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Oakville Jewellery might be new to the neighbourhood, but owner John Ackan has been in the industry for more than 35 years. In 1985, he founded Canadian Gems alongside his brother, Isaac, and their father, Abraham, also a jewellery-industry veteran. Operating as Solid Gold Jewellery in Dundas Square in Toronto, the company specialized in manufacturing, custom work and repairs for retailers and wholesalers.
When they received notice from their landlord about a major building renovation, they took that as a sign to move. John had always loved visiting the historic lakeside community of Downtown Oakville and decided to scoop up an available spot at 255 Lakeshore Road East. The store opened in fall 2019 under the name Oakville Jewellery.
In addition to a retail store where customers can shop the Solid Gold line of products, the new location features a state-of-the-art workshop equipped with a 3D printer, laser welder, lapping machine and more. This allows them to create virtually any design a customer wants, and provide 3D proofs before creating the pieces onsite. “Whatever you can imagine, we can create it,” says John. And, because they create the pieces themselves, they’re able to offer clients competitive pricing.
John’s favourite pieces to create are engagement rings and wedding bands. “It’s a very special ring that symbolizes the beginning of a new life. As a jeweller, it gives me great pleasure to be able to create such special pieces for clients. Those are pieces they’ll cherish forever,” he says, adding that many customers whose wedding rings he designed have gone on to become lifelong clients.
Since relocating from Toronto, John and his team appreciate the change of pace Downtown Oakville offers compared to the flashing lights and hustle-and-bustle of Dundas Square. “It’s about quality of life, living in a community that is more relaxing,” says John. “It’s been great meeting people in the area and seeing their appreciation for the level of service we provide.”
To browse their collection, or to discuss your own custom project, visit Oakville Jewellery at 255 Lakeshore Road East (you’ll have to ring a doorbell to enter, as the team is often working away in the workshop behind the counter). Check out the images below to see some of their work.
Pictured above is a plastic cast of a ring side by side with the finished product. Casts are created using a 3D printer.
Clients are provided with 3D proofs, like the one pictured above of this gorgeous emerald and diamond pendant.