How our journey began
For us…
Jewelry is a family tradition.
Our story began when my father started his own jewelry business at the age of 15 in my grandparent’s garage in the San Fernando Valley in the early 70’s. He was selling his handmade pieces at art shows and swap meets throughout the country as well as wholesaling original jewelry to Japan until he decided to open his own store in beautiful Big Bear Lake, CA in 1983. Our showroom is still in the exact same location in which he opened Wings Jewelers many years ago.
I was raised in the store from the time I was born and grew up watching him design, repair and sell jewelry. Throughout my teenage years and early twenties art was constantly an essential need in my life. From sketching, to painting, lamp working to music. Eventually jewelry became the medium that would become my focus and chosen path of expression. I began apprenticing with my father in 2004 when I was 19 years old and became a graduate of GIA in diamond and diamond grading the following year.
On July 1st, 2013 my father retired from jewelry and I took the helm at Wings Jewelry and Gifts. I am carrying on in my father's traditions of honesty, value and friendship while I expand our business into new territories. Our business has evolved in many areas and is increasingly focused on custom design work and original one of a kind inventory. While the natural world is my eternal muse, vintage design and Eastern spirituality also play an essential role in my creative vision. This inspires an original combination of bohemian artisan and classic fine jewelry unique to Wings Jewelry and Gifts. I have made a commitment to using ethically sourced materials and repurposing gold and gemstones at every opportunity. After all, it is truly my belief that a piece of jewelry is even more beautiful knowing it has been produced consciously from start to finish.
Not only does Wings maintain a large inventory of items that are handmade, unique and original but we find great inspiration in working with you directly to create that one of a kind piece you have always dreampt of wearing. Custom order and special design is our passion.
Feel free to contact us today and let's begin working on something unique, original, and completely breathtaking. At Wings Jewelry and Gifts, your ideas and imagination are the key components in creating something amazing.
With boundless gratitude,
-James
What People Are Saying
“James does beautiful engagement and wedding designs. He did my daughter and her husband’s wedding rings as well as my son’s fiancé's engagement ring and all of them turned out beautiful! He is definitely our family jeweler forever!”
-Karen B.
Westlake Village, CA
“We had James design our new wedding rings for our 30 year renewal. They are beautiful. Been going to Big Bear for 20 something years and always stop in to say hello. Really nice people. Does a great job on repairs as well. Wouldn't trust anyone else with my diamonds.”
-Caryn C.
Mission Viejo, CA
“What a great jewelry store. We found my husband’s wedding ring here for a great price. Customer service was excellent. We'll definitely be returning customers. I would highly recommend Wings Jewelry.”
-Stephanie M.
Del Mar, CA
“James and his wife Tina went out of their way to accommodate us on a custom-made wedding and engagement ring, great store location, great staff, great product. Thank you guys so much appreciated. Anybody who wants to get a custom ring made for their engagement go see these people.”
-Mark T.
Ventura, CA
