Our Story
The Cedar Chest was founded by John and Pat Zambuto in 1975 with a small collection of 14kt. gold chains and sealife charms. Over the years we’ve become known for our unusual collection of nature themed jewelry; unique pieces that celebrate the beauty and diversity of Sanibel wildlife.
It has been such a pleasure having our store on Sanibel Island for the last 48 years. We have become the number one destination for many area residents and Island visitors looking for that special piece of unique jewelry exclusive to The Cedar Chest. Over the years our frequent shoppers have turned into lasting friends. We feel blessed to consider them members of our Cedar Chest Family. Our number one priority is offering you quality and value, personal attention to your purchase and complete customer satisfaction.
Sadly, the damage from Hurricane Ian forced us to evacuate our beloved store in September 2023. Our jewelry is now available on our website. You will find our exclusive one-of-a-kind designs, 14kt. and 18kt. gold sealife and beach jewelry, fine fashion jewelry, estate pieces, ancient and Spanish treasure coin jewelry, and nautical sterling silver. We invite you to browse our site and email, text or call us with any questions or special requests. We will do our best to respond to you in a timely manner.
We hope you enjoy seeing our collection of fine jewelry including the many pieces that celebrate the unspoiled beauty of our tropical paradise. We look forward to hearing from old friends and making new ones.
Shop Our Entire Collection of Beach Themed and Sea Life Inspired Jewelry
Pat created the the island’s first Sanibel Nature jewelry collection, and this Collection includes rings, pendants and slides, bracelets, necklaces and pins featuring manatees, dolphins, seahorses, seashells, starfish, sandollars, tropical fish, beach items, beachcomber flip flops, and the popular Sanibel periwinkle florals. Our designs for Sanibel Island and sea life jewelry are crafted in gold and silver with diamonds and other precious and semi-precious stones.
We have also become a showcase for the jewelry of many other talented designers. In addition to our naturally inspired jewelry we also feature new styles and trends in fine jewelry, as well as handcrafted coin and artifact jewelry. These unique designs have attracted the attention and admiration of visitors from around the world.
Extremely knowledgeable staff and excellent service! Great jewelry!
Angela Cary
Amazing place. The jewelry is exquisite. So much to choose from and wonderful one on one customer service. I highly recommend The Cedar Chest to everyone for all of their jewelry needs and wants.
Suzanne Benn
Awesome store and staff! I have been buying jewelry from them since 1975. They have a fabulous selection and really great prices. Their sealife selection is the best around. I love to peek into their Estate cases when I visit. I always find a treasure to bring home.
Just Barefoot
Really nice selection of jewelry, lots of sea-themed pieces. Julie helped me get a lovely larimar piece and aquamarine ring. Wanted to get more but couldn’t. Next time!
Carol dufinetz
My favorite store to visit on Sanibel. The staff is kind and knowledgeable. The jewelry is beautiful!
Kathy Thies
The Cedar Chest carries very beautiful, unique jewelry of the highest quality. I have made many purchases over the years, both in the store and online, and I've always been more than happy with the pieces I've chosen. My most recent purchase was online. I trust them completely. I ordered a medium size rose-gold periwinkle earring and pendant set with a diamond in the centers. They are so beautiful. I want to wear them always! Shelley handled my order with care. She was wonderful. Thanks again, Shelley!
L Makhoul
Absolutely 5-stars for originality, creative interpretations, exceptional service and being a generous supporter of the community.
Trailways Camp
Excellent customer service and absolutely beautiful jewelry!
Maureen Plunkett
Wonderful collection of authenticated coin jewelry as well as the kindest and most professional staff. Highly recommend. Bonnie is the best!
Wendy Johnson
Beautiful jewelry pieces and excellent quality. I highly recommend this jewelry.
Zayra Belfort
Beautiful jewelry and excellent customer service.
Leslie DiGiacomo
Excellent craftsmanship and great customer service!