Federal Way Custom Jewelers is celebrating their ‘platinum’ 70th anniversary and taking a moment to reflect on what has helped them consistently stand out among other jewelers in the area.
“When Sean and I took over the business three years ago, we knew we’d have to continue to evolve and explore new ways to meet the needs of our clients,” says co-owner Brandon Jenkins Moak. “One of the most notable ways we’ve achieved this is by continuing the education and skill-building for ourselves and our team.”
Before joining Sean Criss, son of past owner Rene Criss, in taking over FWCJ, Brandon was a graduate gemologist. In 2024, he was selected to join the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers, an elite ethics and professional organization serving the jewelry industry.
Sean is a GIA AJP (Accredited Jewelry Professional) currently in watchmaking school, working toward becoming a certified horologist. Thanks to their dedication to expanding both their personal skills and those of their team, the Independent Jewelers Organization recently awarded Federal Way Custom Jewelers the prestigious title of ‘Master Jewelers.’
“It’s a common misconception that every ‘jeweler’ in a jewelry shop is an expert, but unfortunately, that just isn’t the case,” Brandon says. “Sean, myself and our team have worked hard to ensure we remain a cut above and a trusted resource for professional advice and service when it comes to fine jewelry.”
With their experience, education and reputation built over seven decades of customer care, clients are confident that the appraisals received are fair and accurate, and the quality of gems and jewelry reflects what’s being advertised.
“Part of what we do at FWCJ is ensure our community knows they have a trusted resource right here in Federal Way that can help them make educated decisions. We also warranty all of our products and repairs and pride ourselves on providing a zero-pressure, education-focused experience for our clients,” Brandon says.
Honoring the past while celebrating the future
The FWCJ team has uniquely focused on both restoring sentimental heirloom jewelry and repurposing vintage pieces into custom creations, revitalizing family treasures into stunning modern pieces that will be cherished for generations.
“Restoring and repurposing vintage jewelry is an aspect of the business that we’ve been excited to see grow over the past three years,” Brandon says. “We provide complimentary consultations and appraisals to help clients make educated decisions on heirloom jewelry. Taking a sentimental piece of jewelry and turning it into something our clients want to wear is a process that takes a lot of time and consideration, but it’s also a process we genuinely enjoy.”
Follow Federal Way Custom Jewelers on Facebook for the latest updates on their 70th anniversary sales and promotions. Learn more at fwcj.com or visit them in person beside Trader Joe’s at 1810 S. 320th St. Suite B, Federal Way, WA.
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“Sean, myself and our team have worked hard to ensure we remain a cut above and a trusted resource for professional advice and service when it comes to fine jewelry,” says Federal Way Custom Jewelers co-owner Brandon Jenkins Moak.
