James Stephens & Sons Jewellers
Shop bio
Book James Stephens & Sons – Established Independent Jewellers
Founded in 1998, James Stephens & Sons Jewellers is a proudly independent, family-run business built on over 45 years of experience. Its founder, James Stephens, began his journey straight out of school, starting an apprenticeship with a local jeweller in Wimbledon. Over ten years, he developed his skills in jewellery making, repairs, and alterations — expertise that still shapes the business today.
With a desire to build something of his own, James left his job and set up a small workshop in his home garage. There, he handcrafted jewellery, carried out repairs and alterations, and personally delivered each piece to local customers. As demand for his services grew, James opened his first shop in Crawley’s historic town centre in 1998.
For 25 years, that original location served the community. Then, in January 2023, the business moved to a larger, more central store to accommodate its growing client base. The new premises feature a purpose-built workshop with seven benches, modern tools, and a unique glass partition — allowing customers to watch the skilled craftsmen at work.
What started as a solo venture in a garage has grown into one of Crawley’s most respected independent jewellers. Today, James Stephens & Sons employs 11 dedicated staff and is known for its high-quality craftsmanship, expert jewellery repair services, and a reputation built on trust, skill, and personal service.
Specialty
James Stephens & Sons Jewellers specialise in professional repairs and restorations, all completed in their on-site workshop with expert craftsmanship. They also offer a unique selection of one-off, handmade pieces crafted from high-quality gemstones and ethically sourced diamonds.
Learn more about the services on offer:
Purchase
Discover a carefully curated selection of fine jewellery at James Stephens & Sons in Crawley. From classic gold and silver pieces to elegant diamond rings, wedding bands, and timeless gifts, their collection reflects quality craftsmanship and traditional style. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or treating yourself, you’ll find something truly special in-store.
Bespoke
In-house specialists – Majority of the team’s time is spent in the workshop on the premises for bespoke pieces
Level of craftsmanship – James Stephens & Sons’ expert craftsmen can tailor any piece of jewellery to your perfect design, making the offering truly unique
Endless possibilities – Whether it be an item that has caught your eye but you’d like to make a few tweaks, or maybe you’ve spotted your perfect piece elsewhere, but it is out of stock or discontinued – James Stephens & Sons can fulfil your requests
Repair & alterations
Level of expertise – From chain repairs to ring remodelling and everything in between – the team’s experienced and dedicated on-site jewellers are well-equipped to repair and / or alter your jewellery
On-site workshop – Unique to independent jewellers like James Stephens & Sons is their on-site workshop, which enables the team to undertake repairs in a quick, safe, and reliable fashion, without having to send your jewellery away
Watch repairs – The team also processes watch repairs – from replacing batteries and watch straps, to removing / adding links on the same day you bring the watch in. More advanced watch repairs are entrusted to their London-based certified watchmakers. You can book in for a diagnosis and quote (free of charge) before deciding whether to proceed with the job. James Stephens & Sons hand-deliver watches to London once a week, so there is no danger of them being lost or damaged in transit
Book now and drop in with your broken jewellery or watch to receive a quote.
Valuations
Importance of valuations – Your jewellery holds both great monetary and sentimental value so it is highly recommended that you consider putting those valuable pieces on your household insurance to protect against loss or theft and prevent the anguish of not having a contingency plan in place, should the unthinkable happen
Depth of service – James Stephens & Sons can provide you with a full insurance valuation for an unlimited number of items, consisting of a full, detailed schedule of each item, along with digital images, which you can then show to your insurance company as an accurate representation of the value of your jewellery
Expert assistance – Charlotte Webster, member of Gem-A and the Jewellery Valuers Association (JVA), is the team’s in-house registered valuer, and has over a decade’s experience in the jewellery trade – she holds a range of prestigious qualifications including FGA, CPAA, GIA AJP and PJ Dip, reflecting her expertise in gemstone identification, grading and appraisal. Whether uncovering the true value of a treasured heirloom or assisting with gemstone selection, Charlotte is known for her meticulous attention to detail and trustworthy assessments
Process – James Stephens & Sons will usually need 1-2 weeks for a thorough valuation and assessment. When complete, you will be provided with a hard-copy valuation document
Additional services
Sell [and buy back] your jewellery – sell as scrap with the option to buy back at the same price (+20% interest) within the first 28 days
Cash for jewellery – bring in any unwanted jewellery or watches – the team is interested in gold, platinum, palladium and silver jewellery, as well as select luxury watches. Book an appointment now to see how much cash you could receive
Meet the team
James Stephens | Founder & Master Jeweller
James Stephens began his journey in the jewellery trade from the most modest of settings — his home garage. With a passion for craftsmanship and a sharp eye for detail, James quickly earned a reputation for quality repairs, honest service, and fine jewellery expertise within the local community.
What started as a one-man operation has grown into a thriving family-run business, thanks to James’ unwavering commitment to excellence and trust. Over the years, he has trained and mentored a team of skilled jewellers and staff who share his values, many of whom have become like family themselves.
James remains at the heart of the business, overseeing daily operations and continuing to work closely with customers. His hands-on approach, wealth of experience, and genuine care for each piece and person that comes through the door have made James Stephens & Sons a true staple of Crawley’s high street.
English