OUR STORY
ABOUT J.R. DUNN JEWELERS
James Robert Dunn started his career in 1967 as a sales representative for IBM. During a sales call to a jewelry company in Malden, MA, Jim picked up a magazine about the jewelry business and became intrigued. When his schedule allowed, Jim took correspondence courses in gemology, and went to New York to learn about diamonds and colored stones. “I bought a little microscope and I was playing scientist at home,” he said.
While at IBM, Jim met his future wife, Ann Marie Pelliccia, who was working as an executive secretary. Like Jim, she was driven by an entrepreneurial spirit. She was 10 years old when her family immigrated to this country from Italy. It didn’t take long for Ann Marie to master the English language and become the interpreter for her father’s cabinet-making business. She went to work every day after school with her father from age 11 until she graduated high school. Soon after, she joined the team at IBM. “It was IBM that helped us forge our philosophies about customer service and business ethics,” said Ann Marie.
The couple married in 1969 and together decided to take a chance by starting a jewelry business. With their savings of $10,000, the couple purchased a small house in Hanover, MA, converted it into their first jewelry store, The House of Gems.
While at IBM, Jim met his future wife, Ann Marie Pelliccia, who was working as an executive secretary. Like Jim, she was driven by an entrepreneurial spirit. She was 10 years old when her family immigrated to this country from Italy. It didn’t take long for Ann Marie to master the English language and become the interpreter for her father’s cabinet-making business. She went to work every day after school with her father from age 11 until she graduated high school. Soon after, she joined the team at IBM. “It was IBM that helped us forge our philosophies about customer service and business ethics,” said Ann Marie.
The couple married in 1969 and together decided to take a chance by starting a jewelry business. With their savings of $10,000, the couple purchased a small house in Hanover, MA, converted it into their first jewelry store, The House of Gems.
Making Good on Promises
During the first year, their store was burglarized and every piece of jewelry was taken, including customers’ repairs. To make matters worse, the Dunns were in between insurance policies. The couple went from door to door informing and reassuring each client that their prized possessions would be replaced. Ann Marie and Jim paid for the stolen jewelry out of their own pockets to preserve their reputation of integrity and trust.
Word spread when the couple made good on their promise, and business began to grow by leaps and bounds. The House of Gems soon outgrew its tiny location. Jim and Ann Marie relocated the store to a nearby mall in South Weymouth, MA and changed the name to J.R. Dunn Jewelers, emphasizing the importance of the family-owned and operated business.
In 1978 the couple relocated to South Florida and opened a small jewelry boutique, serving a select clientele by appointment only. This is when the Dunns were fortunate enough to have 18-year-0ld Robert Pelliccia, Ann Marie’s brother, come on board at the age of 18 and eventually start creating one-of-a-kind custom creations for their discerning clients. It didn’t take long for J.R. Dunn Jewelers to outgrow its location once again; that brought about the monumental decision to purchase a 6,000 square-foot building on Federal Highway in Lighthouse Point, Florida.
Word spread when the couple made good on their promise, and business began to grow by leaps and bounds. The House of Gems soon outgrew its tiny location. Jim and Ann Marie relocated the store to a nearby mall in South Weymouth, MA and changed the name to J.R. Dunn Jewelers, emphasizing the importance of the family-owned and operated business.
In 1978 the couple relocated to South Florida and opened a small jewelry boutique, serving a select clientele by appointment only. This is when the Dunns were fortunate enough to have 18-year-0ld Robert Pelliccia, Ann Marie’s brother, come on board at the age of 18 and eventually start creating one-of-a-kind custom creations for their discerning clients. It didn’t take long for J.R. Dunn Jewelers to outgrow its location once again; that brought about the monumental decision to purchase a 6,000 square-foot building on Federal Highway in Lighthouse Point, Florida.
