Events & AwardsJan 20, 2026
These Are the 5 Finalists for the David Yurman Gem Awards GrantThe grant is in its first year and was created to recognize an exceptional fine jewelry designer whose star is on the rise.
IndependentsMar 22, 2021
Shaftel Diamonds Opens New Showroom
The family-owned jeweler cut the ribbon on a 3,500-square-foot space in Houston, featuring a coffee lounge and outdoor seating.
Shaftel Diamonds is a family-owned-and-operated jeweler based in Houston, Texas. It just opened its new 3,500-square-foot showroom.
Houston—Shaftel Diamonds recently cut the ribbon on a brand-new showroom.
The family-owned jeweler moved from the ground floor of The Jewelry Building, a communal space in Houston where jewelers set up shop, to its own space on nearby San Felipe Street.
The 3,500-square-foot space, which opened in December, features a private showing room, a cocktail and coffee lounge, and outdoor seating.
The showroom was designed to improve the overall customer experience, the company said in a press release about the opening.
“Customers can create their start-to-finish looks by conceptualizing the design with the Shaftels, from picking the stone to manufacturing the piece—every aspect is done under the same roof,” said Shaftel Diamonds.
The jeweler specializes in engagement rings, diamonds, and colored gemstones.
Founder Keith Shaftel started the business in 1978 as a wholesale supplier of loose diamonds and colored gemstones. Its first showroom opened to the public in 2001.
Over the last 42 years, Shaftel Diamonds evolved into a custom jeweler, priding itself on one-of-a-kind inventory. It also operates as a jewelry wholesaler and watch retailer.
The jeweler has styled local and national celebrities with its pieces appearing on fashion expert Melissa Rivers, actress Yara Shahidi, and model Kourtney Kellar.
The Shaftel family is involved in nearly every aspect of the business.
Danny Shaftel, Keith’s son, serves as general manager and runs the business alongside his father.
Danny’s wife, Iris Shaftel, is the fashion consultant, and his daughter Leah Shaftel is the content manager. Gaby Shaftel, Keith’s daughter, is the bookkeeper and office manager.
For more information about Shaftel Diamonds, visit the company’s website.
The family-owned jeweler moved from the ground floor of The Jewelry Building, a communal space in Houston where jewelers set up shop, to its own space on nearby San Felipe Street.
The 3,500-square-foot space, which opened in December, features a private showing room, a cocktail and coffee lounge, and outdoor seating.
The showroom was designed to improve the overall customer experience, the company said in a press release about the opening.
Leah Shaftel, Gaby Shaftel, Danny Shaftel, and Keith Shaftel, alongside employees Meaghan Gorman and Elissa Solis. The Shaftel family fills many roles at the jeweler.
“Customers can create their start-to-finish looks by conceptualizing the design with the Shaftels, from picking the stone to manufacturing the piece—every aspect is done under the same roof,” said Shaftel Diamonds.
The jeweler specializes in engagement rings, diamonds, and colored gemstones.
Founder Keith Shaftel started the business in 1978 as a wholesale supplier of loose diamonds and colored gemstones. Its first showroom opened to the public in 2001.
Over the last 42 years, Shaftel Diamonds evolved into a custom jeweler, priding itself on one-of-a-kind inventory. It also operates as a jewelry wholesaler and watch retailer.
The jeweler has styled local and national celebrities with its pieces appearing on fashion expert Melissa Rivers, actress Yara Shahidi, and model Kourtney Kellar.
The Shaftel family is involved in nearly every aspect of the business.
Danny Shaftel, Keith’s son, serves as general manager and runs the business alongside his father.
Danny’s wife, Iris Shaftel, is the fashion consultant, and his daughter Leah Shaftel is the content manager. Gaby Shaftel, Keith’s daughter, is the bookkeeper and office manager.
For more information about Shaftel Diamonds, visit the company’s website.
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
More on Independents
The Latest
ColumnistsJan 20, 2026
First-Party Data Is the Most Valuable Asset Jewelers Have in 2026Data built on trust, not tracking, will be key to success going forward, as the era of “borrowed attention” ends, Emmanuel Raheb writes.
MajorsJan 20, 2026
Borsheims Hires New Assistant Facilities ManagerHeath Yarges brings two decades of experience to the role.
Brought to you by
How Jewelers Can Fight Back Against Cell JammersCriminals are using cell jammers to disable alarms, but new technology like JamAlert™ can stop them.
