1802

THE BIRTH OF A LEGACY

In 1802, master watchmaker and silversmith James Galt established a small watchmaking and jewelry business in Alexandria, Virginia. At the time, Alexandria was an active port city and an important commercial center in the young United States. Galt’s workshop specialized in repairing fine watches and creating silver objects and jewelry with exceptional attention to detail.

James Galt was known for his precision craftsmanship and dedication to quality. His work quickly gained recognition among merchants, naval officers, and prominent citizens in the region. What began as a modest workshop soon developed into a respected business built on skill, trust, and reputation.

This moment marked the beginning of what would eventually become one of the oldest jewelry houses connected to American history.

MID 1800s

WASHINGTON'S DISTINGUISHED JEWELER

By the middle of the nineteenth century, Galt & Bro. had become one of Washington's most respected jewelers.The company supplied luxury watches, jewelry, and silverware to many of the city's most influential residents.

The firm built a reputation not only for the beauty of its pieces but also for reliability and craftsmanship. Clientsvalued the precision of Galt's watchmaking and the quality of its precious materials. The house became adestination for those seeking finely crafted objects that reflected both status and taste.This period established the brand as one of the leading jewelry houses in the American capital.

1915

EDITH WILSONAND THE GALT FAMILY

Another remarkable chapter in the Galt family history emerged through Edith Bolling Galt, who was connected to the Galt family through marriage. In 1915 she married President Woodrow Wilson, becoming the First Lady of the United States.

Edith Wilson later played an influential role in the White House, particularly during President Wilson's illness. Her connection to the Galt family placedthe name within the broader narrative of American political history.

Through this connection, the Galt legacy became intertwined with the leadership and cultural life of the United States.

1960

PRESIDENT JOHN F.KENNEDY AND THE WHITE HOUSE

The 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy,made use of sterling silver items crafted by Galt & Bro. in the White House.

These include a White House Oval Office paperweight engraved with the President's Seal. Apart from personaluse, he gave similar paper weights as special gifts tofriends during his presidency.

Another article made in sterling silver were engraved napkin holders used when members of the President's

Administration dined at the White House.The President had also commissioned a gold plaque as atoken of goodwill for the last ruling Sultan of Zanzibar, Sayyid Jamshid bin Abdullah Al Said. The plaque was never received as a consequence of the President's assassination in 1963.

2000

The Historic Pink Diamond

In 2012, a remarkable pink diamond ring crafted by Galt & Bro. was sold at Christie’s auction in New York for $2.21 million. The ring features a pear-shaped fancy light pink diamond weighing approximately 10.52 carats, set in platinum and flanked by tapered baguette-cut diamonds.

Certified by the Gemological Institute of America as a Type IIa diamond — one of the purest and rarest categories — the stone is celebrated for its exceptional transparency and delicate natural color. The piece represents one of the most notable modern examples of Galt & Bro.’s craftsmanship.

Today

In recent years, the company was rebranded as Galt Couture, continuing operations in the luxury jewelry market.

In the 21st century, Galt & Bro pieces have been worn by celebrities and influencers.

In 2021, rapper A$AP Rocky wore a pearl necklace by Galt & Bro to the premiere of his documentary Stockholm Syndrome at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City.

That same year, musician Giveon wore a bracelet by the brand during his first performance at the Lollapalooza, as part of a contemporary outfit.

The company also creates custom pieces for celebrities such as Rihanna.

Materials & Quality

At Galt Couture, we carry forward that tradition of craftsmanship. Every piece in our collection is inspired by this legacy—where the past’s elegance meets today’s sensibilities.