Forbes has published an annual ranking of the richest self-made women in the United States.

On the 42nd position is Carolyn Rafaelian with a fortune of 520 million dollars. She earned her fortune with her own brand of jewelry Alex and Ani which she named in honor of her two daughters. It was founded in 2004.

Carolyn is a granddaughter of Armenian migrants. Her father designed badges in the form of the American flag and jewelry at a factory in Providence (Rhode Island), where Carolyn is now producing her own jewelry. She has also invested in real estate and various other business projects.

The 57th position was taken by Kim Kardashian, the owner of a fortune of 370 million dollars. Kardashian is an example of how popularity on TV and Internet can be converted into a successful business. KKW Beauty, a cosmetic brand founded two years ago, brings her most of her income. In two years, she plans to follow her father’s example and become a lawyer.

The first place in the ranking was taken by Diana Hendricks. She is a co-founder and chairperson of ABC Supply, a company producing roofing materials, and owns a fortune of $7 billion. She founded this business with her late husband.

Hendricks is followed by Meg Whitman with a fortune of 3.7 billion dollars. Whitman was the executive director of eBay from 1998 to 2008. On the third place is Marian Ilitch who in 1959 together with her husband founded Little Caesars Pizza, now the third largest pizzeria chain in the United States.

forbes.com