EST. IN 2005

FORGED IN CALGARY, AB

OUR UNIQUE DISCIPLINES AND CREDENTIALS SET US APART FROM OTHER CANADIAN JEWELLERY COMPANIES.
OUR PASSION FOR DESIGN AND CREATING YOU THE PERFECT JEWELLERY PIECE CAN BE ECHOED IN OUR, GIFTED TEAM.
ORIGIN STORY
THE PREMIER TEAM
History
We are Premier Gems, a custom jewellery & appraisal studio that opened in Calgary in 2005. It is the realization of owner Jeff Nechka’s passionate worldwide pursuit of gemology and design. Jeff’s mastery of the art of gem and diamond cutting and established international connections in the best markets allow him to not only meet but exceed client expectations. Jeff is also among a small number of Canadian members belonging to the American Gem Trade Association and the Gemological Institute of America Alumni Association. These organizations are the governing bodies for the industry laying out the best practice principles, ethical standards, and making each member accountable to their strict guidelines. Membership with these associations ensures consumer confidence.

We are a unique jewellery design studio and retail business. In 2014 we relocated to the thriving arts and entertainment district of 17th Avenue (Lower Mount Royal) in Calgary. Our team of three exceptional designers draw inspiration from the view of the city and the avenue below while working with clients to create their own unique piece of custom jewellery. Our combined experiences and portfolios speak for themselves and we are constantly striving to exercise our design skills in new and challenging ways.
The Team
Jeff Nechka
Erin Crossman

Jeff Nechka/Owner

Credentials & Background:

• Graduate Diamonds (G.I.A.) Carlsbad, USA.
• Graduate Gemologist (G.I.A.) Bangkok, Thailand.
• 14+ years working in Mokume Gane20 years experienced in gemstone & diamond polishing.
My passion for this field started from a lifelong fascination with rocks, minerals, and fine art. My expertise then evolved to coloured gems as I began using my design talents to create custom jewellery.

At the age of seventeen I was apprenticing to learn to facet coloured gemstones and by age twenty-four I was polishing diamonds. I completed my gemology studies at twenty and I have had the opportunity to travel the globe and work internationally to source gemstone and design jewellery.

My jewellery designs focus on the central gem and diamond. The setting should be cohesive and not deter or distract from the gem or diamonds beauty.

I invite you to meet with myself or one of my other designers to see what we can create for you.

Erin Crossman/Designer

Credentials & Background:

• Education: BFA Jewelry and Metals 2008 ACAD.
• 10+ years of experience in the jewellery industry.
I am a native Calgarian known for my wild imagination and creative spirit. Artistically inclined since a young age, always drawing, sketching and finally after being introduced into the world of jewellery and metalsmithing, forging my way through life. I am in a constant pursuit of perfection in my craft. 

I attended Lord Beaverbrook High School where I excelled in the Advanced Placement Arts Program. Continuing my professional development, I went on to attend the Alberta College of Art and Design (now known as The Alberta University of the Arts) where I graduated with a BFA in 2008 from the Jewelry & Metals Program. After graduation, I accepted a position at Mason Birks in the service and repairs department, eventually heading the department in the later portion of my stay with the company. 

Joining the Premier Gems team was the best next step for me to further pursue and expand my design skillset. I am very excited to be a part of the incredible team here at Premier Gems and I look forward to meeting you and designing something uniquely you.

CREATE & DESIGN YOUR OWN UNIQUE
JEWELLERY MASTERPIECE

CREATE A JEWELLERY PIECE THAT IS AS UNIQUE AS YOU FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT, 
WEDDING, ANNIVERSARY OR SPECIAL MILESTONE IN YOUR LIFE.
SCHEDULE A DESIGN
CONSULT TODAY!
Testimonials

David was looking for a custom engagement ring featuring an emerald cut diamond. David was referred to us by a current client and contacted us to set up a consultation. “You seemed really genuine and really cared about designing and making the perfect piece. I love the diamond, and you were not pushy. The experience […]

David - Engagement Ring

April was looking to create a fun, funky statement ring using an inherited large Blue Zircon and some diamonds from old jewellery. “I found out about you guys from a mutual client. Once we met I liked your ideas. You offer great service! I’m totally amazed by my new piece! I couldn’t be happier”.

April - Restyled Ring

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