My career in jewelry began in 1976, working for Loren Manufacturing Company, located in Hollywood, Florida. They produced master models and finished jewelry
on a large scale, and sold to companies all over the world.
It was at Loren that I became an apprentice to a master wax modelmaker. I was taught all aspects of creating technically accurate wax models. The models were used for mass production.
A few years later I left there with my husband, whom I met at Loren, and we started our own small company, Jewel-Craft, Inc. We lived and worked in Miramar, Fl. Our retail store catered mostly to custom jewelry.
After a few years we decided to close our store. I stayed home with my 3 boys and started freelancing from home. It was a good situation for my family to have me home, overseeing the domestic end of things, and still have the ability to earn some money.
I started getting steady work from small jewelry stores, and manufacturing companies. I found the work to be rewarding on several levels. For one, I was able to express myself through my artistry, and for another, I was getting paid to do it – at home – right where I wanted to be.
This period of time found me getting asked to do some wax demonstrations for special clubs devoted to jewelry. It was so successful that I was asked to give some workshops at some of the local colleges in the area. Teaching was a rewarding experience for me, and this experience validated that I would have done well in that career choice, had I pursued that path.
In 1995, I went to work for Mayers of Hollywood. This manufacturing company produced expensive, fine jewelry. I only stayed a few short years with this company.
In 1998, I was hired by Bere´ Jewelers to be their designer and wax person. They had two locations, and my job was to do all the custom work for both stores. One of the partners I worked for had been collecting gemstones for years, and had many ideas he wanted brought to life. We collaborated, and brought his visions to fruition. I worked there for about 8 years. After his untimely death at age 50, I left the company and moved to Gainesville, Fl., where I am today.
I went on to start my own business, Cheryl Lombard Designs, in August of 2005. I have found this venture to be challenging and fulfilling. I love working with business owners in creating special pieces for their clientele. I am truly blessed to be where I am right now, doing what I love. I’ll never take these blessing for granted. I have a wonderful network of family and close friends, a job I love, and good health. Who could ask for more?
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