J.R. DUNN Today
Today, J.R. Dunn Jewelers has expanded to 8,000-square-feet showroom in Lighthouse Point and is an authorized Rolex retailer conveniently located between Boca Raton and Ft. Lauderdale and just under an hour from Miami. Jim, Ann Marie and their son, Sean, run the business together. Sean earned his undergraduate degree in business management from the University of Florida and his gemological degree from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Jim credits Sean with much of the technological advancement achieved at the store, including the creation of the company’s e-commerce website, JRDunn.com, nearly 10 years ago. Fortunately, the faith Jim and Ann Marie placed in Sean has paid off, and JRDunn.com now serves clients in more than 20 countries.
“My father always told me I could be whatever I wanted. He has given me latitude to try new things and the confidence to take steps forward.” said Sean. “One of the things I most respect about my father is that he has no fear of taking risks. He’s not afraid to try new things. If it doesn’t work, it’s not going to devastate him. Tomorrow he’ll wake up with another great idea and go for it.”
In addition to being a close knit family that supports one another, the Dunns have forged many great relationships; with their employees, clients and the local community. “If you’re in business and the people in the community are supporting you, then you should go back and support the community,” said Jim. The Dunns credit these relationships for having allowed J.R. Dunn Jewelers to persevere and thrive -- even in tough times.
“My father always told me I could be whatever I wanted. He has given me latitude to try new things and the confidence to take steps forward.” said Sean. “One of the things I most respect about my father is that he has no fear of taking risks. He’s not afraid to try new things. If it doesn’t work, it’s not going to devastate him. Tomorrow he’ll wake up with another great idea and go for it.”
In addition to being a close knit family that supports one another, the Dunns have forged many great relationships; with their employees, clients and the local community. “If you’re in business and the people in the community are supporting you, then you should go back and support the community,” said Jim. The Dunns credit these relationships for having allowed J.R. Dunn Jewelers to persevere and thrive -- even in tough times.
Giving Back
In 2007, the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship at Nova Southeastern University inducted Jim Dunn into its Entrepreneur Hall of Fame. Jim Dunn's honor came as a complete surprise, even though he was honored with the Sun-Sentinel's Excalibur Award for "Small Business Leader" in 2002. Jim is actively involved in numerous charitable organizations and dedicates significant time to the Boys' and Girls' Club of Broward County. In 1996, he organized "Dunn's Run" and over the past 24 years has raised over $2.5 million for the organization.
In 2015, J.R. Dunn Jewelers began a partnership with the Humane Society of Broward County called "Diamond in the Ruff" in an effort to help animals find their furever homes more quickly. Every week since then, J.R. Dunn sponsors the adoption fee for a chosen animal who has not yet been adopted – naming them a diamond. The average pet waited approximately 65 days before being named a Diamond. Once they were promoted, they waited an average of only 10-14 days longer before finding their furever home. Since the program started, over 150 animals have been adopted with the program.
In 2015, J.R. Dunn Jewelers began a partnership with the Humane Society of Broward County called "Diamond in the Ruff" in an effort to help animals find their furever homes more quickly. Every week since then, J.R. Dunn sponsors the adoption fee for a chosen animal who has not yet been adopted – naming them a diamond. The average pet waited approximately 65 days before being named a Diamond. Once they were promoted, they waited an average of only 10-14 days longer before finding their furever home. Since the program started, over 150 animals have been adopted with the program.
An Enduring Legacy
In 2019, J.R. Dunn was extremely proud to celebrate their golden 50th Anniversary. Each and every client who walks through our doors or shops with us on JRDUNN.COM has become undoubtedly an extended part of our family and we look forward to many more years together!
In addition, to being a close-knit family that supports one another, the Dunn’s have forged many great relationships with their employees, clients, and in the community. “If you’re in business, and the people in the community are supporting you, then you should go back and support the community,” said Jim. The Dunn’s credit these relationships for having allowed J.R. Dunn Jewelers to persevere and thrive, even in tough times.
In 2021, Jim Dunn, Co-Founder of J.R. Dunn Jewelers, passed away leaving behind a legacy and impact on friends, family, and the community that cannot be forgotten. Today, Ann Marie and Sean carry on the business with a mission to forge ahead in accomplishing the exciting Projects that lay ahead which Jim was so passionate for, including a state-of-the-art complete re-design of J.R. Dunn Jewelers coming in 2025.
