The Caribbean island nation of Dominica is mourning the unexpected loss of one of its most respected master craftspeople, renowned local goldsmith Russel Lucien, who passed away suddenly on Thursday, May 7, 2026.
Lucien spent nearly three and a half decades as a valued member of the team at Gachette Jewellers, one of the island’s well-known jewelry establishments. In an official public statement released following Lucien’s passing, leadership at Gachette Jewellers paid tribute to the lifelong artisan, highlighting the profound impact he had on colleagues, customers, and the entire local community throughout his 35-year tenure.
The statement emphasized that beyond Lucien’s world-class skill as a goldsmith, his personal character left an enduring mark on everyone he encountered. “More than a master goldsmith, Russel was family to us,” the statement read. It went on to praise his unwavering dedication to his craft, extraordinary attention to detail, steady loyalty to the brand, and genuine warm demeanor that made him a beloved figure across Dominica. The statement added that he will forever be remembered for his consistent kindness, quiet generosity, contagious joyful spirit, and lifelong commitment to achieving excellence in every piece he created.
Gachette Jewellers closed by expressing gratitude to the broader community for the outpouring of prayers and support the team and Lucien’s family have received in the wake of this loss. Following the announcement of Lucien’s passing, Dominica’s leading local media outlet Dominica News Online (DNO) also issued a message of condolence, extending its deepest sympathies to Lucien’s immediate family, close friends, and all loved ones who are grieving his passing.