There’s something entirely unique about Charles Koll Jewellers, and it isn’t that this San Diego retailer designs everything in house. Perhaps it’s the camaraderie established over twenty-plus years between the Koll family and designer David Armstrong, or the relationship this award-winning design team has developed with customers young and old - whatever it is, Charles Koll Jewellers demands your attention.
This custom jeweler might sit adjacent to a generic Tiffany & Co in the high-end Fashion Valley Mall of San Diego, but it bears no resemblance to the straight-jacket confines of a national chain – Charles Koll is synonymous with exclusivity. From the design studio, encased in a glass wall that overlooks the showroom, to the intricate metal or diamond education each buyer is afforded with every original design, there are no simple purchases at Charles Koll Jewellers. After 58 years in the business, there’s no surprise there.
What might seem like an atypical jeweler, upon closer inspection Charles Koll has outlined a rare class in delivering uncharacteristic and novel designs; no ring, necklace or accessory is easily classified or defined by a generic label. Charles Koll truly identifies itself by its customer – even after two decades creating one-of-a-kind designs for Charles Koll Jewellers, designer David Armstrong still struggles to identify a style of design.
As much as engagement rings and anniversary necklaces might rule the day at jewelry stores around the country, Charles Koll has a few standout pieces that can’t be dismissed. The Puzzle Ring, devised with a male client in mind, consists of 18 karat rose, yellow and white gold that neatly forms into a masculine ring despite being a collection of pieces (yes, it is actually a puzzle to put together).
Another standalone Charles Koll piece is the 1978 Ferrari Daytona replica; modeled to 1:100th of the classic sports car in solid 18 karat gold, this classy paper weight is supremely detailed in everything from the eight track to the seat stitching.
Apart from delivering unusual design, Charles Koll Jewellers provides locals unique opportunities as well – next month, San Diego artist Duke Windsor will showcase his work inspired by the jewelry design there at the jeweler's retail location. In partnership with Salazar Contemporary Art Exhibits, the lifesize acrylic installations make a statement, much like the gorgeous gold and diamond pieces that inspired them. To attend, email rsvp@charleskoll.com.
WHEN: Thursday, May 17, 6pm to 9pm
WHERE: 7007 Friars Rd. Suite 691, San Diego, Calif.
