Born in Germany, F.X. Wahl came to this country in the 1880's with only his knowledge and a passion to excel. Eventually, he was able to open his own store in 1894. He was followed into the business by his son, F.F. Wahl. He trained F.F. and later his grandson, F.C., in the same exacting techniques he had learned in Germany. F.F. opened Wahl Jewelers in Des Plaines, IL. in 1949.

R.C. (Bob) Wahl, great grandson and fourth generation jeweler, made his first ring at the age of six, and by 1965 he had joined the family business. On December 1, 1969, Bob and his wife and partner Barba, purchased the store, from his father. Thus began R.C. Wahl Jewelers.



Bob and Barba have been active in both the jewelry industry and local community. They are members of the Illinois Jewelers Association (IJA), and Bob is a Past President. He was the first person elected to receive the IJA Presidential Award for service to the jewelry industry. He has served on the Jewelers of America board, Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jaycees, and Des Plaines United Way.

And so the tradition continues with the addition to the staff of their daughter Heather, in 1994. Having chosen business and psychology as her major at Cornell College she easily moved into the role of actively learning the many skills involved in managing the jewelry store. Her new ideas and computer abilities have added another dimension to the business. In addition she has completed her studies and received the title of Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America. Focused on involvement in the community she is a Past President of the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is currently serving on the Board of Directors of the District 62 Education Foundation.

Our business is made complete by an accomplished and dedicated staff. Peg has provided the backbone of our service since 1985, assisting customers and expediting orders and repairs.  With a love of Rolex watches and diamond Brooks moved to the Chicagoland area from Bloomington to join us at Wahl Jewelers.  Having grown up in his family's jewelry store, Milos has a vast understanding of jewelry design and construction.  Their extensive backgrounds in customer service are a benefit to both customers and staff.

And so the tradition proudly continues...