Business Details
22 Years
experience
Custom Jewelry Design & Repair Experts in Durham, NC
Established in 2004, John David Jewelers brings decades of combined expertise to the heart of Durham, North Carolina. Our journey began in 1972 with a family-run tent shop on Loon Mountain, evolving through years of dedication to craftsmanship and customer trust. As a team of certified gemologists, award-winning designers, and skilled artisans, we specialize in custom jewelry creation, antique restoration, and precision repairs using state-of-the-art techniques.Our Graduate Gemologists from the Gemological Institute of America and former NAJA members ensure every client receives expert guidance in selecting or designing timeless pieces. With a legacy rooted in personalized service, we continue to uphold the highest standards of quality, transparency, and artistry in every interaction. From free jewelry inspections to bespoke commissions, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering.
Services
Custom jewelry design
Jewelry repair
Gemstone cutting
Antique restoration
Diamond sales
Watch battery replacement
Wedding band customization
Hand engraving
Estate jewelry appraisal
Jewelry liquidation
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- Award-winning jewelry designer with 40+ years of experience
- Graduate Gemologists certified by the Gemological Institute of America
- Specialized antique jewelry restoration using traditional techniques
- Free jewelry cleaning, polishing, and inspections
- Third-generation goldsmith ensuring generational craftsmanship
Associations and certifications
- GIA
- NAJA
Services
Custom Jewelry Design
Our award-winning designers create one-of-a-kind pieces using gold, platinum, and silver. Clients collaborate directly with artisans to develop personalized designs that reflect their unique style and heritage. Every creation combines traditional craftsmanship with modern precision techniques.
Antique Jewelry Restoration
Specialists employ period-accurate techniques to restore antique pieces while maintaining original integrity. Using both historical methods and modern equipment, we revive intricate details and structural elements of heirloom jewelry to like-new condition.
Gemstone Services
From diamond selection to rare gemstone acquisition, our Graduate Gemologists provide expert guidance. Services include stone setting, recutting, and brokering unique stones for custom designs or replacement in damaged pieces.
Jewelry Repair
Highly skilled craftspeople perform repairs using advanced equipment and premium materials. Services range from simple resizing to complex structural restoration, ensuring both aesthetic perfection and lasting durability for all metal types.
Hand Engraving
Our master engravers create detailed monograms, decorative patterns, and personalized inscriptions on metal surfaces. This traditional art form adds unique customization to rings, pendants, and other jewelry pieces using specialized hand tools.
People
David Phelps
Proprietor/Goldsmith
With over 50 years in the jewelry industry, David began his career in 1972 working with his parents. After military service and managing family stores in Texas, he established John David Jewelers in 2004.
Gaybeth Phelps
Proprietor/Gemologist
A Graduate Gemologist from GIA and former NAJA member, Gaybeth combines medical background with jewelry expertise. She manages daily operations and brings artistic perspective from her fine arts education and publishing experience.
John Phelps
Goldsmith Manager
Third-generation goldsmith with 20+ years experience, John specializes in precision stone setting. Following family tradition, he ensures every piece meets exacting standards while mentoring newer bench jewelers.
Regina Blanco
Sales Manager
GIA Gemologist with 20+ years industry experience, Regina combines fashion merchandising expertise with jewelry knowledge. She guides clients through design choices while maintaining the store's elegant presentation standards.
Christine Schachtner
Virtual Office Manager
With 20+ years accounting experience, Christine manages books remotely from South Carolina. Her diverse credentials include EMS training and social work studies, ensuring organized business operations behind the scenes.
Questions
Do you require appointments for jewelry services?
No appointments are necessary for our retail location services.
What types of metals do you work with for custom designs?
We create custom pieces using gold, platinum, silver, and various other metals.
Can you restore antique jewelry to its original condition?
Yes, we use period-accurate techniques and modern equipment for authentic antique restoration.
Do you offer gemstone certification services?
Our Graduate Gemologists provide expert gemstone evaluation and certification.
How long has John David Jewelers been in business?
The business was established in 2004, with our jewelers having over 50 combined years of experience.
What jewelry repair services are available?
We offer comprehensive repairs including resizing, stone setting, structural reinforcement, and broken chain restoration using modern techniques.
