As Seattle families cherish the heirloom jewelry passed down through generations, one tiny studio stands out for its personal touch and impeccable craftsmanship.
Nina Hartman, the founder of Seattle Jewelry Design and Repair, has been immersed in the world of jewelry her entire adult life. But it wasn’t always about repair. Initially, she dreamed of selling her own creations. However, as she recalls, “customers kept asking me if I could repair their jewelry.” This persistent demand led her to realize that repair work, while perhaps less glamorous than designing new pieces, was both easier and more profitable.
In 2023, Nina rebranded her business to focus on these found opportunities, initially as “Seattle Jewelry Repair” and later as “Seattle Jewelry Design and Repair” in 2025. The name might sound straightforward, but it perfectly encapsulates the essence of what Nina offers: a local haven where jewelry gets a new lease on life. Customers are welcomed into a space where their stories and treasures are treated with the utmost care, never outsourced, ensuring each piece remains within the comforting walls of her shop. What differentiates Nina’s studio from larger establishments is its intimate scale. With just two dedicated jewelers, every project, whether a simple chain repair or a complex ring resizing, is handled with precision and attention to detail. Nina and her team promise a quick turnaround, with most repairs completed within a week. For those in a hurry, they even offer while-you-wait chain repairs, a rarity in the industry.
Nina’s commitment to her work shines brightest in her favorite moments, restoring worn heirloom rings to their former glory. She describes the joy of taking a 100-year-old ring, broken and dirty, and breathing new life into it. “I love when people get emotional because their visions came true,” she shares, revealing the connection she fosters with her clients. Each piece she touches carries history and stories, and her skill ensures these stories continue for future generations. The custom wedding and engagement rings have become another hallmark of Nina’s offerings, crafted with a 4-8 week turnaround. As rampant mass production often overshadows individuality, her designs keep alive the art of personal expression. Clients are involved in every step, resulting in custom rings that are as unique as their stories.
This personal engagement with customers extends to the very core of Nina’s business philosophy. By appointment only, her studio provides a focused, personalized experience. It’s not just about fixing jewelry; it’s about creating relationships and trust. Nina’s straightforward approach to her business name reflects this ethos – clear, direct, and honest. One particularly touching customer story illustrates this beautifully. A client brought in her grandmother’s ring, hoping Nina could restore it. The piece was missing stones and had seen better days, but by the time Nina was done, it sparkled anew, ready to continue its journey within the family. Such transformations are not just about aesthetics; they’re about preserving memories and emotions tied to these precious items.
Through every repair and design, Nina remains dedicated to her craft and her community. Her studio isn’t just a business; it’s a sanctuary for cherished artifacts and the dreams they embody. As she continues to work her magic on Seattle’s treasured jewelry, it’s clear that the heart of her business is not just in its name, but in the genuine care and dedication she brings to every piece. Seattle’s jewelry lovers know that when they step into her shop, they’re not just customers, they’re part of a story that Nina helps to write, one polished gemstone at a time…