Family-Owned Houston Jeweler Since 1978
At Shaftel Diamonds, exceptional jewelry begins with trust.
Shaftel Diamonds began in 1978 when Keith Shaftel founded a wholesale diamond business built on a simple philosophy: offer exceptional quality, honest pricing, and treat every customer with integrity. Working directly with diamond cutters, gemstone miners, jewelry designers, and manufacturers around the world, Keith earned a reputation for sourcing extraordinary diamonds and rare colored gemstones while building lasting relationships throughout the industry.
Before launching Shaftel Diamonds, Keith began his jewelry career with a manufacturer in Austin, Texas, where he quickly rose to production manager. After relocating to Houston, he established a successful wholesale business supplying loose diamonds and gemstones to jewelers throughout the region. His goal was to build a company worthy of carrying the Shaftel family name—a vision that continues to define the business today.
In 2001, Keith and his family expanded Shaftel Diamonds by opening their showroom to the public, bringing wholesale buying power and decades of industry expertise directly to Houston consumers. From the beginning, the focus has been on offering exceptional certified diamonds, beautiful colored gemstones, custom-designed jewelry, and an experience that is both personal and educational.
Over the years, Keith’s son Danny and daughter Gaby joined the business, helping transform Shaftel Diamonds into one of Houston’s premier destinations for engagement rings, custom jewelry, and fine gemstones. Following Keith’s retirement in 2025, Danny and Gaby proudly assumed leadership of the second-generation family business, carrying forward the values and reputation their father spent nearly five decades building.
Today, Shaftel Diamonds remains family-owned and operated, combining generations of experience with a passion for craftsmanship, innovation, and genuine relationships. Whether you’re searching for the perfect engagement ring, redesigning a treasured family heirloom, or discovering a rare gemstone, our mission remains the same: to help you celebrate life’s most meaningful moments with exceptional jewelry and personal service.
Danny Shaftel
Growing up in the family business, Danny Shaftel developed a passion for diamonds, colored gemstones, and fine jewelry from an early age. After graduating from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2005, he joined Shaftel Diamonds full-time and went on to earn his Graduate Gemologist credential from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), giving him extensive expertise in diamond grading, colored gemstones, and custom jewelry design.
As CEO and Co-Owner, Danny focuses on the company’s long-term vision, strategic growth, and continued evolution. Together with his sister, Gaby, he now leads the second generation of Shaftel Diamonds, building on the foundation their father established nearly five decades ago.
Passionate about innovation and continuous improvement, Danny is always looking for new ways to enhance the client experience while preserving the personalized service and family values that have long defined Shaftel Diamonds.
Gaby Shaftel
Since joining the family business in 2008, Gaby has played an integral role in the growth and evolution of Shaftel Diamonds. Having worked alongside her father, Keith for nearly two decades, she now helps guide the family business into its next chapter alongside her brother, Danny. She enjoys finding ways to make the business run more efficiently so the team can focus on what matters most—creating beautiful jewelry and building meaningful relationships with clients. Gaby is passionate about building a business that people are proud to be part of—whether they’re lifelong clients or members of the Shaftel Diamonds team. She is committed to preserving her family’s legacy while embracing new ideas and innovations that will allow Shaftel Diamonds to serve Houston families for generations to come.
Megan Layman
Megan has been a member of the Shaftel Diamonds team since November 2024 and is dedicated to creating meaningful relationships with every client. After studying at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), she developed a passion for diamond and gemstone education, custom jewelry design, and helping clients make confident, informed decisions. Colored gemstones are especially close to her heart, and she loves helping clients discover vibrant, one-of-a-kind gems that celebrate the beauty of color. Whether selecting the perfect engagement ring or designing a custom piece, Megan is committed to making every experience personal, enjoyable, and unforgettable.
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Cristina Iloff
Cristina is a Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) whose passion for fine jewelry is matched only by her dedication to the people she serves. With years of experience in the jewelry industry, she loves helping clients bring their ideas to life through thoughtful design, expert guidance, and genuine relationships built on trust. Whether creating a custom heirloom or finding the perfect piece to celebrate life’s milestones, Cristina is committed to making every experience personal, memorable, and filled with exceptional craftsmanship.