ABOUT US
A Long History of Tradition
Designs In Gold has been a labor of love for Ginger and James Cleland since 1989, when they started their antique and vintage jewelry business in St. Louis, Missouri. Its first location was in the Central West End, near Forest Park and the site of the 1904 World’s Fair. Rich with history and culture, at the turn of the century the proximity of St. Louis to various modes of transportation and role as host to many manufacturing industries positioned the city to be renowned in jewelry production.
Taking all of the knowledge and expertise they gleaned while in the Midwest, Ginger and James moved their family and business out to California. For the last 16 years Designs In Gold has been nestled in the heart of the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley in Solvang, founded by Danish settlers in 1911. Solvang hosts a record number of visitors each year who come to experience “Little Denmark” and one of the most “Christmasy” towns in America! On any given day the streets are bustling with tourists enjoying Danish pastries, as well as local families who have made Solvang their home for generations.
Designs In Gold offers an unparalleled collection of jewelry from the Victorian, Art Nouveau, and Edwardian eras, as well as the Art Deco, Retro, and Mid-Century periods. We even have a lovely contemporary selection of jewelry for those with modern tastes! Sourced from mostly private collectors, Designs In Gold features everything from diamond and gemstone rings to bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. We also offer jewelry repair, and work with our clients to create the custom jewelry of their dreams. Designs In Gold has something for everyone!
Our longevity in the jewelry business, professional expertise, genuine affection for our customers, and pursuit of excellent service have helped make Designs In Gold what it is today, and we couldn’t be more grateful! You may browse our beautiful collection on our website, in our Etsy shop, and in our Solvang store Tuesday through Saturday. We look forward to welcoming you and helping you find exactly what your heart desires!
California Gold Stylized Wedding Shoot at Zaca Creek Inn, Buellton, CA. – We were invited by Chelsea Rushing, owner of Zaca Creek Inn (@zacacreekinn), and Johanna Cronshaw, project captain (@bestwishessb), to provide jewelry for their photo shoot to promote Zaca Creek Inn as a wedding venue. The awesome video is by Snoitcudorp (@snoitcudorp).
An interview with James Cleland – Patrick Murphy interviewed James for his artistic contribution to the community of St. Louis, MO.
Learn about GIA, The Gemological Institute of America – We have several jewelry pieces that have reports from GIA to provide information about the gemstones such as size, quality and place of origin.