Upon moving to Arizona in 1997 Tamara quickly found two great loves: the beauty of the unique natural environment in Arizona, and the enjoyment of working in the exciting world of contemporary jewelry design. In 2002 Tamara was fortunate enough to be selected as one of the original consultants working in the first Niessing showroom to open in the United States, Niessing Scottsdale. Within a few months Tamara was promoted to become manager of Niessing Scottsdale. The Valley of the Sun embraced the new Niessing concept as well as the exciting and thought-provoking designs with open arms. After only six months of business, Niessing Scottsdale had the proud honor of being chosen PHOENIX MAGAZINE’S “Best Contemporary Jeweler”. The Niessing concept was a resounding success and Niessing followed it up with a second showroom in Los Angeles, California. Niessing Scottsdale closed in late 2004, leaving Niessing Los Angeles as the sole Niessing store in the U.S.A. After the closing of Niessing Scottsdale, Tamara worked at DUO Scottsdale from 2005-2007 representing Niessing designs as well as those of other outstanding contemporary jewelry designers from around the world. It soon became her dream to open her own gallery, featuring the various designers she had encountered who had made a significant impression upon her. From 2007 - 2008 Tamara worked for award-winning designer, Scott Gauthier, of Jewelry by Gauthier in Scottsdale, Arizona before returning to DUO to work once again, though it was only to be but a couple of months: DUO Scottsdale closed its doors in July 2008. The Golden Barrel opened on Easy Street in Carefree, Arizona in October 2008. Beginning with the designs of Niessing, Norbert Muerrle, Tamawa, Weissenstein and Carl Dau, The Golden Barrel began as a gallery of contemporary European jewelry design. In July 2009, Diane Bortz joined The Golden Barrel. Ginsberg in Des Moines, Iowa, Diane was recruited in 2001 to coordi-nate and manage the opening of Niessing Scottsdale. She continued to act as consultant and wholesale representative for DUO Scottsdale upon its opening. During 2007-2008 Diane worked at Jewelry by Gauthier with Tamara. Working with Tamara once again, Diane has brought her vast experience in contemporary jewelry to The Golden Barrel. Diane assists with managing the gallery and contributes to the ongoing creative process of artistic interpretation and design communication. The Golden Barrel moved to Biltmore Fashion Park located in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona in the Fall of 2009.
2010 brought the addition of several new lines of designs, including the works of Christine J. Brandt from New York, Michael Weems from Palm Springs, and the designs of Elements and Alloys, the award-winning design duo from Philadelphia. The Golden Barrel moved to Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona in March 2011.
2011 has brought exciting opportunities for change to The Golden Barrel. We are excited about our new and vibrant location in Old Town. We look forward to continuing to add new collections from unique designers, artists and craftsmen from around the world.
