Leddel’s Roots in Fine Jewelry: The Leddel Legacy

February 2, 2026

 

Leddel Designs began with a big leap of faith and deep family tradition in jewelry. Bart Leddel came from a family of jewelers in a small town near Los Angeles. Encouraged by his father to build something of his own, Bart decided to start an independent company rather than stay within the family operation.

He partnered with his brother-in-law Peter, and together they would begin laying the foundation for what would become Leddel Designs. In the early days, they divided the country with Bart taking the east and Peter would take the west and they would travel extensively. Visiting mom and pop jewelers across the country. The two of them would visit jewelers, build relationships, and introduce their designs face to face. Bart was the driving force behind the company’s creation, connecting with stores and shaping their vision of the brand.

Bart loved visiting companies to better get to know his clients. He would especially love to visit a company if they had a good golf course nearby. His love for golf helped him create relationships with his clients and to introduce his unique jewelry styles.

From the beginning, Bart wasn’t interested in what everyone else was wearing and making. He had a deep appreciation and love for unique designs and believed that jewelry should feel distinctive, not mass produced. While many manufacturers focused on following trends, Bart focused on creating pieces that stood apart and told their own story.

The love of jewelry that Bart had extended beyond his own company. He was a proud member of the Retail Jewelers Organization (RJO) for 54 years, a testament to his dedication, professionalism, and passion for the craft. Bart was able to share decades worth of experience to fellow jewelers as well as receive inspiration to from other RJO members. His long-standing membership reflects not just loyalty, but a lifetime of learning, mentoring, and contributing to the industry he loved. The following link is to an interview with Bart celebrating his time with RJO; Ep12 Barton Leddel 54 years of RJO Success! | Pearls of Wisdom.

What started as small, family driven venture quickly grew into a company built on trust, craftsmanship, and strong relationships within the jewelry industry.