For the next ten years John apprenticed in all phases of the fine jewelry industry. His belief being that becoming a Master Jeweler required the years of "hand on experience" learned from the leaders in the fields of design, craftsmanship, and repair. Plus, he wanted business management skills in both the retail and wholesale jewelry trade.

Only after this apprenticeship did John Dillon feel truly qualified to open J. Dillon Designs with a passion to create his own "one of a kind" pieces of art. John staffed his company with talented designers and craftsmen. Their combined twenty-eight years of experience qualifies them to create works of art in the finest gems and all precious metals.