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Golden Bear Some forty-five years ago, our founder, Lee Kirch, brought The Golden Bear to Vail. In 1975, the landmark Golden Bear store opened in the heart of Vail Village and before long the distinctive little bruin was recognized as The Symbol of Vail Valley. Visitors from all over the world take home our Golden Bear as an endearing reminder of our beautiful alpine village.

For many, our iconic Bear has become a gift tradition from one generation to another commemorating life events and celebrations. The Golden Bear is now proudly owned and operated by Kristen Busse and her husband, who live and work in Vail.
Services
There is no cost to have the chain shortened if your item is a new purchase. If a new clasp is needed once the chain is shortened, there will be a fee for the new clasp. There may be a cost to have a chain lengthened, depending on the length desired and the cost per inch of the chain. Shipping and handling fees may apply.
Golden Bear merchandise may be returned in original condition within 30 days of purchase with original invoice. Shipping and handling charges are non-refundable. Refunds in the form of original payment will be made for items purchased through our catalog department. Original payments of check or money order will be mailed a check refund 2 to 4 weeks after we receive your return.
Due to the nature of our hand made pieces, measurements and carat weights are approximate and may vary slightly. For rings, please cut out the guide below and wrap it around your finger; the number where the arrow rests indicates the ring size.
Reviews (21)
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Katie Ann
Jun 20, 2022
When my best friend moved to Vail 2 years ago and came home with an adorable little gold bear necklace, I knew I just had to have one. I was finally able to make a trip up here and was so excited to get my very own! Too bad the ladies working there wouldn't give me the time of day. As a former sales manager in Las Vegas, customer service is paramount to me.

I walked in knowing exactly what I wanted but the conversation the associates were having amongst the two of them was much more important than my sale. This was the first time in my life I have stood there making eye contact with an employee and was completely ignored. My mother found a gorgeous green bag, the leather was so soft. But unfortunately, the quality of the bag was not enough to make up for the lackluster customer service.

By the time an associate opened the case for me, I was over it. I really hope that purse and 3 gold bear necklaces we were going to purchase find a good home because I personally could not give this business my money.
Kelly Buckley
Nov 29, 2021
White gold ring broke and snapped on my finger. They will only soder it - I imagine it will likely happen again and because it's "worn" they won't do anything further and would not offer other solutions like store credit. Horrible customer service for such expensive pieces and they lost a long time, repeat customer.
Rin Mintaka
Sep 28, 2021
My mom raves about this place and it was worth the visit. The woman that helped me was absolutely lovely. You can't visit Vail without getting a bear.
Gloria Beaverson
Sep 24, 2021
Love this store. Their jewelry is beautiful. I bought 2 today, already own several.
Morgan Morris
Apr 18, 2021
The owners and managers here are so friendly! They'll answer any of your questions and will help you find the perfect piece for you or a friend. I purchased a 30th birthday gift for a best friend and some whiskey glasses for our main home.
Marta Pendergast
Oct 30, 2020
The jewelry is gorgeous, but the ladies are snippy. Not friendly. I also have a watch that I brought in for repair. It has been there 6 weeks! I have called and nobody has followed up like they promised. I can't speak to the "vendor" who is fixing my watch, I have to go through the unfriendly ladies.
Nicole E.
Feb 08, 2020
This is a cute shop. Lots of wonderful bear shaped pendants, bangles, earrings. Such a great keepsake from Vail. My friend where's different length pendants of the bear. Vail is a great resort town, even in the late summer to fall too. Jewelry that's cute on kids to adults.
Thomas S.
Nov 09, 2019
My Mom Reyne from Denver loves this store and has purchased multiple pieces for herself and as gifts for friends and family over the past 15 years. Recently one of her favorite bracelets needed repair and she dropped off the piece in September. Unfortunately she was informed of the late designer, and that her bracelet couldn't be repaired. So they returned the old bracelet. However, hearing the disappointment in my moms voice they went above and beyond by offering a brand new bracelet.

