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The Golden Bear

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 Vail, 81657

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About

The Golden Bear has sold its small cast bear in Vail Village since 1975, when founder Lee Kirch opened the store; the company calls the bear The Symbol of Vail Valley. Kristen Busse learned the business from Kirch starting in 2000, took over in 2006 and now owns it with her husband.

It is the place to buy a keepsake that reads as Vail to anyone who knows the valley, whether a first pendant or an addition to a family collection. Tradition says the pendant faces your heart and the earrings face your cheeks.

Made in Vail

The bears are handcrafted in the company's Vail studio by a team of metalsmiths. Pendants are lost-wax cast, while collars, cuffs and hoops are hammered from sheet gold or silver, each with a small cast bear on the back. Metals include 14k and 18k gold and sterling silver, sometimes set with pavé diamonds or sapphires.

The collections

Beyond the signature bears there are polar bears, stone bears, two-tone and hand-hammered pieces, pearl and birthday designs and men's items. The store also sells watches, giftware and home accessories carrying the bear design, and jewelry by outside designers.

Services

New pendant chains can be shortened, a lost bear earring can be replaced singly, and the shop sells watch bands and batteries. Custom pieces are possible, subject to approval by the studio manager. Purchases come boxed with ribbon.

After you get home

The full line is sold online and through a catalog department by phone, so a second piece or a matching gift does not need a return trip.

Sources: about, contact and hours, FAQ, gift wrapping. Checked September 23, 2026.

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Contact Information

Company Name
The Golden Bear
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Location
183 Gore Creek Dr Ste 3A
Vail, 81657

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About The Golden Bear

Quick answer: The Golden Bear is a business at 183 Gore Creek Dr Ste 3A, Vail, CO 81657. Vail's Golden Bear jewelry since 1975, handcrafted in a Vail studio in gold and silver. Vail Village store open daily 10 to 6.

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The Golden Bear has sold its small cast bear in Vail Village since 1975, when founder Lee Kirch opened the store; the company calls the bear The Symbol of Vail Valley. Kristen Busse learned the business from Kirch starting in 2000, took over in 2006 and now owns it with her husband.

It is the place to buy a keepsake that reads as Vail to anyone who knows the valley, whether a first pendant or an addition to a family collection. Tradition says the pendant faces your heart and the earrings face your cheeks.

Made in Vail

The bears are handcrafted in the company's Vail studio by a team of metalsmiths. Pendants are lost-wax cast, while collars, cuffs and hoops are hammered from sheet gold or silver, each with a small cast bear on the back. Metals include 14k and 18k gold and sterling silver, sometimes set with pavé diamonds or sapphires.

The collections

Beyond the signature bears there are polar bears, stone bears, two-tone and hand-hammered pieces, pearl and birthday designs and men's items. The store also sells watches, giftware and home accessories carrying the bear design, and jewelry by outside designers.

Services

New pendant chains can be shortened, a lost bear earring can be replaced singly, and the shop sells watch bands and batteries. Custom pieces are possible, subject to approval by the studio manager. Purchases come boxed with ribbon.

After you get home

The full line is sold online and through a catalog department by phone, so a second piece or a matching gift does not need a return trip.

Sources: about, contact and hours, FAQ, gift wrapping. Checked September 23, 2026.

Jewelry Watches shopping shopping/jewelry-watches shopping/home-decor shopping/vail-village
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Business Hours

Open daily · 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Amenities at The Golden Bear

  • Free chain shortening on new purchases
  • Single-earring replacement
  • Watch bands and batteries
  • Custom design
  • Gift wrapping
  • Gift certificates
  • Online ordering with US shipping
  • Printed catalog on request

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning behind The Golden Bear in Vail?
The Golden Bear is the store's signature handcrafted bear, recognized as The Symbol of Vail Valley™ since the store opened in Vail Village in 1975. Wearers treat it as a symbol of their connection to the Vail Valley, and the bear itself is believed to symbolize strength, wisdom and good fortune. Tradition: pendants are worn facing your heart, and earrings with the bear's nose facing your cheek.
How much does The Golden Bear jewelry cost?
Prices are published on the official store. Sterling silver pieces start at $195; many signature pendants and earrings fall between $325 and $1,595; large 14k gold pieces run higher, up to $8,195 for the 14k Yellow Gold Papa Bear Necklace. A Sale collection is also published on the official site. Prices can change; the official store is the current source.
Where is The Golden Bear?
At 183 Gore Creek Drive, Suite 3A, in Vail Village, Vail, Colorado 81657.
What are the store hours?
The Vail Village store is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The catalog and online-order phone line, (800) 338-7782, is open Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time.
Is the jewelry made in Vail?
Yes. Golden Bear pieces are handcrafted in the company's Vail studio by a team of metalsmiths: pendants are lost-wax cast, and collars, cuffs and hoops are hammered from sheet gold or silver, each finished with a small cast bear on the back. The store also carries jewelry by outside designers.
Can I buy The Golden Bear jewelry online?
Yes. The full line is sold on the official website and through the catalog department by phone at (800) 338-7782. In-stock items ship within 48 hours via UPS to addresses within the United States; published rates start at $25 for UPS Ground. A printed catalog can be requested on the official site.
What metals are used?
14k and 18k yellow and white gold and sterling silver, with two-tone pieces combining gold and silver. Some pieces are set with pavé diamonds, sapphires or other stones.
Can I order a custom piece?
Yes. Email requests to [email protected]; the studio manager reviews them (allow about 1-2 weeks) and gives an estimate if the piece is approved. Custom pieces are final sale.
What if I lose one earring?
A single replacement Bear earring costs half the price of the pair. Sending in the remaining earring lets the studio polish it to match the new one.
What is the return policy?
Refunds or exchanges within 30 days of purchase, in original condition with a receipt; sale items within 14 days. Gift recipients receive a non-refundable merchandise credit, and shipping charges are non-refundable.

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