About THE PRECIOUS GEM
Designs by Reggie Akdogan
Reggie Akdogan, Owner/Designer
Reggie at the Grand Bazaar reminiscing with his uncle (right), who trained him in the art of jewelry making.
Master goldsmith and jewelry designer Reggie Akdogan learned his craft working in his family’s jewelry shop in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. He was studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Istanbul. Then, love happened, and plans changed.
Reggie met his future wife, Lisa, an American who was teaching English in Turkey. In 1975, they moved to the United States; they married and soon began their family. Reggie continued to perfect his jewelry-making skills and quickly became recognized for his expertise and creativity. The Akdogans have made Williamsburg, VA, their home for more than 50 years.
The first PRECIOUS GEM shop opened in Williamsburg in 1980. The current Duke of Gloucester Street location opened in 2000. This landmark spot in the heart of Merchants Square attracts legions of visitors and locals alike. Few can resist stopping to admire what is displayed in the windows and coming inside for a closer look. Many have no idea that well over 90 percent of THE PRECIOUS GEM’s fine jewels are made on-site in Reggie’s design studio.
Reggie down in a favorite emerald mine.
What a find! Reggie sorting rough emeralds from the Brazilian mine. He selects which ones will be cut and polished.
Relationships are key to everyone associated with THE PRECIOUS GEM. Reggie’s passion is for colored stones. He combines his zest for travel with his quest to find the very best, rarest gems available today. On trips from South America to the Orient, he deals with reputable mines and gem merchants he knows and trusts. A high compliment is when other jewelers and stone dealers visit, and they say what they see is among the best anywhere on the East Coast.
Reggie and Lisa Akdogan enjoy The Precious Gem’s Duke of Gloucester Street location in the heart of Williamsburg’s Merchants Square.
Reggie and Lisa credit their success to the support of loyal friends and colleagues. Giving back to the community they love means a great deal to them. Organizations such as Walsingham Academy and the College of William & Mary Athletics in Williamsburg benefit from annual donations, and WHRO Public Media counts them among their longest-running underwriters.
When asked what makes THE PRECIOUS GEM special, The Bainbridges of Williamsburg sum it up by saying, “THE PRECIOUS GEM is our favorite place to discover wonderful fine jewelry and the best craftsmanship by Reggie. The staff is always friendly, knowledgeable, and patient, making every visit a pleasure.”