Meet Cheryl Lombard

My career in jewelry started as a twist of fate.  I needed a job, and I answered an ad in the newspaper that was placed by a company looking for someone with artistic talent.  The company was Loren Manufacturing, located in Hollywood, Florida, and the year was 1976.  This jewelry manufacturing company produced master models, molds and finished jewelry on a large scale, and sold their goods to companies all over the world.

In short order, it was decided that I had possibilities as a model maker, and they placed me next to a master wax model maker, and she became my teacher, and a life-long friend.  During my apprenticeship, I was taught all aspects of creating technically accurate wax models, and always striving for perfection.  That striving for perfection has become ingrained in just about every aspect of my life, and I will always have a special place in my heart for the management at Loren, and the gift they bestowed upon me.

Eventually I left Loren, and with my husband, opened a jewelry store.  We catered mostly to custom jewelry, and the business flourished, but eventually we had to close the store, as there was just too much togetherness.  I started freelancing, and as I had 3 young sons, this was a beautiful set-up for me to be home, yet still bring in an income.

This period of time found me giving demonstrations for special clubs devoted to jewelry.  This led to me giving some workshops at a couple of local colleges in the Miami area.  I still teach, but instead of a group setting, it’s now one-on-one, and it definitely has more advantages for the pupil.

In 1995, I went to work for Mayers of Hollywood as a wax model maker.  This jewelry manufacturing company produced expensive, fine jewelry.  I stayed with Mayers for several years before accepting a job offer in the panhandle of Florida.

In 1998, I went to work for Bere´ Jewelers, which had two locations in Florida; one in Pensacola, and one in Gulf Breeze.  It was my job to take care of all the custom design work for both stores.  I worked there for 8 years, until the untimely death of one of the partners brought about changes in the company, and I was compelled to leave.

In 2006, I left the panhandle and moved to Gainesville, Florida, to live with my mother.  It was here that I started my company, Cheryl Lombard Designs, and it’s where I am today.

Answering that ad so many years ago started me on an artistic journey that has been extremely rewarding in ways I never could have dreamed possible.  I am able to make a living doing what I love; passionately embracing my art, and continually growing emotionally and spiritually.