In 1971, Peter James was founded by a pair of gents; James Bess and Peter Moretti, the line was named from their first names. In 1972 John Peterson came aboard the team and two years later in 1974 Lynette Matson was hired. The two of them met, fell in love and eventually took it over. In 1982 their daughter Erika was born, and in 2006 she joined the team.

Designers Lynette and Erika are a mother/daughter team, their co-designing brings together their different histories and training, combining to create pieces that are both timeless and elegant while also pushing the envelope when it comes to dramatic flair and style. The hand forged pieces transform wire and sheet metals into wearable works of art.