On any given day you are likely to find multiple family members on the premises at J.R. Dunn Jewelers. Even Ann Marie’s mother, Fernanda, might be the one who greets you at the door. Every guest entering the store today is treated with the same standards of excellence and friendly service established many years ago in that tiny house in Massachusetts. It is truly a family affair.
In addition, to being a close-knit family that supports one another, the Dunn’s have forged many great relationships with their employees, clients, and in the community. “If you’re in business, and the people in the community are supporting you, then you should go back and support the community,” said Jim. The Dunn’s credit these relationships for having allowed J.R. Dunn Jewelers to persevere and thrive, even in tough times.
In 2021, Jim Dunn, Co-Founder of J.R. Dunn Jewelers, passed away leaving behind a legacy and impact on friends, family, and the community that cannot be forgotten. Today, Ann Marie and Sean carry on the business with a mission to forge ahead in accomplishing the exciting Projects that lay ahead which Jim was so passionate for, including a state-of-the-art complete re-design of J.R. Dunn Jewelers coming in 2025.
On any given day you are likely to find multiple family members on the premises at J.R. Dunn Jewelers. Even Ann Marie’s mother, Fernanda, might be the one who greets you at the door. Every guest entering the store today is treated with the same standards of excellence and friendly service established many years ago in that tiny house in Massachusetts. It is truly a family affair.
Ann Marie, Always Steady
In the early days following Jim’s passing, Ann Marie’s presence was everything. She anchored the business with quiet strength, showed up for the team, and refused to let the wheels stop turning—even as Sean took time to grieve and gather himself after the loss.
“We were the three musketeers,” she said. “And suddenly, it was just me. Our clients still needed to see a Dunn in the store.” So she showed up—every single day.
She negotiated with vendors, kept the team spirit alive, and led with the same instincts and elegance that shaped the company from day one. She traveled to every show, seeking out the most unique pieces she could find—those that spoke to her heart and carried something special. “I didn’t want J.R. Dunn to feel like just another jewelry store,” she said. “If a piece touched me, I knew it was coming home with me.” Those two years became some of the most successful in the company’s history. Under her leadership, J.R. Dunn not only stayed steady—it grew. “Jim gave me a kick in the butt from above,” she said with a smile. “And I kept it going.”
She negotiated with vendors, kept the team spirit alive, and led with the same instincts and elegance that shaped the company from day one. She traveled to every show, seeking out the most unique pieces she could find—those that spoke to her heart and carried something special. “I didn’t want J.R. Dunn to feel like just another jewelry store,” she said. “If a piece touched me, I knew it was coming home with me.” Those two years became some of the most successful in the company’s history. Under her leadership, J.R. Dunn not only stayed steady—it grew. “Jim gave me a kick in the butt from above,” she said with a smile. “And I kept it going.”
Sean Steps Forward
As Ann Marie led the store with unwavering grace, Sean took time to come to terms with Jim’s loss. He hadn’t planned to step into this role yet, and the idea of leading the company—especially through a buildout this size—was overwhelming.
But something shifted in him. Maybe it was the fear of letting everything his parents built slip away. Maybe it was duty. Whatever it was, Sean got up. He got focused. He made hard personal changes, put down the Scotch, prioritized his health, and went ALL IN on the business.
The driving force was simple: he didn’t want to fail—not for the company, but for Jim, for Ann Marie, and for the people who had helped build J.R. Dunn into what it was.
