Business Details
33 Years
experience
Custom Fine Jewelry & Bespoke Design in Deep River, CT
Deep River Jewelry has been a trusted destination for fine jewelry and expert craftsmanship in Connecticut since 1993. Founded by Russell and Lisa Cunningham, the business transitioned in 2022 to Master Goldsmith & Lapidary Artist Nolan Sponsler, who continues its legacy while introducing innovative design approaches. Our full-service workshop specializes in bespoke fine jewelry, including engagement rings, heirloom designs, and curated collections, all crafted with a blend of traditional goldsmith techniques and modern artistry. Nolan's decade-plus expertise in gem cutting, jewelry design, and goldsmithing ensures each piece reflects both technical precision and unique storytelling.Clients benefit from personalized service, with Stefanie Sponsler overseeing operations to guarantee a seamless experience. Our educational programs in jewelry design and gemstone cutting provide hands-on learning opportunities, while our estate jewelry collection offers rare, collectible pieces. Featured in publications like Tatler Magazine and AGTA Spectrum Awards, we maintain a reputation for excellence through collaborations with industry leaders and prestigious institutions.
Services
Custom Jewelry Design
Estate Jewelry
Gemstone Sourcing
Jewelry Education
Bespoke Engagement Rings
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of combined experience in goldsmithing and lapidary arts
- Our master craftsman personally handles all three key jewelry-making disciplines
- We provide personalized design consultations with proven industry experts
- Our work has been featured in prestigious publications like Tatler Magazine
- We maintain partnerships with renowned gemological institutions
What people say
Impeccable work
Amazing hidden gem
Second to none craftsmanship
Transformative learning experience
Award-winning designs
Services
Custom Jewelry Design
Our custom jewelry design service creates one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect personal stories and special moments. Clients collaborate directly with master goldsmith Nolan Sponsler through a four-step process: vision consultation, design development, fabrication, and final presentation. Each creation combines traditional techniques with modern innovation, using ethically sourced materials to ensure lasting quality and emotional significance.
Estate Jewelry
Our curated estate jewelry collection features rare, collectible pieces with historical significance and exceptional craftsmanship. Clients can explore pre-owned fine jewelry or work with our experts to source specific vintage items. Each piece undergoes rigorous evaluation to ensure authenticity, quality, and investment value while maintaining its original character and provenance.
Gemstone Sourcing
We specialize in sourcing high-quality gemstones for custom jewelry projects, including diamonds, sapphires, tourmalines, and unique collector stones. Our network provides access to ethically mined materials while our lapidary expertise ensures optimal cutting and setting. Clients receive guidance on stone characteristics, value factors, and design integration for maximum brilliance and durability.
Jewelry Education
Our precision gemstone cutting classes offer hands-on training in faceting, fantasy cutting, and CAD design for all skill levels. Led by master lapidary artist Nolan Sponsler, courses combine technical instruction with creative exploration. Students gain practical experience using professional equipment while learning advanced techniques that have produced multiple AGTA Spectrum Award winners.
People
Nolan Sponsler
Master Goldsmith & Lapidary Artist
Former D1 baseball player turned award-winning jewelry designer, Nolan Sponsler brings over a decade of expertise in goldsmithing, gem cutting, and jewelry design. Mentored by industry leaders and featured in Tatler Magazine, he now leads Deep River Jewelry's creative direction while teaching advanced lapidary techniques.
Questions
What services does Deep River Jewelry offer?
We specialize in custom fine jewelry design, estate jewelry curation, gemstone sourcing, and lapidary education programs.
Do you work on existing jewelry pieces?
We currently only accept repair projects for jewelry originally purchased from Deep River Jewelry.
What jewelry education programs are available?
We offer 3-day immersive gemstone cutting classes at three skill levels, including fantasy cutting and CAD design instruction.
How long do custom jewelry projects take?
Custom projects require minimum 8 weeks, with potential rush fees for expedited timelines.
