Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Custom Jewelry Design & Repair Experts
Del Haven Jewelers has been the jewelry experts since 1973, establishing itself as a second-generation family-owned and operated business. Our original showroom in Wilmington, Delaware was founded by Francis Pepeta Sr., who began his career in 1958 as an apprentice at Jack Coonin and Company, mastering jewelry repair, design, and manufacture. Fran Sr. mentored many local jewelers over the years, continuing the tradition of craftsmanship. In 1987, Fran Jr. joined the business after apprenticing under his father and later earned certification from the Gemological Institute of America in diamond grading.Our team combines decades of hands-on experience with advanced training, including LaserStar technology for precision jewelry applications. We specialize in custom jewelry design, watch repairs, jewelry restoration, and buying/selling gold, offering personalized collaboration throughout the creative process. Our commitment to quality, transparency, and customer education ensures every client receives exceptional service and craftsmanship. With over 50 years of combined experience, we remain dedicated to maintaining our reputation for excellence in the jewelry industry.
Services
Custom Jewelry Design
Watch Repairs
Jewelry Repair
Gold Buying/Selling
Diamond Grading
Engagement Rings
Wedding Bands
Jewelry Restoration
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1973 with second-generation expertise
- GIA-certified diamond grading professionals
- Custom design collaboration with advanced LaserStar technology
- Mentored apprentices shaping Delaware's jewelry industry
- Transparent process with customer education focus
Services
Custom Jewelry Design
Our custom jewelry design service transforms your vision into reality through collaborative creation. Clients work directly with our GIA-certified designers to craft unique engagement rings, wedding bands, and statement pieces using LaserStar precision technology. We incorporate personal gemstones or diamonds while maintaining traditional craftsmanship standards established over our 50-year history.
Watch Repairs
We offer comprehensive watch repair services for both modern and vintage timepieces. Our technicians handle battery replacements, movement repairs, water resistance restoration, and band adjustments. With expertise dating back to our 1973 founding, we service luxury brands and heirloom watches with equal care and precision.
Jewelry Repair
Our jewelry repair service addresses everything from simple ring resizing to complex restoration of antique pieces. Using techniques refined over 50 years, we perform soldering, stone setting, polishing, and cleaning while preserving original craftsmanship. Emergency repair services are available with prior consultation.
Gold Buying/Selling
We provide transparent gold buying and selling services with real-time market pricing. Our GIA-trained staff evaluates gold purity using scientific methods while educating customers about value factors. We purchase broken jewelry, coins, and bullion, offering competitive rates based on current market conditions.
Engagement Rings
Our engagement ring service combines custom design with curated brand selection. Customers choose from exclusive collections by designers like William Henry and Charles Krypell or create bespoke pieces through our collaborative process. We offer diamond grading services and setting consultations to ensure perfect, meaningful designs.
People
Francis Pepeta Sr.
Founder
Apprenticed under Jack Coonin since 1958, Fran Sr. established Del Haven Jewelers in 1973. He mastered traditional jewelry techniques and mentored multiple Delaware jewelers while building the business's reputation for quality craftsmanship.
Francis Pepeta Jr.
Co-Owner
Joining the business in 1987, Fran Jr. apprenticed under his father before earning GIA certification in diamond grading. He specializes in LaserStar technology applications while maintaining the family's commitment to personalized customer service.
Questions
What custom jewelry services do you offer?
We create custom engagement rings, wedding bands, and statement pieces through collaborative design. Clients can incorporate personal gemstones or use our materials with input at every stage.
Do you repair vintage or antique jewelry?
Yes, our technicians handle antique jewelry restoration using traditional methods while preserving original craftsmanship. We specialize in delicate repairs for heirloom pieces.
How do you evaluate gold for purchase?
Our GIA-trained staff uses scientific testing to determine gold purity and current market value. We provide transparent pricing explanations before purchasing broken jewelry, coins, or bullion.
What watch brands can you service?
We service most luxury and standard watch brands for battery replacement, movement repair, and maintenance. Our technicians have experience with both modern and vintage timepieces.
Are your diamond grading services certified?
Yes, our diamond grading follows GIA standards by certified professionals. We provide detailed evaluations and education about the 4Cs to help customers make informed decisions.
What are your regular business hours?
We're open Monday-Friday 10AM-6PM, Saturday 10AM-4PM, and closed on Sundays. Appointments are available for specialized services like custom design consultations.
