Our Craft, Your Story

Where craftsmanship meets meaning

Since 2005, Premier Gems has specialized in custom jewellery design, appraisals, and restorations. We believe jewellery should be more than beautiful — it should carry meaning. Each piece we create is a reflection of the person who wears it.

Jeff Nechka

Jeff Nechka

Company Founder

Jeff’s passion for gemstones began with a lifelong fascination for rocks, minerals, and fine art. What started as curiosity evolved into a career that has taken him around the world, studying, polishing, and designing with some of the most exquisite gems found in nature.

At just seventeen, Jeff began apprenticing in coloured gemstone faceting, and by twenty-four he was polishing diamonds. He earned his Graduate Diamonds designation from the Gemological Institute of America (G.I.A.) in Carlsbad, USA, and completed his Graduate Gemologist training in Bangkok, Thailand.

With over 20 years of experience in gemstone and diamond polishing and more than 14 years working in Mokume Gane, Jeff approaches every piece with a commitment to precision, balance, and artistry. His design philosophy centers on showcasing the natural beauty of each gem, creating settings that enhance rather than distract from the stone itself.

As a member of the American Gem Trade Association and the G.I.A. Alumni Association, Jeff upholds the highest standards of ethics and craftsmanship. He works closely with clients to bring their vision to life, offering expertise, integrity, and creativity in every collaboration.

Erin Crossman

Erin Crossman

Lead Designer & Gemologist (in training)

A native Calgarian with a boundless imagination and a lifelong passion for the arts, Erin brings creativity, precision, and heart to every design she creates. Her love for drawing and design began at a young age and has continued to evolve through years of artistic exploration and professional experience.

After graduating from the Jewellery & Metals Program at AU Arts, formally known as The Alberta College of Art and Design in 2008, Erin began her career at Birks, where she honed her technical expertise in service and repairs and later advanced to the role of Service Manager. In 2016, she joined Premier Gems Ltd., where her artistry and attention to detail quickly established her as a cornerstone of the design team.

Now Lead Designer and a gemologist in training with the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Erin combines her formal training with an intuitive design sense to craft pieces that are as meaningful as they are beautiful. Whether reimagining a cherished heirloom or creating something entirely new, her goal is always to tell a story through fine craftsmanship and personal connection with her clients.

Why Premier Gems?

Excellence in every detail

Calgary-Based Studio

Independent, local expertise with personalized service you can trust

GIA-Certified Expertise

Professional gemology knowledge ensuring quality and authenticity

Custom-Focused

Bespoke creations tailored to your vision, not mass-produced pieces

Full-Service

Complete jewellery services: design, repair, appraisal, and maintenance

Personal Attention

Appointment-based consultations for dedicated, one-on-one service