In Memoriam: Berj Zavian, Master Jeweler and Beloved Artisan

It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Berj Zavian at the age of 95. Berj died peacefully on Monday, September 1, 2025.

A revered figure in the world of jewelry and a cherished member of New York's diamond district, Berj leaves behind a legacy that sparkles as brightly as the gems he so lovingly shaped.

Berj, an authority on important jewelry, was widely admired for his broad expertise and frank criticism. Since his first appearance on the PBS prime-time series Antiques Roadshow in 1997, he captivated audiences as a seasoned appraiser, earning the respect and affection of countless viewers. Berj approached every appraisal with the goal of helping others understand not only the value of an object, but also the stories it carried from the past.

Born in 1929 in Weehawken, New Jersey, to Armenian immigrant parents, Berj was the younger brother of Ara. From an early age, he developed a deep appreciation for history, artistry, and tradition. He began his journey in jewelry as a young apprentice to his father, Carneg Zavatjian, in Cluster Jewelry, located in the heart of New York City's diamond district, quickly distinguishing himself with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for perfection. His career spanned from manufacturing jewelry to restoring and repairing exquisite pieces from all periods. To further hone his craft, Berj graduated from Pace University in 1952 and attended the New York School of Design

(now known as the American School of Design). He also served proudly in the National Guard for nearly a decade.

Beyond his technical mastery, Berj was known for mentoring young jewelers and appraisers, always eager to share his wealth of knowledge. His workshop was a place of learning, laughter, and legacy.

In the early 1970s, Berj began working with Bill and Kathy Doyle of William Doyle Galleries, applying his expertise in jewelry to estate evaluations and auction appraisals until the age of 80. Without fanfare, he then returned to his first love—the bench—commuting to New York City four days a week. He worked up until just six months ago, insisting that his craft and curiosity kept him young. Even then, he found time on weekends to pursue a late-in-life passion as a numismatist.

Berj was widowed in 1987 when his beloved wife, Joan Schwartz Zavian, passed away. He is survived by his son, Kevin Zavian, and daughter-in-law, Mindy Zavian, and their children, Jenna, Max, and Taylor; daughter, Robin Zavian; and daughter, Ellen Zavian, and son-in-law Rick Swan, and their son, Justus.

A graveside service will be held for close family and friends, on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 11:30 AM at George Washington Memorial Park, 234 Paramus Rd. Paramus, NJ. Section "T" . Please meet at the cemetery office or follow the map in the link: https://georgewashingtonmemorialpark.org/#single/0

Donations in honor of Berj's life may be made to St. Leon Armenian Church, 12-61 Saddle River Road, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410, (201) 791-2862, www.churchoffice@stleon.org .