EditorsJan 16, 2026
Remembering Pete Yantzer for His Contributions and His Kindness Pete’s boundless curiosity extended beyond diamond cut and he was always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the topic.
Weekly QuizJan 15, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
FinancialsJan 16, 2026
Richemont’s Jewelry Brands Shine in Q3Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Buccellati, and Vhernier had another successful holiday season, Richemont reported this week.
TrendsJan 16, 2026
Diane Lane's Brooch Buzzes at the 2026 Golden GlobesOur Piece of the Week is Lagos’ “Bee” brooch that was seen on the red carpet for the first time on Sunday.
Brought to you by
Impacting Tomorrow TodayHow Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.
CrimeJan 15, 2026
D.C. Rapper ‘Taliban Glizzy’ Sentenced to 18+ Years for Jewelry Store RobberiesTrevor Jonathan Wright led a crew in a string of armed robberies targeting South Asian-owned jewelry stores on the East Coast.
Events & AwardsJan 15, 2026
Jewelers of Americas’ ‘20 Under 40’ Nominations Now OpenThe program recognizes rising professionals in the jewelry industry.
Events & AwardsJan 15, 2026
Registration for JCK Las Vegas 2026 Is Now OpenA new lifestyle section and a watch showcase have been added to this year’s event.
TrendsJan 15, 2026
Don’t Double-Dip With This Golden ChipAvocados From Mexico is celebrating those who love to double-dip in game day guacamole with a 14-karat yellow gold tortilla chip necklace.
SourcingJan 15, 2026
Nearly 42-Carat Blue Diamond Discovered in South AfricaPetra Diamonds unearthed the 41.82-carat, Type IIb blue diamond at the Cullinan Mine.
CollectionsJan 14, 2026
Marie Lichtenberg Lassos Leather for New BraceletsThe brand is trading its colorful fabric cords for Italian leather in its “Lasso” baby locket bracelets.
TechnologyJan 14, 2026
“My Next Question” Enters Its Podcast Era National Jeweler and Jewelers of America’s popular webinar series is evolving in 2026.
MajorsJan 14, 2026
Saks Files for Bankruptcy, Names New CEOThe department store chain owes millions to creditors like David Yurman, Roberto Coin, Kering, and LVMH.
CollectionsJan 14, 2026
Boucheron Names Colman Domingo as Brand AmbassadorThe award-winning actor’s visionary approach and creativity echo the spirit of Boucheron, the brand said.
ColumnistsJan 13, 2026
2025 Was a ‘Price Up, Units Down’ Year, Here’s What That Signals for 2026 In a market defined by more selective consumers, Sherry Smith shares why execution will be independent jewelers’ key to growth this year.
CrimeJan 13, 2026
Alleged Getaway Driver Charged in Florida Jewelry Store RobberyIvel Sanchez Rivera, 52, has been arrested and charged in connection with the armed robbery of Tio Jewelers in Cape Coral, Florida.
SourcingJan 13, 2026
Rio Grande To Offer Calibrated Diamond MeleeThe supplier’s online program allows customers to search and buy calibrated natural and lab-grown diamond melee, including in fancy shapes.
Events & AwardsJan 13, 2026
NYC Jewelry, Antique, & Object Show Announces Winter EventThe new show will take place Jan. 23-25, 2026.
PodcastsJan 12, 2026
Introducing My Next Question, the PodcastA monthly podcast series for jewelry professionals
EditorsJan 12, 2026
Platinum, White Gold Rule the 2026 Golden GlobesAssociate Editor Natalie Francisco highlights her favorite jewelry moments from the Golden Globes, and they are (mostly) white hot.
GradingJan 12, 2026
Peter Yantzer, Former Executive Director of AGS Labs, Dies at 77 Yantzer is remembered for the profound influence he had on diamond cut grading as well as his contagious smile and quick wit.
MajorsJan 12, 2026
These 14 Macy’s Locations Will Close This YearThe store closures are part of the retailer’s “Bold New Chapter” turnaround plan.
MajorsJan 12, 2026
Jewelers Mutual Acquires AI-Powered Event Insurance ProgramThrough EventGuard, the company will offer event liability and cancellation insurance, including wedding coverage.
MajorsJan 09, 2026
Kendra Scott Taps Activewear Exec as CEO Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