He stepped in fully, leading the team through the next phase of construction. He brought in his wife, Viviana, to guide the design aesthetic—a move that brought a fresh, elegant vision to the space while preserving the warmth that’s always defined J.R. Dunn. Together, they blended timeless beauty with modern sophistication. And he didn’t do it alone. With Viviana by his side, and his childhood best friend, Mike Janoura, helping him navigate the construction process, he brought Jim and Ann Marie’s dream to life
He stepped in fully, leading the team through the next phase of construction. He brought in his wife, Viviana, to guide the design aesthetic—a move that brought a fresh, elegant vision to the space while preserving the warmth that’s always defined J.R. Dunn. Together, they blended timeless beauty with modern sophistication. And he didn’t do it alone. With Viviana by his side, and his childhood best friend, Mike Janoura, helping him navigate the construction process, he brought Jim and Ann Marie’s dream to life
Opening Our Dream
As we open the doors to our new showroom, it’s truly more than just a new space—it’s the realization of a dream that began decades ago. With deep gratitude and love, Sean dedicated the showroom to his parents, Jim and Ann Marie Dunn, the co-founders of J.R. Dunn Jewelers. Every detail within its walls reflects their values, their vision, and the enduring legacy of family, community, and heart they built together.
At over 14,000 square feet, it makes J.R. Dunn the largest independent jewelry store in South Florida. But it’s not about the size. It’s about what this space represents.
We welcome you to a new Rolex experience with two private viewing rooms and a full-glass window into our on-site watch studio, where Kamal Peters—our Level 60 Rolex Certified Watchmaker—works with quiet precision. While watchmaking has always been part of who we are, this is the first time we’ve brought it into view for our clients. It’s a long-held dream come to life.
The showroom opens into curated spaces, including a new TUDOR boutique and the Breitling boutique, complete with a full Breitling Bar. Just steps away, the bridal area is bathed in natural light, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows. It was Sean’s non-negotiable. “Diamonds deserve natural light,” he said. And he was right.
At over 14,000 square feet, it makes J.R. Dunn the largest independent jewelry store in South Florida. But it’s not about the size. It’s about what this space represents.
We welcome you to a new Rolex experience with two private viewing rooms and a full-glass window into our on-site watch studio, where Kamal Peters—our Level 60 Rolex Certified Watchmaker—works with quiet precision. While watchmaking has always been part of who we are, this is the first time we’ve brought it into view for our clients. It’s a long-held dream come to life.
The showroom opens into curated spaces, including a new TUDOR boutique and the Breitling boutique, complete with a full Breitling Bar. Just steps away, the bridal area is bathed in natural light, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows. It was Sean’s non-negotiable. “Diamonds deserve natural light,” he said. And he was right.
A Journey Through Time
Just beyond the watch boutique area, in a beautifully appointed private setting, is one of the most meaningful spaces in our new showroom—the Heritage Lounge. This is where the story of J.R. Dunn will unfold in quiet, thoughtful detail. Many of the treasures inside come from Jim and Ann Marie’s journey together—each chosen for the story it tells and the legacy it carries.
Among them are an intricate antique brass scale and a black lacquer and mother-of-pearl inlaid jewelry box from the early 1800s, two remarkable finds from their years of collecting together. During their annual autumn trips to Vermont and Maine to watch the leaves change, they often wandered through antique shops, drawn to objects full of history and heart. They curated a coveted collection of Limoges and Majolica, and one of Ann Marie’s most delicate favorites—a series of hand-painted French ivory fans, cherished for their elegance, craftsmanship, and quiet romance.
You may also come across a vintage photo of two young kids in love that Jim and Ann Marie discovered together in a small shop—because it reminded them of themselves, just two kids in love. Nearby, a Baccarat decanter and glass set holds space for Jim’s favorite scotch, reserved for toasting life’s most meaningful moments.
These finds weren’t just about collecting—they reflected the same discerning eye Ann Marie brings to jewelry. Whether sourcing antique heirlooms or selecting modern pieces for the store, she’s always been guided by beauty, emotion, and meaning. The Heritage Lounge captures that spirit—a space where the love of rare treasures, both personal and wearable, quietly shines.
Among them are an intricate antique brass scale and a black lacquer and mother-of-pearl inlaid jewelry box from the early 1800s, two remarkable finds from their years of collecting together. During their annual autumn trips to Vermont and Maine to watch the leaves change, they often wandered through antique shops, drawn to objects full of history and heart. They curated a coveted collection of Limoges and Majolica, and one of Ann Marie’s most delicate favorites—a series of hand-painted French ivory fans, cherished for their elegance, craftsmanship, and quiet romance.
