Antwerp, London, and New York are centres of the international gemstone trade. In Halifax, JM Gems brings that expertise to Nova Scotia under the direction of Peggy Elias Nakhle, a graduate gemmologist, jewellery appraiser, and designer with nearly 30 years of international experience. The new boutique offers gemstone identification, jewellery appraisal, and international sourcing of the finest gemstones.

A graduate of HRD Antwerp in Belgium, Peggy is a member of the Canadian Accredited Jewellery Appraisers and the Canadian Jewellers Association. Her background in gemmology and jewellery design combines scientific examination with practical knowledge of craftsmanship and valuation.

At JM Gems’ boutique at 1470 Lower Water Street, she uses professional gemmological instruments, including a GIA microscope and spectrometer, to examine diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and other gemstones. Such expertise has become increasingly relevant as laboratory-grown diamonds, synthetic gemstones, and various enhancement treatments make professional identification more important for consumers and collectors.

JM Gems provides in-house jewellery appraisals for insurance, estate, and other valuation needs. Gemstone examinations and appraisals take place on-site, keeping clients’ jewellery at the Halifax boutique and allowing owners to consult directly with Peggy.

The company sources natural diamonds and coloured gemstones through suppliers in Toronto, New York, Antwerp, and other international trading centres. Peggy also offers bespoke jewellery design, guiding commissions from gemstone selection to the finished piece.

From Beirut to a New Beginning in Halifax

Before immigrating to Canada, Peggy and her husband, Georges, operated a successful jewellery business in Beirut’s Sursock district. The August 4, 2020 explosion at the Port of Beirut severely damaged their boutique, and the family subsequently lost the business they had spent years building.

After relocating to Nova Scotia, Peggy obtained Canadian appraisal qualifications and began rebuilding her career and family business. The new JM Gems boutique triumphantly opened its doors once again, this time in the heart of Halifax on Lower Water Street this September 2026.

For Peggy, JM Gems continues a lifelong profession and a family enterprise rebuilt thousands of kilometres from Beirut. For clients in Halifax and Atlantic Canada, it brings international training and experience to the examination, valuation, and design of their jewellery.

Her strong connection to the local community also includes a gold necklace donated to Arthritis Society Canada, reflecting the role her jewellery work has taken on in her new home.

JM Gems
1470 Lower Water Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia
www.jmgems.com

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