West and Company Diamonds will host its annual Gem Party on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The free, one-day event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the company's location in Auburn, New York, and feature gemstone specialist David Artinian, known as the Gem Hunter.
The Gem Party offers attendees an opportunity to view selections of gemstones sourced by Artinian. As president of Artinian Gems, he travels globally to acquire finely cut, one-of-a-kind stones that are made available during this annual gathering.
David West Nytch, owner and DeBeers Diamonds Today Award-winning jewelry designer at West and Company Diamonds, commented on the event. "This is our one-day-a-year opportunity for people to meet David Artinian in person and explore a range of gemstones that are not typically accessible in one place."
David Artinian brings decades of experience as a gemstone wholesaler and hunter. His selections include a variety of natural gemstones. Attendees can examine the stones, learn about their origins and characteristics, and discuss potential custom designs with the team.
The event supports community engagement by providing an accessible way for residents and visitors in the Finger Lakes region to interact with materials and expert knowledge in a single afternoon. It contributes to education and appreciation of gemstones through direct interaction and learning opportunities. The venue at 10 Genesee Street is wheelchair accessible, with parking available nearby for attendees.
A local community member who attended a previous Gem Party stated, "It was a great chance to learn about different stones and talk with experts right here in Auburn. The turnout showed how much the community values these events."
West and Company Diamonds was founded in 1991 by Nytch and his wife, Jody. Nytch entered the business with more than 40 years of experience after co-founding a jewelry manufacturing firm in 1982. He began his career polishing and sizing rings part-time in a Rochester jewelry store and advanced to roles as master goldsmith, gemologist, and certified gemologist appraiser. The business operated in the Rochester area for nearly 25 years before relocating to Auburn in the Finger Lakes region.
The relocation strengthened local connections. The company focuses on custom one-of-a-kind pieces created for occasions such as engagements and weddings. Clients work directly with Nytch to shape designs using natural or lab-grown diamonds. The company also offers women's wedding bands and men's wedding bands.
Repair services restore existing items through master goldsmith methods. Financing arrangements are available through established providers. Nytch holds credentials from the American Gem Society and the American Gemological Association that inform the company's design, appraisal, and advisory practices.
The annual Gem Party has become a noted event in the regional calendar. It brings together the expertise of Artinian with the design capabilities at the company. Attendees have the chance to discover stones while interacting with specialists in a relaxed setting.
As interest in unique gemstones continues, events of this nature support education and appreciation within the jewelry community. The May 16 gathering provides a focused window for exploration without ongoing commitment. No tickets are required for the free event, and walk-ins are welcome throughout the day.
This type of gathering highlights the value of direct access to specialized knowledge and materials for the local community. It fosters connections among individuals interested in gemstones and jewelry in central New York.
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For more information about West and Company Diamonds, contact the company here:
West and Company Diamonds
David West Nytch
(315) 253-7000
david@westandcompany.com
10 Genesee St, Auburn, NY 13021