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OUR STORY

A legacy of artistry, an unexpected path, and the craftsmanship that ties it all together…

For over three decades, Deep River Jewelry has been a destination for fine jewelry and expert craftsmanship in Connecticut. Founded in 1993 by Russell and Lisa Cunningham, the showroom quickly became known for its signature blend of traditional goldsmith techniques and one-of-a-kind designs.

In 2022, the Cunninghams passed their legacy to master goldsmith Nolan Sponsler, entrusting him to carry their vision forward while bringing his own artistry to the next generation of Deep River Jewelry.

The Craftsman Behind the Jewels

Nolan Sponsler

Nolan Sponsler’s journey into jewelry was actually unexpected. A former D1 baseball player, Nolan found himself looking for a summer job at 21, and there just so happened to be an opening at the local jewelry shop.

This chance opportunity quickly evolved into a desire to continue mastering the craft, leading Nolan to formal training under the mentorship of industry greats like Jason Fava (Master Craftsman of Tiffany & Co.), Mark Farrell (Buffalo Craft Co.), and Mark Oros (Master Lapidary Artist), as well as attending classes at the renowned New Approach Jewelry School. Nolan honed his skills and mastered the intricate art of goldsmithing and lapidary design.

Today, Nolan brings over a decade of expertise to Deep River Jewelry, specializing in bespoke heirloom designs, custom engagement rings, and the curation of fine jewelry collections. His work blends modern innovation with the timeless techniques of traditional goldsmithing, creating pieces that tell stories as unique as the clients who wear them.

Together with his fiancée, Stefanie, who oversees client experience & business operations, Nolan has transformed Deep River Jewelry into a full-service luxury jewelry house. Their shared dedication ensures every client receives unparalleled artistry and a personalized, seamless experience.

What’s the Difference Between a Gem Cutter, Jewelry Designer & Goldsmith?

Most jewelers specialize in one thing: cutting stones, designing jewelry, or fabricating the piece. Nolan has spent the last decade learning to do all three.

In this video, Nolan breaks down the difference between a gem cutter, a jewelry designer, and a goldsmith, and why he is committed to mastering each of those roles.

Nolan’s Experience

Nolan Sponsler at Jewelry Bench

    • 10+ Years Goldsmithing

    • Micro Pavé Stone Setting

    • French Pavé Stone Setting

    • Advanced Stone Setting

    • Ornamental Hand Engraving

    • Flat Faceting

    • Concave Faceting

    • Fantasy Cutting

    • Mentored by Jason Fava (Master Craftsman at Tiffany & Co.)

    • Mark Farrell (Buffalo Craft Co), and

    • Mark Oros (lapidary arts)

    • Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum, Tucson, AZ

    • Somewhere Over the Rainbow Collection

    • Private Collection of Prince Ermais Sahle Selassie of Ethiopia

    • Private Collection of Lord Carnarvon of Highclere Castle, UK

FEATURED IN

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FEATURED IN 〰️

  • Nolan Sponsler Featured in AGTA Publication

    Discover how Nolan Sponsler took the helm of Deep River Jewelry Design in 2022, inheriting a 30-year legacy of craftsmanship from its beloved founders. Read more about his path to redefining bespoke jewelry.

    READ

  • 148 Ct. Congo Tourmaline Now Residing in Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum,

    A custom cut, hand-carved collaboration between Nolan Sponsler, Saph Brooks, Ryan Anderson, and Bryan Drummond.

  • Interview with Gemstones.com (JTV)

    In this interview with Rebecca of gemstones.com, Nolan walks through his unique cuts of sapphire, turquoise, tourmaline, and much more! Learn how Nolan became a lapidary, what advice he has to share, and how he designs these one-of-a-kind gemstone masterpieces.

    WATCH NOW

  • Featured in AGTA Spectrum Award Winning Ring by Raintree

    Rubellite Tourmaline cut by Nolan Sponsler featured in this stunning masterpiece by Raintree that took home First Place Evening Wear at AGTA Spectrum Awards.

    VIEW

  • Nolan Sponsler & Deep River Jewelry Featured in Ink Magazine

    Explore the story of Deep River Jewelry—how Nolan transitioned from playing D1 baseball to discovering his passion for jewelry at 21, and the journey to mastery that followed.

    READ HERE

  • NOLAN by Nolan Sponsler Featured in Tatler Magazine

    NOLAN by Nolan Sponsler is feeatured in Tatler Magazine’s Spring Jewellery Edit! The April 2025 edition is now live—grab your copy in stores worldwide or digitally at tatler.com.

    This Condé Nast UK publication is the go-to for fashion, lifestyle, and high society. In this issue, we debut Nolan’s latest masterpiece, Solis Rosea.

  • NOLAN by Nolan Sponsler Featured in Tatler Magazine

    NOLAN by Nolan Sponsler is feeatured in Tatler Magazine’s Spring Jewellery Edit! The May 2025 edition is now live—grab your copy in stores worldwide or digitally at tatler.com.

    This Condé Nast UK publication is the go-to for fashion, lifestyle, and high society. In this issue, we debut Nolan’s latest masterpiece, Akanthos.

  • NOLAN by Nolan Sponsler Featured in Tatler Magazine

    NOLAN by Nolan Sponsler is feeatured in Tatler Magazine’s Spring Jewellery Edit! The June 2025 edition is now live—grab your copy in stores worldwide or digitally at tatler.com.

    This Condé Nast UK publication is the go-to for fashion, lifestyle, and high society. In this issue, we debut Nolan’s latest masterpiece, a Madagascar Pink Sapphire Ring.

    Click Here

TESTIMONIALS

What Clients Are Saying

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What Clients Are Saying •

  • "A young and highly talented crew has taken the reigns at Deep River Jewelry Design, and I stopped in to see what’s what. This is NOT your average jewelry store!”

    Erica, the E-List

  • "Deep River Jewelry is an awesome hidden gem. The craftsmanship, design & customer service exceeds anything you could expect in a larger store. Well worth the drive.”

    Roger Palmer

  • "Nolan truly made all of my dreams come true for my engagement ring. I had such a positive experience dealing with them I would recommend them to absolutely anyone! I cannot wait for my fiancé and I to get to pick out or custom design our wedding bands from these guys! I trust them very much and they do impeccable work.”

    Madison Heidkamp

  • "Nolan was extremely helpful and thorough about every detail I asked for. He did an amazing amazing job making a custom engagement for my fiancée. Extremely talented I highly recommend going to him for custom jewelry inquiries. 11/10 above and beyond 🙏🏼💍"

    Malone Wright

  • "I cannot begin to tell you how amazing Deep River Design is! I didn't realize there was new ownership, but I have to say that they were amazing to work with, accommodating, and their craftsmanship is second to none. If you're in the market for jewelry, especially a custom piece, you owe it to yourself to visit Deep River Design!"

    Brian Albert

Passing On The Torch

Russel Cunningham and Lisa Cunningham Previous Owners of Deep River Jewelry

Russel & Lisa Cunningham

Previous Owners & Founders of Deep River Jewelry Design in 1993.

Now happily enjoying their retirement in Narraganset, RI :)

Take the next step to design your future heirloom…