A customer stopped by Jeffrey’s Jewelry Design Studio recently to discuss creating a new wedding set. Browsing the array of estate jewelry displayed in the inviting Federal Way shop, one piece caught her eye, not so much for its current design but because the gemstones were perfect and she could see its potential.

Working with designer John Profit and master goldsmith Jeffrey Buetow, “we were able to create a brand new design for her for about 40 per cent of what it would have cost new,” Buetow says.

Timeless craftsmanship + technology

Whether crafting something brand new, or re-envisioning a cherished heirloom, Jeffrey’s is the only studio in the south county area doing this level of work, says Buetow, a jewelry maker since 1975; designer Profit started in the industry in 1974, meaning that together the two offer eight-plus decades of experience.

“I just love this work,” Buetow says, reflecting on how creativity inspires all aspects of his life. “I love cooking and cabinetry, I love creating things in whatever form that takes.”

At the same time, technology remains front-and-centre for the studio, streamlining the design and crafting process significantly. Once Profit creates the design, they can create the mold, cast it, finish it and set the stones in just a few days – what before would take weeks.

“We’ve been doing this a long time but we’ve stayed state-of-the-art. We’ve had so much new technology in the last 10 years.”

In the shop’s expanded retail section, visitors enjoy browsing the large selection of consignment and estate jewelry – maybe finding a piece they love, refurbished like new. Profit and Buetow also enjoy working with clients to re-imagine a family heirloom – maybe transforming a grandmother’s bracelet or parents’ wedding sets into a necklace to keep close the the heart, for example.

“Bring in your old jewelry and let us work with you to create something new you’ll love and wear,” Buetow says.

Experience matters

Buetow applies that same skill and craftsmanship to his repair work. When a cherished piece of jewelry needs repair, taking it directly to a skilled master goldsmith is essential. “It’s important people understand that when they bring us something to fix, it stays right here, it’s not sent somewhere else for repair, like many other shops do,” he says.

Dedication and experience also ensure Buetow’s repairs offer long-lasting enjoyment. In fact, about 20 per cent of his repair work is re-repairs of someone else’s attempts, says Buetow, setting a high standard for his work: “To me, if it wouldn’t have been good enough to bring to my mom, it doesn’t go out the door,” he says with a smile.

Stop by Jeffrey’s Jewelry Design Studio at 1200 S 324th St., in Federal Way or visit online at jeffreysjewelrydesignstudio.com.