About Gumps

Learn About the brand

In the heart of San Francisco, amidst the hustle and bustle of the Gold Rush era, Solomon Gump had a vision. He dreamt of a store that would cater to the desires of the newly rich, those who had struck, and tasted the glitter of gold. Alongside his brother Gustave, Solomon transformed this dream into “Gump's San Francisco”, a haven for the elite seeking the finest old-world art and new-world designs.<br><br> But prosperity is often punctuated by adversity. The ground shook in 1906, the devastating San Francisco earthquake, threatening to erase Solomon's legacy. Yet, Abraham, Solomon's determined son, saw not ruins but an opportunity. Drawing inspiration from the mystique of the Far East, he sent buyers across the seas to Japan and China, returning with exotic rugs, porcelain, silks, bronzes, and jade. This infusion of Eastern elegance was the spark that reignited the business, setting it on a path of prosperity.<br><br> Decades rolled on, and under Richard Gump's stewardship in the 1950s, the company expanded its product range, with jewelry becoming a significant offering. Gump's was not just a store; it was an institution. Their collection boasted jewelry, pearls, and jade from Asia, exquisite homewares, and an unparalleled tabletop, crystal, and china department. Generations of Bay Area families and tourists flocked to Gump's, seeking unique gifts and treasures.<br><br> However, like all great tales, there were moments of sorrow. In December 2018, after over 150 years of serving its loyal customers, Gump's closed its doors. But every ending is a new beginning. The Chachas family, long-time admirers and investors in Gump's, saw the potential in this iconic brand. John and Diane Chachas, along with their children Anne, Christopher, and Jack, took the reins, acquiring the majority interest of the company. Their vision? To bring Gump's back to its former glory, ensuring that the tradition of family ownership remained at its heart.<br><br> The Chachas family is set to relaunch Gump's, with plans to uphold its rich history and distinguished reputation. The Bay Area eagerly awaits the return of this beloved institution, with the promise of exciting new jewelry products, gifts, and other surprises. And so, amidst the golden hues of San Francisco's setting sun, the tale of Gump's unfolds a new chapter, a saga of dreams, determination, and timeless elegance.