Meet The Owner: John Sunderland

In the world of fine jewelry, few stories are as compelling as that of James & Sons Fine Jewelers. At the heart of this success story is John Sunderland, whose life and career embody the values and spirit of the family business. John's journey from a child immersed in his family's side hustle to the proud owner of Chicagoland’s largest family-owned jeweler is a testament to dedication, passion, and resilience.

A Legacy in the Making

John Sunderland’s story begins in the early 1960s, when his father, Jim Sr., decided to pursue a side hustle selling jewelry and rare coins at weekend shows. What started as a modest endeavor to support his young family soon became a promising venture. When Jim Sr.'s job as a general manager at Steinburg Baum unexpectedly ended, he and his wife took a bold leap of faith. They opened the first James & Sons store in 1964, with John’s siblings all under seven years old and John himself on the way.

A Passion Ignited Early

Growing up in the world of James & Sons, John was immersed in the business from a young age. Working at the store on weekends, he witnessed firsthand the dedication and charisma of his father. Jim Sr.’s ability to connect with clients and his showmanship left a lasting impression on John. It was clear early on that John was destined to follow in his father’s footsteps. The jewelry business was not just a family affair; it was John’s passion.

As a child, John was captivated by the intricate beauty of jewelry and the satisfaction of making clients happy. He spent weekends working at the store, learning the craft and understanding the nuances of the business. This early exposure solidified his decision to become a jeweler. For John, there was never a serious consideration of pursuing any other career.

A Career Built on Family Values

John Sunderland’s formal career in the jewelry industry began in earnest after he completed his education. Stepping into the family business full-time, John brought with him a deep understanding of the industry and a commitment to maintaining the high standards set by his father. His approach to the business was shaped by the values instilled in him from an early age: a focus on exceptional customer service, a passion for craftsmanship, and a dedication to building long-term relationships with clients.  

John’s career trajectory saw him gradually take on more responsibility within the business. He worked alongside his father, learning the intricacies of jewelry design, repair, and sales. His role quickly expanded as he began to manage key aspects of the business, from inventory management to customer relations. John’s innate ability to connect with clients and his innovative approach to the business helped James & Sons navigate the evolving market and thrive in a competitive industry.

One of John’s significant achievements was the expansion of James & Sons beyond its original location. Under his leadership, the business grew to include four locations across Chicagoland: Chicago, Naperville, Orland Park, and Schererville. This expansion not only increased the company’s reach but also solidified its reputation as a leading family-owned jeweler in the region.

Leading with Legacy

Today, John Sunderland is at the helm of James & Sons, under John's leadership, the company has remained true to its roots while evolving to meet the needs of a new generation of clients.

John’s passion for the business is palpable. He reflects on how his father’s showmanship and customer-centric approach continue to inspire his work. This dedication to creating memorable experiences for clients is evident in the relationships they build and the trust they earn. One particularly memorable moment for John was in 2013 when Julie and Brad Roseberry, long-time clients, returned with their daughter and her boyfriend for an engagement ring. This gesture of trust and continuity was a powerful reminder of the impact James & Sons has on people’s lives.

Embracing the Future

John is deeply proud of the company’s heritage but is also focused on the future. He emphasizes the importance of continually improving and elevating the customer experience at James & Sons. The core values established by his father are still very much alive, guiding the business as it adapts to changing times and expanding its reach.

John’s commitment to excellence is further exemplified by the involvement of the next generation. His daughter, Katie, and Jim’s son, Jimmy, are now part of the business, carrying forward the family legacy. Their involvement ensures that the values and passion of James & Sons will continue to thrive.

A Legacy of Gratitude

John Sunderland’s journey is a powerful example of how passion, hard work, and dedication can transform a family’s side hustle into a legacy. His story is not just about the success of James & Sons but also about the enduring values of family, trust, and commitment. As John looks to the future, he remains grateful for the risks taken by his parents and the opportunities they created. For John, James & Sons is more than a business—it’s a living legacy of love, dedication, and a shared passion for fine jewelry.