Steven Fearnley created his eponymous store in 1986 as a family-run custom jewelry shop. But over 35 years in the jewelry industry, his passion for stones (kindled early in life through geology and then through gem study at GIA), appreciation for his loyal clients, and thrill of the hunt has transformed JS Fearnley into a destination for “not only the rare and the beautiful but also items of excellent value.” They specialize in rare antique jewelry, fine colored gemstones, and the best estate jewelry from history’s premier jewelry houses. Fearnley operates with a clear joy for what he does and excitement to bring his son, Alex, into the business with him.
What is your title & role within your company?
Owner/buyer of J.S. Fearnley originally and all other roles since COVID.
What was your best and most memorable score?
I don’t like the word “score” which to me suggests a great profit. Those sales have all been small sales and not memorable. My most memorable sale was a 10 carat pair of beautifully matched cushion cut Kashmir sapphires.
Cartier Sapphire Fearnley
No Heat Spinel Fearnley
What was your most expensive learning experience?
Very early on in my career I bought a ruby in an old ring that was being sold as natural ruby. It was cut in an old fashion manner and in an Art Deco ring. I had to make a decision with a loupe as to the nature of the ruby. I had suspicions that it might be a sophisticated synthetic but the price was so attractive with such a huge upside that I bought it when I should have known it was too good to be true. It proved to be synthetic so I kept the stone for many years as a reminder
What material or stone do you find yourself drawn to most? Or that you find is most under-appreciated?
I like phenomenal stones, especially fine alexandrite. Outside of the phenomenal stones I really like a fine demantoid stone, especially one of decent size.
Russian Demantoid Garnet
Mandarin Garnet Fearnley
What is the one piece that “got away” that you still think about?
I wish I had never sold a 7 1/2 carat top gem Brazilian Alexandrite that I had owned.
What are your top 3 resources that help you do the best job you can do?
Trade shows, auctions, and the personal relationships with dealers and clients.
What would your job be if you weren’t doing what you’re doing now?
I love what I do so it is hard to imagine doing anything else as a career but I think if I was forced to give up the jewelry industry, I would probably look to do something in the real estate industry.
J. Steven Fearnley
