Specialties
Classic Contemporary and Custom fine jewelry and buckles by designer and graduate gemologist, Ellie Thompson, using precious metals, colorful, fine gemstones and diamonds. Ellie has won many awards for her innovative jewelry and buckle designs. Her customers love to visit her lovely shop and thoroughly enjoy the custom design process. This wonderful, collaborative opportunity allows customers to explore and have a truly unique piece of jewelry made just for them.
History
Established in 1991.
Ellie Thompson founded The Chicago Gem Lab, Inc. in 1991 specializing in gemological and appraisal services. In 1998 on a lark, Thompson entered a jewelry design competition sponsored by Platinum Guild International winning a 3rd place award in her category for a pair of earrings. Later that same year she won two prestigious AGTA Spectrum Awards. Other awards and accolades followed, launching her design career into the national spotlight. She sold the Lab in 1999 to pursue these opportunities, selling her unique jewelry to select stores nationwide and creating custom designed jewelry for her growing private clientele. From 2015-2019 Ellie Thompson + Co. traveled West to Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming launching her new belt buckle and jewelry collections. In October 2019, she opened her current retail store-front shop in Chicago's Roscoe Village. She is available during store hours and by appointment for custom commissions.
Meet the Business Owner: Ellie T.
An enthusiastic traveler, with an adventurous spirit, Ellie Thompson is influenced by worlds both natural and modern. Her diverse styles express both the linear, geometric world of her urban experience, while other collections highlight her love of nature. An avid mountain biker, skier, and adventurer she calls both Chicago and Montana home.
Thompson has won numerous awards for her innovative use of precious colored gemstones and metals. She earned the prestigious Spectrum Award three times and the American Vision Award twice and awards from World Gold Council and Platinum Guild International. In 2000, she was awarded First Prize in the American Jewelry Design Council's New Talent Competition, an award that launched her into the national spotlight.
In Chicago, Ms. Thompson is honored to have two necklaces featured in the Grainger Hall of Gems at The Field Museum. Out West, her buckles have been honored four times the C.M. Russell Museum Exhibit and Auction in Great Falls, Montana.