I am a nationally recognized, DeBeers Diamonds Today Award Winning Jewelry Designer, Master Goldsmith, Gemologist and a Certified Gemologist Appraiser. I have been in this business for over 35 years starting out part time polishing and sizing rings in the back room of a Rochester jewelry store.  I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Jewelry Design and Metalsmithing from the Rochester Institute of Technology’s School for the American Crafts as well as attending the Rhode Island School of Design. I also have my Gemology Degree from the Gemological Institute of America and hold my certifications as a Registered Jeweler, Certified Gemologist and Certified Gemologist Appraiser with the American Gem Society.  In 1982, as a junior at RIT, I started my first company with a close friend from school – Richards and West. Today the firm is a highly regarded jewelry manufacturer providing services to designers, retailers, and major brands. However, my heart has always been at its best working with individuals, crafting for them something uniquely theirs for the milestones in their lives.  With that in mind, my wife Jody and I opened our current company West & Co. in 1991 in Webster, NY. Although we have always carried a diverse selection of jewelry in all price ranges our specialty has always been doing what I love best: crafting one-of-a-kind custom jewelry