What great customer service! My Mom loves her bracelet and this store and she was so pleased with how they handled her unique situation. Thanks Golden Bear! Keep up the hospitality because it doesn't go unnoticed. You've kept a customer for life. Shout out to Denise and Trudy!
James A.
Feb 23, 2019
We were here on Valentines Day. My wife wanted a bracelet and earrings. However, two men came in the store after, we arrived and they were greeted and helped before us. We decided to leave and went across the pebble stone road and were treated quite nicely by the Jeweler. I guess Golden Bear didn't want our $7,500! Oh well.
Jeannine G.
Feb 08, 2019
One of my favorite jewelers in the valley. I've been shopping here for years. To access the store you must park in the structure. You can't drive up to the shop. They have a beautiful selection of items that are perfect for weddings or showers. They have many golden bear jewelry options at different price points. All of it is so pretty. There staff always greets you and are willing to help. If you purchase an item and size needs to be adjusted they do ship.
Kim S.
Feb 04, 2019
The Golden Bear holds a very special place in my heart. My grandmother purchased my first necklace when I was little and it's remained a staple in my life. I have to say the service there is wonderful. We stop in every year to buy a piece to add to the collection. We're mostly there in the summer time (dressed down in summer hiking gear) and I've never felt like they've judged me upon coming in.

The ladies there are so friendly and attentive. There was an occasion when I wanted to think about my purchase and the ladies treated me no differently. There was no pressure (they aren't commissioned from what I understand). We came back after lunch to purchase the item. The prices at The Golden Bear are comparable to any high end jewelry with quality to match.

None of my pieces have tarnished, broken, or warped in some way. You definitely won't be unhappy with the jewelry, glassware, or any other items they have to offer. Additional, I love that they offer complimentary jewelry cleaning if your pieces need it. If you want a deeper polish, it's still complimentary but you pay postage to have them sent back.

If you're in the area longer, you can pick them up. If you've not ever been to Vail (or you have) and want something special to remember it by, this is the place to look at. Put down the cheesy Colorado fleecy and get something that will last a lifetime.in both style and quality.
Dee Pierce
Apr 10, 2018
I have numerous pieces from The Golden Bear and they are all exquisitely beautiful. Their customer service is without equal. I make most of my purchases by phone. They always answer on the first ring and they are quite accommodating on special requests - such as ordering a single bear stud earring and making sure that the bear will face the correct way (forward). Packages are beautifully boxed and arrive quickly.
Kimberly Kolesar
Feb 03, 2018
There jewelry is just beautiful, fun and wears extremely well! Prices for every buyer.
Annmarie N.
Dec 03, 2017
I love Golden Bear. Such fun pieces -- that nicely transition from work to casual. I have come to shop on line to avoid the snotty service.
C. R.
Mar 29, 2016
What a great place with very nice people. Have been going there many years when we ski and always great. I asked about an item today and if they had it in another option and they told me they would make it for me. Awesome!
Eagle U.
Jan 20, 2015
Kristen and Deborah are the bomb. Very helpful and customer oriented. They always support whatever I order. My wife loves their jewelry and wherever I order from. They always deliver. Love this place!
Aaron E.
Nov 27, 2014
The Golden Bear is the official symbol of Vail Valley. After being in a place as beautiful as Vail, CO. it is natural to want to get a keepsake for a loved one that matches the pristine vistas that Vail affords. The Golden Bear offers unique jewelry that will transcend any fad or trend for generations. The timeless elegance of the The Golden Bear line is not only fashionable, but it is a Vail tradition and those in the know will ask when your last stop to Vail was often when you wear their jewelry as I have witnessed. The prices are fair for the quality and the service is first class. The Golden Bear experience is a lot of fun!
Marilyn S.
Oct 03, 2014
I have been a customer of the Golden bear since the early 90s. I recently needed help with old receipts regarding an insurance claim. After spending thousands of dollars at the store, I was asked to pay the postage to have the receipts sent to me. The cover letter was not even addressed to me! It was another name completely. The receipts are not complete and the staff is not helpful.

The jewelry is lovely, but overpriced. I love Vail and had always enjoyed purchasing things from the Golden bear as Vail tugs at my heart. However, I believe I am over it as I can take my money to other places and have better customer service!
Nicholette P.
May 01, 2009
I wear my white gold baby bear from the golden bear almost EVERY day. HIGH quality, considering I usually don't take it off and it has been around my neck for almost a year now, looks brand new! I wish I could afford more, the baby bear was a nice gift from my "bear" : The people working here were very friendly and I love getting the catalog every so often, reminds me of my trip to Vail!
K. M.
Apr 18, 2007
High quality gold jewelry all about the bear. The women in my family each wear a bear. There's Papa, Mama, Sister, and Baby bear. They can be adorn with earrings, necklace, or bracelets. Wear the bear with the nose pointed towards your heart. The tradition started off because the mom of the family used to her two kids into Vail for a weekend adventure after her divorce. Jewelery from here is the making for heirlooms.
Mm R.
Sep 23, 2005
A signature Vail item. You should make sure you stop in this lovely gallery/shop in the Vail Village. Sign up to receive their catalog or pick up one of the little bears as a token of your trip to the mountains. Excellent customer service and notable items.