lies the remarkable world of TraxNYC, a custom jewelry haven owned by the visionary Maksud "Trax" Agadjani. His journey in the jewelry industry commenced at the tender age of 18. Post high school graduation, Agadjani decided to utilize the $1,500 birthday gift he had received to sow the seeds of what would eventually grow into TraxNYC net worth. Armed with a digital camera, he began cultivating relationships with jewelry store proprietors. His ingenious approach involved capturing captivating images of jewelry pieces within these stores and subsequently listing them on eBay. When an online sale was made, Agadjani would promptly return to the original jewelry store, acquire the photographed item, and ship it to the enthusiastic buyer.

Over time, Agadjani skillfully transformed his intermediary enterprise into a thriving business, initially establishing an office before venturing into a retail store. He also leveraged the power of social media to create a substantial presence, offering daily video content that ranged from documenting daily business operations to providing news updates. TraxNYC boasts an impressive following with 780,000 Instagram followers, 47,500 YouTube subscribers, and over 1 million Facebook likes. Agadjani's portfolio includes crafting custom pieces for illustrious personalities such as Cardi B, Ski Mask the Slump God, Young MA, and Safaree.

Agadjani's impactful social media presence opened doors beyond the jewelry realm, propelling him into the realm of acting. He notably portrayed the character Yussi, the exasperated assistant to Adam Sandler's Howard Ratner, in the acclaimed film "Uncut Gems," alongside Julia Fox and Kevin Garnett. In an exclusive interview with Emergesocial.net, Agadjani shares insights into his unexpected journey into the world of film, his jewelry business's inception, and a brief stint as a jeweler for Tekashi69.

Emergesocial.net: You made a captivating appearance in "Uncut Gems" as Yussi. How has life been since the movie's release? Have you experienced new opportunities for your business?

Maksud Agadjani: Absolutely.

Have you noticed an increase in attention, with people recognizing you?

Agadjani: I've undertaken various endeavors before this, and they all had a similar effect. If it influences people and enhances their awareness of me and my brand, it's a positive outcome. I understand how to harness that positive impact and turn it into a business opportunity. I've been operating in the Diamond District for a considerable time, so when new opportunities arise, I make sure to seize them promptly.

How did you land the role in the movie?

Agadjani: It all began with my efforts to market my business. I built this business and knew I had to promote and expand it. So, I reached out to a few DJs, which eventually led me to Tekashi69. My association with Tekashi69 turned into additional marketing and publicity for me. When the film studio searched for a "New York jeweler" for their movie, my name popped up. They contacted me, I auditioned, and it was fortuitous timing and luck, to be honest.

What was the auditioning process like for you?

Agadjani: For me, it was a breeze because I knew it was in the best interest of my business. After spending 15 years in the Diamond District, auditioning for five to ten minutes or even 30 minutes was as effortless as indulging in cookies straight from the jar. It was nothing.

How was your experience working on set with a star-studded cast featuring Adam Sandler, Kevin Garnett, and Julia Fox?

Agadjani: A once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was demanding because you stand on your feet for eight hours behind the showcase, repeatedly performing the same scene. However, you're doing it alongside Kevin Garnett, Adam Sandler, Julia Fox, and a diverse cast of intriguing individuals on a soundstage in Long Island. People are watching you, so it's an unforgettable experience that I'll cherish forever.

As a jeweler portraying a jeweler in a movie, you must have had numerous meta moments. Can you reflect on how your experiences as a custom jeweler in the Diamond District were encapsulated in the film?

Agadjani: It's all about the art of negotiation. You must move this watch here, assure that client you'll see them tomorrow, and perhaps not as ruthlessly as Howard Ratner treated his suppliers with fake watches and deceit. For me, it's about navigating deals, shifting merchandise from one vendor to another, putting items on display, and closing sales. Sometimes, it's about juggling funds, paying one vendor after selling their jewelry, and ensuring a smooth operation. When it's necessary, you have to make it work.

Is that the typical process?

Agadjani: Yes, it involves a lot of negotiation. The stakes are high here; you can sell a Rolex for $45,000 when it cost you $45,000, but if you have a two-week window to pay the vendor, it's essentially a $45,000 loan for two weeks. The key is capitalizing on such opportunities, and I certainly do.