You may also come across a vintage photo of two young kids in love that Jim and Ann Marie discovered together in a small shop—because it reminded them of themselves, just two kids in love. Nearby, a Baccarat decanter and glass set holds space for Jim’s favorite scotch, reserved for toasting life’s most meaningful moments.
These finds weren’t just about collecting—they reflected the same discerning eye Ann Marie brings to jewelry. Whether sourcing antique heirlooms or selecting modern pieces for the store, she’s always been guided by beauty, emotion, and meaning. The Heritage Lounge captures that spirit—a space where the love of rare treasures, both personal and wearable, quietly shines.
When Things Break, You Keep Building
Just days before our soft opening, a truck drove through the front of the building in a smash-and-grab attempt. The damage was real—but they didn’t get away with anything of value. We put up a temporary wall and painted a mural that read: “I mean, can you blame them? Robbers: 0. J.R. Dunn: 1.” The next day, the Mayor, City Manager, and Police Chief visited in solidarity. The support was overwhelming—and reminded us how lucky we are to call Lighthouse Point home.
Later that week, the soft opening went on as planned. Guests came through the doors, toasted with us, laughed with us, and told us how proud Jim would be. We knew they were right.
Later that week, the soft opening went on as planned. Guests came through the doors, toasted with us, laughed with us, and told us how proud Jim would be. We knew they were right.
Made Just For You
For those looking to create something truly personal, our new custom design boutique offers a level of intimacy and artistry that feels completely unique. This private space is home to our 23-time award-winning designer, Robert—Ann Marie’s brother—whose talent brings client dreams to life through hand-sketched designs, heirloom transformations, and one-of-a-kind pieces. With deep listening and intuitive creativity, Robert makes the magic of custom jewelry feel personal, effortless, and unforgettable. It truly is a family affair.
Carrying it Forward
This showroom was Jim’s and Ann Marie’s dream. And now, it’s a dream fulfilled—not just because of one person, but because of the strength of a family that refused to let go, even when it hurt.
When Jim passed, we weren’t alone. Our team stepped up. Our clients stood by us. Our community held us in ways we didn’t expect. And we never forgot that.
Through the years, our walls have held so many of life’s most cherished moments—proposals, anniversaries, new beginnings, and stories that span generations. These aren’t just client milestones—they’ve become part of our story too. And just like the diamonds we so carefully select, those memories shine on.
J.R. Dunn has always been, at its heart, a family. And today, that sense of family extends through every corner of the showroom. On any given day, Ann Marie will be there to greet you with her warm hello, and you may also see Sean and Viviana’s children, Nico and Briana Dunn, spending time in the store as they begin to find their own place in the business. The next generation is already quietly becoming part of the legacy—watching, learning, and growing into the story that began long before them. We’re honored to have been a part of so many of life’s most meaningful moments—and we can’t wait for the many more generational moments to come. This isn’t just the next chapter of J.R. Dunn. It’s the continuation of something deeply personal.
Something built with heart, carried by family, and shared with all of you. And we can’t wait to welcome you home
Through the years, our walls have held so many of life’s most cherished moments—proposals, anniversaries, new beginnings, and stories that span generations. These aren’t just client milestones—they’ve become part of our story too. And just like the diamonds we so carefully select, those memories shine on.
J.R. Dunn has always been, at its heart, a family. And today, that sense of family extends through every corner of the showroom. On any given day, Ann Marie will be there to greet you with her warm hello, and you may also see Sean and Viviana’s children, Nico and Briana Dunn, spending time in the store as they begin to find their own place in the business. The next generation is already quietly becoming part of the legacy—watching, learning, and growing into the story that began long before them. We’re honored to have been a part of so many of life’s most meaningful moments—and we can’t wait for the many more generational moments to come. This isn’t just the next chapter of J.R. Dunn. It’s the continuation of something deeply personal.
Something built with heart, carried by family, and shared with all of you. And we can’t wait to welcome you home