OUR STORY
A Legacy of
Caribbean Luxury
Where heritage meets modern discovery on the historic shores of St. Thomas
OUR FOUNDER
Where it All Began
William C. Dowling
1926 - 2003
In 1954, William C. Dowling opened the doors of Cardow Jewelers on Main Street in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. What began as a small jewelry store soon became a beloved institution—a place where craftsmanship, trust, and Caribbean warmth came together.
Bill Dowling believed that jewelry was more than adornment. It was memory, milestone, and meaning. He built Cardow on that philosophy, treating every customer like family and every piece like a treasure waiting to find its home.
His legacy lives on in every facet of what Cardow has become—a multi-generational family business, a destination for discerning collectors, and a cornerstone of St. Thomas's historic Main Street.
"You don't just shop here—you experience it."
The Next Generation
A Family Tradition Continues
Today, Cardow is proudly owned and operated by the de Lyrot family — Louis, Carolina, and Paul— who grew up within these walls, learning the business from the ground up. For them, Cardow isn't just a company; it's home.
The family's deep connection to the jewelry world runs through Odile de Lyrot, a trained gemologist whose passion took her across the globe—from Colombia to Africa, Israel to Thailand and India—sourcing precious gems directly from the mines and cutting houses. Her expertise and relationships with suppliers around the world ensured that Cardow always offered stones of exceptional quality and provenance.
Under their stewardship, Cardow has evolved while staying true to its roots. They've expanded the vision to include the Cardow Collective—a curated marketplace of designers and experiences—while maintaining the personal touch and quality that made Cardow legendary.
Carolina leads the Jewelry Division with an eye for timeless elegance and emerging designers. Paul heads the Spirits Division, bringing The Rum Room to life as a cultural destination. Together with Louis, they've transformed the historic Cardow building into something extraordinary: a destination within the destination.
Three generations later, the commitment remains the same: exceptional quality, genuine relationships, and unforgettable experiences.
70
Years of Excellence
3
Generations Strong
1
iconic destination
introducing
The Cardow Collective
A curated, multi-brand luxury marketplace housed inside the historic Cardow building. Where Caribbean heritage meets modern design. Where designers step out from behind their brands and into the spotlight.
Caribbean Diamond District meets experiential retail.
Heritage Jewelry
Seven decades of expertise in fine jewelry, from classic diamonds to curated collections from local and international designers.
Hook Bracelet Atelier
The iconic Virgin Islands Hook Bracelet—handcrafted, deeply personal, and steeped in Caribbean tradition. A signature piece for every visitor.
The Rum Room
Rum tastings, mixology classes, and cultural storytelling. A destination experience that brings Caribbean heritage to life.
Rotating Designers
Curated collections and limited-time pieces you won't find anywhere else. There's always something new to discover.
FEATURED PARTNERS
Our Collective Family
Ornate House
Modern fine jewelry, lab-grown diamonds, clean design, contemporary luxury.
IB Designs
St. Croix–based brand known for bold gold, craftsmanship, and Caribbean identity.
Nicci's Boutique
Curated accessories, resort fashion, lifestyle pieces that complement jewelry.
Modani Jewels
Fashion-forward fine jewelry, statement pieces, trend-driven collections.
Vendors rotate seasonally—there's always something new to discover.