Our History

2nd Generation Jeweler

Carl Blackburn is a 2nd generation fine jeweler. His father Charles started the business in 1975 as an estate buyer and antique dealer in Santa Cruz, California. He and his wife Consuelo raised three boys (Julio, Carl, and Fletcher), all of whom joined the family business and later became successful fine jewelers themselves.

Carl worked with his father from 1992-2002 as an estate jewelry sales representative, visiting fine jewelry stores and art galleries throughout the United States, and gaining hands-on experience selling and buying vintage and antique jewelry from important jewelry making periods, such as Art Deco, Edwardian, Belle Époque, and Victorian.

Carl Blackburn

Estate Jeweler & Designer

Carl Blackburn introduced his first handcrafted line to jewelry stores in the US in 1995 — a silver and gold collection he created in Bali, Indonesia. Since then, he has launched several fine jewelry lines and made countless one of a kind pieces for jewelry stores and the trade. Carl is also a Graduate of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Jewelry Design Program, Carlsbad USA Campus.

Carl moved to San Diego in 2010 to raise a family. He took a break from fine jewelry design to establish himself as one of the county’s most prominent buyers of previously-owned diamond jewelry, antique jewelry, and luxury watches, including large carat diamond engagement rings and vintage Rolex watches. He now owns and operates C. Blackburn Jewelers of La Jolla, a small boutique estate jewelry store where he works closely and personally with every client.