Where Southern California Comes to Find the Perfect Piece
Spanning several blocks of downtown Los Angeles between 5th Street and 8th Street, the LA Jewelry District — also known as the Diamond District — is the premier destination for fine jewelry, loose diamonds, custom design, and bridal shopping in Southern California. Whether you're searching for an engagement ring, a one-of-a-kind custom creation, or an heirloom-quality gift, this is where the journey begins.
Over a Century of Craftsmanship
The story of the LA Jewelry District begins in the early 20th century, when this stretch of downtown was the beating heart of the city — part of what's now known as the Historic Core. The architecturally stunning art deco buildings that line these streets were designed with retail spaces at street level and offices above, and two of Los Angeles' earliest jewelers — Laykin Diamond Company and Harry Winston & Co. — chose this address to establish their stores.
Other jewelers quickly followed, and within a few decades, these blocks became the largest concentration of fine jewelry businesses in the country. The district experienced a massive growth boom in the 1960s as public interest in gold surged, and it has thrived through every era of Los Angeles' evolution since — earning a reputation as a world-class hub for diamonds, custom design, and bridal jewelry.
Nearly 5,000 Businesses. One Legendary Destination.
Today, the LA Jewelry District is the leading jewelry destination in the United States. Nearly 5,000 businesses call these blocks home — from family-owned ateliers and master jewelers to wholesale dealers, jewelry marts, and bridal specialists. The district draws shoppers from across Southern California and beyond, offering an unmatched selection of diamonds, precious metals, gemstones, and custom-crafted fine jewelry.
What makes the district special isn't just the volume — it's the depth of expertise concentrated in a few square blocks. Generations of jewelers have built their craft here, passing down knowledge and relationships that simply don't exist in a mall or an online catalog.
Planning Your Visit
Gold Empire Jewelry
607 S Hill St, Suite 452
Los Angeles, CA 90014
Inside the California Jewelry Mart
Hours
Monday – Saturday
10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday · Closed
Getting There
Located on Hill Street between 5th and 6th in DTLA. Street parking and nearby lots available. Metro accessible via Pershing Square station.
Gold Empire Jewelry in the Diamond District
Gold Empire Jewelry has been a trusted name in the LA Diamond District for over four decades. Founded by master jeweler Edmund Kalo in 1978, the shop is now led by his son Johnny — a GIA graduate gemologist who personally guides every client from first conversation to final reveal. Located in a private suite inside the California Jewelry Mart at 607 S Hill Street, Gold Empire offers an intimate, appointment-friendly alternative to the open-floor bustle of the district — with the same direct-to-source pricing and world-class craftsmanship.
Visit the Diamond District
Book a private consultation with Johnny Kalo at Gold Empire Jewelry — or simply call and stop by.