Founded in 1852, Shreve & Co. was the among the first jewellers founded in California. Four years after the Gold Rush, George Coates Shreve and his nephew Samuel Shreve travelled from New York to California to open their first shop selling european jewels and locally made pieces. By the end of the 19th century Shreve & Co. were well known for their fine craftsmanship and had developed a loyal following among the local affluent community. In March 1906 the company relocated to a new earthquake-proof building at the corner of San Francisco's Post and Grant streets, where it remains today.