HISTORY AND HERITAGE
Our story starts in 1907, when Sam Kwiat turned his passion for diamonds into a craft. While much has changed over time, our strict criteria for cutting diamonds and creating the most beautiful diamond jewelry has always remained the same. Take a journey through our history to discover the legacy of Kwiat diamonds.
1907
Sam Kwiat founded what would become one of the most trusted family-owned houses of diamond jewelry design, with a shop on Canal Street—the original New York City diamond district.
Downtown Diamond District
1933
The family narrative continues as David, Sam’s son, enters the family business. His enthusiasm for diamonds leads to an exploration of mastering the perfect cut.
1950s-70s
As the reputation of Kwiat craftsmanship broadens, renown jewelers such as Harry Winston, Tiffany & Co. and Alexandre Reza view Kwiat as a go-to source to acquire the most brilliantly cut diamonds and diamond jewelry designs.
1955
Kwiat produces a catalog to showcase a collection of the largest and finest jewels – one the first of its kind within the diamond industry.
1957
Kwiat Star is first introduced. It features marquise stones, David’s favorite cut. Kwiat Star was reissued in 2002 as a collection and is now a Kwiat Signature.
1962
In a pioneering move, Kwiat relocates from its original New York City downtown location and becomes one of the first diamond jewelers on what is to become the 47th Street diamond district, today’s prominent international center for diamonds and diamond jewelry.
1965
David acquires one of the largest diamonds of this time period–a 126 carat rough diamond ultimately transformed into the famous 50 carat “Teardrop of Africa,” which he cut for Harry Winston.
1966-73
David’s sons, Sheldon and Lowell, follow in the footsteps of their father and grandfather and join the family business, pushing Kwiat into a new direction.
2006
A new era begins as Greg, Lowell’s son, is appointed as the CEO of Kwiat.
2007
Kwiat celebrates its 100-year anniversary of designing brilliant diamond jewelry.
2008
Kwiat opens up its first New York City flagship salon on Madison Avenue, featuring a collection of the finest diamond jewelry.
2009
Fred Leighton, the world’s premier curator of antique and vintage jewelry, is available for purchase. Kwiat moves to acquire the business in an effort to expand its selection of extraordinary gems.
2017
All three of Lowell’s sons – Greg, Russell and Cory – are now at the helm of Kwiat, continuing the family heritage of offering the largest and most brilliant diamond jewelry.
2018
Kwiat & Fred Leighton open combined flagship stores on Madison Avenue and at The Wynn Las Vegas, bringing two iconic brands under the same roof.
A CENTURY OF CRAFTSMANSHIP
Since the beginning, we have understood that there is nothing more brilliant than a beautifully cut diamond. It is why we cut our diamonds to the strictest standards, with an honesty and integrity that is unsurpassed.