THE “YOUR JEWELRY EXPERT” TEAM
Your Jewelry Expert founders have a depth of experience that can only be earned over a lifetime in the jewelry industry. With combined knowledge of over 100 years, you can be assured that the valuable information you will receive will be ethical and unbiased – as our motto states… straight answers, guaranteed!!
A brief look at the experts will reinforce how involved they have been in all facets of the jewelry industry – for over 126 years
As the current owner of Wm. Ritzi & Co. Jewelers, a 126 year old firm, Cindy has been in the jewelry industry for over 30 years. She has a degree in Business and attended the Gemological Institute of America to obtain her gemological credentials. She is an accomplished speaker, holding many educational seminars regarding all jewelry topics. Additionally, she is the host of the PBS Show “Antiques and Collectibles”. Cindy is an expert in custom design, jewelry repairs, diamonds and colored gemstones.
Throughout his 48 years in the jewelry business, Tom has served on numerous national committees concerning Colored Gemstone Grading and industry ethics. In the early 80’s, he developed the internationally acclaimed Colormaster, a grading machine used to communicate the color of a gemstone. It was the first instrument of its type in the jewelry industry and revolutionized colored gemstone grading. Tom still holds a patent on its design. It was marketed worldwide by the Gemological Institute of America. Tom is also an expert in estate and antique jewelry and is a Clockmaker by trade.
David is a Swiss trained, Master Watchmaker with over 47 years at the bench. He specializes in the repair and restoration of Rolex and all other high grade watches, including antiques. David is also the inventor and patent –holder for the industry’s gauging system for mounted diamonds of varying shapes and sizes. His micro-measuring system is sold worldwide and used by jewelers and gem merchants to quickly measure all mounted diamonds for repairs and appraisals. David also has many years as an appraiser of new and antique jewelry.
Colin is our sixth generation to enter the jewelry business. Colin holds a degree in Communications, including public speaking and direct sales and marketing. Colin, who is 22, will be writing his own column and blog for the younger generation. He feels that it is imperative that first time jewelry consumers have access to reliable information that they can use to make informed decisions. His column will be written from the perspective of a 22 year old, - someone who is just starting to purchase jewelry for themselves and for gifts. It will be an easy and fun read – the “down and dirty” version of what you need to know.