Introducing our
Brilliant Beginning
Charles Weinstein sorting diamonds circa 1960.
Incogem was founded by Charles Weinstein in 1978. Born in Belgium in 1915, Charles was drafted into the Belgian Army's Medical Corps during World War II. During the war, he and his family were separated, but they survived and were reunited once the conflict ended. After the war, Charles traveled throughout Europe before relocating to New York, where he worked as a traveling salesman. His travels eventually led him to Africa.
As the son of diamond dealers, Charles's background served him well, and he began buying and selling diamonds. After completing a significant sale of a large pink diamond, his talents were noticed by the DeBeers Company, which offered him a position. He spent the next ten years working for DeBeers, establishing diamond purchasing centers in several African countries.
The Birth of Incogem and the floating Diamond Pendant
After departing from DeBeers, Charles operated a successful jewelry business in Los Angeles for many years. As he grew older, he sought a more tranquil lifestyle and was drawn to the Coachella Valley, where he lived and worked for 35 years until his passing in 2013.
Though semi-retired, the allure of diamonds called him back. Charles set out to create a new and unique piece of jewelry that would showcase the beauty of the diamond from every angle. This vision led to the creation of the Floating Diamond Pendant - diamonds embedded in clear Lucite and framed in gold. With this innovation, Incogem was born.
Charles was determined that his artistic creation would endure beyond his lifetime. To ensure its future, he aligned himself with a master jeweler named Rick, sharing with him the intricate process behind the Floating Diamond Pendant.
Through this collaboration, Charles also passed his knowledge to Rick, and together they formed a lasting kinship rooted in their shared passion for the art of jewelry. Today, that vision and craftsmanship live on, as Charles's legacy is carried forward by a new generation.
After sharing his vision and techniques, Charles found not only a trusted collaborator in Rick, but a true successor. Rick, a master jeweler, goldsmith, and GIA-certified professional, had already established himself in Palm Desert, continuing a family tradition that spanned generations. Taught by both his father and mother—each accomplished jewelers themselves—Rick carries forward a legacy that traces back even further to his family’s earlier roots in the trade.
The family business, Jewels by George, has been a part of the Palm Desert community since 1984. Over the years, it has become known for its dedication to craftsmanship, integrity, and personal service. Recognizing Rick’s skill and shared passion, Charles entrusted him with Incogem, ensuring that his Floating Diamond Pendant and artistic vision would continue to thrive.
Incogem
Today, all Incogem pieces and custom jewelry work are carefully crafted and maintained on-site by Rick himself. From intricate repairs to original creations, every piece reflects the same attention to detail and artistry that defined Charles’s work. Now joined by his daughter, the next generation is beginning to carry that tradition forward.That same commitment to craftsmanship and precision continues in every piece we handle today.
Jewels by George
If you have a piece of jewelry, choosing the right expertise is essential. At Jewels by George, our skilled bench jeweler can handle even the most complex repairs with confidence and care. With over 35 years of experience, your jewelry is in capable hands—from delicate precious gemstones and pearls to intricate metalwork and mechanical watches. For pieces requiring specialized knowledge, especially those featuring colored stones or fine mechanisms, trusting an experienced craftsman makes all the difference.