Our Legacy

Robin’s customers experience the rare luxury of having their dream jewelry pieces entirely executed by one master, from elaborating the design, to alloying precious metals, to selecting and setting each stone. Robin works his unparalleled perfection without letting the slightest detail escape his trained eye.

For more than 35 years, Robin has created exquisite custom jewelry. His classical training dates back to the Renaissance traditions of Italian schools of goldsmithing, a craft quickly being overshadowed by computer-generated mass-production, even amongst the most prominent jewelry houses. His techniques entail hand-forging metals without the use of wax or casting, an organic system that creates a balance of color, line, and form, giving each jewel a one-of-a-kind life of its own.

Once Upon A Time

Robin was introduced into the world of fine jewels by his grandfather, whose exclusive jewelry shop thrived in Los Angeles in the 1920’s and 30’s, and by his father, who continued the family tradition. At an early age, Robin developed a passion for both classical and contemporary art. His love and study of paintings, sculptures, and designs continues to inspire his meticulously crafted work.

John Woolard Jewelry Store, Whittier, CA. Circa 1921

The Teacher

While apprenticing in Carmel, California in the early 1970’s, Robin met Italian master Orlando Feriozzi, a profound influence on his career. Mr. Ferriozzi was an apprentice of the Italian master, Angelo Giorgio Cazzaniga, who was greatly influenced by the Castellani family, responsible for reviving the forgotten goldsmithing techniques and motifs of the Ancient Etruscan and Greek cultures.Maestro Feriozzi was set apart by his ability to project life into his jewelry through manipulating metal forms, engraving textures, and techniques of setting the gems.

Maestro

As Robin recalls, “I recognized Feriozzi’s unbelievable capacity as a goldsmith and his connection to historical figures, artistic sense and aesthetics… I had already worked for years before I met him, but it was my fate – through revelation I went down the road to educate myself as a goldsmith. The major difficulty was to find the right mentor because apprenticeships didn’t really exist in the US at that time. Everywhere else it was wax casting and mass-production.

People really didn’t understand the old techniques. And here comes a guy from an obviously different cultural background. Whena real genius shows up, you recognize him and follow him.”

Affiliations

In 1979 Robin moved to New York, where he worked for Carvin French, producing pieces for Cartier, Bulgari, Van Cleef and Arpels, and other premier jewelry houses. He then moved to London to work for E.Wolfe & Co, whose clients included Garrard & Co and Asprey & Co, among many others.In 1992, the passion to create unique designs led him to open his own shop – Robin Woolard, Goldsmith – in Carmel – home to other innovative jewelers and artisans. His jewels are now found in collections throughout the world.

Today

Today, Robin and his business partner and qualified gemologist Galina Kouliaeva hold a fine boutique in the historic San Francisco Fairmont Hotel. Galina Kouliaeva is far more than a mere addition to the Robin Woolard brand; she stands as the leading designer and creative director, infusing the collections with her innovative vision and artistic flair. Her expertise, stemming from her multifaceted background in music and gemology, breathes life into each piece. Under her leadership, the brand has soared to new heights, reflecting a blend of tradition and contemporary elegance.

The Fairmont

Since 1907, The Fairmont, also known as “The White House of the West,” has served as the San Francisco residence for U.S. presidents, world leaders, and stars of stage, screen and sports. Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, the hotel has played host to several of the city’s most stylish and memorable events. In 1945, it welcomed the United Nations Conference on International Organization to draft the United Nations Charter. The timeless architecture, opulent interiors, and renowned Venetian Room, where Tony Bennett first performed "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," imbue the hotel with a sense of grandeur that aligns perfectly with Robin Woolard's artistic vision. Guests and locals visiting the jeweler can enjoy the storied history and romance of this landmark property. Entering the stunning lobby guests are instantly transported to the era of glamor and sophistication, and just steps away, can continue their stylish journey at Robin Woolard Precious Jewels.

The Boutique

Together, Robin and Galina offer an exclusive collection of original designs in a wide range of styles from classical to contemporary, and traditional to unconventional. Your personal inimitable style will be reflected in a jewelry piece designed and created specially for you through a close and intimate collaboration with the artist.