David Youssef, founder of Commonwealth Appraisers and Jewelers, brings a lifetime of experience, heritage, and passion to the art of fine jewelry and appraisals. Born into Beirut’s Armenian jewelry community, David was raised by a designer father and entrepreneurial mother who instilled in him the value of craftsmanship and hard work from a young age.

During school breaks and periods of unrest in Lebanon, David was immersed in traditional Armenian workshops—apprenticing in everything from carpentry and leatherwork to automotive and jewelry manufacturing. Captivated by the beauty of handmade goods and the precision of artisan work, he quickly found his calling in jewelry.

At 18, David moved to Canada to pursue formal training at George Brown College’s renowned jewelry program in Toronto, graduating in the top of his class. Inspired by visits to gem museums in Toronto and Washington, D.C., he went on to earn his Graduate Gemologist diploma from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in 2011.

David later worked with premier luxury retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue—where he served as a Bulgari brand ambassador—and Neiman Marcus, specializing in high-end French and Italian jewelry and Swiss-made timepieces.

With decades of hands-on experience and a deep respect for artisan heritage, David founded Commonwealth Appraisers and Jewelers to offer expert jewelry appraisals, estate consultations, and trusted guidance with a personal touch.