1968

Malcolm Koll, Charles Koll’s son, joined Halko Jewelers at a young age, starting as a gift wrapper in the family business. While his initial role was humble, it allowed him to immerse himself in the world of jewelry and craftsmanship from the ground up. Over time, Malcolm’s hands-on experience and passion for the industry grew, and he worked his way through various roles, learning the trade alongside his father. His early involvement in the business laid the foundation for him to eventually become an integral part of the company, carrying on the legacy of innovation and fine craftsmanship,

The Chervon Group

After establishing a solid foundation with Halko Jewelers, Charles Koll expanded his vision by founding the Chevron Jewelers Group in 1970. This group brought together a network of independent jewelers, united by a shared commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Through Chevron, Charles aimed to foster collaboration and innovation within the jewelry industry, allowing artisans to share ideas and elevate their skills. The Chevron Jewelers Group quickly became known for its excellence, helping its members thrive in a competitive market while maintaining the personal touch that had been central to Charles’s approach from the beginning.

First Taste

Malcolm's Initiation

In 1971, Malcolm Koll took his first steps into the jewelry-making world by starting to do simple jewelry polishing at Halko Jewelers. This early experience allowed him to develop a foundational understanding of the craft and hone his skills in jewelry care and restoration. Under the guidance of his father, Charles, Malcolm learned the importance of detail and quality in every piece, which deepened his appreciation for the artistry involved in jewelry making. This hands-on work laid the groundwork for his future contributions to the family business and marked the beginning of his journey in the jewelry industry. After a year in the military, he began working at the store full-time.

Focus Shift

In 1980, Halko Jewelers marked a significant milestone by setting up its first full-blown casting plant, located upstairs at their facility. This investment in advanced technology allowed the company to expand its capabilities in jewelry design and manufacturing. The addition of a wax carving process enabled the creation of intricate custom pieces, marking a pivotal shift in focus toward bespoke jewelry. With the casting plant in operation, Halko Jewelers could offer clients a wider array of personalized designs, further establishing the brand’s reputation for excellence and innovation in the custom jewelry market. This development not only enhanced their production processes but also reinforced their commitment to craftsmanship and individualized service.

Like Father, Like Son

In 1981, Malcolm Koll was elected as a director of the Chevron Jewelers Group, reflecting his growing influence and leadership within the jewelry industry. His election was a testament to his dedication and expertise, which he had cultivated through years of hands-on experience at Halko Jewelers. As a director, Malcolm contributed valuable insights and guidance to the group, helping to strengthen the network of independent jewelers. His role allowed him to advocate for collaboration and innovation, ensuring that the values of craftsmanship and customer service remained at the forefront of the group’s mission. This position marked a significant step in Malcolm’s journey, positioning him as a key player in shaping the future of the jewelry community.

Closing Shop

In 1988, Halko Jewelers faced a pivotal change when Charles Koll decided to close the store and sell the business. This decision marked the end of an era for the family-owned establishment, which had become known for its dedication to quality craftsmanship and personalized service over the years. While the closing was bittersweet, it also opened new doors for Charles and Malcolm, allowing them to explore different avenues within the jewelry industry and continue their legacy in other capacities. The impact of Halko Jewelers remained significant, as it had established a strong reputation and set a foundation for future endeavors in the world of fine jewelry.

SA✈️CA

In 1991, Charles and Malcolm Koll made a significant move to California, where they opened their first store in the UTC Mall in San Diego. This new location represented a fresh start and an opportunity to reach a broader audience in a vibrant market. The UTC Mall provided a dynamic environment for their jewelry business, allowing them to showcase their commitment to quality and custom craftsmanship. With this new venture, the Koll family continued to build on their legacy, offering personalized service and unique designs that reflected their passion for the art of jewelry making. This expansion marked a new chapter for the Koll family in the competitive California market.

Master of Design

In 1992, David Armstrong joined Charles Koll Jewelers at the UTC Mall in San Diego. His extensive background in jewelry design and retail brought valuable skills to the team, enhancing the customer experience and expanding the store's offerings. David quickly became an integral part of the business, collaborating closely with Charles and Malcolm Koll to elevate the brand's reputation for quality and custom craftsmanship. His addition to the team not only strengthened the company’s capabilities but also helped solidify Charles Koll Jewelers as a prominent destination for unique and personalized jewelry in the competitive California market.

Fashion Valley

In 2001, Charles Koll Jewelers expanded its presence by opening a second location in Fashion Valley, a premier shopping destination in San Diego. This strategic move allowed the brand to reach an even broader audience and showcase its commitment to fine craftsmanship and personalized service. The Fashion Valley store was designed to reflect the elegant aesthetic of the brand, providing a welcoming environment for customers to explore an extensive selection of custom and designer jewelry. This expansion marked a significant milestone in the growth of Charles Koll Jewelers, further establishing its reputation as a trusted name in the jewelry industry.

Expansion

In 2010, Charles Koll Jewelers made the strategic decision to close its UTC Mall location and consolidate operations at the Fashion Valley store. This move allowed the company to focus its resources and enhance its offerings in a more centralized, high-traffic location. Following the consolidation, the Fashion Valley store underwent significant expansion and renovation, creating a more spacious and inviting atmosphere for customers. This decision not only streamlined operations but also reinforced Charles Koll Jewelers’ commitment to providing an exceptional shopping experience, further solidifying its position as a premier destination for custom and fine jewelry in San Diego.

Next Generation

In 2012, Richard Koll joined Charles Koll Jewelers, marking a new chapter in the family legacy. As the son of Malcolm Koll, Richard brought a fresh perspective and a deep respect for the company’s tradition of craftsmanship and innovation. With a focus on preserving the brand’s commitment to quality while embracing modern techniques and designs, Richard’s influence has helped the company evolve to meet the changing tastes and expectations of its clients. His entry not only strengthened the family bond within the business but also set the stage for a continued legacy of excellence in jewelry making.

Sorrento Valley

In 2021, Charles Koll Jewelers transitioned from its Fashion Valley location, where it had been a cornerstone for luxury jewelry, to a new, more intimate setting in Sorrento Valley. This move reflected the company's evolution and commitment to offering a personalized experience in a refined, exclusive space. By relocating, Charles Koll Jewelers embraced a fresh start while continuing its tradition of craftsmanship, catering to clients with both privacy and a bespoke approach in its new surroundings.

The Future of Charles Koll

The 4th generation of the Koll name following the footsteps of his father, Richard. Stay tuned!