NewHavenBIZ

8 n e w h a v e n B I Z | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 1 | n e w h a v e n b i z . c o m Marking 50 years, New Haven jeweler is top choice for global celebrities L ittle did master jeweler Derek Simpson know 50 years ago when he opened his store in downtown New Haven that he'd be asked to design something for Queen Elizabeth II. Just four years into opening Derek Simpson Goldsmith — a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind, handcraed pieces — Simpson was commissioned by the former, late mayor of New Haven, Frank Logue, to create a special gi for her majesty. e mayor's request came in 1976 to commem- orate the country's bicentennial, and the Queen's brief visit to the Elm City. Simpson himself was born and raised across the pond in Sheffield, a city in South Yorkshire, England. He honed his love of art at the Sheffield College of Arts & Cras By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich and earned a national design diploma from the School of Silversmithing. He received a postgraduate degree at e Royal College of Art in the School of Silversmithing and Jewelry in London. Aer graduation, Simpson moved to Paris, where he worked in the studio of American jeweler, Bert C. Gore. Simpson moved to the United States in the fall of 1970 to be closer to family. A year later, Simpson's dream of opening his own store came true. He found a small retail space in downtown New Haven at 155 Park St. On Jan. 1, 1971, Derek Simpson Goldsmith officially opened for business. Today, 50 years later, the three-employee business is still booming and marking its milestone anniversary. Simpson, who declined to disclose his company's annual revenue, is known for his handcraed pieces ranging from custom engagement rings to precious gemstone rings. When the call came to make some- thing for the Queen, Simpson was honored to oblige. "I created a pill box with the nine squares of New Haven with a green malachite center," Simpson said. "It was an honor to be selected to create the prestigious com- mission presented to Queen Elizabeth II so early in my career." e nine squares on the pill box depict a map of New Haven created by early settlers, with the center square representing the New Haven Green. Famous clients Over the last half-century, Simpson has created significant pieces for a who's who list of other famous clients. at includes making pieces for composer Leonard Bernstein and cuff links for architect Philip Johnson. Simpson also designed a pin for tennis player Chris Evert, a necklace for actress Olivia Newton-John and an earring for tennis star Andre Agassi. Simpson remains modest about being sought out by famous people, and attributes his longevity in the business to many facets. "e secrets are … having a good staff and being able to accommodate specific needs of our diverse clientele, and offering unique and interesting jewelry created with style and lon- gevity," Simpson said. "It also helps to always be honest and perform with integrity." Being situated in downtown New Haven for the past 50 years has also helped. Simpson moved from his original Park Street location to a larger storefront with more foot traffic in 1974 at e Yale Center for British Art. Simpson relocated to his current space at 1094 Chapel St. in 1994, where he along with his wife, Pamela and longtime manager Gene Dostie, continue to wow customers with dazzling designs. "We have survived the test of time by fo- cusing on our goal of providing the utmost quality and service to our clients," Simpson said. "We have become our client's source for celebrating the most special moments of their lives. I feel very fortunate to have served the Greater New Haven community for five decades." And New Haven is glad to have him. "Like Derek's jewelry, his business con- tinues to withstand the test of time," said Lauren Zucker, Yale University associate vice president for New Haven affairs and university properties. "We are honored to have served as his landlord for most of his 50 years in New Haven and celebrate this wonderful anniversary with him and his entire team." Some of the biggest changes Simpson has borne witness to since first opening shop is the shi to online shopping and social media creating international competition. He's also had to adjust his business amid the COVID-19 pandemic. e store is following CDC guidelines to ensure a safe visit, and is open from noon to 5 p.m. Mon- day through Saturday and by appointment for a private shopping experience. n (Left photo) Derek Simpson working on a piece of jewelry in his New Haven storefront, which includes several showcases with rings, necklaces and other pieces of jewelry. Simpson follows COVID-19 protocols, including wearing a mask. PHOTOS | KIM TYLER S m a l l B i z S p o t l i g h t Derek Simpson, Goldsmith Industry: Jewelry Location: 1094 Chapel St., New Haven Website: shopdereksimpsongoldsmith.com Phone: 203-787-2498 Derek Simpson's New Haven jewelry business has been around for a half-century and has made pieces for famous celebrities and dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II.

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