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Creations Fine Jewelers
A Gem in the Heart of Napa
WRITTEN BY fran miller

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Published On: December 02, 2024
Creations Fine Jewelers owners Melissa (standing wearing navy dress, smiling) and Brian Doughty (seated, wearing navy suit) in their newly remodeled store in Napa Valley
Photos by Bob McClenahan

Nestled in the heart of Napa’s vibrant wine country, where cherished moments are celebrated, Creations Fine Jewelers has become more than a jewelry store—it’s a place where life’s most meaningful memories are transformed into timeless treasures. For nearly 50 years, Creations Fine Jewelers has served as a “go-to” for celebrating engagements, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and other significant milestones. Its customers rely on the family-run jewelry store for the items and gifts that mark life’s big and small moments.

Creations Fine Jewelers owners Melissa and Brian Doughty appreciate the importance of these milestones and their store’s significance in helping customers commemorate meaningful events. The duo understands that jewelry is not merely a commodity but a symbol of emotion and memory. It is this awareness that has created a tradition cherished across generations. Many customers recount stories of visiting Creations with their parents or grandparents, creating a multi-generational bond that ties them to the store. For them, shopping at Creations Fine Jewelers is a poignant journey, where each piece purchased carries with it a tale, a memory, and a legacy.

The store was founded in 1976 by Melvin Greenberg, whose daughter Judith DalCielo was instrumental in its success. With a passion for stones and gems, Judith became the store’s jewelry designer, and by the 1980s, she had developed a loyal following. Success then led to a larger location at Bel Air Plaza, and during the 90s, with the addition of luxurious ready-to-wear pieces, the store was thriving, necessitating the need for a full-time sales associate. Judith hired Brian, who would eventually become her son-in-law.

Brian married Melissa, Judith’s youngest daughter, in 2002. With their shared passion for fine jewelry, the duo—both of them born and raised Napans—has led the continued growth and success of what has been known through the years as Creations By You, Creations By You Fine Jewelers, and the current, simplified, Creations Fine Jewelers.

Now located in its newly remodeled, stand-alone building in northern Napa, the showroom is worth a visit. “Step into our spacious, natural light-filled showroom, where elegantly presented displays in each case invite you to explore everything from timeless diamonds to the newest designer creations,” said Melissa. “Our expansion ensures an intimate, personalized shopping experience, with easy access to the finest jewelry and OMEGA timepieces. We’ve provided a facelift inside and outside and expanded the interior to 2,000 square feet of spectacular showroom. And we have plenty of parking, which is scarce in Napa.”

interior of Creations Fine Jewelers in NapaWhile the name has changed through the years, the commitment to quality, authenticity, and excellent customer service has remained the same. Creations Fine Jewelers carries top-quality brands such as Marco Bicego, Roberto Coin, Fope, family-owned high-jewelry brands Picchiotti and Piranesi, Hearts on Fire, Ippolita, and historic American brand A. Jaffe, founded in 1892. “You can’t go wrong with a classic diamond piece, like earrings or bracelets,” said Melissa. “We create pendants and necklaces that are like magical beacons—little lights around the neck, close to the heart.”

Melissa and Brian take particular pride in their in-store OMEGA boutique, which showcases a wide selection of these iconic luxury timepieces. OMEGA, famously worn by James Bond, was the first watch on the moon and has been the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games since 1932. Having an OMEGA boutique within their store is a true testament to Creations Fine Jewelers’ reputation, as brands like OMEGA rigorously vet their distributors. “Acquiring a brand like OMEGA is no small feat,” said Melissa, who meticulously curates the exceptional brands carried at Creations Fine Jewelers.

“It can be quite a rigorous process to acquire a brand,” Melissa explained. She and Brian annually attend the COUTURE show in Las Vegas which features the world’s most exceptional curation of designer fine jewelry and luxury timepieces. There, they carefully evaluate new brands, assessing what their customers might like. “Quality is extremely important to us. Our pieces and their craftsmanship are exceptional.”

Creations Fine Jewelers co-owner Brian Doughty looking at a display of watches in caseBeyond offering the finest designer brands, what truly sets Creations Fine Jewelers apart—and one of its defining features—is its dedication to crafting custom jewelry that speaks to the unique stories of each customer. Judith was known for her custom designs, and Melissa and Brian have maintained this commitment to craftsmanship. Creations Fine Jewelers is backed by a talented team of artisans who appreciate that jewelry is an expression of art, carefully designed to meet each customer’s unique desires.

“We have an expert jeweler working in-house to handle immediate custom needs and intricate repairs, and we collaborate with master goldsmiths who also specialize in bringing more elaborate, creative designs to life,” said Brian. “These creators work closely with us to ensure that each piece reflects the highest standards of artistry and precision.”

Whether it’s a custom engagement ring or a personalized gift for a loved one, the process at Creations is collaborative and engaging. Customers sit down with experts to discuss their vision, leading to a piece that resonates deeply with personal significance. In addition to its individual client projects, Creations has fashioned bespoke pieces for local wineries and restaurants, the ownership of which gifts the items to staff for milestone moments.

Creations Fine Jewelers owners Melissa (leaning on counter, wearing navy dress, smiling) and Brian Doughty (standing with arm crossed, wearing navy suit) in their newly remodeled store in Napa ValleyMelissa and Brian are in their shop daily and often on the floor along with their dedicated staff members, greeting customers with warm smiles and genuine interest. When customers choose to shop at Creations Fine Jewelers, they are not just making a purchase; they are supporting a business that values community well-being and growth. The couple is committed to giving back and actively participates in local events and initiatives. This sense of community involvement reinforces the store’s status as a local gem—literally and figuratively.

“By choosing Creations Fine Jewelers, you’re not only investing in exquisite craftsmanship but also supporting a family-owned business deeply rooted in Napa’s community,” said Brian. “Our commitment to local causes and events is just one of the many ways we show our gratitude to the customers who make our work so meaningful.”

“Brian and Melissa are the kindest, most genuine people I know,” said loyal customer Sheri, who met the Doughtys more than five years ago when casually walking by their store. “I was impressed by my first encounter with Brian, who was personable, approachable, and more interested in creating a relationship than he was in just “making the sale.” Our lives are a series of experiences, and Creations Fine Jewelers is proud to be a part of those life experiences.” 

Creations Fine Jewelers owners Melissa and Brian Doughty standing in front of their storefront exterior

Photo by Lisa Fonville-Hemlock Photography

Clearly more than just a jewelry store, Creations Fine Jewelers is a cornerstone of the Napa community, woven into the fabric of its history and identity. With a commitment to craftsmanship, customization, community engagement, and quality service, it has earned the trust and loyalty of its customers. As Napa continues to grow and evolve, Creations Fine Jewelers remains a shimmering example of how a family-owned business can enrich a community, one cherished piece of jewelry at a time. Shopping at Creations is not just about acquiring jewelry; it’s about being part of a legacy that celebrates love, life, and community.

“We warmly invite you to visit our newly remodeled showroom and explore the collections that have touched the hearts of generations,” said Melissa and Brian. “For nearly 50 years, we’ve helped our community celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. Whether you’re looking for a timeless piece to mark a milestone or something uniquely yours, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way. Come experience the warmth, beauty, and craftsmanship that make Creations Fine Jewelers ‘Where Napa Valley Gets Engaged™.’ We look forward to welcoming you.”

For more information www.creationsfinejewelers.com
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