About Nelson Coleman Jewelers
Nelson Coleman Jewelers traces its roots back to 1856 when Adolph Doederlein opened a jewelry shop in Munich, Bavaria. Renowned for his exquisite craftsmanship and role as the “Keeper of the Clocks” for the royal court, Adolph laid a strong foundation for a family legacy. Despite early tragedies, his son Ludwig continued the family tradition, bringing their expertise to the United States and eventually settling in Baltimore, Maryland. Over the years, the business evolved, moving through various prestigious locations and expanding its services under the leadership of successive generations.
In 1930, Carl Doederlein took the helm, rebranding the company as The Carl J. Doederlein Company and introducing new services such as silver, engraving, and trophy-making. His daughter, Virginia, married Nelson Coleman, who brought his talents in custom design and rendering to the business. By 1980, with the addition of Nelson and Virginia’s sons, the business was renamed Nelson Coleman & Sons, Ltd. The focus on custom design and personalized service became the hallmark of their operations, leading to the store’s relocation to its current location at 307 E. Joppa Road in 2002, where it continues to thrive.
Today, under the leadership of Amanda Coleman-Phelps, the sixth generation to steer the family business, Nelson Coleman Jewelers continues to uphold its legacy of excellence. Amanda’s innovative vision has led to new ventures, such as the launch of Mayflower Estate Buyers and the acquisition of Jewelry By Designs in Woodbridge, VA. In February 2023, the family’s commitment to growth and community service was further demonstrated with the opening of a second location in Frederick, MD. Amanda’s dedication ensures that Nelson Coleman Jewelers will continue to provide exceptional service and quality for generations to come.
