At Alloy, the work we do is more than just creating beautiful jewelry; it's about nurturing a legacy that has deep roots right here in the Cedar Valley. For me, the foundation of this passion was laid by my grandfather, Bob Deyo, back in 1935 in Waterloo, Iowa.
He established Deyo and Company within the Black Hawk Building, and under the brand name **DayStar**, his manufacturing business became a trusted source of quality jewelry for countless independent jewelers throughout the Midwest. Growing up, I heard stories and saw firsthand the impact of his dedication to quality. Even now, it's a special experience when someone comes into our shop with a DayStar piece, the logo inside the shank a testament to the enduring craftsmanship he instilled.
My childhood was filled with an appreciation for the artistry and precision of jewelry creation. This heritage, combined with my own drive to innovate and utilize modern technology, shaped my vision for Alloy Custom Jewelers. I recognized the timeless value of skilled hands while also understanding the incredible potential of tools like CAD and 3D printing to bring truly unique custom pieces to life.
And now, I'm incredibly proud to see the passion for this craft continue into the next generation. My son, Sam, is poised to carry this legacy forward, not as the fourth generation in a traditional sense, but as someone who will infuse our heritage with new skills and perspectives. He's preparing to attend the prestigious New Approach School, an institution renowned for its innovative and comprehensive approach to jewelry design and fabrication. This education will equip him with cutting-edge techniques and a fresh perspective, allowing him to build upon the strong foundation our family has established.
Like many in the industry, I witnessed the significant shift in jewelry manufacturing during the late 1970s and early 1980s, as much production moved overseas. However, the principles of in-house quality and direct relationships with those we serve – values that were central to my grandfather and my father – remain at the very core of Alloy Custom Jewelers' philosophy, and these are values Sam deeply understands and embraces.
Today, our team blends these innovative technologies with the time-honored skills of our artisans. This allows us to create bespoke jewelry that reflects the individual stories and desires of our clients, all while upholding the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship that have been a hallmark of our family's tradition in the Cedar Valley since 1935. With Sam's upcoming education, we're excited to integrate even more advanced techniques and design philosophies into our work.