Business Details
47 Years
experience
Custom Handmade Jewelry Design in Lake Arrowhead
Craig D. Aaron Designs is a custom jewelry studio where precious stones and metals transform into unique expressions of individual style. With 44 years of experience, Craig combines technical expertise from formal education at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and hands-on craftsmanship developed since his apprenticeship as a goldsmith. The studio specializes in creating personalized pieces using clients' existing jewelry, offering tailored designs that reflect each customer's vision.Located in Lake Arrowhead, California, the business draws inspiration from mountain landscapes to craft signature scenic arrowheads and western-themed collections. Every piece undergoes a meticulous lost wax casting process, ensuring handcrafted quality without computer-generated designs. Craig's commitment to excellence has earned features in publications like Southern California Bride and Platinum Guild, while maintaining a focus on personalized service and artistic integrity.
Services
Custom Jewelry Design
Lost Wax Casting
Gemstone Setting
Jewelry Repair
Precious Metal Work
Western Themed Jewelry
Scenic Arrowhead Design
Platinum Craftsmanship
High Karat Gold Work
Personalized Engraving
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- 44 years of jewelry design expertise with formal GIA education
- Personalized service transforming existing jewelry into custom pieces
- Specializes in high karat gold and platinum craftsmanship
- Handcrafted designs without computer-generated processes
- Inspired by Lake Arrowhead's mountain landscapes for unique collections
Associations and certifications
- GIA
What people say
Exceptional craftsmanship
Personalized service
Unique designs
Meaningful art pieces
Transform existing jewelry
Services
Custom Jewelry Design
Transform your ideas into unique wearable art through our personalized design process. Our master jeweler collaborates directly with clients to create one-of-a-kind pieces using existing jewelry or new materials. Each creation combines technical precision with artistic vision to ensure perfect execution.
Lost Wax Casting
Craft intricate jewelry pieces using traditional lost wax casting techniques. This meticulous process involves hand-carved wax models transformed into precious metal creations through specialized plaster molds and high-temperature casting methods. Every step maintains artistic integrity while ensuring structural quality.
Gemstone Setting
Securely mount precious stones using time-tested setting techniques. Our expertise includes working with various gemstone shapes and sizes, ensuring optimal placement for both aesthetic appeal and durability. We source high-quality stones or incorporate client-owned gems into new designs.
Western Themed Jewelry
Create distinctive western-inspired pieces drawing from Lake Arrowhead's natural beauty. Our signature collection features scenic arrowheads and mountain motifs, each handcrafted to capture the essence of western landscapes in precious metals and stones.
Precious Metal Work
Work with premium metals including 18kt/22kt yellow gold, platinum, and silver. Our techniques highlight each metal's unique properties, from gold's rich color to platinum's density. We combine different metals for striking visual effects while maintaining structural integrity.
People
Craig D. Aaron
Master Jeweler & Owner
44-year veteran of jewelry design with formal GIA education. Established his studio in Lake Arrowhead after becoming a retail store owner at 22. Creates handcrafted pieces using traditional lost wax casting techniques.
Questions
What jewelry design process does Craig D. Aaron use?
We use the traditional lost wax casting method. Each piece is hand-carved from wax models without computer generation, ensuring authentic craftsmanship.
How long does custom jewelry creation take?
Production time varies from several hours to weeks depending on complexity. Simple pieces take days while intricate designs may require multiple weeks.
What metals are available for jewelry creation?
We work with 18kt/22kt yellow gold, platinum, 14kt white/yellow gold, and silver. Our expertise combines different metals for unique color combinations.
Can I use my existing jewelry in new designs?
Yes, we specialize in transforming unworn jewelry into custom pieces. We help clients repurpose their precious metals and stones into new creations.
Do you create western-themed jewelry pieces?
Yes, our signature collection features western-inspired designs including scenic arrowheads and mountain motifs inspired by Lake Arrowhead's landscapes.
How are pricing fluctuations handled?
Prices adjust according to precious metal and gemstone market rates. We recommend direct consultation to discuss current material costs and design options.
Reviews (3)
Linda Prentice
Feb 25, 2021
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Craig has been my jeweler for decades. He understands every aspect of jewelry making ~ from precious stones to design to creating one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Craig is truly a creative genius. He's meticulous in every detail and he'll guide you if you need assistance. He's never judgmental. If you're on a budget, he'll treat you as kindly as he would someone with a fat bank account. He's charming and personable.
He's mastered his craft over many years and he grasps all the nuances of jewelry making. You won't find a better jeweler anywhere. There's a genuine goodness about this guy. He's down to earth, sincere, and happy! (And no! He didn't pay me to write this!) I love this guy! His work speaks for itself. What a pleasure doing business with Craig!
He's mastered his craft over many years and he grasps all the nuances of jewelry making. You won't find a better jeweler anywhere. There's a genuine goodness about this guy. He's down to earth, sincere, and happy! (And no! He didn't pay me to write this!) I love this guy! His work speaks for itself. What a pleasure doing business with Craig!
Dylan Jones
Jun 05, 2018
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We love Craig! Excellent work, very personable and professional. He has a great eye and we will continue working with him and referring others to him for years to come. Thanks Craig!
Anastasia White
Nov 09, 2017
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Craig sized mine and my husband's wedding bands. He was very pleasant, kind, and knowledgeable. The work he did on our dinged up, heirloom rings is amazing! Will definitely come back for any and all future jewelry needs!
